At a recent Christie’s and Hunt Auctions event, baseball fans and collectors eagerly gathered to bid on a remarkable selection of iconic baseball memorabilia. With the Geddy Lee Collection also on display, the auction garnered immense attention and ultimately amassed over $6.8 million in total sales.
The star of the show was undoubtedly the rare 1938 Babe Ruth Brooklyn Dodgers uniform. This historic piece, worn by the legendary slugger during his short tenure with the Dodgers, fetched a staggering $882,000. The uniform encapsulates a significant moment in Ruth’s career, when he wore the famed Dodgers blue during his final playing days.
Another notable item that drew considerable attention was the 1968 Hank Aaron Atlanta Braves home jersey. This jersey holds immense historical significance as it was worn by Aaron when he hit his 500th career home run. The jersey, adorned with the Braves’ iconic logo, garnered widespread interest among collectors and sold for an impressive $567,000.
The auction also featured other remarkable items from the Geddy Lee Collection. One standout piece was a single-signed baseball by President Herbert Hoover, which far surpassed its estimated value of $25,000 and sold for an astonishing $214,200. The rarity of a baseball signed by a U.S. President, coupled with its connection to the esteemed Geddy Lee Collection, contributed to the exceptional bidding frenzy.
Additionally, a Mickey Mantle-signed baseball with an inscription praising Brooks Robinson’s play at third base from the same collection went under the hammer, fetching a final bid of $30,240. This unique and personalized piece provided a glimpse into the camaraderie and respect shared among baseball legends.
Among the diverse range of items, a photo from the Gladstone Collection stood out for its historical significance. The photo showcased Civil War soldiers equipped with baseball gear, providing a fascinating perspective on the intersection of history and America’s pastime. With an estimated value of $10,000, the photo smashed expectations and soared to a final bid of $113,400, illustrating the profound interest in artifacts that connect baseball to pivotal moments in history.
David Hunt, President of Hunt Auctions, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent these extraordinary collections. He emphasized that the auction results not only highlighted the robust market for historic baseball memorabilia but also underscored the immense value placed on items from significant private collections. The passion exhibited by collectors and fans further reinforces the enduring legacy and allure of baseball’s rich history.
In sum, the recent Christie’s and Hunt Auctions event captivated baseball enthusiasts and collectors alike. With the sale of the rare Babe Ruth Dodgers uniform and the notable Hank Aaron jersey, the auction demonstrated the unwavering demand for iconic baseball memorabilia. The remarkable prices achieved for items from the Geddy Lee Collection and the Gladstone Collection further exemplify the timeless appeal and historical significance that continue to drive the market for these extraordinary artifacts.
