The Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is set to captivate sports memorabilia enthusiasts with its impressive collection of over 1,950 lots, featuring rare cards, photos, and autographs. However, the true highlight of this event is the extraordinary array of Babe Ruth memorabilia that will undoubtedly steal the show.
Babe Ruth, a legendary figure in the world of baseball, continues to fascinate fans and collectors worldwide even decades after his untimely passing. His larger-than-life persona and remarkable achievements have cemented his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. This auction offers a unique opportunity for collectors to own a piece of baseball history and connect with the incomparable legacy of Babe Ruth.
One standout item in the auction is an authenticated and graded circa 1915 Ruth rookie-era postcard, one of only two known examples. This rare gem features an image of Ruth captured at 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 is an exceptional find, with a starting bid of $50,000.
Another remarkable piece is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” in which Ruth starred. Only three of these cards are known to exist, and this particular card showcases a promotion for the movie at Chicago’s Frolic Theater on its reverse. Graded PSA 2, this unique collectible carries a minimum bid of $15,000.
The auction also presents a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour after the season. With only three known examples, this card captures Ruth in full swing as he heads towards first base. Graded PSA 1.5, this card is a rare find for any dedicated collector.
In addition to these unique cards, the auction also features several high-grade 1930s Goudey cards that showcase Ruth alongside other baseball greats such as Jimmie Foxx, Carl Hubbell, Dizzy Dean, Lou Gehrig, and Nat Holman. Some of these cards are among the highest PSA grades known to exist, making them highly sought-after collectibles.
While the auction celebrates Babe Ruth, Memory Lane Inc. has curated an extensive selection of other remarkable items. This includes a 1911 Turkey Red set break, which includes cards featuring legendary names like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie. The set includes ten cards that are ranked among the highest ever graded by PSA.
Collectors will be delighted to find the 12th-ranked set of the 1952 Bowman Baseball, with individual cards of Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Minnie Minoso’s rookie card, all in top condition. Additionally, a high-grade 1953 Topps set break includes PSA 9 copies of Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, and Phil Rizzuto, along with PSA 6 examples of Mantle and Mays.
Autograph enthusiasts will have a plethora of choices in this auction, as it features eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards, five of which have autographs graded PSA 10. These cards span from 1953 to 1958, capturing different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
The Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. goes beyond cards and autographs, offering a unique opportunity to dive into the past of baseball card collecting. Vintage unopened packs and boxes, including 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, will transport collectors back in time, reliving the excitement of opening packs from years gone by.
Babe Ruth’s memorabilia collection in this auction is truly remarkable, with a range of autographed items that hold immense historical value. Highlights include a dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to Ruth’s wife Claire, accompanied by a note explaining its significance. 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, this auction brings together pieces that not only hold immense historical value but also embody the spirit of one of baseball’s greatest icons. As the auction opens on December 21st and runs through January 13th, be prepared for a truly memorable event in the world of sports memorabilia.
In conclusion, the Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is an event that no true collector should miss. With over 1,950 lots of sports memorabilia, this auction promises to satisfy the most discerning enthusiasts. But it is the rare and coveted Babe Ruth memorabilia that will undoubtedly steal the show, allowing collectors to own a piece of baseball history and connect with the legacy of a true legend.
