The world of sports memorabilia is buzzing with excitement as Memory Lane Inc. prepares to host its Winter Rarities Auction. This highly anticipated event will showcase over 1,950 lots of sports cards and memorabilia, with a special focus on the rare collectibles of baseball legend Babe Ruth. Collectors and fans alike eagerly await the opportunity to own a piece of baseball history.
Babe Ruth, a name synonymous with greatness in the world of baseball, continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors even decades after his passing. His larger-than-life persona both on and off the field has left an indelible mark on the sport. The Winter Rarities Auction presents a unique chance to acquire some of his most coveted memorabilia.
One standout item in the auction is an authenticated and graded circa 1915 Ruth rookie-era postcard, one of only two known examples in existence. This exceptional piece depicts a young Babe Ruth during the Boston Red Sox Spring Training camp in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Developed on period photo paper from the original glass negative, this real photo postcard holds incredible rarity and opens for bidding at $50,000.
Another remarkable item up for grabs is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” in which Babe Ruth stars. This card, one of just three known to exist, includes a promotion for the movie at Chicago’s Frolic Theater on the reverse side. Graded PSA 2, this rare gem has a minimum bid of $15,000.
The auction also features a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour that the baseball legend embarked on after the season. With only three known examples, this card shows Ruth in mid-swing, propelling himself towards first base. Graded PSA 1.5, it is a scarce and highly sought-after collectible.
Babe 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 have the highest PSA grades known to exist, adding to their allure.
While Babe Ruth unquestionably takes the spotlight, Memory Lane Inc. ensures that other notable items are included in the auction. A set break of the 1911 Turkey Red collection presents ten cards ranked among the highest ever graded by PSA. This set includes iconic figures like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
In addition, the auction offers the 12th-ranked set of the 1952 Bowman Baseball, featuring individual cards of Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Minnie Minoso’s rookie card, all in top condition. A high-grade 1953 Topps set break includes PSA 9 copies of Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, and Phil Rizzuto, as well as PSA 6 examples of Mantle and Mays.
Autograph collectors will be delighted to find eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards in the auction, five of which have autographs graded PSA 10. These cards cover various years from 1953 to 1958, representing different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
The Winter Rarities Auction doesn’t solely focus on cards; it also includes vintage unopened packs and boxes, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past of baseball card collecting. Among the offerings are 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, both unopened and untouched for decades.
Babe Ruth’s memorabilia steals the show at the auction, encompassing a range of autographed items. A dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to his wife Claire, stands out as a highlight. Accompanying the check is a note that explains its significance, adding a personal touch to this rare artifact. 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, the auction presents pieces that hold immense historical value and perfectly embody the spirit of one of baseball’s greatest icons. With bidding opening on December 21st and running through January 13th, this memorable event promises to make waves in the world of sports memorabilia.
In summary, the Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is an unmissable event for collectors and fans alike. Featuring over 1,950 lots of sports memorabilia, with a special emphasis on rare Babe Ruth collectibles, including cards, photos, and autographs, this auction is a dream come true for sports enthusiasts. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of history by bidding on these extraordinary items.
