The world of sports memorabilia is about to witness an extraordinary event as Memory Lane Inc. hosts its highly anticipated Winter Rarities Auction. This spectacle showcases over 1,950 lots of sports cards and memorabilia, with a special focus on rare collectibles belonging to the legendary baseball player, Babe Ruth. Collectors and fans alike will have the unique opportunity to own a piece of baseball history as they bid on these remarkable items.
Babe Ruth, known for his larger-than-life persona on and off the field, continues to captivate fans and collectors even 70 years after his passing. His legacy, firmly etched in the annals of baseball history, comes to life in this auction. Some of Ruth’s most coveted memorabilia will be up for bids, making it a truly exciting event for sports enthusiasts.
One standout item in the auction is an authenticated and graded circa 1915 Ruth rookie-era postcard, one of only two known examples. This postcard features a unique image captured at the Boston Red Sox Spring Training camp in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Developed on period photo paper from the original glass negative, the rarity of this real photo postcard is reflected in its starting bid of $50,000.
Another exceptional piece being offered is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” which starred Babe Ruth. Only three of these cards are known to exist, and the one up for bid 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.
The auction also includes a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour that Ruth headlined after the season. With only three known examples, this card shows Ruth in mid-swing, heading toward first base, and is graded PSA 1.5.
Ruth’s presence in the auction goes 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 also available. Some of these cards are the highest PSA grades known to exist, adding to their desirability.
Memory Lane Inc. doesn’t solely focus on Ruth; the auction also includes a 1911 Turkey Red set break. This set features ten cards that are ranked among the highest ever graded by PSA and includes legendary names like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
Additionally, the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball is up for grabs in the auction. This set includes individual cards of iconic players such as Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Minnie Minoso’s rookie card, all in top condition. A high-grade 1953 Topps set break is also available, which includes 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 years from 1953 to 1958, covering different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
The Winter Rarities Auction isn’t limited to cards alone. It also features vintage unopened packs and boxes, offering a captivating glimpse into the past of baseball card collecting. Included are 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases that allow collectors to experience the nostalgia of opening packs from decades ago.
Ruth’s memorabilia in the auction is truly remarkable, featuring a range of autographed items. A highlight is a dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to his wife Claire, along with 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 alike 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. As the auction opens on December 21st and runs through January 13th, it promises to be a memorable event for the world of sports memorabilia.
In conclusion, the Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is a must-attend event for collectors, featuring over 1,950 lots of sports memorabilia. With a special focus on rare Babe Ruth collectibles, including cards, autographs, and unique items, this auction offers an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of baseball history.