At a recent auction held by Goldin Co., a 1965 original Type 1 photo of Joe Namath, famously used for his iconic rookie card, fetched an impressive $197,640. This sale not only set a new record for Type 1 football photos but also spotlighted the enduring allure of Namath’s legacy in sports memorabilia.
The 1965 photo, which played an integral role in the creation of the highly sought-after Topps Namath rookie card, stands as one of the most coveted football cards in the collecting world. Its high sale price at the November Elite Auction underscores its significant value in the realm of sports collectibles.
But Namath’s rookie card photo wasn’t the only noteworthy item at the Goldin Co. auction. There were several other highly anticipated pieces that captivated the attention of collectors:
– A 1967 Muhammad Ali/Wilt Chamberlain dual-signed Type 1 photo, capturing the two sports legends during a promotional appearance for the “Wide World of Sports” fight, was sold for $17,080.
– A Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo fetched the same price of $17,080.
– A 1994 Tiger Woods Type 1 photo, marking the year he graduated high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner, went for $7,595.
In addition to these remarkable items, there were other Type 1 photos that garnered significant attention at the auction, including:
– A Michael Jordan 1988 Playoffs Type 1 photo by the New York Times, commemorating the first time Jordan scored back-to-back 50 point games in NBA playoff history, sold for $6,100.
– A rare 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” Type 1 photo, which captures Brett being restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire with his deemed illegal bat, fetched $4,574.
– A 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated Shoot Type 1 photo, capturing Tyson in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym, was auctioned for $3,660.
These sales at Goldin Co. serve as a testament to the rich history and enduring fascination with sports photography and memorabilia. Each item showcases pivotal moments and iconic figures that have defined various sports eras. From Namath’s legendary rookie card photo to Ali’s dual-signed image with Chamberlain, these pieces of sports history continue to captivate collectors and fans alike.
Whether it’s the allure of owning a piece of a sports legend’s legacy or the excitement of preserving a pivotal moment in athletic history, the demand for sports memorabilia and photography remains ever-present. Auctions like the one held by Goldin Co. serve as a hub for collectors to celebrate and acquire these cherished items, further cementing their place in the realm of sports lore.
In conclusion, the recent sale of Joe Namath’s 1965 rookie card photo at Goldin Co. auction not only set a new record for Type 1 football photos but also shed light on the lasting appeal of Namath’s legacy in sports collectibles. The auction featured several other notable pieces, highlighting the rich history and enduring fascination with sports photography and memorabilia. These sales serve as a reminder of the profound impact that sports moments and figures have had on our culture, and the significant value placed on preserving these memories.
