Heritage Auctions continues to astound collectors and enthusiasts with its latest offering of autographed photographs in the Icons Photography Auction. This time, the spotlight is on vintage sports photos, each holding a piece of history and contributing to the rich tapestry of sports heritage.
One of the most anticipated items up for grabs is a 1948 photo featuring basketball legend George Mikan. Paired with his 1948 Bowman rookie card, this 8×10 Type 1 photo captures Mikan in his prime, embellished with his signature in striking blue ink. The starting bid for this iconic piece is set at an impressive $20,000, a testament to Mikan’s enduring legacy in the basketball world.
The theme of signed vintage photos extends throughout the auction, offering collectors a chance to own a piece of history. A late 1940s photo of Cleveland Browns icon Otto Graham, resembling his 1950 Bowman Football rookie card, is also adorned with his signature. Similarly, an autographed photo of Jackie Robinson from 1949 stands out as he receives his Silver Bat for his National League batting title win and MVP award—a poignant moment captured in sports history.
Continuing the celebration of Jackie Robinson’s legacy, another photo from 1957 showcases him clearing out his locker at Ebbets Field upon retiring from baseball. The photo features Robinson’s iconic Dodgers cap, jersey, gloves, and equipment, offering a glimpse into the end of an era. Expected to garner bids exceeding $10,000, this piece is a treasure trove for baseball memorabilia collectors.
Not to be outdone, a photo that was used for Willie Mays’ 1952 Topps card is also featured in the auction, complete with Mays’ signature—an invaluable addition to any sports card collection. The catalog boasts over 150 vintage images, dating back over a century, with each photo telling a unique story from sports history.
Of particular interest is a photo from the 1919 World Series, capturing Black Sox pitcher Eddie Cicotte and Reds’ starter Dutch Reuther shaking hands before the infamous game at Redland Field in Cincinnati. This historic image, complete with original paper caption and stamps, is expected to start bidding at $8,000, appealing to both baseball aficionados and history buffs alike.
Rookie photos of iconic figures such as Hank Aaron (1954), Jack Nicklaus (1962), and Pete Maravich (1970) add to the allure of the auction, along with various images of sports legends like Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. The collection on offer provides a comprehensive snapshot of sports history, inviting bidders to own a piece of the past and contribute to the preservation of sporting heritage.
With a wide range of vintage sports photos, each bearing the signature of a sporting icon, the Icons Photography Auction at Heritage Auctions is a treasure trove for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Running until June 13, this auction presents a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of sports history and immerse oneself in the captivating world of sports photography and memorabilia.
