The month of May spills its mirth in sports and entertainment history as RMY Auctions unfolds their latest event. It’s like cracking open a rare time capsule, revealing an impressive assemblage of visuals that celebrate unforgettable moments and figures in the annals of sport and entertainment.
One of the stars of this photographic constellation is a striking black and white snapshot from the year 1948, presenting a visual confluence of baseball greats Satchel Paige and Bob Feller. This 7 x 8¾” image holds a special place in the heart of memorabilia enthusiasts, as it provided the basis for Paige’s most esteemed rookie card by Leaf in 1949. He had just had his game-changing crossover from the Negro Leagues to Major League Baseball, signing on the dotted line for Cleveland.
RMY Auction also unlocks a rare Type I original photograph showcasing Paige during his stint with the Kansas City Monarchs. Serving a cross-century panorama, the catalog parades over 900 items, soaking viewers in a sea of sports, news, and entertainment photography spanning a hundred years. Many gems hidden in the attic of history are being dusted off for their public debut.
A misty silver gelatin image from 1910 provides a trip down memory lane, capturing a 23-years-young Jim Thorpe in a frame. The camera work of George Grantham Bain left no detail out, enhancing the historical sweep of the collection.
Among other prized lots are a never-before-offered 1905 PC782 Rotograph real photo postcard featuring the 20th-century baseball wizard Jack Chesbro, and a 1934 Carl Hubbell image used for his 1933-36 Diamond Stars baseball card. The auction also presents some remarkable plots from the adventurous chapters of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig’s careers, including Ruth’s debut season with the Yankees and a snapshot from the thrilling 1928 World Series.
Modern collectors can feast their eyes on the glorious 1972 snap of Roberto Clemente recording his 3000th career hit. Or, perhaps, the triumphant picture taken just a moment after Wilt Chamberlain scored his record-shattering 100th point in a single NBA game would whet their historical appetite. Add in several action-packed shots from the golden era of Michael Jordan’s NBA career, and you’ve a well-rounded collection.
Adding a quirky and eye-catching edge to the auction are whimsical items like a photograph immortalizing Joe DiMaggio’s moments in the Yankees’ clubhouse, and another catch of the day – Ted Williams nonchalantly riding a zebra.
This eclectic photo album of the 20th century is a dream come true for collectors with a soft spot for historical lore and photography enthusiasts looking for an aesthetic feast. The auction will continue its time travel, with the bidding war set to reach its climax on May 11. So, ready your gavel, and prepare to dive into this extraordinary trove of vintage visuals. It’s more than just an auction; it’s a walk through the hall of fame of sports and entertainment history.
