A highly anticipated auction is set to take the baseball memorabilia collecting world by storm as Hindman’s Having a Ball Auction opens its doors to a treasure trove of autographed baseballs. Enthusiasts and collectors will have the opportunity to bid on over 570 lots, featuring an impressive array of signatures from some of the game’s greatest players.
The collection, assembled by a single collector, includes autographed baseballs from renowned legends such as Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Jackie Robinson, and Roberto Clemente. Additionally, the auction features rare signatures from baseball Hall of Famers, adding a touch of exclusivity to the esteemed gathering.
James Smith, the Director of Sports Memorabilia at Hindman, expressed his excitement about the collection, stating that it is one of the most extensive and thrilling compilations to be offered by the auction house. With such a variety of notable signatures, the auction is bound to attract passionate and dedicated memorabilia enthusiasts.
One standout piece that is expected to generate significant interest is a baseball signed by the 1934 New York Yankees. This artifact holds particular significance as it represents Babe Ruth’s final year with the team. The ball not only features Ruth’s signature but also includes autographs from his famed teammate Lou Gehrig, as well as other baseball Hall of Famers like Earle Combs and Tony Lazzeri. To authenticate its provenance, the ball comes with certification letters from trusted authentication services, PSA and Beckett Authentication Services.
Among the exceptional items up for auction is a baseball from the deadball era, signed by an extraordinary group of players, including Cy Young and the first baseball commissioner, Kennesaw “Mountain” Landis. Adding to its rarity, this ball also features the signatures of Mrs. Christy Mathewson and Mrs. John J. McGraw, making it an unparalleled collector’s item. It is accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Beckett Authentication Services.
Further highlights of the auction include a high-grade 1955 Brooklyn Dodgers team-signed ball, a 1957 Milwaukee Braves World Series championship ball, and a 1972 National League All-Star team ball autographed by luminaries such as Roberto Clemente and Hank Aaron. Notable team balls from the 1930 and 1932 Philadelphia Athletics, adorned with the signatures of legends like Jimmie Foxx and Lefty Grove, will also be available for bidding.
For those eager to participate, the Having a Ball timed online auction is currently open for bids on Hindman’s website and Live Auctioneers. The lots will close sequentially, beginning at 9 AM CT on November 29. To ensure fair competition, the auction employs an extended bidding system. In the final minute before a lot’s closing time, any new bid will trigger a five-minute extension, allowing all interested parties an equal opportunity to partake. The extended bidding process does not impact the closing times of other lots, maintaining a streamlined and organized auction experience.
With an impressive lineup of autographed baseballs, including rarities and signatures from iconic players, Hindman’s Having a Ball Auction is a spectacle that is undoubtedly capturing the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or an avid collector, this auction promises to be a captivating event that celebrates the rich history and timeless allure of America’s beloved pastime.
