The sports memorabilia world is buzzing with excitement as Memory Lane Inc. prepares to host its Winter Rarities Auction. This highly anticipated event showcases over 1,950 lots of sports cards and memorabilia, with a special focus on rare collectibles from baseball legend Babe Ruth. Beginning on December 21st, this auction provides a unique opportunity for collectors to own a piece of baseball history.
Babe Ruth, known for his larger-than-life persona both on and off the field, continues to captivate fans and collectors more than 70 years after his passing. His enduring legacy is brought to life in this auction, where some of his most coveted memorabilia will be up for bids.
One standout item in the auction is an authenticated and graded circa 1915 Ruth rookie-era postcard, which is one of only two known examples. This exceptional piece features a unique image captured at the Boston Red Sox Spring Training camp in Hot Springs, Arkansas, developed on period photo paper from the original glass negative. This rare real photo postcard has a starting bid of $50,000.
Another extraordinary item is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” starring Babe Ruth. Only three of these cards are known to exist, and this particular card includes a promotion for the movie at Chicago’s Frolic Theater on its reverse side. Graded PSA 2, it carries a minimum bid of $15,000.
The auction also features a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour that Ruth headlined after the season. With only three known examples, this card is a scarce find and shows Ruth in mid-swing, heading towards first base. It has a graded PSA 1.5.
Ruth’s presence in the auction extends beyond these unique cards. Several high-grade 1930s Goudey cards featuring Ruth and other baseball greats such as Jimmie Foxx, Carl Hubbell, Dizzy Dean, Lou Gehrig, and Nat Holman are also available. Some of these cards are considered the highest PSA grades known to exist.
However, Memory Lane Inc. doesn’t solely focus on Babe Ruth. The auction also includes a 1911 Turkey Red set break, featuring 10 cards ranked among the highest ever graded by PSA. This set showcases legendary names like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
Additionally, collectors will have the opportunity to bid on the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball, which includes individual cards of Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Minnie Minoso’s rookie card, all in top condition. The auction also offers a high-grade 1953 Topps set break with PSA 9 copies of Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, and Phil Rizzuto, along with PSA 6 examples of Mantle and Mays.
Autograph enthusiasts will be delighted to find eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards in the auction, five of which have autographs graded PSA 10. These cards span from 1953 to 1958, showcasing different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
The auction doesn’t stop at cards; it also features vintage unopened packs and boxes, including 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, providing collectors with a glimpse into the past of baseball card collecting.
Babe Ruth’s memorabilia in the auction is truly remarkable, featuring a range of autographed items. One highlight is a dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to his wife Claire, along with a note explaining its significance. 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. offers an unparalleled opportunity for collectors and fans alike to own a part of Babe Ruth’s storied legacy. From rare cards and autographs to unique memorabilia, this auction not only holds immense historical value but also embodies the spirit of one of baseball’s greatest icons. As the auction opens on December 21st and runs through January 13th, it promises to be a memorable event for the world of sports memorabilia.
In conclusion, don’t miss out on the Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc., a must-attend event for collectors. With over 1,950 lots of sports memorabilia, this auction showcases rare Babe Ruth collectibles, including cards, photos, and autographs. Whether you’re a passionate collector or simply a fan of baseball history, this auction presents an extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of Babe Ruth’s iconic legacy.
