The Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is set to become a major event in the world of sports memorabilia. With over 1,950 lots up for grabs, this auction promises to captivate collectors and fans alike. The highlight of the event is the impressive collection of rare collectibles from baseball legend Babe Ruth.
Babe Ruth, known for his larger-than-life persona both on and off the field, continues to inspire and enchant fans even decades after his passing. This auction provides a unique opportunity to own a piece of baseball history and get closer to the legacy of this iconic figure.
One of the standout items in the auction is a rare postcard from around 1915, showcasing a young Babe Ruth during his rookie era. Only two of these postcards are known to exist, making it an incredibly rare find. The image, taken at the Boston Red Sox Spring Training camp in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is developed on period photo paper from the original glass negative. With a starting bid of $50,000, this postcard is a true gem for collectors.
Another exceptional piece up for auction is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” in which Babe Ruth starred. Only three of these cards are known to exist, and this particular one features a promotion for the movie at Chicago’s Frolic Theater on its reverse side. Graded PSA 2, this card carries a minimum bid of $15,000, attracting the attention of collectors who appreciate both Ruth’s baseball prowess and his foray into the film industry.
The auction also features a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour led by Ruth after the season. With only three known examples, this card is also highly sought after by collectors. It showcases Ruth in mid-swing, heading towards first base and has a graded PSA 1.5.
Ruth’s presence in the auction extends beyond these unique cards. Several high-grade 1930s Goudey cards featuring Ruth and other baseball greats such as Jimmie Foxx, Carl Hubbell, Dizzy Dean, Lou Gehrig, and Nat Holman are available for bidding. Some of these cards boast the highest PSA grades known to exist, making them a fantastic addition to any collection.
Memory Lane Inc. doesn’t solely focus on Babe Ruth; the auction also includes a 1911 Turkey Red set break. This set features ten cards that rank among the highest ever graded by PSA and includes legendary names such as Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
For those interested in more recent baseball history, the auction offers the chance to acquire the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball. Within this set, individual cards of Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Minnie Minoso’s rookie card are available, all in top condition. Another highlight is a high-grade 1953 Topps set break, including PSA 9 copies of Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, and Phil Rizzuto, along with PSA 6 examples of Mantle and Mays.
Autograph collectors will be delighted to find eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards in the auction, five of which have autographs graded PSA 10. These cards span from 1953 to 1958, covering different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
The auction isn’t limited to cards alone; it also features vintage unopened packs and boxes, offering collectors a glimpse into the past of baseball card collecting. Highlighting the diverse range of items on offer, this aspect of the auction adds a unique charm to the event.
Ruth’s memorabilia in the auction is truly remarkable, featuring a range of autographed items. One standout piece is a dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to his wife Claire, accompanied by a note explaining its significance. Other notable items include a signed 1923 $1 silver certificate, an album page signed by Ruth and Jimmie Foxx, and two autographed golf scorecards.
The Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. offers an unparalleled opportunity for collectors and fans to own a part of Babe Ruth’s storied legacy. From rare cards and autographs to unique memorabilia, the auction presents pieces that not only hold immense historical value but also embody the spirit of one of baseball’s greatest icons. Don’t miss out as the auction opens on December 21st and runs through January 13th. Get ready for an unforgettable event in the world of sports memorabilia.