The world of sports memorabilia is about to witness an extraordinary event as Memory Lane Inc. hosts its Winter Rarities Auction, a spectacle that showcases over 1,950 lots of sports cards and memorabilia. Headlining this exciting auction are rare collectibles of baseball legend Babe Ruth, offering collectors a unique opportunity to own a piece of baseball history.
Babe Ruth, known for his larger-than-life persona both on and off the field, continues to captivate fans and collectors more than 70 years after his passing. His legendary status in the annals of baseball comes alive in this auction, where some of his most coveted memorabilia is up for bids.
One standout item in the auction is an authenticated and graded circa 1915 Ruth rookie-era postcard, one of only two known examples. This unique 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. The rarity of this real photo postcard is reflected in its starting bid of $50,000.
Another exceptional piece 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.
The auction also includes a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour headlined by Ruth after the season. This card, also scarce with only three known examples, shows Ruth in mid-swing, heading toward first base. It’s graded PSA 1.5.
Ruth’s presence extends beyond these unique 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 available. Some of these cards are the highest PSA grades known to exist.
Memory Lane Inc. doesn’t just focus on Ruth; the auction features a 1911 Turkey Red set break, including 10 cards ranked among the highest ever graded by PSA. This set includes legendary names like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
Additionally, the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball is up for grabs, 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, along with PSA 6 examples of Mantle and Mays.
For autograph collectors, eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards are available, five of which have autographs graded PSA 10. Spanning years from 1953 to 1958, these cards cover different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
The auction isn’t limited to cards. It also features vintage unopened packs and boxes, including 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, offering a glimpse into the past of baseball card collecting.
Ruth’s memorabilia in the auction is truly remarkable, featuring a range of autographed items. A highlight is a dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to his 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 two autographed golf scorecards.
The Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. offers an unparalleled opportunity for collectors and fans alike to own a part of Babe Ruth’s storied legacy. From rare cards and autographs to unique memorabilia, the auction presents pieces that 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.
In conclusion, the Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is a must-attend event for collectors, featuring over 1,950 lots of sports memorabilia. With a special focus on rare Babe Ruth collectibles, including cards, photos, and autographs, this auction presents a unique opportunity to acquire pieces of baseball history. Don’t miss the chance to own a part of Babe Ruth’s legacy.
