At the recent Goldin Co. auction, a 1965 original Type 1 photo of Joe Namath, famously used for his iconic rookie card, fetched an impressive price tag of $197,640. This sale not only set a new record for Type 1 football photos but also spotlighted the enduring allure of Namath’s legacy in the world of sports memorabilia.
The 1965 photo holds significant importance as it played a crucial role in the creation of the Topps Namath rookie card, which remains one of the most sought-after football cards in the collecting world. The high sale price at the November Elite Auction further underscores the immense value placed on this piece of sports history in the realm of sports collectibles.
In addition to the Joe Namath photo, the Goldin Co. auction featured several other notable items that commanded attention and substantial bids from collectors.
One such item was a 1967 Muhammad Ali/Wilt Chamberlain dual-signed Type 1 photo. This exceptional photograph captured two sports legends during a promotional appearance for the “Wide World of Sports” fight and was sold for an impressive $17,080. The significance of this photo, along with the autographs of both Ali and Chamberlain, made it a highly sought-after piece among collectors.
Another photo that fetched the same price of $17,080 was a Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo. This photo, from Jordan’s early days in the NBA, captures the basketball superstar at the beginning of his legendary career, making it a valuable addition to any sports memorabilia collection.
The auction also included a 1994 Tiger Woods Type 1 photo, marking the year he graduated high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner. This photograph, representing a pivotal moment in Woods’ career, went for $7,595, showcasing the enduring fascination with the golfing prodigy who would go on to dominate the sport.
Among the other remarkable Type 1 photos in the Goldin auction was a Michael Jordan 1988 Playoffs photo by the New York Times. This particular photograph commemorates the first time Jordan scored back-to-back 50-point games in NBA playoff history, a feat that solidified his status as a basketball legend. The photo sold for $6,100, highlighting the enduring appeal of Jordan’s greatness and the historic moments he created on the court.
Additionally, a rare 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” Type 1 photo captivated collectors. This photograph depicts Brett being restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire with his deemed illegal bat, a moment etched in baseball history. The rarity and significance of this photo contributed to its final sale price of $4,574, demonstrating the enduring fascination with memorable events from the world of sports.
Lastly, a 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated Shoot Type 1 photo taken in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym was auctioned for $3,660. This photo captures a young Tyson, who would go on to become one of the most influential and controversial figures in the world of boxing.
These remarkable sales at Goldin Co. not only highlight the rich history of sports photography and memorabilia but also showcase the enduring fascination with moments and figures that have defined various sports eras. Collectors and enthusiasts continue to appreciate and value these iconic photographs, allowing them to relive and commemorate the greatest moments in sports history.
