When the gavel falls at the upcoming Paul McInnis Auction in North Hampton, NH, it won’t just signal the sale of highly coveted collector’s items; it will also mark an opportunity to help foster future generations’ educational pursuits. The Harry W. O’Brien collection, a carefully curated assortment of pre-war baseball memorabilia, will be the star of this charity auction, designed to benefit the University of New Hampshire Scholarship Fund.
Harry W. O’Brien, a revered figure from Manchester, NH, was a man who apparently knew a thing or two about the intrinsic value of nostalgia. The collectibles, starting from his father, Daniel O’Brien’s, enthusiastic acquisitions during his services in both World Wars, have formed an immense and unique catalog. These have been guarded and expanded through the years, only now seeing the light of the auction room after being lovingly preserved across decades.
Let’s dive into the specifics that make this auction particularly thrilling for memorabilia enthusiasts and casual appreciators alike. The collection flaunts over 300 T206 baseball cards, a cherished series among aficionados, featuring no fewer than 48 Hall of Famers, including the likes of Christie Mathewson and Cy Young. These cards were produced between 1909 and 1911, and are known for their wide variation and the tobacco advertisements they bore on the back, making them a fascinating glimpse into early 20th century America.
But the collection doesn’t just dwell in the realm of the T206. A complete set of 1911 T201 Mecca Folders will also be on the block, offering a rare treat for collectors. These cards are renowned for their innovative fold-over design, which presented statistics and biographical info in a then-novel format. Alongside these, the auction will feature 80 Goudey cards from the 1930s, including representations of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, heroes of the diamond whose legacies have transcended the sport.
Add to this a variety of Philadelphia Caramels and 19 4-in-1 Exhibit cards featuring Ruth and Gehrig again, and you have a lineup that’s as potent as any baseball roster could hope to be. For the rare card enthusiasts, the George C Miller issue cards from the 1930s will serve as a rare treat, boasting a limited run that makes them particularly prized in the collecting world.
It’s not all bats and gloves, however. The O’Brien collection also packs a punch with 1910 T218 Mecca boxing cards that highlight legends like Jack Johnson, reflecting the broader spectrum of early 20th-century sports. For those whose interests veer off the beaten sports path, a varied collection of vintage non-sports cards and high-grade 1940s comics featuring the likes of Superman and Batman promise to draw wide-eyed bids from comic enthusiasts.
The allure of this auction is encapsulated not just in its diversity but in the historical significance each item holds. Consider the rare ticket stubs from historical events, including one from the inaugural game at Fenway Park in 1912, an artifact that not only sports fans but also historians might find irresistible.
Paul McInnis, the orchestrator of this spectacular auction, has emphasized the rarity, pristine condition, and the inherently rich stories these items carry. His auction house anticipates significant interest not only from seasoned collectors but from those who see the dual value of investing in a piece of history and supporting education. Pre-bidding options are currently available for those eager to secure their stake early, with the main event taking place live and virtually on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 11:00 AM.
This auction isn’t just a chance to own a piece of sports history. It’s an invitation to be part of a legacy of educational support through the power of nostalgia and preservation. Whether you’re drawn by the crack of the bat heard through the ages or the colorful splash of a comic book page, this event promises something for everyone with a heart for history and education.
