The world of sports memorabilia is buzzing with excitement as Memory Lane Inc. prepares to host its Winter Rarities Auction. With over 1,950 lots of sports cards and memorabilia, this auction is set to be a spectacle like no other. And at the center of attention are the rare collectibles of legendary baseball icon Babe Ruth. For fans and collectors, this is a golden opportunity to own a piece of baseball history.
Babe Ruth’s larger-than-life persona continues to captivate fans even more than 70 years after his passing. In this auction, his legacy truly comes alive as some of his most coveted memorabilia take the spotlight. One standout item is an authenticated and graded circa 1915 Ruth rookie-era postcard, one of only two known examples. This unique postcard, featuring an image taken at the Boston Red Sox Spring Training camp in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is developed on period photo paper from the original glass negative. Its rarity is reflected in its starting bid of $50,000, making it a highly sought-after piece.
Another exceptional item up for bids is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” starring Ruth. This card, one of only three known to exist, features a promotion for the movie at Chicago’s Frolic Theater on its reverse side. Graded PSA 2, it carries a minimum bid of $15,000. Alongside this, a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour that Ruth headlined after the season is also available. With only three known examples, this card shows Ruth in mid-swing, heading towards first base. Graded PSA 1.5, it presents a unique opportunity for collectors.
Ruth’s presence in the auction goes beyond these 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 up for grabs. Some of these cards are the highest PSA grades known to exist, adding to their appeal.
While Memory Lane Inc. ensures that Ruth takes center stage, the auction also includes other notable items. The 1911 Turkey Red set break features 10 cards ranked among the highest ever graded by PSA, with names like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie. Additionally, the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball is available, 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, as well as PSA 6 examples of Mantle and Mays.
For autograph collectors, there’s a treat in store with eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards in the auction. Five of these cards have autographs graded PSA 10, spanning years from 1953 to 1958 and showcasing different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
But the Winter Rarities Auction isn’t just about cards. Vintage unopened packs and boxes are also available, offering a glimpse into the past of baseball card collecting. This includes 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, which are sure to pique the interest of collectors looking for a nostalgic throwback.
Turning the spotlight back to Ruth’s memorabilia, the auction features a range of autographed items. Among them is a dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to Ruth’s wife Claire, along with a note explaining its significance. Other notable items include a signed 1923 $1 silver certificate, an album page signed by Ruth and Jimmie Foxx, and even two autographed golf scorecards.
The Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is truly an unparalleled opportunity for collectors and fans alike to own a part of Babe Ruth’s storied legacy. The pieces on offer not only hold immense historical value but also embody the spirit of one of baseball’s greatest icons. As the auction opens on December 21st and runs through January 13th, it promises to be a memorable event for the world of sports memorabilia. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of history and secure a rare Babe Ruth collectible today.
In conclusion, the Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is a must-attend event for collectors of sports memorabilia. With over 1,950 lots available, the auction offers a unique opportunity to acquire rare Babe Ruth collectibles, including cards, photos, and autographs. Whether you’re a dedicated collector or a passionate fan, this auction is the place to be to own a piece of baseball history.
