At a recent Goldin Co. auction, a 1965 Original Type 1 Photo of Joe Namath, famously used for his iconic rookie card, fetched an impressive $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 sports memorabilia.
The 1965 photo, integral to the creation of the Topps Namath rookie card, stands as one of the most sought-after football cards in the collecting world. Its high sale price at the November Elite Auction underscores its significant value in the realm of sports collectibles.
The auction at Goldin Co. featured several other notable items. A 1967 Muhammad Ali/Wilt Chamberlain dual-signed Type 1 photo, capturing the two sports legends during a promotional appearance for the “Wide World of Sports” fight, was sold for $17,080. This photo is a rare glimpse into the meeting of two sporting giants and holds immense historical significance.
Another highlight of the auction was a Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo, which also garnered $17,080. Jordan’s rookie year is widely regarded as a turning point in basketball history, and this photo captures him during his rise to greatness.
A 1994 Tiger Woods Type 1 photo, marking the year he graduated high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner, went for $7,595. This photo represents a significant milestone in Woods’ career and showcases his early talent and potential.
Among other remarkable Type 1 photos in the auction was a Michael Jordan 1988 Playoffs Type 1 photo by the New York Times. This photo commemorates the first time Jordan scored back-to-back 50 point games in NBA playoff history and was sold for $6,100. It serves as a testament to Jordan’s incredible scoring ability and dominance on the court.
Additionally, a rare 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” Type 1 photo was auctioned for $4,574. This iconic image depicts Brett being restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire with his deemed illegal bat, and it holds a special place in baseball history.
Lastly, a 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated Shoot Type 1 photo captured Tyson in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym and was sold for $3,660. This photo provides a glimpse into Tyson’s early training days and the environment that shaped his remarkable boxing career.
These sales at Goldin Co. highlight the rich history and enduring fascination with sports photography and memorabilia. Each photo captures a moment in time, showcasing the incredible talent and legacy of these sports figures. From Namath’s iconic rookie card to Ali and Chamberlain’s meeting, these photographs preserve the essence of the sports eras they represent. The high prices they fetched at auction demonstrate the continued demand for these significant pieces of sporting history.
