The Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is a highly anticipated event for sports memorabilia enthusiasts, especially those with a passion for baseball. This auction presents an extraordinary collection of over 1,950 lots of sports cards and memorabilia, with a special focus on rare collectibles of the legendary Babe Ruth. From cards to autographs, this auction offers a diverse range of items that showcase the larger-than-life persona of the iconic baseball figure.
At the forefront of this auction is a spectacular find – an authenticated and graded circa 1915 Ruth rookie-era postcard, one of only two known examples. The image, captured during the Boston Red Sox Spring Training camp in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is printed on period photo paper from the original glass negative. Its rarity is emphasized by its starting bid of $50,000, attracting avid collectors and fans alike.
Another standout piece is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” starring Ruth. With only three known existences, this card features a promotion for the movie at Chicago’s Frolic Theater on its reverse side. Graded PSA 2, it holds a minimum bid of $15,000, making it an enticing addition to any collection.
Not to be overlooked is a 1920 Ruth card that promotes a barnstorming tour led by the baseball superstar after the season. With only three known examples, this card depicts Ruth in mid-swing, heading towards first base. Graded PSA 1.5, it is a rare find that captures the essence of Ruth’s on-field prowess.
The Winter Rarities Auction also offers a variety of high-grade 1930s Goudey cards featuring Ruth alongside other baseball legends such as Jimmie Foxx, Carl Hubbell, Dizzy Dean, Lou Gehrig, and Nat Holman. Some of these cards boast the highest PSA grades ever recorded, making them desirable additions to any collection.
Although the auction centers around Ruth, Memory Lane Inc. ensures that the event caters to a wider audience. A highlight of the auction is the 1911 Turkey Red set break, which includes ten cards that rank among the highest ever graded by PSA. This set features legendary players such as Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
Collectors will also have the opportunity to bid on the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball, featuring individual cards of Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Minnie Minoso’s rookie card, all in top condition. The auction also includes a high-grade 1953 Topps set break, offering PSA 9 copies of Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, and Phil Rizzuto, as well as PSA 6 examples of Mantle and Mays.
For autograph collectors, the Winter Rarities Auction presents eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards, with five of them boasting PSA 10 autograph grades. These cards span from 1953 to 1958, representing different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career and adding to the allure of these collectibles.
The auction extends beyond cards, captivating collectors with vintage unopened packs and boxes, including 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases. These preserved time capsules offer a glimpse into the past, allowing enthusiasts to relive the experience of collecting baseball cards from decades ago.
In addition to the impressive assortment of cards and memorabilia, Babe Ruth’s autographed items take center stage in this auction. A dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to his wife Claire, accompanied by a note explaining its significance, stands as a highlight. 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. is not just an event; it is an opportunity for collectors and fans to own a part of Babe Ruth’s storied legacy. The auction features rare cards, unique memorabilia, and autographs that not only hold immense historical value but also embody the spirit of one of baseball’s greatest icons. As the auction opens on December 21st and runs through January 13th, collectors and enthusiasts eagerly await the bidding frenzy and the chance to add these extraordinary pieces to their collections.
In conclusion, the Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is a can’t-miss event that showcases over 1,950 lots of sports memorabilia, with a special focus on rare collectibles of Babe Ruth. From cards and photos to autographs, this auction offers something for every baseball fanatic, allowing them to own a piece of history and honor the legacy of the iconic Babe Ruth.
