A remarkable collection of autographed baseballs from a single collector is generating excitement as it hits the auction block at Hindman’s Having a Ball Auction in Chicago. With an impressive selection of over 570 lots, this auction offers a diverse range of baseballs autographed by some of the greatest players in the history of the game. From Ty Cobb to Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig to Jackie Robinson, and Roberto Clemente to other illustrious baseball Hall of Famers, this collection is a true treasure trove for sports enthusiasts.
James Smith, the Director of Sports Memorabilia at Hindman, expressed his enthusiasm about the breadth and depth of the collection, citing it as one of the most extensive and thrilling offerings that the auction house has ever presented. The sheer number and quality of autographed baseballs make this auction a must-see event for any serious collector or fan.
One standout piece that is expected to attract significant interest is a baseball signed by the 1934 New York Yankees. Notable for being Babe Ruth’s last year with the team, this ball is adorned with the signatures of Ruth himself, his celebrated teammate Lou Gehrig, and other Hall of Fame players such as Earle Combs and Tony Lazzeri. To ensure its authenticity, the ball comes with authentication letters from respected authorities PSA and Beckett Authentication Services.
Another unique item in the auction is a baseball from the deadball era, signed by a diverse group that includes legendary pitcher Cy Young and the first baseball commissioner, Kennesaw “Mountain” Landis. The rarity of this ball is further enhanced by the signatures of Mrs. Christy Mathewson and Mrs. John J. McGraw, making it an extraordinary collector’s item. A letter of authenticity from Beckett Authentication Services accompanies the ball, confirming its historical significance.
The auction also features other notable highlights, including a high-grade 1955 Brooklyn Dodgers team-signed ball, a 1957 Milwaukee Braves World Series championship ball, and a 1972 National League All-Star team ball signed by luminaries such as Roberto Clemente and Hank Aaron. Collectors will also find signed team balls from the 1930 and 1932 Philadelphia Athletics, featuring the signatures of legendary players like Jimmie Foxx and Lefty Grove.
The Having a Ball timed online auction is currently open for bids on Hindman’s website and Live Auctioneers. The lots are set to close sequentially, starting at 9 AM CT on November 29. To ensure fairness and give all interested parties a chance to participate, the auction employs a bidding system where if a bid is placed in the final minute before a lot is set to close, the bidding period is extended by five minutes for that particular lot. This extended bidding process does not affect the closing times of other lots, guaranteeing a fair and competitive auction environment.
Whether you’re an avid collector or a passionate fan of baseball history, Hindman’s Having a Ball Auction is a not-to-be-missed event. Don’t pass up the opportunity to own autographed baseballs from legends of the game that have left an indelible mark on baseball’s rich heritage. Place your bids and secure these prized collectibles that embody the spirit and magic of America’s pastime.
