In what could arguably be considered a treasure trove of historical nuggets, RMY Auctions’ May event presents an exquisite collection of vintage photographs that capture defining moments in sports, music, and pop culture history. The lineup is incredibly nuanced and diverse, featuring well over 900 photos that span a century of world events, personalities, trends, and milestones.
One prominent offering is a standout black and white photograph from 1948. The image, a universe on a 7 x 8 ¾” canvas, hosts baseball demigods Satchel Paige and Bob Feller. This photograph’s value is further catapulted by a tryst with destiny – it was utilized to create Paige’s highly sought-after rookie card by Leaf in 1949, following his groundbreaking transfer from the Negro Leagues to Major League Baseball with Cleveland.
Adding a unique slice to the sports collection is another rare original photograph of Paige in action for the Kansas City Monarchs. The auction traces its way from one baseball era to another, featuring a historic 1910 silver gelatin image of a blooming 23-year-old Jim Thorpe. This keepsake, clicked by the renowned George Grantham Bain, amplifies the timeless allure of the collection.
The cavalcade of remarkable lots continues with a never-seen-before 1905 postcard of Jack Chesbro, an iconic figure in early 20th-century baseball. Complementing it is a 1934 photograph of Carl Hubbell, utilized for his treasured 1933-36 Diamond Stars baseball card. The auction further scores a home run with multiple photographs of the legendary Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, encapsulating awe-inspiring snippets like Ruth’s maiden season with the Yankees in 1920 and a gripping scene from the 1928 World Series.
Swiveling to a more recent past, the collection features a 1972 snapshot of Roberto Clemente landing his 3000th career hit and a triumphant Wilt Chamberlain immediately after he set a record scoring streak in a single game. Vivid visuals from Michael Jordan’s prime NBA time, taken by Chicago-based shutterbugs, augment the riveting repertoire of items up for grabs.
The auction, spiced up with offbeat and imaginative pictures like Joe DiMaggio lounging in the Yankees’ clubhouse and Ted Williams hitching a ride on a zebra, strikes a tempting chord with avid collectors and photography buffs. These unique and eclectic photos give the auction a panoramic perspective of the dynamic 20th century. Now open for bidding, the auction’s curtain falls on May 11, when collectors will have their final say.
