The sports memorabilia world is buzzing with excitement as Memory Lane Inc. prepares to host its highly anticipated Winter Rarities Auction. With over 1,950 lots up for grabs, this event promises to be a spectacle for collectors and fans alike. Taking center stage in this incredible auction are the rare and treasured artifacts of none other than baseball legend, Babe Ruth.
Babe Ruth, known for his larger-than-life persona both on and off the field, continues to captivate fans and collectors more than 70 years after his passing. His enduring legacy shines brightly in this auction, offering enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a piece of baseball history.
One standout item in the auction is a circa 1915 postcard featuring a rookie-era Babe Ruth. Authenticated and graded, this postcard is one of only two known examples in existence. The image captures Ruth during his time at the Boston Red Sox Spring Training camp, held in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Developed on period photo paper from the original glass negative, the starting bid for this rare gem is set at $50,000.
Another exceptional piece up for grabs is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” which starred Ruth himself. This card, one of just three known to exist, features a promotion for the movie at Chicago’s Frolic Theater on its reverse side. Graded PSA 2, this card holds a minimum bid of $15,000.
The auction also includes a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour after the baseball season. With only three known examples, this card shows Ruth in mid-swing, dynamically heading towards first base. Graded PSA 1.5, it represents a rare opportunity for collectors to add to their prized collections.
Ruth’s presence in this auction extends beyond these unique cards. Several high-grade 1930s Goudey cards featuring Ruth and other baseball luminaries like Jimmie Foxx, Carl Hubbell, Dizzy Dean, Lou Gehrig, and Nat Holman are also available. Some of these cards rank among the highest PSA grades ever recorded.
But Memory Lane Inc. doesn’t only focus on Ruth. The Winter Rarities Auction includes a remarkable 1911 Turkey Red set break, featuring 10 cards that are among the highest graded by PSA. This set boasts legendary names like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
Additionally, collectors will have the chance to bid on the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball, which 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 also awaits bidders, with PSA 9 copies of Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, and Phil Rizzuto, along with PSA 6 examples of Mantle and Mays.
For autograph enthusiasts, the auction offers a delightful selection of eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards. Five of these cards boast autographs graded PSA 10, spanning Mantle’s illustrious career from 1953 to 1958.
The Winter Rarities Auction isn’t limited to cards alone. It also offers vintage unopened packs and boxes, giving collectors a rare glimpse into the past of baseball card collecting. Featured items include 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, allowing fans to relive the thrill of opening packs from years gone by.
In addition to the impressive array of cards and collectibles, the auction also includes a selection of Babe Ruth’s autographed items. One highlight 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. presents an unparalleled opportunity for collectors and fans alike to own a piece of Babe Ruth’s storied legacy. From rare cards and autographs to unique memorabilia, this auction encapsulates the spirit of one of baseball’s greatest icons. As the auction opens on December 21st and runs through January 13th, sports enthusiasts eagerly await the chance to participate in this unforgettable event.
In conclusion, collectors and fans won’t want to miss the Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. This extraordinary event features over 1,950 lots of sports memorabilia, with a special emphasis on the rare and cherished collectibles of Babe Ruth. Whether it’s cards, photos, or autographs, this auction offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own pieces that hold immense historical value and embody the legacy of one of baseball’s true legends.
