The Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is set to captivate the sports memorabilia world with its vast collection of over 1,950 lots, featuring cards, photos, and autographs of the legendary Babe Ruth. Baseball fans and collectors alike will have a unique opportunity to own a piece of history as they bid on these rare collectibles.
Babe Ruth, who continues to be an enduring icon in the world of baseball, has left a lasting legacy that enchants fans and collectors to this day. This auction celebrates his larger-than-life persona by offering some of his most coveted memorabilia.
One standout item in this auction is an authenticated and graded circa 1915 Ruth rookie-era postcard, one of only two known examples. This rare postcard features an image of Ruth taken at the Boston Red Sox Spring Training camp in Hot Springs, Arkansas, developed on period photo paper from the original glass negative. With a starting bid of $50,000, this real photo postcard is a true gem for collectors.
Another exceptional 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 features a promotion for the movie at Chicago’s Frolic Theater on its reverse. Graded PSA 2, it has a minimum bid of $15,000.
The auction also includes a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour that he headlined after the season. With only three known examples, this card shows Ruth in mid-swing, on his way to first base. Graded PSA 1.5, it is a scarce and sought-after collectible.
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. Many of these cards are the highest PSA grades known to exist, making them highly desirable for collectors.
While the auction showcases the allure of Ruth, Memory Lane Inc. also offers other captivating items. A 1911 Turkey Red set break, including 10 cards ranked among the highest ever graded by PSA, features legendary names like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
Collectors will also have their eyes on the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball, which includes 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 contains PSA 9 copies of Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, and Phil Rizzuto, along with PSA 6 examples of Mantle and Mays.
Autograph aficionados will find delight in the auction, with eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards, five of which have autographs graded PSA 10. These cards span from 1953 to 1958, representing different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
The Winter Rarities Auction is not limited to cards alone. It also features vintage unopened packs and boxes, providing a glimpse into the past of baseball card collecting. Some highlights include the 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, offering a nostalgic experience for avid collectors.
Ruth’s memorabilia takes center stage in the auction, with a range of autographed items capturing his true essence. A notable highlight is a dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to his wife Claire, accompanied by a note explaining its significance. Other remarkable 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. presents an unparalleled opportunity for collectors and fans alike to own a part of Babe Ruth’s legacy. These items not only hold immense historical value but also embody the spirit of one of baseball’s greatest icons. The auction opens on December 21st and runs until January 13th, promising an unforgettable event for the world of sports memorabilia.
In conclusion, the Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is a must-attend event for collectors. With over 1,950 lots of sports memorabilia, including rare Babe Ruth collectibles, this auction offers a chance to own a piece of baseball history. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to bring home these remarkable treasures.
