The world of sports memorabilia is buzzing with anticipation as Memory Lane Inc. gears up to host its Winter Rarities Auction. This highly anticipated event showcases a staggering collection of over 1,950 lots of sports cards and memorabilia, with a special focus on the rare and coveted collectibles of baseball legend Babe Ruth. Set to open on December 21st, this auction offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors and fans to own a piece of baseball history.
Babe Ruth, a name that needs no introduction, continues to captivate fans and collectors over 70 years after his passing. Known for his larger-than-life persona both on and off the field, Ruth’s legacy is firmly etched in the annals of baseball history. Now, in this auction, some of his most treasured memorabilia will take center stage.
One of the standout items in the auction is an authenticated and graded circa 1915 Ruth rookie-era postcard, one of only two known examples in existence. This extraordinary image was captured at the Boston Red Sox Spring Training camp in Hot Springs, Arkansas and is developed on period photo paper from the original glass negative. The rarity of this real photo postcard is evident in its starting bid of $50,000.
Another exceptional piece is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” starring Babe Ruth himself. Only three of these promotional cards are known to exist, and this particular card features a promotion for the movie at Chicago’s Frolic Theater on its reverse. Graded PSA 2, it carries a minimum bid of $15,000.
Additionally, the auction includes a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour headlined by the legendary slugger after the season. This card, graded PSA 1.5, is also scarce with only three known examples. It showcases Ruth in mid-swing, heading towards first base.
Ruth’s presence in the auction doesn’t stop at these unique cards. Several high-grade 1930s Goudey cards featuring Ruth and other baseball greats like Jimmie Foxx, Carl Hubbell, Dizzy Dean, Lou Gehrig, and Nat Holman are also up for grabs. Some of these cards are the highest PSA grades known to exist.
While Memory Lane Inc. is known for its focus on Ruth memorabilia, the Winter Rarities Auction doesn’t stop there. The auction also features a captivating 1911 Turkey Red set break, including 10 cards ranked among the highest ever graded by PSA. This set includes legendary names like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
Fans of vintage baseball will be thrilled to find the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball available, with individual cards of icons such as Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Minnie Minoso’s rookie card, all in top condition. Furthermore, a high-grade 1953 Topps set break includes PSA 9 copies of Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, and Phil Rizzuto, along with PSA 6 examples of Mantle and Mays.
Autograph collectors will have reason to rejoice, as the auction offers eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards, five of which have autographs graded PSA 10. Spanning from 1953 to 1958, these cards cover different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
The Winter Rarities Auction isn’t solely focused on cards. It also showcases vintage unopened packs and boxes, such as the 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, providing a nostalgic glimpse into the history of baseball card collecting.
Babe Ruth’s memorabilia steals the spotlight in this auction, featuring a range of autographed items. A notable highlight is a dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to his wife Claire, accompanied by a note explaining its significance. Other remarkable 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 features pieces 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, it promises to be a memorable event for the world of sports memorabilia.
In summary, the Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is a must-attend event for collectors, offering over 1,950 lots of sports memorabilia, with a special emphasis on rare collectibles featuring the iconic Babe Ruth. From cards and photos to autographs, this auction presents an extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of baseball history.
