The sports memorabilia world is buzzing with anticipation as Memory Lane Inc. prepares to host its Winter Rarities Auction, a sensational event showcasing over 1,950 lots of sports cards and memorabilia. At the center of this extravaganza are the rare collectibles of baseball legend Babe Ruth. With the auction opening on December 21st, collectors have a unique opportunity to own a piece of baseball history.
Babe Ruth, known for his larger-than-life persona on and off the field, continues to captivate fans and collectors even over 70 years after his passing. This auction brings his legacy to life with some of his most coveted memorabilia up for bids.
One standout item in the auction is an authenticated and graded circa 1915 Ruth rookie-era postcard, one of only two known examples. This exceptional piece features a unique image taken 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 extraordinary piece is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” starring Ruth. Only three of these cards are known to exist, and it includes a promotion for the movie at Chicago’s Frolic Theater on its reverse. 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 led after the season. With only three known examples, this card captures Ruth in mid-swing as he heads toward first base. It’s graded PSA 1.5, making it a rare find for collectors.
Ruth’s presence in the auction extends beyond these unique cards. Several high-grade 1930s Goudey cards featuring Ruth and other baseball legends like 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.
It’s worth noting that Memory Lane Inc. doesn’t solely focus on Ruth. The auction features a 1911 Turkey Red set break, including 10 cards ranked among the highest ever graded by PSA. This set includes legendary names like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
In addition, the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball is up for auction. Individual cards of Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Minnie Minoso’s rookie card, all in top condition, will be available. 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.
Autograph collectors will be delighted to find eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards in the auction, with five of them having autographs graded PSA 10. These cards span years from 1953 to 1958, covering different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
But the auction isn’t limited to cards. It also features vintage unopened packs and boxes, including 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, offering a thrilling glimpse into the past of baseball card collecting.
The showcase of Ruth’s memorabilia is truly remarkable, featuring a range of autographed items. One highlight is a dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to Ruth’s 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. presents 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 offers pieces that not only hold immense historical value but also embody the spirit of one of baseball’s greatest icons. Running from December 21st to January 13th, this auction 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. With over 1,950 lots of sports memorabilia, including rare Babe Ruth collectibles such as cards, photos, and autographs, this auction is a treasure trove of baseball history. Don’t miss out on the chance to own a piece of the legendary Babe Ruth’s legacy.
