At the recent Goldin Co. auction, a 1965 Original Type 1 Photo of Joe Namath, famously used for his iconic rookie card, fetched an impressive $197,640. Not only did this sale set a new record for Type 1 football photos, but it also spotlighted the enduring allure of Namath’s legacy in the realm of sports memorabilia.
The 1965 photo, integral to the creation of the Topps Namath rookie card, stands as one of the most sought-after football cards in the collecting world. Its high sale price at the November Elite Auction underscores its significant value in the realm of sports collectibles.
In addition to the highly coveted Namath photo, the Goldin Co. auction featured several other notable items that garnered attention and high bids from collectors. Among them was a 1967 Muhammad Ali/Wilt Chamberlain dual-signed Type 1 photo, capturing the two sports legends during a promotional appearance for the “Wide World of Sports” fight. This photo sold for an impressive $17,080, showcasing the enduring appeal of icons from different athletic realms.
The allure of basketball collectibles was evident at the auction as well. A Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo fetched the same price of $17,080. Jordan’s rookie year is widely regarded as a crucial moment in basketball history, and his autographed memorabilia continues to be sought after by fans and collectors alike.
It wasn’t just legends like Namath and Jordan who commanded high bids, but also rising stars whose careers left a significant impact. A 1994 Tiger Woods Type 1 photo, marking the year he graduated high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner, went for $7,595. This highlights the broad appeal of sports memorabilia, attracting collectors looking to capture a piece of history at various stages of an athlete’s career.
Aside from the aforementioned items, the auction also featured other remarkable Type 1 photos that garnered considerable attention from collectors. A Michael Jordan 1988 Playoffs Type 1 photo by the New York Times commemorated the first time Jordan scored back-to-back 50 point games in NBA playoff history and sold for $6,100. This photo symbolizes a defining moment in Jordan’s career and serves as a reminder of his dominance on the court.
Rarity and historical significance were also factors in attracting collectors. A rare 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” Type 1 photo, depicting Brett being restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire with his deemed illegal bat, fetched $4,574. This photo immortalizes one of the most infamous moments in baseball history and holds a special place in the hearts of avid sports enthusiasts.
Even the intense world of boxing made an appearance at the auction. The 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated Shoot Type 1 photo, capturing Tyson in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym, was auctioned for $3,660. This photo gives a glimpse into the early days of Tyson’s career, showcasing the raw talent and determination that made him a boxing legend.
The sales at Goldin Co. not only demonstrate the rich history and continuing fascination with sports photography and memorabilia but also provide a platform to showcase moments and figures that have defined various sports eras. From legendary figures like Namath and Ali to rising stars like Woods and Jordan, these photos allow fans and collectors to connect with iconic moments and athletes that have left a lasting impact on sports history.
