Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, to the grand spectacle of the season! The Paul McInnis Auctioneer is all set to host an extraordinary event that combines the thrill of baseball, the nostalgia of vintage comics, and the altruistic goal of funding higher education. This isn’t just any auction; it’s a journey back in time to the golden age of baseball, all in support of the University of New Hampshire Scholarship Fund.
Imagine a room that whispers the tales of the dusty diamonds and legends like Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. That’s exactly what awaits at the Paul McInnis Auction in North Hampton, NH, where the extensive Harry W. O’Brien Collection will be showcased. Compiled lovingly by the late Harry W. O’Brien of Manchester, NH, this collection is more than just memorabilia; it’s the legacy of a father, Daniel, to his son—a treasure trove meticulously collected during his deployments in the World Wars.
The highlight reel of this auction reads like a Who’s Who of baseball’s hall of fame. With over 300 T206 cards—which include 48 Hall of Famers such as Christie Mathewson and Cy Young—the collection is a baseball aficionado’s dream come true. But there’s more: a complete set of 1911 T201 Mecca Folders and 80 Goudey cards from the sizzling 1930s with Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig smiling back at you from the past. Not to skip over the Philadelphia Caramels cards, the 19 4-in-1 Exhibit cards also featuring Ruth and Gehrig, and the rare treasures from the 1930s George C Miller issue—this auction is set to be a grand slam.
But let’s not sideline the non-sporting heroes of this collection. From 1910 T218 Mecca boxing cards showcasing the legendary heavyweight Jack Johnson to a plethora of vintage non-sports cards, there’s something to capture the heart of every collector. These gems have been professionally graded by SGC and are primed for the auction block, where they will be showcased individually or in lots, promising a fascinating spectacle for enthusiasts and collectors.
Paul McInnis himself has expressed great enthusiasm about the unique appeal of this auction. “The rarity, age, and pristine condition of these items, many of which will see the auction light for the very first time, makes this event a landmark in memorabilia auctions,” he noted. Adding a dash of superhero flair to the mix are high-grade 1940s comics featuring Superman and Batman, expected to fly off the auction shelf just as swiftly as they flew off comic book stands decades ago.
Furthermore, imagine holding a ticket stub from the inaugural game at Fenway Park in 1912—this piece of sports history is also up for grabs among other rare ticket stubs from historical events. With over 500 lots on offer, the auction is bursting at the seams with opportunities for every collector to own a piece of history.
Mark your calendars: the live virtual webcast is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 11:00 AM on the Paul McInnis website, with pre-bidding already warming up the virtual auction bench. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, this auction promises not just collectibles, but a portal to the past, all while paving the way for future generations through the University of New Hampshire Scholarship Fund. Swing for the fences and you might just hit a home run with a piece of historical treasure.
