The Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is set to captivate the world of sports memorabilia as it presents over 1,950 lots of sports cards and memorabilia, featuring rare collectibles from the iconic Babe Ruth. Opening on December 21st, this extraordinary auction offers collectors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of baseball history.
Babe Ruth, a legendary figure known for his larger-than-life persona on and off the field, continues to enthrall fans and collectors more than seven decades after his passing. This auction is a chance for enthusiasts to immerse themselves in his captivating legacy by bidding on some of his most coveted memorabilia.
One standout item in the auction is a highly sought-after authenticated and graded circa 1915 Ruth rookie-era postcard, one of only two known examples. This unique image, captured during the Boston Red Sox Spring Training camp in Hot Springs, Arkansas, features Ruth in his early years. Developed on period photo paper from the original glass negative, this real photo postcard starts with a bid of $50,000.
Another exceptional piece is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” starring Ruth, with only three known examples in existence. Graded PSA 2 and featuring a promotion for the movie at Chicago’s Frolic Theater on its reverse side, this card has a minimum bid of $15,000.
Further adding to the allure is a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour he headlined after the season. With only three known examples, this card showcases Ruth mid-swing as he heads toward first base and is graded PSA 1.5.
The auction doesn’t solely revolve around Ruth; it also offers 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. Some of these cards boast the highest PSA grades ever recorded.
Expanding beyond Ruth’s memorabilia, Memory Lane Inc. presents a remarkable 1911 Turkey Red set break, including 10 cards ranked among the highest ever graded by PSA. This set showcases legendary names like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
Additionally, the auction features the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball, with individual cards of icons Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Minnie Minoso’s rookie card, all in pristine condition. A high-grade 1953 Topps set break includes PSA 9 copies of Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, and Phil Rizzuto, along with PSA 6 examples of Mantle and Mays.
For avid autograph collectors, the auction offers a delightful array of eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards, five of which have autographs graded PSA 10. With cards spanning from 1953 to 1958, enthusiasts can acquire a piece of Mantle’s illustrious career across different phases.
The Winter Rarities Auction isn’t confined to cards; it also presents vintage unopened packs and boxes, including 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, providing a nostalgic glimpse into the history of baseball card collecting.
Ruth’s memorabilia takes center stage, boasting a range of 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. 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, this auction showcases pieces that hold immense historical value and embody the spirit of one of baseball’s greatest icons. As the auction commences and runs through January 13th, it promises to be an unforgettable 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 collectibles associated with beloved baseball legend Babe Ruth. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of history that encapsulates the spirit and magic of America’s pastime.
