Heritage Auctions, a renowned auction house, has unveiled a mesmerizing collection of autographed photographs in its latest Icons Photography Auction. The array of vintage images is set to delight sports enthusiasts and collectors alike. One of the standout pieces is a 1948 photo capturing basketball legend George Mikan in action, mirroring his iconic 1948 Bowman rookie card. This 8×10 Type 1 photo, enhanced with Mikan’s signature in blue ink, is projected to command a price exceeding $20,000.
The theme of signed vintage photos continues to captivate bidders. An image from the late 1940s featuring Cleveland Browns icon Otto Graham, reminiscent of his 1950 Bowman Football rookie card, bears his distinctive signature. Equally significant is an autographed photo of Jackie Robinson from 1949, where he is presented with the Silver Bat for clinching the National League batting title in a season where he was crowned MVP. This Type I photo, personalized to “Jeff,” holds special historical value.
Another compelling piece showcases Robinson in 1957 as he cleans out his locker at Ebbets Field following his retirement from baseball. The poignant image captures his Dodgers cap, home jersey, fielder’s glove, cleats, and equipment bag, alongside two bats, one belonging to Gil Hodges. This poignant snapshot is anticipated to attract bids in excess of $10,000.
Adding to the allure is a photo that served as the reference for Willie Mays’ 1952 Topps card, complete with Mays’ signature on the front, believed to have been inked in the 1990s.
The auction catalog boasts an impressive array of over 150 vintage images, some dating back over a century. Noteworthy among these is a photo from the 1919 World Series, depicting the iconic moment when Black Sox pitcher Eddie Cicotte and Reds’ starter Dutch Reuther shake hands before a game at Redland Field in Cincinnati. This historic piece, accompanied by its original paper caption and stamps on the back, is set to commence bidding at $8,000.
Other notable highlights in the collection include rookie photos of legendary figures such as Hank Aaron (1954), Jack Nicklaus (1962), and Pete Maravich (1970). The auction also houses various captivating images of baseball icons Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and other pre-war sports luminaries.
This all-encompassing auction delves deep into the annals of sports history through the lens of photography, providing fervent collectors and enthusiasts with a rare chance to own a slice of sports heritage. Running until June 13, the auction beckons individuals to partake in this extraordinary opportunity to acquire prized pieces of sporting memorabilia.
