Picture a treasure trove so unique and historically significant that it could only be assembled through a lifetime of dedication and serendipitous discovery. This is the essence of the Harry W. O’Brien Collection, which is preparing to make waves at the Paul McInnis Auctioneer’s upcoming auction event in North Hampton, New Hampshire. The collection, gathered meticulously by O’Brien and his father, Daniel, blankets decades of American sports and pop culture history, and all for a noble cause—the support of higher education through the University of New Hampshire Scholarship Fund.
Harry W. O’Brien, a revered figure from Manchester, NH, inherited and expanded this impressive collection initiated by his father during his service in the world wars. Daniel O’Brien’s passion for collecting began as a modest hobby but grew into a formidable archive of memorabilia, encompassing everything from pre-war baseball tobacco and gum cards to vintage comics and beyond.
The auction highlight reels off names that resonate like echoes from a golden era of baseball. Imagine the allure of over 300 T206 baseball cards which include legends like Christie Mathewson and Cy Young. Picture a complete set of 1911 T201 Mecca Double Folders and perhaps most stirring of all, 80 Goudey cards from the 1930s featuring titans of the diamond such as Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. Additionally, the collection boasts rare 1930s George C Miller cards known for their scarcity and appeal among seasoned collectors.
Baseball isn’t the only sport represented in this grand ensemble. The auction also showcases a series of 1910 T218 Mecca boxing cards, with Jack Johnson—a towering figure in heavyweight boxing history—taking center stage. These artifacts not only capture the fierce expression of the sport but also frame a significant chapter in sports history.
But let’s step off the field for a moment. The collection dives into the vibrant world of comic book lore with high-grade 1940s comics that star none other than Superman and Batman. These comics are not just paper and ink; they are fragments of 20th-century American mythology, preserved in mint condition and coveted by collectors and fans alike.
Adding more flavor to this diverse mix, the auction will offer a glimpse into historic moments through rare ticket stubs, including one from the inaugural game at Fenway Park in 1912. These stubs are not merely entry passes but bookmarks in the annals of sports history, offering a tactile connection to bygone days of glory and excitement.
This event is not just an auction; it’s a celebration of heritage, nostalgia, and the enduring power of memorabilia to tell stories across generations. With over 500 lots up for grabs, the auction is poised to be a playground for collectors and enthusiasts, each item a narrative waiting to be continued in a new home.
Pre-bidding doors are already open, a prelude to the main spectacle which will come alive during a live virtual webcast slated for a festive Saturday morning on May 4, 2024, starting at 11:00 AM. It promises not only a chance to own a piece of history but to contribute to a future where education is accessible to more promising students through the funds raised for the University of New Hampshire Scholarship Fund.
This auction stands as a testament to how one man’s passion can transcend personal collection and touch the lives of future generations through education. It beckons to all who cherish not just the game of baseball or the thrill of comics, but also the enduring impact of supporting dreams and educational aspirations. Indeed, every bid at the Harry W. O’Brien Collection auction is a swing at making a difference.
