Now, here’s something to grab your attention: next month, RMY Auctions is set to provide a ticket to a captivating journey through time. Undeniably, the star of this delightful extravaganza is a grand monochrome photograph dating back to the 1948 heart-to-heart of baseball titans, Satchel Paige and Bob Feller – a snapshot that birthed Paige’s most coveted rookie card by Leaf in 1949. Immortalized on this 7 x 8 ¾” celluloid strip, the definitive moment symbolizes Paige’s breakthrough migration from the Negro Leagues to Major League Baseball.
But that’s not all. The event trained its spotlight on an original, scarce Type I picture of Paige in his Kansas City Monarchs’ uniform. The auction’s swanky timeline spans an entire century’s worth of sports, plus news and entertainment photography.
In total, we’re talking about an impressive stash of over 900 rare gems. Many of these exquisite pieces are making their public debut, adding a spark of excitement to the event. A cherry on top is a haunting 1910 silver gelatin snap of a youthful 23-year-old Jim Thorpe, captured through the discerning lens of famed photographer, George Grantham Bain.
The auction’s treat doesn’t end there. Other showcased treasures include a never-before-seen 1905 PC782 Rotograph real photo postcard of Jack Chesbro, a baseball superstar of yesteryears, and a dramatic 1934 still of Carl Hubbell that also inspired his 1933-36 Diamond Stars baseball card.
And for those whose hearts flutter at the mention of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, be prepared. The catalog is sprinkled with photos portraying their fascinating sports journey. From Ruth’s pioneering season with the Yankees in 1920 to a gripping scene of the legendary 1928 World Series, it’s there!
Tip-toeing into more recent times, the collection encompasses a 1972 snapshot of Roberto Clemente achieving his 3000th career hit and Wilt Chamberlain basking in his record-shattering 100-point spree. Furthermore, you’ll come across some adrenaline-packed moments from Michael Jordan’s prime NBA days, captured candidly by Chicago-based photographers.
Perusal of this collection will reveal some idiosyncratic oddities – a quirky picture of Joe DiMaggio relaxing in the Yankees’ clubroom, Ted Williams atop a zebra, and much more. This wide, dense collection paints a panoramic view of the 20th century, appealing to a broad spectrum of collectors, historical connoisseurs, and photography aficionados alike. The grand event is currently in full swing, with the bidding curtain lowering on May 11.
