The world of sports memorabilia is buzzing with excitement as Memory Lane Inc. prepares to host its highly-anticipated Winter Rarities Auction. This extraordinary event showcases over 1,950 lots of sports cards and memorabilia, with the spotlight shining on the rare collectibles of baseball legend, Babe Ruth. Collectors and fans alike will have 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 legacy, firmly established in the annals of baseball history, comes alive in this auction, where some of his most coveted memorabilia will be 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 in existence. This one-of-a-kind image, captured 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,” which starred Ruth. Only three of these cards are known to exist, and this specific card 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 in the auction 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 will also be available. Some of these cards are the highest PSA grades known to exist.
Memory Lane Inc. is not solely focused on Ruth in this auction. It also offers a 1911 Turkey Red set break, which includes 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 will be 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.
Autograph collectors will be delighted to find eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards in the auction, five of which have autographs graded PSA 10. These cards span from 1953 to 1958, covering different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
But the auction isn’t limited to cards alone. It also features vintage unopened packs and boxes, including 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, giving collectors a glimpse into the past of baseball card collecting.
Ruth’s memorabilia in this auction is truly remarkable, featuring a range of autographed items. One 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 and fans. With over 1,950 lots of sports memorabilia, including a remarkable collection of Babe Ruth collectibles, this auction presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of baseball history. Whether it’s rare cards, photos, or autographs, there is something for every baseball enthusiast. So mark your calendars and join the excitement as the Winter Rarities Auction unfolds.
