At a recent auction held by Goldin Co., a 1965 Original Type 1 Photo of Joe Namath, famously used for his iconic rookie card, fetched an impressive $197,640. This sale not only set a new record for Type 1 football photos but also spotlighted the enduring allure of Namath’s legacy in sports memorabilia.
The 1965 photo, which played an integral role in the creation of the Topps Namath rookie card, stands as one of the most sought-after football cards in the collecting world. Its high sale price at the November Elite Auction underscores its significant value in the realm of sports collectibles.
However, Namath’s rookie card photo wasn’t the only highlight of the auction. Several other notable items were sold, including a 1967 dual-signed Type 1 photo of Muhammad Ali and Wilt Chamberlain. This photo captured the two sports legends during a promotional appearance for the “Wide World of Sports” fight and was sold for an impressive $17,080.
Another standout item was a Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo, which also fetched $17,080. Jordan’s rookie cards and memorabilia continue to hold significant value and appeal to collectors worldwide.
The auction also featured a 1994 Tiger Woods Type 1 photo, marking the year he graduated high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner. This photo was sold for $7,595, further demonstrating the interest in capturing significant moments in athletes’ careers.
Additionally, there were several other remarkable Type 1 photos that garnered attention at the auction. One of them was a 1988 Playoffs Type 1 photo of Michael Jordan by the New York Times, commemorating the first time Jordan scored back-to-back 50-point games in NBA playoff history. This photo was sold for $6,100, showcasing the continued fascination with Jordan’s achievements on the basketball court.
Another noteworthy item was a rare 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” Type 1 photo. This photo depicts Brett being restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire with his deemed illegal bat and fetched a price of $4,574. It serves as a reminder of the intense emotions and controversies that can arise in the world of professional sports.
Lastly, a 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated Shoot Type 1 photo captured Tyson in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym. This unique photo was auctioned for $3,660, showcasing the enduring fascination with one of boxing’s most legendary and controversial figures.
These sales at Goldin Co. highlight the rich history and enduring fascination with sports photography and memorabilia. Each item represents a moment in time that has defined various sports eras and has captured the imagination of collectors worldwide. The popularity and significant value placed on these items demonstrate the collectors’ desire to own a piece of sports history and preserve these iconic moments for future generations.
