In an extraordinary moment of timing, RM Sotheby’s announces the upcoming sale of Wayne Gretzky’s 1994 Rolls-Royce Corniche IV—gifted to The Great One after his historic 802nd career NHL goal—just days after Alex Ovechkin officially broke the long-standing goal-scoring record. The prized car will be offered through RM Sotheby’s Sealed platform, with bidding open now and closing on April 17.
On March 23, 1994, Gretzky scored his 802nd goal in a game against the Vancouver Canucks, surpassing the great Gordie Howe to become the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer.
A week later, the Los Angeles Kings honored Gretzky in a pregame ceremony by presenting him with a black 1994 Rolls-Royce Corniche IV bearing the license plate “GOAL 802.” A symbol of elegance and achievement, the Corniche was a fitting tribute to hockey’s most outstanding player.
Now, 31 years later, the record has finally fallen. Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin scored his 895th career goal on Sunday against the New York Islanders, officially surpassing Gretzky’s mark—an event Gretzky himself witnessed and celebrated from the stands.
With this monumental shift in NHL history, Gretzky’s Corniche IV is now being offered for sale by RM Sotheby’s. It marks a unique opportunity to acquire a celebrity-owned Rolls-Royce and a tangible piece of hockey history, emerging just as the sports world reflects on the passing of the torch.
Delivered initially by Rolls-Royce of Beverly Hills and documented by its original registration card signed by the LA Kings’ then-CFO, this Corniche IV is chassis number X50019. It is one of the first examples from the updated 50000 series and one of just 219 Corniche IVs built.
Finished in dual black with vermillion pinstripes and trimmed in black leather with walnut veneers, it has covered just over 9,100 miles since new and was recently serviced and cosmetically refreshed.
As speculation swirls about whether Ovechkin will receive a similar honor—perhaps even a car—this Corniche reminds of the legacy Gretzky built and the benchmark he set for greatness.