A treasure trove of autographed baseballs from a single collector is making its way to Hindman’s Having a Ball Auction in Chicago. This extraordinary auction showcases over 570 lots of baseballs adorned with the signatures of some of the game’s greatest players, including Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Jackie Robinson, and Roberto Clemente. Additionally, it features rare signatures from baseball Hall of Famers, making it a must-see event for sports memorabilia enthusiasts.
James Smith, the Director of Sports Memorabilia at Hindman, is thrilled about the extent and quality of the collection. He believes this auction is one of the most extensive and exciting that Hindman has ever presented to the public. With such an impressive array of historic autographs, there is something for every baseball fan to appreciate.
One standout piece that is sure to attract significant interest is a baseball signed by the 1934 New York Yankees. This particular item holds immense historical value as it marked Babe Ruth’s last year with the team. The ball showcases signatures from Ruth himself, along with his legendary teammate Lou Gehrig, and other Hall of Famers like Earle Combs and Tony Lazzeri. To ensure its authenticity, the ball comes with authentication letters from renowned authentication services PSA and Beckett Authentication Services.
Another remarkable find in this auction is a baseball signed during the deadball era. This unique ball bears the signatures of baseball icons such as Cy Young and the first baseball commissioner, Kennesaw “Mountain” Landis. Its rarity is further enhanced by the inclusion of signatures from Mrs. Christy Mathewson and Mrs. John J. McGraw, making it an extraordinary collector’s item. To add to its credibility, the ball comes with a letter of authenticity from Beckett Authentication Services.
Among the other highlights of this auction is a high-grade 1955 Brooklyn Dodgers team-signed ball, showcasing the signatures of the legendary roster that brought the Dodgers their first World Series championship. Baseball enthusiasts will also be captivated by a 1957 Milwaukee Braves World Series championship ball, a relic of the team’s historic success. Additionally, a 1972 National League All-Star team ball, signed by luminaries such as Roberto Clemente and Hank Aaron, adds to the allure of this remarkable collection. Lastly, collectors can find signed team balls from the 1930 and 1932 Philadelphia Athletics, featuring legendary players like Jimmie Foxx and Lefty Grove.
The Having a Ball timed online auction is currently open for bidding on Hindman’s website and Live Auctioneers. The lots are set to close sequentially starting at 9 AM CT on November 29. To ensure a fair chance for all interested parties, the auction employs a unique bidding system. If a bid is placed within the final minute before a lot is set to close, the bidding period for that lot is extended by five minutes, allowing everyone a fair opportunity to participate. This extended bidding process does not affect the closing times of other lots.
Don’t miss the opportunity to own a piece of baseball history! Visit Hindman’s auction website and place your bids today.