The Winter Rarities Auction presented by Memory Lane Inc. is an event that sports memorabilia enthusiasts won’t want to miss. Featuring over 1,950 lots of sports cards and memorabilia, this auction showcases some of the rarest collectibles of baseball legend Babe Ruth. Opening on December 21st, it offers a unique opportunity for collectors to own a piece of baseball history.
Babe Ruth, known for his larger-than-life persona both on and off the field, continues to captivate fans and collectors even decades after his passing. His enduring legacy is brought to life in this auction, where some of his most highly coveted memorabilia is up for bids.
One standout item in the auction is an authenticated and graded circa 1915 Ruth rookie-era postcard, one of only two known examples. This unique image was captured at the Boston Red Sox Spring Training camp in Hot Springs, Arkansas and is developed on period photo paper from the original glass negative. The rarity of this real photo postcard is reflected in its starting bid of $50,000.
Another exceptional piece is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” starring Ruth. Only three of these promotional 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 carries a minimum bid of $15,000.
The auction also includes a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour headlined by Ruth after the season. With only three known examples, this card shows Ruth in mid-swing, heading toward first base. It is graded PSA 1.5.
Ruth’s presence in the auction extends beyond these unique cards. Several high-grade 1930s Goudey cards featuring Ruth and other baseball greats like Jimmie Foxx, Carl Hubbell, Dizzy Dean, Lou Gehrig, and Nat Holman are also available. Some of these cards are the highest PSA grades known to exist.
But Memory Lane Inc. doesn’t just focus on Ruth. The auction also features a 1911 Turkey Red set break, including 10 cards that are ranked among the highest ever graded by PSA. This set includes legendary names like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
Additionally, the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball is up for grabs, with individual cards of Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Minnie Minoso’s rookie card, all in top condition. 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 collectors will be delighted to find eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards in the auction, five of which have autographs graded PSA 10. Spanning years from 1953 to 1958, these cards cover different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
The auction isn’t limited to cards. Vintage unopened packs and boxes are also available, including 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, offering collectors a glimpse into the past of baseball card collecting.
Ruth’s memorabilia takes center stage in this auction and features a range of autographed items. One notable highlight is a dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to his wife Claire, along with 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. 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 presents pieces that not only hold immense historical value but also embody the spirit of one of baseball’s greatest icons. As the auction opens and runs through January 13th, it promises to be a memorable 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 such as cards, photos, and autographs, this auction provides a thrilling opportunity to own a piece of baseball history. Don’t miss out on this chance to be a part of the extraordinary world of sports memorabilia.
