The world of sports memorabilia is buzzing with excitement as Memory Lane Inc. prepares to host its Winter Rarities Auction, a dazzling showcase of over 1,950 lots featuring sports cards and memorabilia. At the forefront of this extraordinary event are the rare collectibles of baseball legend Babe Ruth, offering collectors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of baseball history.
Babe Ruth, renowned for his larger-than-life persona both on and off the field, continues to captivate fans and collectors even 70 years after his passing. His enduring legacy is brought to life in this auction, as some of his most coveted memorabilia takes center stage.
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 unique 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 evident with its starting bid of $50,000.
Another exceptional piece is a promotional card for the 1920 movie “Headin’ Home,” starring Ruth. Only three of these cards are known to exist, and this particular 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 showcases a 1920 Ruth card promoting a barnstorming tour headlined by Ruth after the baseball season. With only three known examples, this card displays Ruth in mid-swing, heading towards first base, and is 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 such as Jimmie Foxx, Carl Hubbell, Dizzy Dean, Lou Gehrig, and Nat Holman are also up for bidding. Some of these cards are the highest PSA grades known to exist.
However, Memory Lane Inc. doesn’t solely focus on Ruth; the auction presents a remarkable 1911 Turkey Red set break, including 10 cards ranked among the highest ever graded by PSA. This set boasts legendary names like Ty Cobb, Christy Mathewson, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie.
For collectors eyeing more modern treasures, the auction offers a chance to own the 12th-ranked set of 1952 Bowman Baseball. This set features individual cards of iconic players such as Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Minnie Minoso’s rookie card, all in top condition. A high-grade 1953 Topps set break is also available, including PSA 9 copies of Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, and Phil Rizzuto, along with PSA 6 examples of Mantle and Mays.
Autograph enthusiasts will rejoice at the sight of eight Mickey Mantle autographed cards in the auction, five of which have autographs graded PSA 10. These cards span from 1953 to 1958, capturing different phases of Mantle’s illustrious career.
The Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. is not confined to cards alone. Vintage unopened packs and boxes are also featured, including 1978 and 1979 Topps Baseball vending cases, providing a tantalizing glimpse into the world of baseball card collecting from a bygone era.
To add to the allure, Ruth’s memorabilia in the auction is truly remarkable, showcasing a range of autographed items. One highlight is a dual-signed check from July 1945, made out to his wife Claire, accompanied by a note explaining its significance. Other notable items include a signed 1923 $1 silver certificate, an album page signed by Ruth and Jimmie Foxx, as well as two autographed golf scorecards.
The Winter Rarities Auction at Memory Lane Inc. presents an unparalleled opportunity for collectors and fans alike to own a piece of Babe Ruth’s legendary legacy. From rare cards and autographs to unique memorabilia, this auction not only holds immense historical value but also encapsulates the indomitable spirit of one of baseball’s greatest icons. Running from December 21st through January 13th, this event promises to be an unforgettable moment in the world of sports memorabilia.
