2009 October Signature Sports Memorabilia Auction
| Sale Number: | 716 |
| Location: | Heritage Auctions - Dallas 3500 Maple Ave 17th Floor Dallas, TX 75219 |
| Auction Date: | October 1st at 10 PM CT through October 2nd |
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Session 1
Baseball Cards
1902-11 W600 Sporting Life John "Hans" Wagner Cabinets-Uniform PSA EX 5 (MK). An exquisite Carl Horner photograph of the Hall of Fame shortstop acts as the centerpiece of this extraordinary 5-1/4" x 7-1/2" premium artifact. The dignified likeness is the same illustration employed on Wagner's famed T206 collectible, a storied piece with which this large and impressive cabinet arguably shares equivalent rarity. The image is captioned with Wagner's name, club affiliation, and position; the surround features an embossed advertisement for Sporting Life, the publication to which the hobby is indebted for producing the spectacular W600's, circa 1902-11. Upholding all of the grace and splendor inherent in the period studio-cabinet portraits it was designed to emulate, this portrayal, not surprisingly, stands as a dominating one. It's fully capable of taking over the stage when arrayed with items that might be similarly scarce, but which suffer in comparison to top-drawer expression of the photographer's art and the cabinet's painstakingly crafted construction.
As befits an awe-inspiring relic that projects such physical grandeur, this copy holds "1 of 1" distinction, standing alone atop a meager census that lists just five examples, in total. It must be emphasized that this cabinet's Horner presentation of Wagner is peerless, having maintained dramatically sharp fidelity through the passage of a full century. Touches of superficial scuffing at the corners' tips (primarily on the reverse) do not affect their strong, right-angle shaping, which remains fundamentally sound. The premium's grade is qualified solely on the basis of a vintage fountain pen notation neatly scripted on the reverse side.
As befits an awe-inspiring relic that projects such physical grandeur, this copy holds "1 of 1" distinction, standing alone atop a meager census that lists just five examples, in total. It must be emphasized that this cabinet's Horner presentation of Wagner is peerless, having maintained dramatically sharp fidelity through the passage of a full century. Touches of superficial scuffing at the corners' tips (primarily on the reverse) do not affect their strong, right-angle shaping, which remains fundamentally sound. The premium's grade is qualified solely on the basis of a vintage fountain pen notation neatly scripted on the reverse side.
1909-11 T206 Ty Cobb Portrait Red Background PSA NM-MT 8. Few vintage cards are capable of enlivening a collection in the manner brought about by the introduction of a top-quality T206. If the card happens to feature Ty Cobb as its subject, the effect is even more pronounced, and the Portrait Red Background version - seen here - is best of all! The great player's penetrating gaze on this marvelously well-conceived insert commands special reverence among fans of all ages. It's a hundred-year-old classic that boasts enduring appeal, and it's a collectible that will doubtless inspire fascination for yet another century or two.
Among more than 900 copies of this depiction validated by PSA, just one has been graded higher. On the face of this abundantly praiseworthy specimen, Cobb's visage projects with almost startling clarity, and the brightness of his memorable surrounding hue has remained completely undiminished by time's aging influences. Unforgiving examination intended to expose mostly non-existent faults reveals, perhaps, a whisper of clean wear at the top-left corner, and the card's "Sweet Caporal - 350 Subjects" reverse-side design is boldly inked.
Among more than 900 copies of this depiction validated by PSA, just one has been graded higher. On the face of this abundantly praiseworthy specimen, Cobb's visage projects with almost startling clarity, and the brightness of his memorable surrounding hue has remained completely undiminished by time's aging influences. Unforgiving examination intended to expose mostly non-existent faults reveals, perhaps, a whisper of clean wear at the top-left corner, and the card's "Sweet Caporal - 350 Subjects" reverse-side design is boldly inked.
1909-11 T206 Walter Johnson Hands at Chest PSA NM-MT 8. A delicious sampling of the artistry found among the classic T206 production's incomparable gallery, this "Hands at Chest" pose of Washington star Walter Johnson boasts impeccable quality in preservation. Beyond that, though, its window of insight into a bygone era is an especially illuminating one. Too many collectibles of the period - which were admittedly ephemeral in conception - lend only cursory acknowledgement of details that distinguish a time. To span the bridge of generations, in order to genuinely acquaint the dreamers of the future with the legends of the past, a card must capitalize on the every visual nuance: the style of the uniforms, the texture of the gloves, the shadows and the seasons. And the Hall of Fame piece seen here quietly and adroitly accomplishes that mission. Within the context of so many vintage trading cards available in the hobby, this Johnson commemorative, with its lovingly crafted design, stands apart to afford a truly splendid view of the game's much-revered past.
As legitimately "factory fresh" in appearance as a T206 could possibly be, this razor-edged collectible's grade has been exceeded by just three others -- across a PSA census spectrum that accounts for nearly 400 copies. Its sole concessions to origin on a mortal plane being slightly leftward image orientation and a negligible offset in its yellow inking stage, this ultra-bright relic has utterly defied time's aging effects. The cardback's "Sweet Caporal - 350 Subjects" branding is exemplary, as expected.
As legitimately "factory fresh" in appearance as a T206 could possibly be, this razor-edged collectible's grade has been exceeded by just three others -- across a PSA census spectrum that accounts for nearly 400 copies. Its sole concessions to origin on a mortal plane being slightly leftward image orientation and a negligible offset in its yellow inking stage, this ultra-bright relic has utterly defied time's aging effects. The cardback's "Sweet Caporal - 350 Subjects" branding is exemplary, as expected.
1909-11 T206 Eddie Plank PSA EX-MT 6. An outstanding baseball career earned a second home for Eddie Plank through enshrinement at Cooperstown, but the American Tobacco Company's T206 card set gave him immortality. The portrait of the A's hurler is familiar to all collecting hobbyists - even those having just a passing knowledge of the trading card specialties - and it's justifiably regarded as one of the most significant captures in the industry. As could be anticipated, theories abound with respect to the causes behind the T206's legendary rarity - including an aversion to tobacco on Plank's part, a break in the printing plate used to produce his depiction, and licensing conflicts with the various "E"-card manufacturers of the time - and the failure to prove or disprove these speculations only adds fuel to the T206 Plank's mystique. With this in mind, the matter-of-fact facial expression in Carl Horner's likeness of Plank seems to issue a quiet challenge to aspiring T206 completists, all of whom are keenly aware of their present, Plank-less holdings' shortcomings.
The rarity of the T206 Plank is just one hurdle to be circumvented by the determined collector, but quality considerations aren't suited for the faint of heart, either. So few Planks exist and, of those, so few are capable of upholding a sophisticated assembly's exacting standards for preservation. For someone who detests compromise, the Plank seen here is one of less than a dozen copies in the world that's able to withstand the most discriminating examination and emerge with results deemed abundantly satisfactory. The majority of T206 Planks able to boast of such character, of course, are firmly embedded in the hobby's finest collections, making the availability of the example presented here an especially choice opportunity.
Interpretation of PSA's compartmented T206 census reports can allow for no more than about fifty holdered copies - rivaling Wagner in strict terms of rarity - with perhaps three at this satisfying EX-MT level and the prospect of no more than five graded higher. Numbers-crunching of any sort, however, sells short the aesthetic properties of the Plank under consideration here. This is an item that exhibits breathtaking detail in the color tones that comprise Plank's image and which frame his design. It's inconceivable that a standard for appearance could exist, against which this delectable piece wouldn't meet or handily exceed all qualifications. Further exclusivity is derived from this specimen's scarcer "Sweet Caporal - 350 Subjects" back design which, in this instance, showcases strong and highly viable red inking with no interruptions. Light touches at the bottom-edge corners, evanescent traces of age-toning in the caption area and within the right margin at the mid-point, and a very slight rightward tendency in framing alignment combine to summarize the entirety of the technical measures by which the piece falls just a bit shy of perfection. This singular card is fated to become a cornerstone of an advanced collection, and it will confer an indescribable air of importance from the moment of its introduction.
The rarity of the T206 Plank is just one hurdle to be circumvented by the determined collector, but quality considerations aren't suited for the faint of heart, either. So few Planks exist and, of those, so few are capable of upholding a sophisticated assembly's exacting standards for preservation. For someone who detests compromise, the Plank seen here is one of less than a dozen copies in the world that's able to withstand the most discriminating examination and emerge with results deemed abundantly satisfactory. The majority of T206 Planks able to boast of such character, of course, are firmly embedded in the hobby's finest collections, making the availability of the example presented here an especially choice opportunity.
Interpretation of PSA's compartmented T206 census reports can allow for no more than about fifty holdered copies - rivaling Wagner in strict terms of rarity - with perhaps three at this satisfying EX-MT level and the prospect of no more than five graded higher. Numbers-crunching of any sort, however, sells short the aesthetic properties of the Plank under consideration here. This is an item that exhibits breathtaking detail in the color tones that comprise Plank's image and which frame his design. It's inconceivable that a standard for appearance could exist, against which this delectable piece wouldn't meet or handily exceed all qualifications. Further exclusivity is derived from this specimen's scarcer "Sweet Caporal - 350 Subjects" back design which, in this instance, showcases strong and highly viable red inking with no interruptions. Light touches at the bottom-edge corners, evanescent traces of age-toning in the caption area and within the right margin at the mid-point, and a very slight rightward tendency in framing alignment combine to summarize the entirety of the technical measures by which the piece falls just a bit shy of perfection. This singular card is fated to become a cornerstone of an advanced collection, and it will confer an indescribable air of importance from the moment of its introduction.
1910 T210 Old Mill Series 8 Joe Jackson PSA Good 2. Seldom is true greatness represented by what appears, at first glance, to be a casual and unassuming portrayal. With coat askew and a posture of apparent indifference to the camera, the young New Orleans player depicted on the face of this red-bordered rarity hardly seems poised to embark on a history-making career. His attire and his bearing cause the observer to wonder if the slender Southern Leaguer was, indeed, "Shoeless" at the time of this image's capture!
In a classic case of appearances having the capacity to deceive, however, this much-coveted collectible merits a recounting of its points of unsurpassed significance. The undisputed key element in a regionally distributed and exhaustive, 640-card set of minor league cards, this T210 Old Mill Cigarettes insert is woefully scarce by any definition. (T210's, owing to their specialized areas of appeal at the time of issue, are seen much less often than cards from the productions that involved established major leaguers.) And, most importantly, the piece reveals a figure who would inspire joy through his on-field heroics during the World War I era. Later, just as dramatically, his actions evoked sadness of the deepest kind. The long-ago activities of Joe Jackson have held a grip on the American psyche for the entirety of the succeeding century.
In a classic case of appearances having the capacity to deceive, however, this much-coveted collectible merits a recounting of its points of unsurpassed significance. The undisputed key element in a regionally distributed and exhaustive, 640-card set of minor league cards, this T210 Old Mill Cigarettes insert is woefully scarce by any definition. (T210's, owing to their specialized areas of appeal at the time of issue, are seen much less often than cards from the productions that involved established major leaguers.) And, most importantly, the piece reveals a figure who would inspire joy through his on-field heroics during the World War I era. Later, just as dramatically, his actions evoked sadness of the deepest kind. The long-ago activities of Joe Jackson have held a grip on the American psyche for the entirety of the succeeding century.
1910 T210 Old Mill Casey Stengel PSA EX-MT 6. One wonders if those athletes who toiled for the 1950s Yankees or the early 1960s Mets ever had an example of this card to pass around their clubhouse. Those players would have probably enjoyed the sight of their skipper - the "Old Professor" - all dressed up and ready to play for Maysville of the Blue Grass League, those many years before. It's doubtful that this scenario ever took place - the T210 Old Mill tobacco card picturing the Hall of Fame manager is simply too rare - but we can be certain it wouldn't have been this card, in any case.
A much-prized rarity, this example of the minimally distributed memento from the earliest time of Casey Stengel's pro baseball career shows almost no evidence of handling - in a Major League clubhouse, or elsewhere. The hobbyist who has the pleasure of viewing this collectible is treated to the sight of pure, vintage Stengel. Here, Casey is shown prior to his ascent to the big leagues (with Brooklyn), and it would be decades more until he was commanding the likes of DiMaggio, Berra, Mantle ... and Throneberry.
An elite "1 of 1" at its tier with none graded higher, this remarkable piece stands alone at the pinnacle of its scant, five-card PSA census. The card concedes almost no corner wear, as that phrase is generally understood: all four tips retain admirable structural integrity, forming solid right angles, and it's only the full-bleed red that betrays vestiges of flaking at the surfaces of the outermost points. The photographic likeness is riveting in its detail, and the "Old Mill"-branded back design upholds solid quality in its inking.
A much-prized rarity, this example of the minimally distributed memento from the earliest time of Casey Stengel's pro baseball career shows almost no evidence of handling - in a Major League clubhouse, or elsewhere. The hobbyist who has the pleasure of viewing this collectible is treated to the sight of pure, vintage Stengel. Here, Casey is shown prior to his ascent to the big leagues (with Brooklyn), and it would be decades more until he was commanding the likes of DiMaggio, Berra, Mantle ... and Throneberry.
An elite "1 of 1" at its tier with none graded higher, this remarkable piece stands alone at the pinnacle of its scant, five-card PSA census. The card concedes almost no corner wear, as that phrase is generally understood: all four tips retain admirable structural integrity, forming solid right angles, and it's only the full-bleed red that betrays vestiges of flaking at the surfaces of the outermost points. The photographic likeness is riveting in its detail, and the "Old Mill"-branded back design upholds solid quality in its inking.
1910-11 T3 Turkey Red Cabinets Ty Cobb #9 Checklist Back PSA EX 5. Only the most generously sized canvas -- such as that afforded by the beloved T3's -- was capable of successfully capturing the essence of a turn-of-the-century player and sharing the results with the observer. That magical quality is ably demonstrated by this gorgeous Cobb example, where the great hitter's posed likeness manages to impart every iota of his competitive fire and zeal for excellence. Strictly speaking, the premium's illustration -- done in the finest colors and conceding no trace of impairment in the manifestation of its artistry -- shows a man, standing, holding a bat. But a single second of concentration reveals far more. Cobb's demeanor appears to pulsate with intensity, as if, even within the context of a still photo, he's determined not to be outdone. There's no home plate in the picture, but that doesn't seem to matter to an athlete whose grim look shows that every ounce of preparation for game action is nevertheless alive and ready. The power of the scene is reinforced by fields of orange in the image's distant sky, and by the manner in which the grass and dirt field fade, as the viewer is drawn irresistibly to the center ... where Cobb returns the gaze. Just one look at this card will cause any sentient onlooker to be transfixed by its almost otherworldly properties, and mesmerized by the immortal figure's projection of will. It's an amazing phenomenon, and one that is summoned forth by few objects of any kind--let alone a baseball card.
One of less than a dozen copies at its very favorable level (with six higher, among a total census of 67 copies), the abilities of this design to enthrall the observer retain full potency in this abundantly appealing specimen. Natural and inoffensive corner touches constitute no impediment with respect to the viewer's enjoyment of the piece's superior overall aesthetic, and instances of "attic toning" at the border's right and bottom edges are negligible in terms of importance. The reverse -- with its text defining the T3 promotion's parameters and a checklist itemizing Baseball and Boxing subjects from #'s 1 to 76, inclusive -- is boldly struck with all of its characters undisturbed.
One of less than a dozen copies at its very favorable level (with six higher, among a total census of 67 copies), the abilities of this design to enthrall the observer retain full potency in this abundantly appealing specimen. Natural and inoffensive corner touches constitute no impediment with respect to the viewer's enjoyment of the piece's superior overall aesthetic, and instances of "attic toning" at the border's right and bottom edges are negligible in terms of importance. The reverse -- with its text defining the T3 promotion's parameters and a checklist itemizing Baseball and Boxing subjects from #'s 1 to 76, inclusive -- is boldly struck with all of its characters undisturbed.
1910-11 T3 Turkey Red Cabinets Christy Mathewson #27 Checklist Back PSA EX 5.
This cherished image of Christy Mathewson - posed calmly but resolutely, ready to throw - seems to capture the essence of its time in baseball history. The Cabinet's generous proportions enable the viewer to discern such nuances as a wrinkle in the Hall of Famer's uniform, the hand-strength as his glove envelops the ball, and even the ghostly structures and clouds in the distance. The scene begets a feeling of tranquility, but the great hurler's poise and his competitive fire - ready to become unleashed - are somehow evident, too. A marvelous instance of baseball-card-as-art, this sought-after premium stands as one of the hobby's visual delights.
Within a total Population Report cohort of just under 60 pieces, PSA has placed only five copies ahead of this crystal-clear Mathewson rendering. Its player image is impeccably bright and unsullied, and the Checklist Back (outlining the promotion's premium offer, along with a checklist itemizing Baseball and Boxing subjects from #'s 1 to 76, inclusive) has retained full fidelity in its printing. Condition liabilities - none of which impinge upon the observer's enjoyment of the piece - include a tiny surface fault at the right-side border on the reverse, a hint of age-toning at the top margin on the front, and very light traces of past handling at the corners.
This cherished image of Christy Mathewson - posed calmly but resolutely, ready to throw - seems to capture the essence of its time in baseball history. The Cabinet's generous proportions enable the viewer to discern such nuances as a wrinkle in the Hall of Famer's uniform, the hand-strength as his glove envelops the ball, and even the ghostly structures and clouds in the distance. The scene begets a feeling of tranquility, but the great hurler's poise and his competitive fire - ready to become unleashed - are somehow evident, too. A marvelous instance of baseball-card-as-art, this sought-after premium stands as one of the hobby's visual delights.
Within a total Population Report cohort of just under 60 pieces, PSA has placed only five copies ahead of this crystal-clear Mathewson rendering. Its player image is impeccably bright and unsullied, and the Checklist Back (outlining the promotion's premium offer, along with a checklist itemizing Baseball and Boxing subjects from #'s 1 to 76, inclusive) has retained full fidelity in its printing. Condition liabilities - none of which impinge upon the observer's enjoyment of the piece - include a tiny surface fault at the right-side border on the reverse, a hint of age-toning at the top margin on the front, and very light traces of past handling at the corners.
1910-11 T3 Turkey Red Cabinets Tris Speaker #36 Checklist Back SGC 60 EX 5. Seen here - in the baseball card realm's version of "JumboTron" or "Ultra Panavision" - is the sublime image of Hall of Famer Tris Speaker. In a manner that space constraints (and a relative lack of printing sophistication) prevent "standard-sized" cards from imitating, Speaker's expression can be readily interpreted by the observer, and his uniform hues - in particular, those deep red socks! - reveal extraordinary texture and depth. Even sight-unseen - given the young outfielder's star performances during his early years with Boston - it's not surprising in the least that a smoker of the day redeemed his coupons for this mini-masterpiece. (The premium offer appears on the reverse side of the card, along with a checklist itemizing Baseball and Boxing subjects from #'s 1 to 75, inclusive.)
SGC has graded no T3 Speaker higher than 60 EX 5, a tier this fabulous piece shares with just three others within its sixteen-card census. Always challenging in terms of preservation - the "downside" to the dimensions that also allow their glory - this copy concedes very mild evidence of handling at the corners' tips. Its magnificently lithographed illustration is flawless, and its back is unmarked.
SGC has graded no T3 Speaker higher than 60 EX 5, a tier this fabulous piece shares with just three others within its sixteen-card census. Always challenging in terms of preservation - the "downside" to the dimensions that also allow their glory - this copy concedes very mild evidence of handling at the corners' tips. Its magnificently lithographed illustration is flawless, and its back is unmarked.
1911 D304 Brunners Ty Cobb PSA NM-MT 8. The most sought-after entry from a short-lived, regionally focused, and very rare production, this visually engaging memento of Ty Cobb is an undisputed highlight among the hobby's most prized pieces. As inherently perishable as the "Butter Krust" loaves they once accompanied, the colorful D304's -- assuming one can find them at all -- have few peers in the industry in terms of elusiveness or mystique. The series' personality is endearing -- on how many other cards is Ty Cobb actually smiling? -- and its artful employment of color makes the viewer wish that the products of General Baking Co. had been much more widely distributed, way back when. Only a substantial rewriting of history, though, could alter the facts: relatively few Brunners cards survived breakfast-table sessions in the Buffalo, New York area during 1911-12, and a tiny fraction of those that did endure picture the legendary Cobb. As far as condition goes, that's another matter altogether, as virtually all D304's were well-circulated. At the factory, at the grocer's, inside the shopping bag, and upon opening. But not this one.
A truly incredible, barely touched exemplar, the D304 Cobb presented here boasts exclusive "1 of 1" status as the lone copy of this depiction documented at its tier. In other words, this is the best one of its kind on earth. There are simply none finer, and the card's PSA census accounts for just five other, significantly lesser specimens. The piece's delicate cardstock betrays no evidence of jostling, moisture or careless treatment while riding with its package's original cargo and, clearly, it has experienced no mishaps since. The obverse discloses a beautiful player image with all hues brightly expressed and well-defined. Centering has been accomplished with precision between snow-white borders, and the back is likewise uncommonly fresh. A one-of-a-kind Cobb collectible from an impossibly challenging release!
A truly incredible, barely touched exemplar, the D304 Cobb presented here boasts exclusive "1 of 1" status as the lone copy of this depiction documented at its tier. In other words, this is the best one of its kind on earth. There are simply none finer, and the card's PSA census accounts for just five other, significantly lesser specimens. The piece's delicate cardstock betrays no evidence of jostling, moisture or careless treatment while riding with its package's original cargo and, clearly, it has experienced no mishaps since. The obverse discloses a beautiful player image with all hues brightly expressed and well-defined. Centering has been accomplished with precision between snow-white borders, and the back is likewise uncommonly fresh. A one-of-a-kind Cobb collectible from an impossibly challenging release!
1911-14 D304 Brunners Bread Christy Mathewson SGC 70 EX+ 5.5. Choosing to focus on the dynamics of his throwing motion and the aura of his on-field determination, this sought-after and rare D304 bread insert leaves aside the more pedestrian Christy Mathewson portrayals of the era. The commonly seen depictions that accompanied tobacco, for example, were more apt to focus on the facial likeness of the future Hall of Famer, concentrating to a greater extent on his "All-American boy," matinee-idol features than the athletic form responsible for the authorship of 373 career wins and a pair of pitching's Triple Crowns. Sometimes, as here, a small, geographically marginalized establishment goes against a prevailing trend in putting together its product, with a successful result, and that description fairly applies to this sought-after and poignant Mathewson collectible from the Buffalo, New York-based General Baking Company.
A "1 of 2" at its SGC tier, this enviable piece stands with just one other (none higher) at the summit level of its twelve-card census. Although fragile in construction and inherently vulnerable to the effects of handling, this specimen has retained possession of a fresh-looking appearance and a bright, unimpeded player illustration. Light wear has been relegated to the outermost periphery, and is truly observable only at the bottom-edge corners' tips. Front and back surfaces are distinguished by commendable print clarity, with both aspects of the card inspiring the viewer's full satisfaction.
A "1 of 2" at its SGC tier, this enviable piece stands with just one other (none higher) at the summit level of its twelve-card census. Although fragile in construction and inherently vulnerable to the effects of handling, this specimen has retained possession of a fresh-looking appearance and a bright, unimpeded player illustration. Light wear has been relegated to the outermost periphery, and is truly observable only at the bottom-edge corners' tips. Front and back surfaces are distinguished by commendable print clarity, with both aspects of the card inspiring the viewer's full satisfaction.
1911-14 D304 Brunners Bread Honus Wagner SGC 60 EX 5. The hobby is blessed with a perennially tempting assortment of Honus Wagner mementos. A number of these are so firmly embedded in the lore of card collecting that their stories occasionally transcend both the specific cards and their superstar subject, and abundant tales of their acquisition and provenance have fueled innumerable lengthy conversations among enthusiasts. The regionally issued D304 collectibles carry plenty of mystique of their own, but those fragile bread inserts are woven more discreetly through the grand tapestry of hobbyist activity. The primary reason for this is bonafide rarity. Only distributed for a short time in a relatively lonely outpost, the Brunners cards never developed the feverish throngs of the sort that pursue T206 or the various E's. This lessened initial exposure, quite likely, projected into modern times as its own brand of exclusivity. It's not a stretch, metaphorically, to declare that if T206 attracts tourists who wants to "see the sights," D304 is the province of the understated locals who, much in-the-know, seek refinement and quiet satisfaction.
In terms of condition, the D304 Wagner offered here stands above the thirteen others recorded in SGC's census tallies. An immensely pleasing "1 of 1," the card presents itself with marvelous aplomb, beginning with a perfectly resolved image placed within well-calibrated white borders, and continuing with unimprovable print fidelity in every aspect. Very mild corner wear -- interpretable as the hallmark of always-respectful circulation -- is evenly distributed and inconspicuous. This is a thoroughly praiseworthy example of one of the hobby's "other" career-contemporary Wagner cards, and it's a pleasure to view.
In terms of condition, the D304 Wagner offered here stands above the thirteen others recorded in SGC's census tallies. An immensely pleasing "1 of 1," the card presents itself with marvelous aplomb, beginning with a perfectly resolved image placed within well-calibrated white borders, and continuing with unimprovable print fidelity in every aspect. Very mild corner wear -- interpretable as the hallmark of always-respectful circulation -- is evenly distributed and inconspicuous. This is a thoroughly praiseworthy example of one of the hobby's "other" career-contemporary Wagner cards, and it's a pleasure to view.
1911-14 D304 Brunners Bread Cy Young SGC 80 EX/NM 6. An image recalling the pitching follow-through of the great Cy Young is certain to quicken the pulse of the most seasoned baseball enthusiast and, as rendered on the front of this scarce piece, the viewer's excitement is further intensified by bright colors, a sharply drawn player likeness, and an almost palpable sense of history. What was once an afterthought to the purchase of a loaf of bread -- nearly 100 years ago, now -- has evolved into a worthy prize that very seldom becomes available for widespread enjoyment. The opportunity to observe the mound icon in this notably rare, extremely favorable context represents a meaningful event that will be remembered -- among all of those who understandably succumb to the innate fascination of the elusive D304's -- long after most others have faded.
This example shares its admirable tier with just a single counterpart (one higher) in SGC's census accounting, wherein only fourteen copies -- in total -- have been tabulated. The knowledgeable viewer will conclude at once that the relic has been conservatively graded, as the mildest, fleeting touches of corner wear can be discerned only under the most diligent scrutiny, and its overall presentation quality is astoundingly bright. All characteristics of the illustration are strong and easily deflect challenge, while centering, surfaces, and cardback inking are correspondingly superior.
This example shares its admirable tier with just a single counterpart (one higher) in SGC's census accounting, wherein only fourteen copies -- in total -- have been tabulated. The knowledgeable viewer will conclude at once that the relic has been conservatively graded, as the mildest, fleeting touches of corner wear can be discerned only under the most diligent scrutiny, and its overall presentation quality is astoundingly bright. All characteristics of the illustration are strong and easily deflect challenge, while centering, surfaces, and cardback inking are correspondingly superior.
1911 Zeenut PCL Buck Weaver SGC 88 NM/MT 8. The one-year-only association of George Daniel "Buck" Weaver with the PCL's San Francisco Seals is commemorated by this West Coast-issued rarity. In an alluring sepia photo, the collectible presents a full-length pose of a future Major League star, who would soon make a name for himself with the Chicago White Sox. In this priceless illustration, Weaver's cocky, self-assured posture and insouciant expression are those of a person who would somehow, someday -- innocently or not -- become involved in scandal. Sure enough, Buck's on-field success in later years has been unfairly overshadowed by implications of an untoward role in the "Black Sox" controversy of 1919. The passage of years, however, has allowed Weaver to enjoy wide-scale exoneration by both history and the collecting hobby such that, today, his legend remains deservedly strong among baseball cognoscenti.
This unique debut piece picturing Buck Weaver claims exclusive "1 of 1" distinction, standing alone at the apex of its eleven-card SGC census. (PSA has holdered a mere half-dozen of its counterparts, none higher than a "5.") Premium-sized dimensions -- which constitute such a liability in lesser examples from the Zeenut productions -- have exacted no penalties on this outstanding paper antique's quality of preservation: the card concedes no observable corner wear, its image is luscious and clear, and its blank back is pristine. This is a special relic, one that -- in view of its PCL origin, its subject's role in the growth of a National Pastime, and the evocative nature of its background, in general -- soars above the finite realm of "sports cards." It's a piece of Americana, as well as one of those seldom-encountered period souvenirs wherein condition is commensurate with importance.
This unique debut piece picturing Buck Weaver claims exclusive "1 of 1" distinction, standing alone at the apex of its eleven-card SGC census. (PSA has holdered a mere half-dozen of its counterparts, none higher than a "5.") Premium-sized dimensions -- which constitute such a liability in lesser examples from the Zeenut productions -- have exacted no penalties on this outstanding paper antique's quality of preservation: the card concedes no observable corner wear, its image is luscious and clear, and its blank back is pristine. This is a special relic, one that -- in view of its PCL origin, its subject's role in the growth of a National Pastime, and the evocative nature of its background, in general -- soars above the finite realm of "sports cards." It's a piece of Americana, as well as one of those seldom-encountered period souvenirs wherein condition is commensurate with importance.
1916 M101-4 Sporting News Babe Ruth #151 PSA EX-MT 6. A fantastic rookie-era collectible, honoring the sport's highest-profile player! This was one of the nation's first glimpses of the great Ruth, a depiction characterized by a Red Sox uniform, as well as posture and captioning that proclaimed the young athlete a "Pitcher." Future glory wasn't yet apparent - although changes of venue and responsibilities would soon illuminate that quality - but the strength of appreciation for this rarity in later years has more than compensated.
Ruth was just one member of a 200-man cast at the time these black-and-white collectibles were released around the country by a number of promoters. This "Sporting News"-backed version is among the issue's most popular, and it's hotly pursued - with justification - by all card hobbyists who wish to achieve a full measure of credibility in their vintage holdings. An early card of Ruth enjoys "must-have" status, and pitifully few superior examples are available to answer the perpetual and insatiable demand.
This exceptionally well-centered piece stands as one of just two at its tier (four higher) within a ten-card total census recorded in PSA's Population Report. Its photograph reflects uncommonly sharp focus and depth, and no print lines (at the typical left-knee position or elsewhere) intrude on its splendor. A few fibers askew at the edges and corners uphold the piece's professional grading assessment, but these are entirely unobtrusive and certainly don't distract the viewer. The card's back carries a richly inked advertisement for The Sporting News, and a faint, amber-colored spot of toning is barely evident at the top edge.
Ruth was just one member of a 200-man cast at the time these black-and-white collectibles were released around the country by a number of promoters. This "Sporting News"-backed version is among the issue's most popular, and it's hotly pursued - with justification - by all card hobbyists who wish to achieve a full measure of credibility in their vintage holdings. An early card of Ruth enjoys "must-have" status, and pitifully few superior examples are available to answer the perpetual and insatiable demand.
This exceptionally well-centered piece stands as one of just two at its tier (four higher) within a ten-card total census recorded in PSA's Population Report. Its photograph reflects uncommonly sharp focus and depth, and no print lines (at the typical left-knee position or elsewhere) intrude on its splendor. A few fibers askew at the edges and corners uphold the piece's professional grading assessment, but these are entirely unobtrusive and certainly don't distract the viewer. The card's back carries a richly inked advertisement for The Sporting News, and a faint, amber-colored spot of toning is barely evident at the top edge.
1917 Collins-McCarthy Rogers Hornsby #80 SGC 50 VG/EX 4. An impossibly scarce period tribute to "The Rajah" -- hitter extraordinaire and two-time N.L. Triple Crown winner -- this collectible was produced by the San Francisco-based Collins-McCarthy Candy Co. (the concern that has been highly praised as the maker of the "Zeenut" issues). Although similar in obverse design to several better-known series fashioned by East Coast manufacturers during the mid- to late-1910s, this ambitious, 200-card Collins-McCarthy production (termed "E135" in The American Card Catalog) is particularly coveted among advanced enthusiasts. (E135 was the only C-M release that extended to Major League players -- the company's other issues addressed only P.C.L. subjects -- and its regionally limited distribution brought about frustrating rarity.) This inviting candy card's photographic portrayal shows Hornsby's poise as a fielder, capturing the future Hall of Famer as he fires from the infield.
A "1 of 1" at its tier, this example is the very best among just a half-dozen comprising SGC's total census in the Hornsby entry. Although crafted of thin and unforgiving cardstock, close examination of the card yields only routine and inexcessive corner wear (most observable at the top-edge aspects) and concedes no perceptible abrasion on its surfaces. An extremely challenging and esoteric Hall of Fame collectible, placed at a unique, better-than-respectable level of condition.
A "1 of 1" at its tier, this example is the very best among just a half-dozen comprising SGC's total census in the Hornsby entry. Although crafted of thin and unforgiving cardstock, close examination of the card yields only routine and inexcessive corner wear (most observable at the top-edge aspects) and concedes no perceptible abrasion on its surfaces. An extremely challenging and esoteric Hall of Fame collectible, placed at a unique, better-than-respectable level of condition.
1925 Exhibits Henry L. Gehrig PSA EX+ 5.5. It's nearly impossible for a modern collector, who's been brought up in an environment of securely wrapped packs and boxes, plastic top-loads and, in general, careful handling of one's cards, to grasp the extent of difficulty in locating nicely preserved arcade cards from the 1920s. Shortly after printing, stacks of Exhibit Supply Co. products were stuffed into corrugated boxes at the company's Chicago factory. From there, bouncing along in a truck bed as they went, the cases were shipped far and wide. Upon reaching their destination, the cards were grabbed in bricks, which, in turn, were unceremoniously crammed - sometimes in a mix with cards picturing cowboys, boxers, jokes, or puzzles - into tight-fitting metal chutes by an amusement park worker (who was doubtless rushing along to finish a variety of similar tasks). Then, at the time of sale, the card was extruded from a slot - Ouch! More contact with metal! - and pulled from a narrow opening, probably by a caramel-, cotton candy-, or cola-soaked hand. If the card was a "keeper" - featuring a subject deemed worthy of future attention - it avoided being tossed to the floor or into the garbage, and was thrust immediately into a pants pocket. The journey of an Exhibit card that survived the day of purchase typically culminated in adherence to a scrapbook page, rubber-banded wadding with a young person's postcards or photos or, once interest had faded, the trash can at home. For these reasons, the prospect of obtaining a specific vintage Exhibit card, in a high-quality state, is an extremely daunting one.
Under circumstances that appear to have been fashioned by the gods as a direct challenge to Yankee enthusiasts and Hall of Fame specialists, each of these chilling obstacles had the chance to negatively affect one of the most hungered-for pieces of all: the debut-year memento of Lou Gehrig. Gehrig's rookie was only available by navigating the caprices of those long-ago vending-machine stockers, the weather on a given day, or the possibility that Gehrig's card was bundled with a thick group of contemporaries in the back pocket, and was thus at least partially protected. The "Iron Horse," himself, was nearly indestructible for an amazing length of time, but his rookie card stands in diametric opposition to the concept of endurance. Consequently, Gehrig's postcard-sized rookie piece - with its evocative black-and-white batting-pose photo - is found in only the most exclusive collections, and in those that have been assembled through tremendous determination.
Within a total census of just 20 PSA-holdered copies - the card's low population, in itself, a testament to its painful rarity - this impressive Gehrig stands alone at its tier. Only one example (barely) has placed higher. The item's all-important image is crisp and well-focused. Discernible wear is refreshingly minimal on the delicate, full-bleed corners, and the unmarked back is blank, as intended.
Under circumstances that appear to have been fashioned by the gods as a direct challenge to Yankee enthusiasts and Hall of Fame specialists, each of these chilling obstacles had the chance to negatively affect one of the most hungered-for pieces of all: the debut-year memento of Lou Gehrig. Gehrig's rookie was only available by navigating the caprices of those long-ago vending-machine stockers, the weather on a given day, or the possibility that Gehrig's card was bundled with a thick group of contemporaries in the back pocket, and was thus at least partially protected. The "Iron Horse," himself, was nearly indestructible for an amazing length of time, but his rookie card stands in diametric opposition to the concept of endurance. Consequently, Gehrig's postcard-sized rookie piece - with its evocative black-and-white batting-pose photo - is found in only the most exclusive collections, and in those that have been assembled through tremendous determination.
Within a total census of just 20 PSA-holdered copies - the card's low population, in itself, a testament to its painful rarity - this impressive Gehrig stands alone at its tier. Only one example (barely) has placed higher. The item's all-important image is crisp and well-focused. Discernible wear is refreshingly minimal on the delicate, full-bleed corners, and the unmarked back is blank, as intended.
1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #53 PSA NM 7. Among the company's prized quartet of Babe Ruth entries, this "Yellow Background" 1933 Goudey card effectively conveys the Bambino's joy in the game to the greatest extent. Holding and swinging the bat - while allowing just the beginnings of a smile - marvelously summarize his life's work, and the portrayal quietly affirms the satisfaction he found in all of its elements. A brightly rendered, career-contemporary relic of the highest order, the sight of this depiction - especially, as here, when aesthetic vibrancy approximates the quality displayed on the day of manufacture - is one of the hobby's fondest gifts to its ardent devotees.
Among more than 560 copies of this collectible currently residing in PSA holders, only seventeen have received more-laudable, unqualified assessments. And this example's character outshines the overwhelming majority of its counterparts at the PSA NM 7 level. The yellow tone that defines #53 is nothing less than radiant, and the caption and logo print, in bright red, hold supreme, attention-grabbing power. Above all, the figure of the Babe, himself, as inked on this extraordinary piece, far transcends routine expectations. As proper complement to the obverse, the card's back features deeply printed green on white, untoned cardstock.
Among more than 560 copies of this collectible currently residing in PSA holders, only seventeen have received more-laudable, unqualified assessments. And this example's character outshines the overwhelming majority of its counterparts at the PSA NM 7 level. The yellow tone that defines #53 is nothing less than radiant, and the caption and logo print, in bright red, hold supreme, attention-grabbing power. Above all, the figure of the Babe, himself, as inked on this extraordinary piece, far transcends routine expectations. As proper complement to the obverse, the card's back features deeply printed green on white, untoned cardstock.
1933 Goudey Lou Gehrig #92 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. Today, just as must have been the case 70-odd years ago, the sight of Lou Gehrig's batting posture never fails to generate excitement in the heart of the baseball enthusiast. Modern collectors can only marvel at the idea of peeling a gum pack's wrapper - and spotting the "NY" logo on the figure's cap, or picking up the sight of those Yankee pinstripes - as the full picture of the legend emerges into view. It's a thrill that knows no generational boundaries, largely because the '33 Goudey portrayal of the "Iron Horse" is such a timeless one. Like few others, this classic piece - with its incomparable subject - successfully captures and projects the "feel" of its era.
This gum card's status as an elite relic, while immediately apparent upon viewing, is corroborated by its ranking in SGC's population tallies. As one of only three copies sharing its tier (and surpassed by just one example) the relic stands at the apex of its number's 210-card census. And even at that, its NM/MT+ grade can be fairly termed a conservative assessment. Brilliant in every respect, this Gehrig tribute concedes just a hint of rightward image alignment on the front and a trace of wet-sheet transfer at the top edge on the back. This is, simply, a fantastic Goudey card, and one that reveals virtually no observable sign of circulation.
This gum card's status as an elite relic, while immediately apparent upon viewing, is corroborated by its ranking in SGC's population tallies. As one of only three copies sharing its tier (and surpassed by just one example) the relic stands at the apex of its number's 210-card census. And even at that, its NM/MT+ grade can be fairly termed a conservative assessment. Brilliant in every respect, this Gehrig tribute concedes just a hint of rightward image alignment on the front and a trace of wet-sheet transfer at the top edge on the back. This is, simply, a fantastic Goudey card, and one that reveals virtually no observable sign of circulation.
1933 Goudey Dizzy Dean #223 PSA NM-MT 8. A marvelous period remembrance of "Ol' Diz," this beautifully designed collectible shows the personable Cardinal in a pitching follow-through. The image is presented in a manner that spares distraction from caption blocks or other gratuitous clutter; the scene belongs only to the National League star, his field of green under blue skies, and the person enjoying the spectacle of this almost hypnotically serene experience. It's this kind of collectible that's able, somehow, to evoke feelings of nostalgia, even in the very young.
Such subtleties can be fully appreciated only when their vehicles are exceptionally well-preserved, as here. This praiseworthy item is surpassed in professional grade by just two unqualified examples among a sampling consisting of 369 PSA-holdered copies. Points have been subtracted, apparently, for centering (image-field alignment is positioned ever-so-slightly toward the right) and routine - but extremely light - touches at the bottom-edge corners, but the collectible's uncirculated character remains indisputable. The card's back is barely toned, and exhibits vividly printed, deep-green text.
Such subtleties can be fully appreciated only when their vehicles are exceptionally well-preserved, as here. This praiseworthy item is surpassed in professional grade by just two unqualified examples among a sampling consisting of 369 PSA-holdered copies. Points have been subtracted, apparently, for centering (image-field alignment is positioned ever-so-slightly toward the right) and routine - but extremely light - touches at the bottom-edge corners, but the collectible's uncirculated character remains indisputable. The card's back is barely toned, and exhibits vividly printed, deep-green text.
1939 Play Ball Ted Williams #92 PSA NM-MT 8. A master stroke in the fine art of understatement is found in the back-text of this marvelous Ted Williams rookie card, wherein the writers for Gum, Inc. cited the opinion of "experts" in noting that the youthful Boston prospect "has a great future." Although, granted, Williams hadn't yet enjoyed the opportunity to impress baseball fans on the game's grandest stage, it was apparent that the young player was poised to make history, and that he would become a credible rival for the sport's prevailing gold standard, Joe DiMaggio.
Williams' emergence is more than fittingly acknowledged by this discreetly designed collectible, which clearly hails from an era that responded favorably to the concept of "less is more." The Sox legend is shown in an intimidating batting stride and, while the crisply detailed photographic likeness allows the viewer to experience the game - through the sight of dirt on Williams' uniform, for example, as well as the intensity in his expression - one is allowed to appreciate the cardfront without distraction from company logos, caption blocks, or color splashes. It was felt, rightly, that the player's essence was all that needed to be displayed.
Among a total census of nearly 600 PSA-graded copies, just a dozen have achieved higher distinction than the exceptional specimen presented here. An unforgiving search for condition liabilities yields only the faintest whisper of a touch at the top-left corner. This collectible's image of the "Splinter" - properly positioned inside pure white, untoned borders - exhibits full integrity in its print quality, and the jet-black inking of the reverse (with the subject's name in mixed upper- and lower-case letters) is flawlessly rendered.
Williams' emergence is more than fittingly acknowledged by this discreetly designed collectible, which clearly hails from an era that responded favorably to the concept of "less is more." The Sox legend is shown in an intimidating batting stride and, while the crisply detailed photographic likeness allows the viewer to experience the game - through the sight of dirt on Williams' uniform, for example, as well as the intensity in his expression - one is allowed to appreciate the cardfront without distraction from company logos, caption blocks, or color splashes. It was felt, rightly, that the player's essence was all that needed to be displayed.
Among a total census of nearly 600 PSA-graded copies, just a dozen have achieved higher distinction than the exceptional specimen presented here. An unforgiving search for condition liabilities yields only the faintest whisper of a touch at the top-left corner. This collectible's image of the "Splinter" - properly positioned inside pure white, untoned borders - exhibits full integrity in its print quality, and the jet-black inking of the reverse (with the subject's name in mixed upper- and lower-case letters) is flawlessly rendered.
1941 Play Ball Pee Wee Reese #54 PSA NM-MT 8. The only Brooklyn Dodger to participate in all seven Subway Series against the New York Yankees, this Hall of Fame shortstop would see his first such confrontation during his rookie card's year of issue. That important, pastel-hued collectible was issued as number fifty-four in the 1941 Play Ball set. But, although Reese survived his World War II service to close out Ebbets Field with the other "Boys of Summer," Gum, Incorporated - manufacturer of the Play Ball series - wasn't so lucky: Play Ball production ceased following the '41 effort, which was the only one of its three products that featured full color in its design.
The scarcity of surviving cards from the set is believed to be partially attributable to paper drives held to benefit the war effort, but somewhat limited production runs and the approaching seventieth anniversary of the issue are also obvious culprits. And, with just seventy-two cards in the series compared to more-challenging 161- and 240-card totals of the preceding two, it's likely and logical that kids purchased fewer packs owing to the decreased difficulty of completing sets.
The fifteen Hall of Famers populating the '41 Play Ball set ensure bounteous "star power," but Reese stands as the lone rookie among these, and his card ranks behind only those of Joe DiMaggio and Ted Williams in terms of value. Ironically, each of those superstar cards is more common in high grade than this Reese, which is one of just twenty-two at the NM-MT 8 mark with five exceeding. Points here are lost only to the gentlest signs of edge and corner wear, and the perfectly centered, nicely focused image shows no distractions of any kind.
The scarcity of surviving cards from the set is believed to be partially attributable to paper drives held to benefit the war effort, but somewhat limited production runs and the approaching seventieth anniversary of the issue are also obvious culprits. And, with just seventy-two cards in the series compared to more-challenging 161- and 240-card totals of the preceding two, it's likely and logical that kids purchased fewer packs owing to the decreased difficulty of completing sets.
The fifteen Hall of Famers populating the '41 Play Ball set ensure bounteous "star power," but Reese stands as the lone rookie among these, and his card ranks behind only those of Joe DiMaggio and Ted Williams in terms of value. Ironically, each of those superstar cards is more common in high grade than this Reese, which is one of just twenty-two at the NM-MT 8 mark with five exceeding. Points here are lost only to the gentlest signs of edge and corner wear, and the perfectly centered, nicely focused image shows no distractions of any kind.
1941 Play Ball Joe DiMaggio #71 PSA NM-MT 8. With its appealing and colorful, "Deco"-style motif, this early card of Joe DiMaggio hails from the first of Gum, Inc.'s three "Play Ball" series to feature the addition of color to its portrayals. The '41 format enabled a new dimension in Joltin' Joe's '41 depiction, wherein the exertion seen in the slugger's face as he takes a mighty swing is nicely balanced by the soothing effect of the illustration's background tones. Its artistic merits, alone, would be sufficient to guarantee a prominent place for this card in any thoughtfully assembled collection, but its subject -- the batting leader and perennial All-Star for the high-profile Yankees -- certainly commands plenty of attention in his own right.
Among a total census of 439 copies encapsulated by PSA, just a half-dozen have been adjudged finer than this extremely satisfying example. Having totally avoided the age-toning to which the Play Ball issues were routinely susceptible, the image of DiMaggio on the obverse is set inside bright white borders, and the back is similarly fresh in character. Wear at the corners and edges is essentially indiscernible but, if any exists at all, it is expressed in a stray fiber or two, and the piece's overall appearance betrays no meaningful evidence of past circulation.
Among a total census of 439 copies encapsulated by PSA, just a half-dozen have been adjudged finer than this extremely satisfying example. Having totally avoided the age-toning to which the Play Ball issues were routinely susceptible, the image of DiMaggio on the obverse is set inside bright white borders, and the back is similarly fresh in character. Wear at the corners and edges is essentially indiscernible but, if any exists at all, it is expressed in a stray fiber or two, and the piece's overall appearance betrays no meaningful evidence of past circulation.
1948 Bowman Warren Spahn #18 PSA Mint 9. At the time of this card's release, it might have been difficult for bubblegum buyers to imagine that they were contemplating the profile of the man who would become the game's most accomplished left-handed pitcher. The passage of years (and nearly two decades'-worth of regular issue Spahn cards) would tell the tale, however, and enthusiasts remain especially fond of this straightforward and pleasing, rookie-year portrayal.
The future Hall of Famer is paid appropriate tribute by this superb example, which stands as one of just eight copies in PSA Mint 9 holders (none higher) among a robust census that accounts for more than 500 specimens. Top-quality centering, unerring print resolution, and the total absence of handling's effects distinguish this remarkable survivor which - though rendered entirely in black-and-white - nevertheless carries a tremendous measure of inimitable glamour.
The future Hall of Famer is paid appropriate tribute by this superb example, which stands as one of just eight copies in PSA Mint 9 holders (none higher) among a robust census that accounts for more than 500 specimens. Top-quality centering, unerring print resolution, and the total absence of handling's effects distinguish this remarkable survivor which - though rendered entirely in black-and-white - nevertheless carries a tremendous measure of inimitable glamour.
1948 Bowman Stan Musial #36 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. In years past, fathers could anticipate a routine question from their young sons: "Dad, who's the best baseball player?" The answers varied a bit depending on regional loyalties, naturally, but the replies during the 1950s and 1960s tended to follow a certain pattern. Joe DiMaggio. Mickey Mantle. Ted Williams. All of these were "safe" answers that precipitated very little debate. If the boy persisted, though, and pressed for the best "National League player," only one man lived up to the word "best," and his name was Stan Musial.
Until Willie Mays arrived, and the Giants slugger's talents came fully into bloom, Musial was the N.L. standard against which other ballplayers were measured. The MVP awards, the batting titles, and the remarkable longevity with just one franchise ensured plenty of loyalty for Musial from the fans. One can only speculate about the level to which his star would have risen if "Stan the Man" had played in what, today, we call a "large market" team.
A Stan Musial rookie card of the highest caliber is mandatory for inclusion in a worthy Hall of Fame collection. Problem is, the porous cardstock and lax quality control endured by the initial effort of Bowman - whose '48 set harbors Stan's debut-year collectible - has made acquisition of such a prize particularly difficult. The praiseworthy example seen here, however, is one of only three copies at its SGC tier (one higher) among a total census of 200 specimens. This item's eye appeal is second to none, with a beautifully developed and sharply printed image and perfectly clean surfaces. The integrity of its corners is above challenge, and the reverse is solidly inked.
Until Willie Mays arrived, and the Giants slugger's talents came fully into bloom, Musial was the N.L. standard against which other ballplayers were measured. The MVP awards, the batting titles, and the remarkable longevity with just one franchise ensured plenty of loyalty for Musial from the fans. One can only speculate about the level to which his star would have risen if "Stan the Man" had played in what, today, we call a "large market" team.
A Stan Musial rookie card of the highest caliber is mandatory for inclusion in a worthy Hall of Fame collection. Problem is, the porous cardstock and lax quality control endured by the initial effort of Bowman - whose '48 set harbors Stan's debut-year collectible - has made acquisition of such a prize particularly difficult. The praiseworthy example seen here, however, is one of only three copies at its SGC tier (one higher) among a total census of 200 specimens. This item's eye appeal is second to none, with a beautifully developed and sharply printed image and perfectly clean surfaces. The integrity of its corners is above challenge, and the reverse is solidly inked.
1948 Leaf Jackie Robinson #79 PSA NM-MT 8. The chicanery inherent in its customary "skip-numbering" ploy aside, Chicago's Leaf Gum Company gave its customers the best-of-the-best in player selection for its baseball series of 1948-49. Well-known diamond personages abound in the issue - which harbors such universally revered heroes as Joe DiMaggio, Stan Musial and Ted Williams, for example, along with retrospectives of Ruth and Wagner - and, fittingly, Leaf made room for an especially important entry: the Brooklyn Dodgers' young infielder, Jackie Robinson.
It was a departure from the time's prevailing standard, as collectors - for the first time - eagerly anticipated pulling a star card that featured an African-American from their bubblegum packs. The future Hall of Famer was to reward their excitement on an almost daily basis through an accomplished tenure in the big leagues, and he would build upon those thrills in later years by acting as an unfailingly gracious ambassador for his sport and his community. Jackie's contributions to the game were inspiring beyond description, and a rookie Robinson collectible of the quality offered here stays true to that soaring spirit.
Not surprisingly, in terms of PSA grading, this "key" Leaf depiction is one of the most-submitted cards in its set - the company has validated 627 copies, with only seven specimens receiving stronger, unqualified accolades than this marvelous "8." Placing firmly within the elite range aesthetically, too, the well-centered card delivers fantastic hues -- a deep, rich yellow in the background and delicious blue in the cap - while entirely avoiding the focus liabilities that are so familiar to devotees of the Leaf brand. The back shows vibrant print against clean grey cardstock, while fleeting and barely discernible touches of clean wear can be detected, with difficulty, at one or two of its corners. Finally, the piece boasts absolutely phenomenal image quality, particularly within the context of its cherished but notoriously quality-challenged production.
It was a departure from the time's prevailing standard, as collectors - for the first time - eagerly anticipated pulling a star card that featured an African-American from their bubblegum packs. The future Hall of Famer was to reward their excitement on an almost daily basis through an accomplished tenure in the big leagues, and he would build upon those thrills in later years by acting as an unfailingly gracious ambassador for his sport and his community. Jackie's contributions to the game were inspiring beyond description, and a rookie Robinson collectible of the quality offered here stays true to that soaring spirit.
Not surprisingly, in terms of PSA grading, this "key" Leaf depiction is one of the most-submitted cards in its set - the company has validated 627 copies, with only seven specimens receiving stronger, unqualified accolades than this marvelous "8." Placing firmly within the elite range aesthetically, too, the well-centered card delivers fantastic hues -- a deep, rich yellow in the background and delicious blue in the cap - while entirely avoiding the focus liabilities that are so familiar to devotees of the Leaf brand. The back shows vibrant print against clean grey cardstock, while fleeting and barely discernible touches of clean wear can be detected, with difficulty, at one or two of its corners. Finally, the piece boasts absolutely phenomenal image quality, particularly within the context of its cherished but notoriously quality-challenged production.
1949 Bowman Roy Campanella #84 PSA Mint 9. The rookie card of three-time National League MVP Roy Campanella constitutes the heart of a Brooklyn Dodgers collection. An accomplished Negro Leaguer who made the transition to the majors at the age of 27, the Hall of Fame catcher was instrumental in the franchise's "glory years" between 1949 and 1956 -- not coincidentally, the same period of Campy's active big league service. The legendary player seemed unstoppable, and only an off-the-field tragedy was able to put a halt to the building of his almost superhuman résumé of baseball accomplishment.
Just two copies -- within a 657-piece, PSA-graded census -- have achieved a higher tier. This cornerstone collectible projects outstanding color and crystal-clear photo resolution -- a seldom-seen feat in the often subdued, or even dismal-looking, '49 Bowman issue -- and its untoned borders display apparently micrometer-aligned proportions. Factory-fresh "rough cuts" adorn the right and left sides, and the card's front and back surfaces appear never-touched.
Just two copies -- within a 657-piece, PSA-graded census -- have achieved a higher tier. This cornerstone collectible projects outstanding color and crystal-clear photo resolution -- a seldom-seen feat in the often subdued, or even dismal-looking, '49 Bowman issue -- and its untoned borders display apparently micrometer-aligned proportions. Factory-fresh "rough cuts" adorn the right and left sides, and the card's front and back surfaces appear never-touched.
1949 Bowman Duke Snider #226 SGC 96 Mint 9. Here's the rookie card of "The Duke of Flatbush," a star outfielder for the revered Brooklyn Dodgers teams of the 1950s and one of the franchise's most popular figures. A member of the famed "Boys of Summer," Snider was instrumental in the 1955 club's long-awaited World Series victory, and he narrowly missed capturing that year's National League MVP honors.
To the chagrin of hobbyists who concentrate on "Brooklyn Bums" players in their collections, Snider's debut piece emerged in the '49 Bowman issue's scarcer series of "High Numbers." The card faces the additional obstacle of the time's soft and unforgiving cardstock, as well as notorious difficulties with respect to print quality. Here, though, one of the best-of-the-best Snider rookies imaginable is presented. This spectacular relic sits as a distinguished "1 of 2" in SGC's census reporting, sharing its tier with just one other copy. Among a total of 72 counterparts holdered by that company, none has been graded higher. With perfectly calibrated centering as just one highlight, the card also features apparently never-touched and factory-fresh "rough cuts" at the sides, peerless resolution in its image, and a generally fault-free aesthetic.
To the chagrin of hobbyists who concentrate on "Brooklyn Bums" players in their collections, Snider's debut piece emerged in the '49 Bowman issue's scarcer series of "High Numbers." The card faces the additional obstacle of the time's soft and unforgiving cardstock, as well as notorious difficulties with respect to print quality. Here, though, one of the best-of-the-best Snider rookies imaginable is presented. This spectacular relic sits as a distinguished "1 of 2" in SGC's census reporting, sharing its tier with just one other copy. Among a total of 72 counterparts holdered by that company, none has been graded higher. With perfectly calibrated centering as just one highlight, the card also features apparently never-touched and factory-fresh "rough cuts" at the sides, peerless resolution in its image, and a generally fault-free aesthetic.
1951 Bowman Willie Mays #305 PSA Mint 9. The hobby owes a debt of gratitude to its "High Numbers." Although the various issues' scarcer series pose obstacles to set-builders, and are sometimes viewed with cynicism (where it appeared that manufacturers were attempting to squeeze just a bit more revenue from a season's effort) the role of the "High's" is a very substantial one.
In the waning days of Bowman's 1951 production, for instance, there must have been quite a bit of temptation to put the release to bed following the approval of card #252. Why commission another round of the issue's original paintings - and incur the additional expense - when Ted Williams, Yogi Berra, and most of the popular Brooklyn Dodgers' line-up had already been covered? Plus, it was almost time for Football...
But a group of "High Numbers" saved the day, allowing Bowman to achieve comprehensiveness in its offering by rectifying a number of conspicuous omissions. The "High's" spared the modern collecting industry from pretending to be satisfied with a set that culminated in a Dixie Howell collectible and, more significantly, enabled the production of Willie Mays' "true" rookie card.
The importance of Willie Mays' '51 Bowman card is difficult to overstate. How could any responsibly prepared group of gum cards from the time ignore one of the finest talents that would ever be made manifest on the diamond, and remain viable? Fortunately, that's one hypothetical question that never needs to be answered. Mays' first card is a majestic one - a piece that properly reminds everyone who views it of his greatness - and a suitable example is mandatory for inclusion in a serious assembly of 1950s treasures.
Here is one of the very best 1951 Bowman Mays cards on earth, a specimen that shares its stratospheric tier with just seven counterparts (none higher) within a sizeable cohort of nearly 1,000 PSA-holdered examples. Its pristine character incorporates a phenomenal image, and more than fifty years of existence to this point have brought about no perceptible effects of exposure to circulation, dust, or light. Further, it should go without saying, but to emphasize: absolutely no vestige of the customary obverse trace-line so often observed in '51 Bowman can be seen in this paragon copy. Satisfying rough cuts at the top and bottom edges provide indisputable evidence that the piece has escaped handling (in all of its deleterious forms) since the moment of striking.
In the waning days of Bowman's 1951 production, for instance, there must have been quite a bit of temptation to put the release to bed following the approval of card #252. Why commission another round of the issue's original paintings - and incur the additional expense - when Ted Williams, Yogi Berra, and most of the popular Brooklyn Dodgers' line-up had already been covered? Plus, it was almost time for Football...
But a group of "High Numbers" saved the day, allowing Bowman to achieve comprehensiveness in its offering by rectifying a number of conspicuous omissions. The "High's" spared the modern collecting industry from pretending to be satisfied with a set that culminated in a Dixie Howell collectible and, more significantly, enabled the production of Willie Mays' "true" rookie card.
The importance of Willie Mays' '51 Bowman card is difficult to overstate. How could any responsibly prepared group of gum cards from the time ignore one of the finest talents that would ever be made manifest on the diamond, and remain viable? Fortunately, that's one hypothetical question that never needs to be answered. Mays' first card is a majestic one - a piece that properly reminds everyone who views it of his greatness - and a suitable example is mandatory for inclusion in a serious assembly of 1950s treasures.
Here is one of the very best 1951 Bowman Mays cards on earth, a specimen that shares its stratospheric tier with just seven counterparts (none higher) within a sizeable cohort of nearly 1,000 PSA-holdered examples. Its pristine character incorporates a phenomenal image, and more than fifty years of existence to this point have brought about no perceptible effects of exposure to circulation, dust, or light. Further, it should go without saying, but to emphasize: absolutely no vestige of the customary obverse trace-line so often observed in '51 Bowman can be seen in this paragon copy. Satisfying rough cuts at the top and bottom edges provide indisputable evidence that the piece has escaped handling (in all of its deleterious forms) since the moment of striking.
1952 Topps Mickey Mantle #311 PSA NM-MT 8. If we had a dime for every "Baby Boomer" we've met who's claimed to have owned a Topps Mantle rookie as a child, we'd be able to afford this one with plenty of dough to spare! The most important, valuable and recognizable gum card of the post-war era has ingrained itself in our American iconography in such a way that most of us could sketch the card from memory, the Mick posed in a right-handed batting stance, his eyes drifting up to the grandstand behind him. But in spite of all those who owned one, or only dreamed that they did, the examples which have indeed survived in such magical condition as the presented copy are, in fact, impossibly scarce.
At 407 cards in scope, the 1952 Topps set was the largest of its day, both in number of cards and the dimensions of each one, specifically. Ultimately, though, these excesses turned against Topps Company management, who realized late in the 1952 season that the "High Number" cards (#'s 311-407) would never reach their channels of distribution in time for the close of the baseball season. Limited quantities were trucked to stores in the northeastern United States and in Canada, but the final solution for a warehouse filled with unsellable cards is said to have been a boat trip several miles out into the Atlantic Ocean, and ignominious burial at sea.
Fortuitously spared from death by drowning, this stunning specimen is outshone by just eleven representations among the 942 examples validated by PSA at the time of this writing. Searching for the discrepancies responsible for "points lost" from a Gem Mint rating, one sees only the subtlest of diamond cuts and extremely light corner touches (most evident at top-right). From any reasonable viewing distance, one is unlikely to spot any deviation from pure perfection, as color, gloss and registration are rendered with unimpeachable results.
At 407 cards in scope, the 1952 Topps set was the largest of its day, both in number of cards and the dimensions of each one, specifically. Ultimately, though, these excesses turned against Topps Company management, who realized late in the 1952 season that the "High Number" cards (#'s 311-407) would never reach their channels of distribution in time for the close of the baseball season. Limited quantities were trucked to stores in the northeastern United States and in Canada, but the final solution for a warehouse filled with unsellable cards is said to have been a boat trip several miles out into the Atlantic Ocean, and ignominious burial at sea.
Fortuitously spared from death by drowning, this stunning specimen is outshone by just eleven representations among the 942 examples validated by PSA at the time of this writing. Searching for the discrepancies responsible for "points lost" from a Gem Mint rating, one sees only the subtlest of diamond cuts and extremely light corner touches (most evident at top-right). From any reasonable viewing distance, one is unlikely to spot any deviation from pure perfection, as color, gloss and registration are rendered with unimpeachable results.
1952 Topps Ed Mathews #407 PSA NM-MT 8. This single piece seems to hit all the marks that define a baseball card "classic." It's the rookie card of a future Hall of Famer and - sluggers are everyone's favorites! - 500 HR Club member. Its number "407" identifies the entry as a '52 Topps "High Number"; these were printed in small quantities to begin with, and the relatively few surviving examples from this year's series have outlived the majority of their contemporaries. (It's been documented that numerous cases of '52 Topps "High's" were dumped into the ocean as excess, unusable product, and thus awoke from their packaging to be greeted - not by schoolyard chatter - but by watery destruction.) Finally, Ed Mathews' debut collectible is especially condition-sensitive by virtue of its size and, if that wasn't liability enough, it's the last card in a numerical arrangement of a set-builder's holdings. All of this constitutes a recipe for desirability, indeed, and it's also a formula for an extremely important collectible that just happens to be extraordinarily hard to obtain in high grade!
Barely a dozen equivalent copies have been confirmed at the NM-MT 8 level by PSA and a mere three (or, less than one-tenth of one percent of the card's population) place higher. This stunner exhibits astonishingly bright photo quality with shimmering surface gloss, and a razor-sharp tip graces each of its corners. An almost undetectable leftward tilt affects the positioning of the image field within its bright white frame, and a lone print speck can be spied on the reverse (abutting the "H" in the "MATHEWS" title). Both of these details are reported strictly for thoroughness in description ... and because it's so difficult to find fault of any sort in the presentation of this pack-fresh specimen!
Barely a dozen equivalent copies have been confirmed at the NM-MT 8 level by PSA and a mere three (or, less than one-tenth of one percent of the card's population) place higher. This stunner exhibits astonishingly bright photo quality with shimmering surface gloss, and a razor-sharp tip graces each of its corners. An almost undetectable leftward tilt affects the positioning of the image field within its bright white frame, and a lone print speck can be spied on the reverse (abutting the "H" in the "MATHEWS" title). Both of these details are reported strictly for thoroughness in description ... and because it's so difficult to find fault of any sort in the presentation of this pack-fresh specimen!
1954 Dan-Dee Potato Chips Bob Feller PSA Mint 9. This amazing collectible has capitalized on its production's generous dimensions, softly toned colors, and thoughtful design to yield one of the hobby's most flattering portrayals of Cleveland Indians fireballer Bob Feller. The beyond-spectacular preservation quality enjoyed by this showpiece example aside, the Dan-Dee series -- in lesser, that is to say, most instances -- starkly illuminates the last fifty years'-worth of evolution in trading card distribution.
Prior to the advent of cards' recognition as keepsakes best maintained in attractively uncirculated condition, distributors seemed almost to find joy in flagellating their wares. Cards bounced from production lines, stuffed into product, constrained in ill-fitting packages -- all of these circumstances were more often the rule than the exception. And nowhere was this inattention to the prospect of long-term survival more harshly practiced than in the methods employed by Dan-Dee, which placed cards with its (greasy!) potato chips for just a single year in 1954.
Among more than 1,700 cards from the entire Dan-Dee issue that reside in PSA holders, just 26 pieces -- substantially less than two percent of the release's total census -- have successfully aspired to the Mint 9 level, and none has achieved GEM MT distinction. This Feller card, specifically, has garnered the ultimate evaluation for its issue, sharing that pinnacle position with just two counterparts. Barely handled Dan-Dee cards typically show a few widely spaced perf-tabs at the edges and corners -- vestiges of attachment to other cards before being separated at the factory -- and those tiny, remnant appendages show no hint of disturbance on this remarkable copy. Feller's image is impeccable on the card, and its overall appearance is extremely sharp. An extraordinary Hall of Fame representative from an always-challenging regional issue!
Prior to the advent of cards' recognition as keepsakes best maintained in attractively uncirculated condition, distributors seemed almost to find joy in flagellating their wares. Cards bounced from production lines, stuffed into product, constrained in ill-fitting packages -- all of these circumstances were more often the rule than the exception. And nowhere was this inattention to the prospect of long-term survival more harshly practiced than in the methods employed by Dan-Dee, which placed cards with its (greasy!) potato chips for just a single year in 1954.
Among more than 1,700 cards from the entire Dan-Dee issue that reside in PSA holders, just 26 pieces -- substantially less than two percent of the release's total census -- have successfully aspired to the Mint 9 level, and none has achieved GEM MT distinction. This Feller card, specifically, has garnered the ultimate evaluation for its issue, sharing that pinnacle position with just two counterparts. Barely handled Dan-Dee cards typically show a few widely spaced perf-tabs at the edges and corners -- vestiges of attachment to other cards before being separated at the factory -- and those tiny, remnant appendages show no hint of disturbance on this remarkable copy. Feller's image is impeccable on the card, and its overall appearance is extremely sharp. An extraordinary Hall of Fame representative from an always-challenging regional issue!
1954 Topps Ernie Banks #94 PSA Mint 9. This ever-popular, debut-year collectible honors the man who epitomizes the spirit of the Chicago Cubs, and who has almost single-handedly kept enthusiasm for the franchise alive for several generations of devoted fans. The Hall of Famer, former Negro Leaguer, two-time National League MVP (1957, 1958) and 500 Home Run Club member is seen here with his ever-present smile firmly in place: with just a glance at this superb card, the observer can almost feel Banks' "Let's Play Two!" enthusiasm.
This Banks rookie card is one of just 13 examples at its level (two higher), a standing that places the showpiece item securely among the top one percent of the 1,833 copies holdered to date by PSA. As expected, every facet of its presentation is impeccable, with no disturbance at the corners (even the impossibly delicate and dark green, full-bleed tips on the reverse), abundantly satisfactory image alignment, and a notable absence of the '54 Topps issue's vexing "print specks." Superlative from all perspectives! Here's the quintessential Cub, shining forth from his great career's finest-imaginable gum card memento.
This Banks rookie card is one of just 13 examples at its level (two higher), a standing that places the showpiece item securely among the top one percent of the 1,833 copies holdered to date by PSA. As expected, every facet of its presentation is impeccable, with no disturbance at the corners (even the impossibly delicate and dark green, full-bleed tips on the reverse), abundantly satisfactory image alignment, and a notable absence of the '54 Topps issue's vexing "print specks." Superlative from all perspectives! Here's the quintessential Cub, shining forth from his great career's finest-imaginable gum card memento.
1954 Topps Henry Aaron #128 PSA NM-MT 8. The recently dethroned (and many would consider "reigning legitimate") Home Run King failed to earn All-Star Game nods in only the first and the last years of his twenty-three season career, and this glamorous relic dates to the former. Properly regarded as one of the most important trading cards of the post-war era, the 1954 Topps Aaron rookie is counted among the hobby's most recognizable pieces. This gum card heralded the arrival of a force of nature, a phenomenon of a magnitude unseen since a man named Babe ruled the game.
Almost doubling the value of its next closest competitor (Ted Williams #250) within the popular bubble gum issue, Aaron's debut card is presented here in remarkable NM-MT 8 condition. Hampered only by a 65/35 horizontal shift, the card's razor-sharp corners, eye-popping color and an utter absence of wear would almost assuredly merit a Mint 9 rating otherwise. Just twenty-four unqualified examples of the Aaron rookie surpass the offered card on the PSA population chart, a segment that represents less than one percent of the 2,419 copies holdered to date.
Almost doubling the value of its next closest competitor (Ted Williams #250) within the popular bubble gum issue, Aaron's debut card is presented here in remarkable NM-MT 8 condition. Hampered only by a 65/35 horizontal shift, the card's razor-sharp corners, eye-popping color and an utter absence of wear would almost assuredly merit a Mint 9 rating otherwise. Just twenty-four unqualified examples of the Aaron rookie surpass the offered card on the PSA population chart, a segment that represents less than one percent of the 2,419 copies holdered to date.
1955 Topps Sandy Koufax #123 GAI Mint+ 9.5. The mighty Brooklyn Dodgers pantheon -- while unknowingly getting ready to finally claim a long-awaited World Championship -- prepared to add a new member in 1955. A youthful but deceptively innocent-looking pitcher, Sandy Koufax -- seen here in his rookie-card appearance -- stood ready to join such heroes as Jackie Robinson, Duke Snider, Roy Campanella and Gil Hodges, and the team's fortunes would change forever. So, too, did the collecting hobby, as the debut-year collectible of Koufax has never relinquished its status as one of the most visually captivating gum cards ever made.
Few observers ever expected that this smiling phenom, fresh out of college as his card's design was being contemplated, would someday become a pitching powerhouse and the sport's first three-time Cy Young Award winner, or that he would figure in three victorious World Series matchups -- all within an abruptly concluded ten-year career. The odds against such a thing occurring are prohibitive, much like the chances, say, of coming across a Sandy Koufax rookie that's quite literally "better than Mint" in its construction and preservation. This paragon example displays pinpoint corners, an intact, shimmering layer of surface gloss, and stunning, "pack fresh" attributes throughout. A beyond-elite specimen! Ex-Dmitri Young Collection.
Few observers ever expected that this smiling phenom, fresh out of college as his card's design was being contemplated, would someday become a pitching powerhouse and the sport's first three-time Cy Young Award winner, or that he would figure in three victorious World Series matchups -- all within an abruptly concluded ten-year career. The odds against such a thing occurring are prohibitive, much like the chances, say, of coming across a Sandy Koufax rookie that's quite literally "better than Mint" in its construction and preservation. This paragon example displays pinpoint corners, an intact, shimmering layer of surface gloss, and stunning, "pack fresh" attributes throughout. A beyond-elite specimen! Ex-Dmitri Young Collection.
1955 Topps Harmon Killebrew #124 SGC 96 Mint 9. An undisputed high point in the history of the Washington Senators franchise occurred with the introduction of slugger Harmon Killebrew - an event commemorated for posterity by this always-popular collectible. The "rookie card" of the future Hall of Famer, although devoted to a 19-year-old bonus baby, nevertheless afforded the young man the full Topps treatment: a flattering portrait and "action shot" surrounded by a sea of bright yellow on the front, and a glowing prospectus on the back. The ideal piece to set the stage for more than 500 career home runs and eventual enshrinement at Cooperstown!
A "blazer" with the numbers to prove it, this outstanding card is one of just two copies at its SGC tier (none higher) among a total of more than 300 examples holdered by that company. The item's print quality is exemplary, its centering is almost perfectly calibrated, and its overall aesthetic is incontestably superior. And, the presence of a couple of tiny, stray fibers at the ends of the card - characterizing an attractive "rough cut" - affirms that this top-tier Killebrew has remained essentially untouched for more than a half-century.
A "blazer" with the numbers to prove it, this outstanding card is one of just two copies at its SGC tier (none higher) among a total of more than 300 examples holdered by that company. The item's print quality is exemplary, its centering is almost perfectly calibrated, and its overall aesthetic is incontestably superior. And, the presence of a couple of tiny, stray fibers at the ends of the card - characterizing an attractive "rough cut" - affirms that this top-tier Killebrew has remained essentially untouched for more than a half-century.
1955 Topps Roberto Clemente #164 PSA NM-MT+ 8.5. A card that exudes greatness from every fiber, this debut-year portrayal of Roberto Clemente is the hobby's favorite memento of the future Cooperstown enshrinee. With its photo-quality portrait, a glimpse of the outfielder's batting stance, and an artful background of dark green fading to light, the viewer of this superb gum card -- even without the benefit of historical perspective -- would have been bound to recognize the subject's importance. Why? Superficially, Clemente's card isn't physically partitioned from the also-rans with which it shares a motif -- the collectibles of Tom Casagrande and Jack Parks, for instance, whose noteworthiness extended to inclusion in '55 Topps and little else -- but it carries an unmistakable grandeur that's immediately apparent. It's all about the intangibles and, with a well-earned nod to the rock-solid stature that Clemente would go on to build, this collectible has those in abundance.
Significantly, this is the lone Clemente rookie example -- among more than a hundred cards assessed at the NM-MT 8 plateau -- to be meritoriously granted PSA's half-grade "bump" in deference to eye appeal. Though a dozen copies accounted-for in the item's expansive, 2,409-piece census place nominally higher, the offered specimen commands kudos for its luscious, beacon-like presentation and its wholly uncirculated character. As expected, the card's corners and centering adhere to a superior standard, and deliberately intense scrutiny discloses a paucity of the print specks that sometimes plague the issue. Here's an extremely attractive Clemente rookie, the only one in the world able to claim grading accolades at its level.
Significantly, this is the lone Clemente rookie example -- among more than a hundred cards assessed at the NM-MT 8 plateau -- to be meritoriously granted PSA's half-grade "bump" in deference to eye appeal. Though a dozen copies accounted-for in the item's expansive, 2,409-piece census place nominally higher, the offered specimen commands kudos for its luscious, beacon-like presentation and its wholly uncirculated character. As expected, the card's corners and centering adhere to a superior standard, and deliberately intense scrutiny discloses a paucity of the print specks that sometimes plague the issue. Here's an extremely attractive Clemente rookie, the only one in the world able to claim grading accolades at its level.
1957 Topps Frank Robinson #35 GAI Perfect 10. Twelve-time All-Star, two-time MVP winner (once in each league!) and twice World Championship team member. Accolades that began with a National League "Rookie of the Year" Award in 1956, and proceeded all the way through an American League "Manager of the Year" Award in 1989. These are just a few of the sterling credentials held by Frank Robinson, the Hall of Famer who's distinguished himself at almost every level of baseball activity through the course of more than fifty years of involvement with the sport. In terms of gum cards, it all started for Frank with this desirable '57 Topps portrayal, a popular piece that shows the confident young outfielder in the vest jersey-style uniform of the Cincinnati Reds.
Here is that unfailingly appreciated but virtually never-seen collectible: a qualitatively unimprovable baseball card. Not only is its splendor in preservation superior to an overwhelming, vast majority of copies extant, its visibly advantageous, factory-installed properties have clearly enabled the relic to stand above the crowd from the moment of conception. There are no errant fibers, and no colors awry in the composition of this enduring masterpiece. The card's manner of appearance honors its subject to the highest degree of which printed cardboard is capable, and it shines proudly as a true industry standard for a much-enjoyed depiction.
Here is that unfailingly appreciated but virtually never-seen collectible: a qualitatively unimprovable baseball card. Not only is its splendor in preservation superior to an overwhelming, vast majority of copies extant, its visibly advantageous, factory-installed properties have clearly enabled the relic to stand above the crowd from the moment of conception. There are no errant fibers, and no colors awry in the composition of this enduring masterpiece. The card's manner of appearance honors its subject to the highest degree of which printed cardboard is capable, and it shines proudly as a true industry standard for a much-enjoyed depiction.
1958 Topps Ted Williams #1 PSA Mint 9. Always lead off with your best! That must have been the sentiment at the Topps Company as the work of laying out its 1958 baseball card set proceeded. The outcome -- for the second consecutive year -- found Red Sox hero Ted Williams at the front of the gallery on the issue's #1 card. Williams' stoic look and battle-worn cap are familiar features to the many hobbyists who have cherished the '58 Topps set's inimitable style for more than a half-century. Sadly, contract maneuvers by Topps' arch-rival, Fleer, were destined to whisk the Hall of Famer away from the gum card giant's line-up by 1959, but Ted's '58 engendered sufficient enjoyment to more than compensate for the loss.
More than 1,550 examples of this treasured portrayal have been validated by PSA, with just eight copies attaining the paramount excellence proffered by the specimen presented here. (None has been graded higher.) Superlative in every point of reference, the collectible is highlighted by lethally pointed corners, a full measure of original surface gloss, and incredible depth in its inking, front and back. The presumed liability incurred by "first card in the set" positioning has no bearing on this exceptional piece's beauty, as it's clearly never come within an arm's length of exposure to a rubber band. A simply outstanding introductory piece, suitable to grace one of the hobby's finest '58 Topps assemblies!
More than 1,550 examples of this treasured portrayal have been validated by PSA, with just eight copies attaining the paramount excellence proffered by the specimen presented here. (None has been graded higher.) Superlative in every point of reference, the collectible is highlighted by lethally pointed corners, a full measure of original surface gloss, and incredible depth in its inking, front and back. The presumed liability incurred by "first card in the set" positioning has no bearing on this exceptional piece's beauty, as it's clearly never come within an arm's length of exposure to a rubber band. A simply outstanding introductory piece, suitable to grace one of the hobby's finest '58 Topps assemblies!
1959 Topps Bob Gibson #514 PSA Mint 9. This showpiece collectible pays tribute to the debut of Cardinals hurler Bob Gibson, an event from which Major League hitters wouldn't completely recover for more than fifteen years. The future Hall of Famer is wearing a deceptively benign smile in his '59 Topps "High Number" depiction, or perhaps the cheerful expression shows gleeful relish as he looks forward to the one-sided pitcher-vs-batter triumphs that would soon follow. (Gibson would become so dominant, in fact, that the sport felt compelled to alter the height of the pitcher's mound, with the sole motive of attempting to defuse even a small portion of his talent-based advantage.)
Just three copies in the world - among more than 1,750 PSA-graded specimens - have managed to achieve a higher tier. Frankly, it's surprising that any have done so. Not a single one of the fibers comprising this amazing piece deviates from its as-manufactured state, and the item seems to possess all the attributes associated with a Mint-condition card: dead-on centering, snow-white cardstock and - especially noteworthy in this entry - a beautifully focused image. The most intense scrutiny yields no meaningful discrepancies (unless one can seriously count, say, a couple of flyspeck-sized skips in the black-inked number block's print). A phenomenal Gibson rookie!
Just three copies in the world - among more than 1,750 PSA-graded specimens - have managed to achieve a higher tier. Frankly, it's surprising that any have done so. Not a single one of the fibers comprising this amazing piece deviates from its as-manufactured state, and the item seems to possess all the attributes associated with a Mint-condition card: dead-on centering, snow-white cardstock and - especially noteworthy in this entry - a beautifully focused image. The most intense scrutiny yields no meaningful discrepancies (unless one can seriously count, say, a couple of flyspeck-sized skips in the black-inked number block's print). A phenomenal Gibson rookie!
1872 Boston Red Stockings CDV Harry Wright SGC Authentic - From the George Wright Collection. William Henry "Harry" Wright has been involved in baseball from the dawning era of the sport. The value of his contributions as player, manager and architect of the game are incalculable. It was his style of play which set the ground work for the rules of modern day baseball. With his brother, Harry played professional ball at the National Association of Base Ball Players (NABBP) where his relationship to the national game was forged. It would be a bond which would never be broken. Wright was the cornerstone of the first professional baseball team-the 1869 Cincinnati Red Stockings. His passion for the game went beyond his own play as Wright was the first to formulate strategies of play which are taken for granted today. Wright's role was as manger and general manger of his team. As a manager, he took his team to six league championships and posted a .581 winning percentage. Both Harry and his brother George are members of both the Baseball Hall of Fame and the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. This cabinet card comes from the personal collection of George Wright. At one time it served as part of a display which depicted 11 members of the Red Stockings team. The photo is in amazing condition considering it is 137 years old. No creases, no tears. There is some slight image darkening limited to the outer regions from adhesive. Slight toning has made visible is the oval shape which was the open area visible through the original matte. Unlike every other example we have encountered this treasure is fully intact with all four corners intact. Others had a corner or two purposely clipped to accommodate another player photo. The image shows very sharp detail and a full range of values. The reverse surface shows a little roughness from said mounting. The image was taken at the Warren Studios of Boston, Mass. This CDV offers one of the finest images available of the baseball pioneer. Encapsulated "Authentic" by SGC, with note to its special provenance.
1872 Boston Red Stockings CDV George Wright SGC Authentic - From His Personal Collection. No other family name contributed more to the development of the game of Baseball than the "Wright" family. Samuel Wright formed the St. George Cricket Club, moving the team to Hoboken, New Jersey where numerous New York and New Jersey base ball clubs would play in the 1850's. There the Wright boys would learn the game and become pioneers in the sport. George Wright's amateur career began in 1864. By 1868 his skills as a shortstop earned him the Clipper Medal, an award given for being the best at your position. He began his professional career in 1871 for the Cincinnati Red Stockings playing for/with his older brother Harry. He was considered by many to be the best player of the time. During his eight years with the Cincinnati/Boston Red Stockings, George contributed to six championships between 1871 and 1878. When the National league formed in 1876, George Wright was the first batter from that monumental first game. He would ground out to the shortstop to christen in the new league. After baseball, Wright started a sporting goods business named Wright and Ditson's. His influence is felt not just in baseball but in hockey, tennis and golf. This cabinet card comes from the personal collection of George Wright and at one time served as part of a display which depicted 11 members of the Red Stockings team. The photo is in prime condition with no creases or tears. There is some darkening limited to the outer regions from the adhesive after 137 years. Slight toning has made visible is the oval shape which was the open area visible through the original matte. The lower right corner was purposely clipped to accommodate the preceding player photo. The image shows very sharp detail and a full range of values. The reverse displays light staining (from adhesive we assume) but very little surface roughness from said mounting. The image was taken at the Warren Studios of Boston, Mass. This one of only a few sources to portray George Wright individually as a player. Encapsulated "Authentic" by SGC, with note to its special provenance.
Important 1872 Boston Red Stockings CDV Albert Spalding SGC Authentic - From the George Wright Collection. Albert Spalding first played organized baseball for the Rockford Pioneers in 1865 at the tender age of 15. Little did anyone at the time anticipate the influence he would have on the game nor expect that the successful sporting goods company he co-founded which is still open for business today. It is a a toss-up which skill Spalding excelled at better. As a pitcher for the Boston Red Stockings his record was an impressive 205-53. He also batted an equally impressive .323. Not content with the league he played for, Spalding and a select group of other talents all signed with the Chicago White Stockings in 1875. This move brought the National Association to a close. The new league, the National League was born in 1876. While in Chicago, Albert and his brother opened a sporting goods store and became the first star of any magnitude to wear a glove to protect his hands. Also at this time came the first official rules guide, which of course mentioned only Spalding baseballs could be used. His retirement from professional ball came in 1878, but he was always involved with the game on some level. It was Spalding who sponsored the 1888-89 trip around the world promoting the sport. A cabinet photo of Cap Anson from this tour is available elsewhere in this auction. It was Spalding who helped bring to an end of the Players League (1890); called for a commission to determine the origins of the game in 1905 which lead to Abner Doubleday getting credit for "inventing" baseball and was the author of the noted book America's National Game in 1911. Team items aside, this CDV is one of only three known real-photo images of Albert Spalding available to hobbyists. The others are an 1872 Warren Cabinet and a Mort Rogers scorecard. His depiction for his E223 G&B card is a line drawing illustration. This cabinet card comes from the personal collection of George Wright, at one time serving as part of a display which imaged 11 members of the Red Stockings team. Just a small amount of stock crinkling in the lower right and the intentionally clipped left corner, needed to accommodate other cabinet cards for proper placement, are noteworthy. The rarely seen image of Spalding in formal attire is virtually problem free, even the clipped area fails to take away from the portrait's appeal. A truly rare and desirable relic from the earliest days of our National Pastime. Encapsulated as "Authentic" by SGC, with note to its special provenance.
1872 Boston Red Stockings CDV Fraley Rogers SGC Authentic - From the George Wright Collection. Fraley Rogers was one of baseball's earliest tragic figures. His career lasted for only two seasons-1872 and 1873, in which he played in 46 games (all but one in 1872). Thankfully his participation with the 1872 World's Champion Boston Red Stockings team merited taking this formal portrait of the young right fielder. Rogers became a victim of his inner demons when he committed suicide in 1881 when he was only 30 or 31 years old. An exact date of birth is unknown. It is quite possible this is the only image of Rogers available to 19th century enthusiasts. This cabinet card comes from the personal collection of George Wright, at one time serving as part of a display which imaged 11 members of the Red Stockings team. The image of Rogers in formal attire has one brief crease, one surface scratch, a stain in the upper right. Slight toning has made visible is the oval shape which was the open area visible through the matte board. The upper right corner was purposely clipped to accommodate the preceding player cabinet card. Corner clip aside, the photo shows sharp detail and a full range of values. The reverse displays roughness from said mounting. It is also worth noting the image was taken by the renowned Warren Studios of Boston, Mass. Encapsulated as "Authentic" by SGC, with note to its special provenance.
1872 Boston Red Stockings CDV Andy Leonard SGC Authentic - From the George Wright Collection. Andy Leonard's brief but noteworthy career lasted for only a decade, most of those seasons playing for Boston, both as the Red Stockings and Red Caps. Now playing left field for Harry Wright's powerhouse team, his seven-year stay in Boston enabled him to be a part of six championships. Leonard was considered to be quite a talent in the outfield and he does boast a .299 lifetime batting average. His career came to an end due to problems with his vision. After working for George Wright's sporting goods company (Wright & Ditson) he died in 1903 at the age of 57. This cabinet card, coming from the personal collection of George Wright, at one time served as part of a display which imaged 11 members of the Red Stockings team. The image of Leonard in formal attire is free of creasing, wrinkles and surface scratches. Slight toning exposes the original oval shape which was the open area visible through the matte. The top right and bottom left corners were purposely clipped to accommodate other cabinet cards for proper placement. Corner clipping aside, the photo shows sharp detail, a wide range of contrast. The card backing displays a roughness on the reverse from said mounting. It is also worth noting the image was taken by the renowned Warren Studios of Boston, Mass.
1887 N28 Allen & Ginter Cap Anson PSA NM 7. Cap Anson was one of baseball's first superstars. Not just any member of the 3,000 Hits club, he was the founding member of the selective fraternity which set the standard for future excellence. His handlebar mustache and steely look of determination helps captivate the viewer as one gazes upon this quintessential Victorian era issue. It is no wonder the N28 edition is arguably the most popular of the 19th Century tobacco insert sets. A frosty white field surrounds Caps' boldly printed upper-body portrait. Remarkably sharp corners and an overall absence of noteworthy wear wholly justifies the near mint assessment. A marvelous example for the grade of the set's most desirable and valuable subject.
1887 N172 Old Judge John Clarkson SGC 40 VG 3. This Hall of Famer and 300 game winner intended to pitch the 1895 season for St. Louis but retired instead, deciding to close out his career with a Cleveland Spiders team featuring Cy Young, Buck Ewing and Jesse Burkett. The offered N172 Old Judge of a fielding Clarkson has minor condition issues like some surface soiling or stains (reverse). The most notable is some wrinkles affecting the reverse. The "Stretching up/left, hands head high" pose has a full range of values and nice detail.
Rare 1887 N172 Old Judge Ed Cushman SGC Authentic. Slabbed Authentic by SGC due to paper adhered to the reverse. To the sport, Ed Cushman had a brief and rather unremarkable career. Cushman played the 1890 season with Toledo before taking off his spikes for good. A 60-82 W-L record and a lifetime 3.86 ERA would be his contribution to the record books. His greatest performance was in 1884 when he threw a no-hitter on Sept. 28 and followed up that no-hitter with eight hitless innings in his next start. To the hobby, Cushman is one of the more difficult subjects to acquire from the massive Old Judge production. Where many players have five-, six-, seven- even ten or more poses, this is Cushman's only card next to his extremely rare "Spotted Tie" portrait. The full-figure posed image retains nice detail and is unencumbered by creases. A scarce entry of an obscure athlete all but forgotten except for these collectibles.
1887 N172 Old Judge Gill Hatfield SGC 80 EX/NM 6. Graded 80 EX/NM 6 by SGC, one of only two at this level with only two graded higher. Hatfield was a marginal athlete who never held a "full-time" position. The offered card, Hatfield's "Catching, hands Cupped chest high, looking upward, ball visible" variation (217-7) has an image which has faded some but is very physically strong with high quality corners.
1887 N172 Old Judge Keefe and Richardson SGC Authentic. Encapsulated Authentic by SGC due to being hand cut along the right and bottom borders. This scarce dual-player Old Judge depicts two of baseball's finest of the 19th Century. Tim Keefe was a dominating hurler who won 30-games for six seasons in a row. Daniel Richardson was a respectable pitcher/infielder who had a lifetime average of .248. This scarce relic is the "Tagging Richardson, Lying on Ground" variation. The caption specifically reads, "Keefe and Richardson Stealing 2d, N. Y's" To the best that we have been able to determine this is the first time this dual-pose of Keefe/Richardson with "and" in the caption has been offered at public auction.
1887 N172 Old Judge King Kelly, Bat at Ready-Left handed SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC. King Kelly is one of the larger-than-life characters of his time who earned his monetary-based nickname by signing a contract for the unbelievable sum of $10,000 per season. And all he had to do was play baseball. There are ten known N172 Kelly poses. This variation is his "Bat at ready at 45-degrees, Left-Handed" pose. The corners show a light rounding and the image has faded a bit with the passing of time but is clear and legible.
1887 N172 Old Judge King Kelly, Batting PSA VG-EX 4. The offered card reveals Hall of Famer King Kelly in a studio batting pose. The image and surface remain fresh, and peripheral faults are mostly limited to corner wear and one wrinkle. The reverse shows some toning and slight discoloration that is common in the issue. Career-contemporary cards of Kelly are highly sought after by collectors, and this is a splendid example. Nicely maintained Very Good to Excellent condition with a very strong image.
1887 N172 Old Judge Jim McCormick, Batting SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC. The offered N172 Old Judge of James McCormick is one of the rare entries not imaged in any Old Judge reference books. This pose "Bat at Ready. Right Handed, Chicago" appears to be the scarce variation to the same image with a "Pittsburg" caption. Pleasing example with minor condition issues.
1887 N172 Old Judge Jim McCormick, Portrait SGC 50 VG/EX 4. James McCormick was a pitcher who managed a 10-year career but only a 264-214 W-L record. His 2.43 lifetime ERA was probably what kept him employed. In the N172 Old Judge series, McCormick has nine different cards, this rare SGC 50 VG/EX 4 is his "Portrait w/Bowler Hat" pose (ref. 306-3). The grade reflects the two small edge chips which show up on the otherwise blank back. The image has lost a bit of value range but holds sharp details in areas. This is one of the few formal portraits in the massive Old Judge production.
1887 N172 Old Judge Orator Jim O'Rourke PSA VG 3. Graded VG 3 by PSA. "Orator Jim" O'Rourke spent 22 years in the major leagues for a number of teams. The great backstop also was very talented on the other side of the plate. O'Rourke amassed over 2,600 hits while batting .300 fourteen times in his career, retiring in 1893 with a lifetime average of .311. O'Rourke spent years in the minor leagues and did play one last major league game in 1903, going 1-for-4. This excellent looking card of the man who convinced his team to pay for his tuition to Harvard law has a series of light surface wrinkles affecting the blank reverse (thus the grade). The sharp corners and bold "Throwing, Right Hand Head High" image has a full range of values and retains nice detail.
1887 N172 Old Judge Harry Stovey GAI VG+ 3.5. Harry Stovey was baseball's first home run king. He was also quite skilled at running the base paths as well. For some reason he is one of those 19th Century superstars who somehow was overlooked when it came time to be enshrined in Cooperstown. Upon retirement, Stovey was the game's home run king with 122 for his career but he also racked up over 500 stolen bases. The offered N172 Old Judge pictures a determined base runner leaning toward that next open base. Presenting at the excellent level, a series of light wrinkles which affects the blank reverse explains the technical assessment. The image is well defined with a full range of values.
1887 N172 Old Judge John Ward SGC 60 EX 5. John Ward was much more than your typical athlete. During his 17 year career, Ward played shortstop, pitched and managed for Providence, Brooklyn and New York. Graduating from Columbia Law School in 1885, Ward understood the business of baseball and was a champion of the unpopular concept of player's rights. Ward challenged the players clause which eventually led to the formation of the short-lived Players League in 1890. This N172 Old Judge-Throwing, Right Profile, represents a nice solid card for the grade. No creases or wrinkles, surfaces interrupted by a few very slight edge chips. The blank reverse has one spot stain of note. A nice collectible of this important baseball figure.
1887 N172 Old Judge Ewing & Thompson HoFers Pair (2). As to be expected, Hall of Famers are the most desired subjects within any baseball card series. From the landmark N172 Old Judge tobacco edition we offer a pair of baseball's finest. The lots consists of Buck Ewing (SGC 20 FR 1.5) and Sam Thompson (SGC 10 PR 1). Ewing was a fantastic all-around athlete who hit .303 over his 18-year career. His greatness was never overlooked as he was elected into Cooperstown in 1939. Thompson has the distinction of being called a great power hitter in what is called the "Dead Ball Era." Thompson amassed almost 2,000 hits and 1,299 RBIs during his 15 year career. Both cards are showing their age but both offer pleasing images with a full range of values and nice detail.
1887 N172 Old Judge Baseball SGC-Graded Trio (3). Each card has been graded by SGC. Offered is an attractive trio of N172 Old Judge real-photo baseball cards. The lot include: Egyptian Healy (SGC 50 VG/EX 4), George Gore (SGC 40 VG 3) and Mickey Welch (SGC 30 GD 2). Healy has a nice image with centering determining the grade. Gore presents as an excellent card but has surface impressions and a very nice image. Welch has a visible vertical crease and surface wear along a segment of the left border.
1887 N172 Old Judge Chicago White Stockings SGC-Graded Trio (3). Offered is an SGC-Graded trio of N172 Old Judge tobacco card featuring players from the Chicago White Stockings. Not long after these cards were sold the Chicago team became the "Chicago Colts," then the "Chicago Orphans" before becoming the beloved "Chicago Cubs" in 1903. Each card displays a strong well defined image with full tonal range. Includes: Fred Pfeffer (SGC 70 EX+ 5.5), Marty Sullivan (SGC 60 EX 5) and Ned Williamson (SGC 50 VG/EX 4).
1887-90 N172 Old Judge Baseball SGC-Authentic Collection (12). Each 120+ year old collectible has been trimmed or skinned, thus the "A" assessments. Despite their relatively common condition status, every nicely detailed and contrasting image is free of maladies (like creases) which would take away from visual enjoyment. Most present at the EX to EX/MT levels. Includes: Barkley (19-2), Faatz (150-2), Ganzel (179-3), Glenn (194-1), Kappell (250-1), Lange (272-1), McHolson (345-2), Mills (326-3), Swartzel (450-3), Tate (452-3), Tiernan (457-6) and Weber (482-4). Code numbers refer to the checklist in the extensive volume "The Photographic Baseball Cards of Goodwin & Company (1886-1890)" published in 2008.
1886 N370 Lone Jack Doc Bushong SGC 30 Good 2. Should one desire to make a 19th Century specialist's heart race, simply utter the name "Lone Jack." The single Lone Jack Brand baseball series consists of a mere 13 cards but is near the top of the "Rarest" list of 1880's tobacco card series. The set showcases players of the World's Champion St. Louis Browns. The offered card of Doc Bushong is one of only two examples recorded by SGC. The corners show obvious rounding but lacks for any major creases or wrinkles. The image is crisp with just a couple spots of soiling. A truly rare 19th Century collectible.
1888 N29 Allen & Ginter George F. Miller PSA NM 7. Graded NM 7 by PSA, only three examples assessed higher. A very sharp example with just the slightest touches of corner wear. Great coloring and a blemish free white backdrop.
1888 N162 Goodwin "Champions" Cap Anson PSA EX-MT 6. Graded EX-MT 6 by PSA. The 50-card "Champions" edition is certainly one of the best tobacco card productions of the 19th Century with a sports theme. Featuring an array of athletes from various sporting endeavors, none are more sought after than the eight baseball players and the undisputed key subject is Chicago 1st Baseman Adrian "Cap" Anson. The offered example is bright and clean with minor condition issues including varying degrees of corner/edge wear and less than precise centering. Anson was a prominent member of the 19th Century baseball community and the N162 which bears his portrait is one of his best cardboard keepsakes.
1888 N162 Goodwin "Champions" Dan Brouthers SGC 30 Good 2. An attractive card of the HOF slugger from Detroit. The N162 Goodwin Champions set is considered by many to be the most beautiful 19th century set ever produced. This example has survived the last 120 years with light to moderate corner wear and spots of tobacco staining on the obverse. The white area at his chin is a stock imperfection there before printing as evidenced by the halo of white stock surrounding the shape. The boldly printed reverse is nice save for a couple small spots of surface/loss edge chipping.
1888 N403 Yum Yum Clarkson, Pitcher SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Extremely rare by any standard, this N403 Yum Yum of the Boston Nationals star hurler John Clarkson depicts the talented pitcher in his "throwing" variation. Few 19th Century productions generate the level of head-turning excitement as do the cards produced by the August Beck Company of Chicago for the "Yum Yum Tobacco" brand. The format is a take on the more common N172s of the same era and the date of this set coincides with Clarkson's first year with Boston. N403 Yum Yum's truly rank among the rarest 19th Century releases. Acquiring a single example leaves even the most advanced collector eternally grateful for the privilege. This is an opportunity to own more than just a random subject from this monumentally elusive set but a top-tier Hall of Famer in the likes of John Clarkson. The card has minor soiling on the front, a slightly elevated level amount on the blank reverse with consistent corner wear. An extremely close review shows the most delicate of wrinkles on the reverse but no creasing. Solid middle-grade gem suited to single handedly elevate a vintage collection to "Advanced" status.
Important "Spalding's Australian Base Ball Tour" Cap Anson Cabinet Photo. In 1888-1889 Cap Anson was one of if not the star attraction on Albert Spalding's world tour to promote our National Pastime, and Spalding Sporting Goods of course, to other parts of the world. The tour included the Chicago team and a select group of marquee names. Working their way out west and beyond, the tour stopped in Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Egypt, France, and England. Anson's social influence, for worse by all accounts, was felt into the middle of the 20th Century until the color line of Major League baseball was crossed. The persona aside, Anson played a record 27 straight seasons and would be the first to achieve the 3,000 hit plateau by which all future hitters would be judged. The regal image of Anson shows sharp details and good contrast. Surface spotting hardly influences the viewer from being totally mesmerized by the commanding gaze of one of the first major baseball superstars of the 19th Century. This very rare cabinet photo of Adrian "Cap" Anson was issued to commemorate the grand world tour event. The card mount clearly reads in gold metallic ink, "Spalding's Australian Base Ball Tour, 1888-89." In vintage ink is noted "Anson" on the front, as if there was any doubt who is portrayed in the photo. Staining appears along the top and bottom edges of both sides but more apparent on the reverse. As best we can determine the Authentic assessment is due to the unnaturally clipped bottom two corners. This significant relic of baseball's past offers tremendous significance to not only the game but to history itself. A rare and possibly unique cabinet photo of a pioneer of the game.
1903 E107 Breisch Williams Jack Chesbro SGC 30 Good 2. Graded 30 GD 2 by SGC, one of a pair at this grade with one higher. Rookie card specialists can spend years looking for that rare first appearance. Such is the experience acquiring the very rare rookie card of Hall of Famer Jack Chesbro from the E107 Breisch Williams series from 1903. In '03, Chesbro wasn't the only rookie that year, the very team itself was playing their first season in New York as the "Highlanders" in the still growing American League. The highly prized E107 depicts Chesbro in a formal portrait, bow-tie, stripped suit and all. A few light diagonal creases/wrinkles accounts for the technical assessment. The central image is gently affected by one upper corner crease. The reverse shows slight aging with a bold "One of a hundred and fifty prominent Baseball players" imprint. A must have card for the HoF rookie enthusiast.
1903 E107 Breisch Williams Elmer Flick SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, one of a pair at this grade with one higher. Offered is a solid middle grade rookie card of Baseball HoFer Elmer Flick. Flick's hitting ability was such that he was offered in trade for some new kid named Ty Cobb. The E107 Breisch Williams series is highly regarded by advanced vintage hobbyists as it is the only series to capture both late-19th and early-20th Century stars. The front displays a few age spots, none of which greatly impacts the nicely centered formal portrait of Flick. The card displays a boldly printed "One of a hundred and fifty prominent Baseball players" reverse. A very tough rookie card of a very talented member of Baseball's Hall of Fame.
1907-09 PC765-1 Dietsche Detroit Tigers Postcards Near Set (18). This is a newly discovered collection of PC765-1 Detroit Tigers World Series post cards which were released from 1907 through 1909. This 18-card selection is anchored by Hall of Famers Sam Crawford and Hugh Jennings. For clarity, copyright years have been noted. None were ever used in the mail and six cards have been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards w/ Donovan/1908, McIntyre/1908 and Mullin/1908; SGC 40 VG 3: 3 cards w/ Beckendorf/1907, Crawford/1908 and Jennings/1907. Ungraded - 1907:Jones, Killian, O'Leary and Schmidt; 1908: Bush, Moriarity, Stanage, Summers and Willett; 1909: Delahanty, Jones and Works. Grades 67% VG to VG/EX, 33% GD.
Baseball Collectibles
1907 New York Giants "Base Ball Mail Card" Fold-Out Postcard. The 1907 New York Giants are the subject of this very rare fold-out postcard showcasing black & white portraits of manager John McGraw plus 18 players. Making appearances are: Ames, Bresnahan, Bowerman, Brown, Corcoran, Dahlen, Devlin, Donlin, Ferguson, Mathewson, McGann, McGinnity, McGraw, Seymour, Shannon, Shay, Strang, Taylor and Wiltse. In their original state, the inner pages were connected to open up as one long strip of paper. Here, that accordion is six separate double-sided sheets of paper. Each page has some creasing. The back cover page offers a schedule for the NL 1907 season and a scene from the Polo Grounds on the outside panel. Not the optimal condition but the first we have seen in this format of the New York Giants.
Baseball Cards
1907 Wolverine News Ty Cobb SGC 20 Fair 1.5 Tyrus Raymond "Ty" Cobb was one of the most feared athletes of his era and it took little time to establish that reputation. Of his multitude number of appearances on a cardboard collectible, few offer a portrait of Cobb which captures the inner fire and steely drive that some say was his greatest asset--or his greatest demon--as does this scarce Wolverine entry. Presenting at the VG level, this Wolverine News Co. post card of Cobb offers one of the most insightful portraits of the young determined outfielder. The technical grade is in largely the result of this post card being used as intended for mail correspondence. The postmark cancellation is Nov. 25, 1908.
1909-11 E90-1 American Caramel E90-1 Ty Cobb PSA VG-EX 4. Issued with sticks of caramel candy, the E90-1 set was produced by the American Caramel Co. from 1909 though 1911, with the bulk of the set being released in the first year. Ty Cobb captured the AL Triple Crown in 1909 and was a unanimous choice for MVP of the American League in 1911 after posting a .420 batting average for the season. The offered card displays a severe diamond cut at top border, but rates higher than average in every other regard.
1909-11 E90-1 American Caramel Ty Cobb SGC 20 Fair 1.5. One of the most efficient batsmen who ever played the sport, Ty Cobb led the AL in batting average for an amazing 11 times, finishing as the runner-up another four times. The career .366 man is shown here in his entry from the popular American Caramel E90-1 set. The offered example doesn't look like your typical "fair" condition card. With no major creases, the stamp "P" on the reverse is the determining factor with regards to condition.
Rare 1909-11 E90-1 Amer. Caramel Mike Mitchell, Cincinnati SGC 30 Good 2. Graded 30 Good 2 by SGC, one of less than a half-dozen copies at that level with just two graded higher. Dubbed the "Honus Wagner of 'E' cards" for the fact that this rare entry appears for sale about as often as the T206 king. Issued among the last subjects produced for the E90-1 series, M. Mitchell's lack of availability today has no definite answer but ironically the other Mitchell in the set is one of the most commonly found. The offered example has modest corner rounding plus two corner creases which solidified the technical assessment. The colors remain bright and borders are a clean and fresh white. A very attractive "good" condition card.
1909-11 E90-1 Amer. Caramel Baseball Group Lot of (10) - With Six HoFers! The E90-1 American Caramel edition is the base which extensive "E" collections are built upon. This is a nice clean lot which features six members of the Baseball Hall of Fame. Every card has been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, Howell/Follow-Through; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, Mullin; SGC 40 VG 3: cards w/Bender, Chance, Howell/Wind-Up, Keeler/Pink Background, Lajoie, Schlitzer and Tinker; SGC 20 GD 2: 1 card, Mathewson.
Circa 1909 Ty Cobb (as E95) Advertising Cut-Out. Painfully missed by collectors of vintage cards are the larger promotional items or display pieces used to promote the unseen cards inserted in with tobacco or candy products. This hand cut, 1-7/16" x 2-5/8" depiction of Ty Cobb, the games greatest hitter, matches his portrait from the E95 Philadelphia Caramel card from 1909. For whatever reason, the name and team have been moved to the area surrounding the intense-eyed portrait of the "Georgia Peach. One can only imagine the majestic quality of a large counter card or selling sheet which celebrated this colorful 25 card series. The segments of copy on the reverse refer to "Paste Drops," ...Jelly..." and chocolate products of some type. Until the full piece is discovered, this lone remnant will remain as our inspiration to keep searching those dusty attics and flea markets looking for long forgotten treasures.
1909 E95 Philadelphia Caramel Sam Crawford PSA EX 5. Similar in style to several other early candy and caramel cards, the E95 set is a 25-card issue produced by the Philadelphia Caramel Co., Camden, N.J., in 1909. Sam Crawford flourished while playing in the shadow of his more famous Hall of Fame teammate Ty Cobb. He fell just short of 3000 hits with 2961 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1957. He played 19 seasons in the major leagues and holds the record for most career triples (309).
1909 E95 Philadelphia Caramel PSA-Graded Pair (2). Offered is a very sharp pair of 1909 E95 Philadelphia Caramel baseball players, each graded by PSA. The lot includes Boston star Bill Carrigan (PSA EX 5) and Chicago Cubs Outfielder Solly Hoffman "Hofman" (PSA VG-EX 4). Both cards are nice examples for the grade. Neither has any surface loss or creases. A very attractive pair.
1909 E95 Philadelphia Caramel Near Set (21/25). Produced by the Philadelphia Caramel company of Camden, New Jersey this set is considered one of the finest early candy issues and is a favorite of many advanced vintage collectors. While many other candy issues of the day used the same artwork, the E95 set features unique images and is very colorful by contrast. The set was printed on thin paper stock and that makes them very susceptible to creasing. In total, 15 cards have been graded by SGC. Missing Maddox, McIntyre, Reulbach and Willetts for completion. This 21-card near set includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, Hoffman; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 2 cards w/Chance and Morgan; SGC 40 VG 3: 5 cards w/ Cicotte, Evers, Lord, Mathewson and Willis; SGC 30 Good 2: 4 cards w/ Bender, Devlin, Leach and Merkle; SGC 10 Poor 1: 3 cards w/ Cobb, Plank and Wagner. Ungraded - includes: Carrigan, Collins (FR), Crawford (FR), Doyle, Krause and Wiltse. Grades 48% VG to EX, 24% GD, 28% PR to FR.
1909-11 T206 Mordecai Brown, Cubs Shirt PSA NM 7. Graded NM 7 by PSA, the pop report does not show a "7" for this variation making it very likely this card earns the ultimate "Pop 1-of-1 with none higher" status. To date, PSA has graded a total of four NM Mordecai Brown cards with two higher so regardless of the accuracy of the pop report this is one of the finest T206s available of the Cubs HoF pitcher. And what a "7" it is... Brilliant color retention, nice white borders, near-precision centering and quality corners gives this card immense eye appeal beyond its technical assessment. The sharply printed "Sweet Caporal-150 series" reverse is blemish free and only adds to its appeal. A terrific Near Mint condition beauty.
1909-11 T206 Hal Chase Portrait-Blue Background PSA NM-MT 8 - Pop 1 of 1 With None Higher. Slick fielding first baseman Hal Chase, known as "Prince Hal" for his ability to charm, was anything but princely. After charges of bribes, bets and throwing games stateside; Chase, in 1925, tried to start a league in Mexico where he owned a cafe. American League president Ban Johnson knew the president of Mexico and had him deported back to the United States. Of the 63 blue portrait Chase cards submitted to PSA, this is the lone NM-MT 8 example with none graded higher.
1909-11 T206 Ty Cobb Bat Off Shoulder PSA VG-EX 4. A fierce and determined look in the eyes of the early baseball legend makes this variation the most honest portrait in this most popular of tobacco issues. Judging solely by the visual power of the image area, this card would be tough to beat--color and registration is superb, and no creases appear on front or verso. It is due solely to the typical edge and corner wear that this card was designated a VG-EX 4, still certainly nothing to sneeze at for a card with such strong collecting appeal.
1909-11 T206 Ty Cobb Portrait American Beauty PSA EX 5. A "peach" of a card featuring Ty Cobb, the man who still holds the highest mark for lifetime batting average at .367. Two versions of the American Beauty Cigarettes advertising on the backs of T206 cards can be found; with and without a decorative border surrounding the green typography. Because of the size of the original cigarette packaging in which they were a premium insert, American Beauty T206s are a bit narrower than the standard 1-7/16". Strong example which suffers only from minor corner wear at bottom corners and the obvious left to right centering. Desirable back version suitable for any Hall of Fame collection.
1909-11 T206 Ty Cobb Portrait Red Background with Ty Cobb Back PSA Fair 1.5. Soon after his Detroit Tigers fell to the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 1909 World Series, the only meeting between these two Dead Ball era legends, Cobb lamented of Honus Wagner, "That god damned Dutchman is the only man in the game I can't scare." It was around that time that two of the most famous baseball cards in the collecting hobby were born, each a member of the fabled T206 set that has fascinated hobbyists for a full century. And one hundred years after Cobb and Wagner battled for supremacy in the sixth edition of the Fall Classic, their rivalry continues.
While there's little dispute that the Wagner T206 inhabits the throne as king of the card collecting world, the presented Cobb variety makes the Dutchman seem downright common by comparison. Though the red background portrait is the most plentiful of the four Cobb variants within the set, it is the extraordinarily scarce "Ty Cobb, King of the Smoking Tobacco World" advertising back that elevates the presented specimen into the most rarified of collecting air.
The prominent position of these two inaugural class Hall of Famers atop the T206 endangered species list results from very limited original print runs, though the reasons for the shortages differ. The most popular theory for Wagner, perhaps tainted by folklore, is that the superstar shortstop believed tobacco cards effectively encouraged children to smoke and as such he wished to play no role. Inability to come to a contractual agreement over use of his likeness is the more likely reason for the quick removal of Wagner from the set. The scarcity of Cobb with a Cobb back, however, has a simpler explanation. Cards featuring the rare back we find here were included only within tins of Ty Cobb brand smoking tobacco, a product enjoying just a fraction of the distribution of such titans of the industry as Piedmont, Sweet Caporal and Old Mill.
Today it is estimated that just twelve to fifteen examples of the Cobb with Cobb back exist in the world, compared with fifty to seventy-five Wagners from the T206 set. While properly assessed at a grade of Fair 1.5, it is crucial to note that the visual strength of the card belies its humble grade, as points are lost mainly to minor surface discoloration and corner rounding typical of centegenarian cardboard, as opposed to unsightly creasing or paper loss which would more profoundly harm aesthetics.
As the few remaining examples of this elusive early twentieth century artifact are absorbed into permanent private collections, we may soon have to content ourselves with old auction catalog photography should we wish to visit one. But here a devoted collector will have the opportunity to become the curator of a special piece that one hopes and trusts shall survive for centuries to come. Originally sold in the famous Barry Halper Auction of 1999.
While there's little dispute that the Wagner T206 inhabits the throne as king of the card collecting world, the presented Cobb variety makes the Dutchman seem downright common by comparison. Though the red background portrait is the most plentiful of the four Cobb variants within the set, it is the extraordinarily scarce "Ty Cobb, King of the Smoking Tobacco World" advertising back that elevates the presented specimen into the most rarified of collecting air.
The prominent position of these two inaugural class Hall of Famers atop the T206 endangered species list results from very limited original print runs, though the reasons for the shortages differ. The most popular theory for Wagner, perhaps tainted by folklore, is that the superstar shortstop believed tobacco cards effectively encouraged children to smoke and as such he wished to play no role. Inability to come to a contractual agreement over use of his likeness is the more likely reason for the quick removal of Wagner from the set. The scarcity of Cobb with a Cobb back, however, has a simpler explanation. Cards featuring the rare back we find here were included only within tins of Ty Cobb brand smoking tobacco, a product enjoying just a fraction of the distribution of such titans of the industry as Piedmont, Sweet Caporal and Old Mill.
Today it is estimated that just twelve to fifteen examples of the Cobb with Cobb back exist in the world, compared with fifty to seventy-five Wagners from the T206 set. While properly assessed at a grade of Fair 1.5, it is crucial to note that the visual strength of the card belies its humble grade, as points are lost mainly to minor surface discoloration and corner rounding typical of centegenarian cardboard, as opposed to unsightly creasing or paper loss which would more profoundly harm aesthetics.
As the few remaining examples of this elusive early twentieth century artifact are absorbed into permanent private collections, we may soon have to content ourselves with old auction catalog photography should we wish to visit one. But here a devoted collector will have the opportunity to become the curator of a special piece that one hopes and trusts shall survive for centuries to come. Originally sold in the famous Barry Halper Auction of 1999.
1909-11 T206 Ty Cobb Bat Off Shoulder GAI NM-MT 8. In 1911, the probable date of this card's birth, Tyrus Raymond Cobb was at the apex of his considerable powers. His league-leading numbers that season are just ridiculous: .420 average, 248 hits, 47 doubles, 24 triples, 127 RBIs, 83 stolen bases! Despite his vicious temperament that likely kept him out of the running other seasons, the American League had no choice but to crown him Most Valuable Player, the only season he was honored as such. Look closely at the image of the Peach, painted close to a century ago, and you can see it in his eyes. Though he stands before a serene background of soft pastel, the stare is one of great determination, the look of whatever it is that was fundamentally different about players like Cobb and Rose that made the thought of failure for them almost too much to bear. It's one of the finest portraits in the long and impressive history of baseball card art. This high-grade exemplar has all the requisites needed in a card that has received such a lofty mark; clean white borders, brilliant coloring and registration, four sharp corners, and near unblemished front and back.
1909-11 T206 Larry Doyle Throwing PSA NM-MT 8, Highest Graded Known. Laughing Larry Doyle was the 1912 National League MVP and led the 1915 National League in batting average at .320. Most of his career was spent with the New York Giants under manager John McGraw and he appeared in the 1911-13 World Series. Of a combined 22 Doyle Throwing cards submitted to PSA and SGC, this is the lone NM-MT 8 example with none graded higher.
1909-11 T206 Walter Johnson Hands At Chest SGC 84 NM 7 - A Factory 42 Rarity! Undeniably special as a fresh-looking period collectible featuring one of the most feared pitchers in Major League history, this pleasing T206 showcases the likeness of the "Big Train," Walter Johnson. The card's obverse shows the great hurler in a state of poised readiness, and its subdued, beautifully rendered design deftly complements the Hall of Famer's legend. The nicely resolved illustration rests within white borders that reveal unobtrusive slanting in the top and bottom aspects' factory cuts, and the card's overall presentation is a very favorable one. The piece is special, indeed, an observation corroborated by SGC's evaluation, which places the item solidly within the top two percent of the nearly 500 Walter Johnson T206's holdered to date by the company.
Although its frontal specifications, in themselves, would be sufficient to justify a place of honor for this insert in the finest array, its story isn't limited to the details that are so immediately spotted by the casual viewer. Close examination of the card's back discloses the "fine print," which in this case harbors an extraordinary aspect: the "Piedmont - 350-460 Series" reverse sports a clear "Factory No. 42" imprint. The "42" designator is so achingly rare in this configuration that ownership of a T206 exhibiting this nuance perpetually escapes the grasp of all but the most fortunate and determined specialists of the issue. A collector could search for years without seeing a single specimen, and the fact that, here, the prize is coupled with a superstar obverse places this example into a separate and elite stratosphere of the hobby. A card like this one surfaces once in a decade, maybe, or perhaps only once in a lifetime. Either way, it represents a fantastic, singular opportunity!
Although its frontal specifications, in themselves, would be sufficient to justify a place of honor for this insert in the finest array, its story isn't limited to the details that are so immediately spotted by the casual viewer. Close examination of the card's back discloses the "fine print," which in this case harbors an extraordinary aspect: the "Piedmont - 350-460 Series" reverse sports a clear "Factory No. 42" imprint. The "42" designator is so achingly rare in this configuration that ownership of a T206 exhibiting this nuance perpetually escapes the grasp of all but the most fortunate and determined specialists of the issue. A collector could search for years without seeing a single specimen, and the fact that, here, the prize is coupled with a superstar obverse places this example into a separate and elite stratosphere of the hobby. A card like this one surfaces once in a decade, maybe, or perhaps only once in a lifetime. Either way, it represents a fantastic, singular opportunity!
1909-11 T206 Piedmont Walter Johnson, Portrait PSA NM 7. Graded NM 7 by PSA, one of the finer examples graded to date. Currently, there are over 550 Walter Johnson T206s which have passed the eye of PSA graders with only a small percentage matching or surpassing the Near Mint level. This timeless, elegant portrait of the "Big-Train" is one of the most widely recognized and admired of all of the T206s portraits and is unmistakably a product of Carl Horner's talents. Every tobacco enthusiast desires this card and for good reason. Few will be able to claim one of such quality. The front boasts four high end corners, rich colors, a bight white border of uneven thickness, this being the "worst" criticism one can find. The reverse boasts a fresh looking blue impression of the "Piedmont-350 Subjects" design. We mention a pair of very faint surface tobacco blemishes for accuracy.
1909-11 T206 Nap Lajoie Portrait PSA EX-MT 6. Fine portrait card featuring Hall of Fame second baseman Napoleon Lajoie as a member of the Cleveland Naps. The first second baseman inducted into the Hall of Fame, Nap Lajoie played for 21 years and helped bring the American League from infancy to respectability. In 1910, the 35-year old Nap beat out 23-year old Cobb by one point in the batting race (.384 to .383). Cobb had sat out the final two games of the 1910 season, hoping to hold on to his lead, but Lajoie played in a season ending doubleheader and racked up eight hits, six of which were bunts.
1909-11 T206 Rube Marquard Hands At Thighs PSA NM 7. A beautiful exemplar from the landmark T206 tobacco issue, this card features perfect centering and brilliant coloring and contrast. Even better, this rookie card includes the more desirable Sweet Caporal (Overprint) - Series 150 - Factory 649 - District 1 - State NY back. Hall of Fame pitcher Richard "Rube" Marquard won 201 games in his 18 year major league career. Marquard began his baseball career in the sandlots of Cleveland, Ohio and defied his parents by signing his first pro contract. He won 23 games with the Canton Chinamen in 1907 and 28 games with the Indianapolis Indians in 1908. The New York Giants then paid a record $11,000 to get him to join their team. In 1912, Marquard won 19 consecutive decisions, beginning on Opening Day. In the World Series that year, he threw a pair of complete games, winning both and giving up only one earned run. Of the 47 Sweet Caporal Marquard Hands At Thighs cards submitted to PSA, only two have graded higher.
1909-11 T206 Christy Mathewson, Portrait PSA EX-MT 6. In 1936, Christy Mathewson joined Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner, Ty Cobb and Walter Johnson as a member of the first class to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. It was a distinction that was well earned, considering his career accomplishments included leading the league in wins four times, leading the league in strikeouts five times, winning 30 or more games four times, pitching four shutouts and ten complete games in World Series competition and winning 373 regular season contests. This beauty boasts amazing color and freshness. The reverse has a bold, problem-free "Piedmont-150 Subjects" strike. An impressive copy and a fine addition to any T206 or Mathewson collection.
1909-11 T206 Polar Bear Bill O'Hara, St. Louis PSA VG 3. Graded VG 3 by PSA. A rarity from the comprehensive T-206 edition is this Bill O'Hara, "St. Louis" National League variation. Similar to Ray Demmitt, he played his 1909 season for the N.Y. Nationals and then was moved to the St. Louis franchise. O'Hara spent a mere 9 games there and never played again in the Majors. This card is also only presented with the Polar Bear back, offered here with its typical staining, light in this case. One diagonal crease is the condition factor of note. Overall a nice looking card for the grade and a fine example bringing T206 enthusiast one step closer to completion.
1909-11 T206 Polar Bear Bill O'Hara, St. Louis PSA VG-EX 4. Another one of the rarities from the T-206 set; the Bill O'Hara, St. Louis National League. Similar to Ray Demmitt, he played his 1909 season for the N.Y. Nationals and then was moved to the St. Louis National Franchise. He spent all of 9 games there and never played again in the Majors. This example, which only comes with the Polar Bear back, displays minimal staining with only minor spots visible on the obverse. The reverse shows a few spots of staining which is a pleasant change from the usual. The card has strong colors and crisp focus, which adds to the overall eye appeal. Evidence of handling at the corners and no creasing or wrinkles. A very solid VG/EX example.
1909-11 T206 Sweet Caporal Eddie Plank PSA VG 3. Like a schoolboy in fond imitation of his older brother, the T206 Plank hits all the same notes as the fabled Wagner, likewise troubling generations of collectors working to compile a complete set of this most beloved of tobacco issues. Theories for the scarcity of this card paying tribute to Connie Mack's superstar southpaw are identical to the Wagner tales, with aversion to tobacco advertisement and contractual stalemate with the American Tobacco Company the most commonly referenced causes. Recognized baseball card census figures find the populations of these two cards well within striking distance of one another.
Though "Gettysburg Eddie" will probably never dethrone his Pirates contemporary as the key card in the T206 set, the presented example should logically be considered its trading card equal. Graded VG 3 by the experts at PSA, the proffered Plank exhibits only modest corner rounding and a slight reverse wrinkle to suggest its age, with the face remaining clean and well-placed within its four borders. Of seventeen examples to have been holstered within an PSA capsule, just four have been deemed superior to this one. With this Plank, one determined collector could clear one of the three toughest T206 hurdles laid by this classic set.
Though "Gettysburg Eddie" will probably never dethrone his Pirates contemporary as the key card in the T206 set, the presented example should logically be considered its trading card equal. Graded VG 3 by the experts at PSA, the proffered Plank exhibits only modest corner rounding and a slight reverse wrinkle to suggest its age, with the face remaining clean and well-placed within its four borders. Of seventeen examples to have been holstered within an PSA capsule, just four have been deemed superior to this one. With this Plank, one determined collector could clear one of the three toughest T206 hurdles laid by this classic set.
1909-11 T206 Piedmont Eddie Plank PSA Authentic. From the famed Barry Halper collection we offer one of the most recognized missing color print errors in the hobby. The T206 Eddie Plank is frequently compared to the famed Honus Wagner of the same issue due to its rarity and value. We do know there are approximately the same number of Planks as there are Wagners in the hobby. The offered authentic card of Plank has a wonderful sense of serenity to the partially printed portrait of the Philadelphia A's ace hurler. The card is missing both the orange hues normally associated in his face and the distinctive blue color background we are all familiar with. This 100% authentic but hand cut rarity is in Good condition with a few light creases and an irregular cut which confirms explains the "trimmed" qualifier. The "Piedmont-150 Subjects" series brand reverse displays very nicely with one spot stain of note. Encapsulated as Authentic by PSA, this enviable collectible provides a marvelous, relatively affordable solution for an advanced, but currently Plank-less, T206 collection.
1909-11 T206 Joe Tinker Portrait PSA EX-MT 6. A strong representation from the landmark T206 tobacco issue, this card features vivid coloring and clarity, along with a very clean front and back. Hall of Famer Joe Tinker was the shortstop of the famous Tinker to Evers to Chance double play combination. He played fifteen years in the majors and also managed for four years, leading the Chicago Whales to the 1915 Federal League championship. He played in four World Series from 1906-10.
1909-11 T206 Piedmont Cy Young, Portrait PSA EX-MT 6. Cy Young's 511 career wins are nearly 100 in front of any other pitcher that has ever played the game and represent a benchmark that will likely never be approached. His T206 portrait version is the quintessential Cy Young card for many collectors. The graphics do sit high while horizontal centering is precise. This example doesn't disappoint with its rich colors, mild corner wear, precise registration (which can be a problem) and blemish free surfaces. The verso is equally clean with a bold "Piedmont - 150" advertisement.
1910 E90-2 Amer. Caramel Nick Maddox SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, the stand alone highest graded example recorded to date. Fresh and clean example of the scarce E90-2 collectible of Pirates pitcher Nick Maddox.
1910 E102 "Set Of 25" Chief Bender PSA VG-EX 4. Graded VG-EX 4 by PSA, one of a trio at this grade. Chief Bender was a quiet and dignified man who had the respect and admiration of his peers. Even Ty Cobb called him the smartest pitcher he ever faced. A member of the Ojibwa tribe, Bender took the racial insults in stride and was known to respond to the ignorant hecklers by calling them "Foreigners! Foreigners!" His "Green Background" profile portrait as this pose is called conveys his subdued nature but is severely lacking an accurate skin tone. The offered E102 presents very nicely for the grade. A grade explained by one short wrinkle and what looks like a stock imperfection running horizontally in the bottom portion of the card.
1910 E102 "Set Of 25" Nap Lajoie PSA EX 5. Graded EX 5 by PSA, one of a quartet at this grade level with only one graded higher. Napoleon Lajoie was a turn-of-the-century hero renowned for being among the finest ballplayers both on and off the field of the era. Lajoie's talents were at the top of the sport, until a youngster named Ty Cobb blossomed into a superstar in 1907. The offered E102 Caramel of Lajoie is one of the best poses of the early candy releases. The front is problem free with no creases and bold colors and three sharper corners, the forth has a slight bit of bluntness. The back is fully intact and shows some minor spots of tobacco juice. A solid example for the grade.
1910 E102 "Set Of 25" Honus Wagner, Fielding PSA PR-FR 1. Graded PR-FR 1 by PSA, one of only six total examples graded to date. There is no need to say anything about the greatness of the subject-Honus Wagner. What makes this card special is the immense rarity few realize it has. E102 fans are all too aware of this card as it is missing from the vast majority of sets. This plus the three other rare second variations are so seldom seen even the ACC authors deemed this production a "Set of 25" and not the accurate 29 number. The Wagner "Fielding" pose is tougher in every "E" set in which it appears but for this edition, it is a notable rarity and sought after by most who pursue this captivating series. Creases mar what is otherwise a solid VG level collectible.
1910 E102 "Set of 25" Crawford, Chase and Bescher PSA-Graded Trio (3). each of the offered trio of E102s is an attractive card for the grade. From a series that seems to feed the passion of the "E" collector, we offer: Bob Bescher (PSA VG-EX 4, lt. corner wear), Hal Chase (PSA EX 5, sl. corner wear) and Sam Crawford (PSA VG-EX 4, sl. wrinkle). All three boast strong coloring and none displays any surface loss.
1910 E104-1 Nadja Caramels Eddie Plank SGC 40 VG 3. The T206 Eddie Plank is frequently compared to the famed Honus Wagner of the same issue due to its rarity and monetary value which makes obtaining even a battered example well out of the financial reach of most. As is the case with the T206 Wagner, there is a sugar based alternative. The undisputed key to the 18-card E104-1 Nadja Caramels series which showcases players from the Philadelphia Athletics of 1910 is their lefty ace hurler, and future Hall of Famer, Eddie Plank. This Plank portrait is derived from the same Carl Horner image used for the T206 version and almost with a sense of mockery utilizes an all too familiar blue background. Graded SGC 40 VG 3, this copy has but one example grading higher. This example has a slightly angular cut, some rounding of the corners and one light crease. The blank reverse shows the outline of an ancient water stain. How difficult is it going to be to pass on the opportunity to fill a "monster" sized gap in any Plank-less T206 collection with this relatively affordable solution. Attractive Very Good condition.
1910 Orange Borders Baseball SGC-Graded Quartet (4). Every card has been encapsulated by SGC. Offered is scarce group of four Orange Border baseball cards from 1910. This set remains a mystery as to its origin but fully appears to have been panels from boxes of an as-yet unidentified candy, much like a few other sets of the era. Includes: SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, N.L. Champions, 1909; SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card, A.L. Champions, 1909; SGC 10 PR 1: 2 cards w/Carrigan and Crawford.
1910-11 M116 Sporting Life High End SGC-Graded Group of (20). In regards to subjects selection, this series easily rivaled the massive tobacco editions of the same era. The source of the player portraits was the work of renowned photographer Carl Horner. This is a very clean and fresh looking group and an ideal first step toward putting together a high grade complete set. Every card has been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, Hoblitzel; SGC 84 NM 7: 8 cards w/Barry, Downey, Gessler, Merkle, B. Sullivan, Summers/Black Back, B. Sweeney and Rube Waddell/Black Back; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 10 cards w/Home Run Baker/Black Back, Bell, Byrne, Delehanty, Gessler, Lush, McQuillian/Pastel, Philadelphia, Purtell, Street and Thomas/Blue; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, Clark Griffith. The SMR value of this lot well exceeds $3,500.00.
1911 T5 Pinkerton Cabinets Honus Wagner #853 SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, this the only numerically graded example to date. This magnificent piece is destined to be the grand prize for even the most advanced vintage hobbyist or Pinkerton specialist. Pinkerton cabinets are among the most attractive, most highly sought after and difficult to find of the 20th Century "T" class issues. When found, most examples have been remounted to non-original paper or cardboard. This glorious example is all original thus the numerical anointing by the conservative and critical eyes of SGC. The full sized (3-1/2" x 5-3/4") photo shows slight wrinkling at the top area where the fragile paper is mounted to the sturdy 4-3/4" x 7-3/4" mount. One surface "nik" in the photo and two surface chips (one at top and one at bottom) of the mount only affecting the reverse are the only other condition factors of note. For pure aesthetics, this item could be described as being at the excellent to mint level. One can only speculate if Honus was aware his image, in this instance, a "fielding" pose (his other entry in this series is a batting depiction) was used for a tobacco related promotion. The one saving grace could have been that instead of just buying a single pack of cigarettes, Pinkerton cabinets had to be redeemed for a quantity of coupons found in Pinkerton products. It was this exchange program which also explains the undeniable rarity of this series in today's marketplace. Although Wagner's T206 is and will always be the "crowning edition" of the Wagner library, this stunning treasure is in fact many, many times more scarce and another example of this quality may not exist.
1911 T201 Mecca Double Folders SGC-Graded Partial Set (26/50). Every card has been graded by SGC.
Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, Hickman/Hinchman; SGC 84 NM 7: 3 cards w/Barrett/McGlynn, Lake/Wallace and Wheat/Bergen; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 4 cards w/ Foster/Ward, Laporte/Stephens, Mathewson/Bridwell and Woodruff/Williams; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 1 card, Titus/Dooin; SGC 60 EX 5: 5 cards w/Crawford/Cobb, Downs/Odwell, Mattern/Graham, Rucker/Daubert and Seymour/Dygert; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 7 cards w/Bender/Oldring, Hartzell/Blair, Killian/Fitzpatrick, Leach/Gibson, Leifield/Simon, McCabe/Starr and Wiltse/Merkle; SGC 40 VG 3: 2 cards w/Chase/Sweeney and Lush/Hauser; SGC 30 GOOD 2: 2 cards w/Cicotte/Thoney and Ford/Johnson; SGC 20 FAIR 1.5: 1 card, Donovan/Stroud. SMR value exceeds $8,000.
Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, Hickman/Hinchman; SGC 84 NM 7: 3 cards w/Barrett/McGlynn, Lake/Wallace and Wheat/Bergen; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 4 cards w/ Foster/Ward, Laporte/Stephens, Mathewson/Bridwell and Woodruff/Williams; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 1 card, Titus/Dooin; SGC 60 EX 5: 5 cards w/Crawford/Cobb, Downs/Odwell, Mattern/Graham, Rucker/Daubert and Seymour/Dygert; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 7 cards w/Bender/Oldring, Hartzell/Blair, Killian/Fitzpatrick, Leach/Gibson, Leifield/Simon, McCabe/Starr and Wiltse/Merkle; SGC 40 VG 3: 2 cards w/Chase/Sweeney and Lush/Hauser; SGC 30 GOOD 2: 2 cards w/Cicotte/Thoney and Ford/Johnson; SGC 20 FAIR 1.5: 1 card, Donovan/Stroud. SMR value exceeds $8,000.
1911 T205 Gold Border Bill Carrigan PSA NM-MT 8 - Single Highest Graded Example! Bill Carrigan was a catcher for 10 years in the major leagues and also managed for 7 seasons, all with the Boston Red Sox. He was on the pennant-winning 1912 Red Sox team and was player-manager of the 1915 and 1916 teams that won the World Series.
To lend a little perspective on the difficulty of receiving a NM-MT 8 grade for a T205 card; let's take a look at the combined PSA and SGC populations for the issue. Of a combined 37,630 cards submitted, only 195 have achieved such a lofty status with a mere 9 meriting a higher mark. In other words, one in nearly every two hundred cards submitted! Of a combined 182 Carrigan cards submitted to PSA and SGC, this is the lone NM-MT 8 example with none graded higher.
To lend a little perspective on the difficulty of receiving a NM-MT 8 grade for a T205 card; let's take a look at the combined PSA and SGC populations for the issue. Of a combined 37,630 cards submitted, only 195 have achieved such a lofty status with a mere 9 meriting a higher mark. In other words, one in nearly every two hundred cards submitted! Of a combined 182 Carrigan cards submitted to PSA and SGC, this is the lone NM-MT 8 example with none graded higher.
1911 T205 Gold Border Ray Fisher PSA NM-MT 8 - Single Highest Graded Example! Ray Fisher pitched ten years in the major leagues with an ERA of 2.82. He was with two teams, the New York Highlanders and the Cincinnati Reds, and appeared in the 1919 World Series. He was banned from baseball by Commissioner Kenesaw Mountain Landis, after refusing a pay cut and quitting to coach baseball at the University of Michigan. In 1980, Commissioner Bowie Kuhn reinstated him back into baseball.
To lend a little perspective on the difficulty of receiving a NM-MT 8 grade for a T205 card; let's take a look at the combined PSA and SGC populations for the issue. Of a combined 37,630 cards submitted, only 195 have achieved such a lofty status with a mere 9 meriting a higher mark. In other words, one in nearly every two hundred cards submitted! Of a combined 110 Fisher cards submitted to PSA and SGC, this is the lone NM-MT 8 example with none graded higher.
To lend a little perspective on the difficulty of receiving a NM-MT 8 grade for a T205 card; let's take a look at the combined PSA and SGC populations for the issue. Of a combined 37,630 cards submitted, only 195 have achieved such a lofty status with a mere 9 meriting a higher mark. In other words, one in nearly every two hundred cards submitted! Of a combined 110 Fisher cards submitted to PSA and SGC, this is the lone NM-MT 8 example with none graded higher.
1911 T205 Gold Border Charlie Hemphill PSA NM-MT 8, Highest Graded Known. Charlie Hemphill played center field and right field during eleven seasons in the big leagues. He started in 1899 with the St. Louis Perfectos, where he was tried in center field. Hemphill was assigned after only 11 games to the Cleveland Spiders, where he got more playing time on one of the worst teams ever. He came back to the majors as a regular with the 1901 Boston Americans in the inaugural year of the new American League.
To lend a little perspective on the difficulty of receiving a NM-MT 8 grade for a T205 card; let's take a look at the combined PSA and SGC populations for the issue. Of a combined 37,630 cards submitted, only 195 have achieved such a lofty status with a mere 9 meriting a higher mark. In other words, one in nearly every two hundred cards submitted! Of a combined 167 Hemphill cards submitted to PSA and SGC, this is the lone NM-MT 8 example with none graded higher.
To lend a little perspective on the difficulty of receiving a NM-MT 8 grade for a T205 card; let's take a look at the combined PSA and SGC populations for the issue. Of a combined 37,630 cards submitted, only 195 have achieved such a lofty status with a mere 9 meriting a higher mark. In other words, one in nearly every two hundred cards submitted! Of a combined 167 Hemphill cards submitted to PSA and SGC, this is the lone NM-MT 8 example with none graded higher.
1911 T205 Gold Border Tom Jones PSA NM-MT 8 - Single Highest Graded Example! Tom Jones was traded by the St. Louis Browns to the Detroit Tigers for Claude Rossman on August 20, 1909 and helped secure the American League pennant for the Tigers by manning first base for the balance of the season.
To lend a little perspective on the difficulty of receiving a NM-MT 8 grade for a T205 card; let's take a look at the combined PSA and SGC populations for the issue. Of a combined 37,630 cards submitted, only 195 have achieved such a lofty status with a mere 9 meriting a higher mark. In other words, one in nearly every two hundred cards submitted! Of a combined 170 Jones cards submitted to PSA and SGC, this is the lone NM-MT 8 example with none graded higher.
To lend a little perspective on the difficulty of receiving a NM-MT 8 grade for a T205 card; let's take a look at the combined PSA and SGC populations for the issue. Of a combined 37,630 cards submitted, only 195 have achieved such a lofty status with a mere 9 meriting a higher mark. In other words, one in nearly every two hundred cards submitted! Of a combined 170 Jones cards submitted to PSA and SGC, this is the lone NM-MT 8 example with none graded higher.
1911 T205 Gold Border Jack Knight PSA NM-MT 8 - Pop 2 With None Higher! John Knight played in the majors for eight years with numerous games at each infield spot. A modest hitter most years, he had a career year in 1910 when he hit .312 and came close to leading his team in slugging. To lend a little perspective on the difficulty of receiving a NM-MT 8 grade for a T205 card, let's review the combined PSA and SGC populations for the issue. Of a combined 37,630 cards submitted, only 195 have achieved such a lofty status with a mere 9 meriting a higher mark. In other words, one in nearly every two hundred cards submitted! Of a combined 214 Knight cards submitted to PSA and SGC, this is 1 of only 2 to receive a NM-MT 8 grade with none higher.
1911 T205 Gold Border A.A. Mattern PSA NM-MT 8 - Pop 2 With None Higher! Alonzo Albert Mattern pitched for the Boston Braves for five seasons, winning a career-high 16 games in 1910. He appeared in a league-high 51 games during that season and also led the circuit in shutouts with six. To lend a little perspective on the difficulty of receiving a NM-MT 8 grade for a T205 card, let's review the combined PSA and SGC populations for the issue. Of a combined 37,630 cards submitted, only 195 have achieved such a lofty status with a mere 9 meriting a higher mark. In other words, one in nearly every two hundred cards submitted! Of a combined 190 Mattern cards submitted to PSA and SGC, this is 1 of only 2 to receive a NM-MT 8 grade with none higher.
1911 T205 Gold Border Matty McIntyre PSA NM-MT 8 - Pop 3 With None Higher! Matty McIntyre earned a starting spot in the Detroit Tigers outfield in spring training of 1904 and would be a fixture for the team for several years, mostly playing left field with Ty Cobb and Sam Crawford as the other outfielders. He was a very good fielder, a fast baserunner and an excellent bunter, reminding many observers of the great Willie Keeler. To lend a little perspective on the difficulty of receiving a NM-MT 8 grade for a T205 card, let's review the combined PSA and SGC populations for the issue. Of a combined 37,630 cards submitted, only 195 have achieved such a lofty status with a mere 9 meriting a higher mark. In other words, one in nearly every two hundred cards submitted! Of a combined 143 McIntyre cards submitted to PSA and SGC, this is 1 of only 3 to receive a NM-MT 8 grade with none higher.
1912 T202 Hassan Triple Folder Jennings/McGraw "Just Before the Battle" #84 SGC 84 NM 7. This card features a pair of Hall of Fame members in John McGraw and Hughie Jennings. An extremely well preserved card for its nearly 100 years of existence. Exhibits sharp corners, bold colors and nearly even centering. Of the 36 examples submitted to SGC, this is 1 of only 3 grading 84 NM 7 with none higher.
1912 T207 Brown Background Irving Lewis, With Emblem SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, one of four at this, the second highest grade level recorded of a total population of only ten graded to date. The uninformed would never guess this unassuming 97-year old Lewis card is one of the most famous cards in the hobby. The T207 Irving Lewis is as scarce as they come and is missing from most T207 "complete" accumulations, much like the T206 "Big Four." It is also a variation, this copy clearly showing the Boston Braves politically incorrect Indian head logo on Irving's right sleeve. The front and back are free of blemishes and scuffing, coloring is deep and rich, corner wear is the only physical element to account for the grade. Be it amazing or amazingly ironic, one of the preeminent cards of our hobby features a player who never appeared in a major league game.
1913 T200 Fatima Philadelphia Americans Premium Photo. Well documented are the small T200 Fatima team inserts which are so highly prized by modern day hobbyists. Under the "Fatima" brand, Liggett & Myers also sponsored a coupon redemption program for a selection of items including these beautiful larger sized (13" x 21") prints of the then current 16 American and National League teams. The 40 coupons necessary was quite a sum in those days and would require the smoking of several hundred cigarettes. Today, these prints are extremely rare and desirable in any condition. Offered is a premium photo of the "Philadelphia Americans" team featuring Ira Thomas, Jack Barry, Eddie Collins, Frank Baker, Connie Mack, Eddie Plank and Chief Bender. The fragile print shows some waviness in the paper and measures 18-7/8" x 11-1/8." Thin white border shows on the left, right and bottom edges confirming the image is full width and any reduction was done to the empty top border. There is some light creasing, and obvious missing areas in the right/left borders as well as overall toning from age. There are no repairs and the photo is mounted to the original paper as issued which was then in turn mounted to a piece of thicker cardboard to an overall size of 19" x 12." The photo itself is still impressive as it shows good contrast and marvelous detail. We would call the overall visual presentation very good plus. A rare treasure not to be idly passed by.
1913 WG6 Tom Barker Baseball SGC-Graded High Grade Complete Set (52) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry. Set GPA: 88.0; Set Ranking: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. An amazing high grade assembly with almost the entire set in 84 NM 7 or better condition. Almost two-thirds (63%) of the set grades 88 NM/MT 8 or better including 13 SGC 96 Mint 9s with Joe Jackson! Many subjects either match or stand alone as the highest graded example recorded to date by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 MINT 9: 13 cards, w/Joe Birmingham, Jake Daubert, Vean Gregg, Clark Griffith, Joe Jackson, Ed Konetchy, Christy Mathewson, John McGraw, Nap Rucker, Joe Tinker, Ivy Wingo, Cy Young and Sliding Into Home/Umpire at Right; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 4 cards, w/Sam Crawford, Bill Sweeney, Ed Walsh and Runner Sliding/Umpire Behind (Cobb); SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 16 cards, w/Chief Bender, Bob Bescher, Frank Chance, Fred Clarke, Ty Cobb,Red Dooin, Nap Lajoie, Connie Mack, Rube Marquard, Chief Meyers, Marty O'Toole, Tris Speaker, Batter Swinging/Looking Back, Play At Home, Runner Sliding/Fielder At Bag and Runner Sliding/Hugging Base; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 6 cards, w/Frank Baker, Dick Hoblitzel, Walter Johnson, George Stallings, Honus Wagner and Runner Looking Back; SGC 84 NM 7: 10 cards, w/Grover Alexander, Roger Bresnahan, Nixey Callahan, Bill Carrigan, Hal Chase, Miller Huggins, Clyde Milan, Zach Wheat, Joe Wood and Sliding Into Home; SGC 80 EX/NM 6:1 card, Johnny Evers; SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards, w/ Hughie Jennings and Batter Swinging.
1914 WG4 "Polo Grounds" Baseball Game Complete Set (54) Packaged and sold under the name All Star Card Base Ball this series picked up the name Polo Grounds due to the stadium scene depicted on the back of each card. This full 54-card deck of WG4s includes a complete set of 30 baseball players plus 24 additional cards. Highlights include: Baker (EX), Chance (EX), Cobb (2: EX, VG/EX), Collins (3: EX, 2 VG/EX), Jackson (VG/EX), Jennings (VG/EX), Lajoie (EX), Maranville (EX), Marquard (3: EX, VG/EX, VG), Mathewson (3: EX/MT, 2 EX), McGraw (EX), Plank (2: EX/MT, EX), Speaker (2: EX, VG/EX), Wagner (4: 2 VG/EX, 2 VG), Walsh (2: both EX), and Wood (2: both EX). Grades 50% EX with a couple nicer, 50% VG to VG/EX with a few lesser.
1916 M101-4 Sporting News Babe Ruth #151 SGC 20 Fair 1.5. This card represents a perfect commingling of two important pieces of Americana, in The Sporting News and Babe Ruth, which have withstood the test of time and remain relevant to our nation's landscape even today. While it may be argued that the M101-5 predates the M101-4, it does now appear that both were issued in 1916. Given that both versions utilize the same image and card number, it is safe to call each Ruth's first Major League card. In recent years, the card has become acknowledged as one of the most recognizable and highly sought baseball card rarities. Ruth, at age 20, appeared in 32 games for the Sox in 1915 and finished the season at 19-8; numbers making him worthy of inclusion in the 200-card issue of 1916. The Sporting News advertisement on reverse merits special mention, as this card was issued with a blank back or various other regional advertisements as well. The Sporting News was its most prominent sponsor and remains the most familiar. The Fair 1.5 assessment is due in large part to the heavy creasing at the top and center of the card, which is only noticeable upon closer inspection thanks to its black-and-white color. In fairness, a considerable amount of corner wear is also present. Overall the card presents rather nicely, and is sure to be a cornerstone of one lucky new owner's elite collection.
1916 Tango Eggs Hughie Jennings SGC 88 NM/MT 8. The Hall of Fame manager strikes his signature pose as he appears to celebrate the simply remarkable condition in which this rare specimen finds itself. In fact, in SGC history, only two representations have ever graded higher. This tremendously scarce twenty-card set was born in New Orleans in 1916, but only rediscovered fifteen years ago in a single supply of several hundred. With another "find" highly unlikely, one can expect offering such as this to be few and far between. Ee-yah!
1919 T213 Coupon Cigarettes-Type 3 Tris Speaker SGC 84 NM 7. Graded 84 NM 7 by SGC, by far the highest graded example of a total population of only three. None have been graded higher by PSA. This scarce issue features the same illustrations used in the T206 tobacco series but is easily identified by the distinct blue typography and the Coupon Cigarette advertising on the back. Distribution was limited to Louisiana, making it a particularly difficult series to collect. This crisp example features Hall of Fame outfielder Tris Speaker with the Boston Red Sox. This the finest copy recorded by either PSA or SGC. The next highest SGC recorded example is a 40 VG 3.
1919 T213 Coupon Cigarettes-Type 3 SGC-Graded Group of (5). Offered is 5-card selection of SGC-Graded T213-3 Coupon Cigarettes baseball insert cards from 1919. The lot includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, Doyle/Batting; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 2 cards w/Chase/Portrait and Jordan; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, Wiltse; SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card, Donlin.
Circa 1920 Walter H. Johnson "Ball Game" 5-Cent Wrapper. Some years ago an extremely rare Yellow & Blue candy box advertising "Ball Game" for the Walter H. Johnson Candy Co. based out of Chicago, Ill. was discovered. The box boasted, "Put It Over for 5 Cents," "Makes A Hit With Every One" and "40 Bars." Offered is an equally rare Yellow & Blue, 8" x 5" paper wrapper with the same type of Baseball Graphics. This is the first wrapper of this variety we have ever seen. The concept of saving the wrapper was hardly popular in the 1920's. One can only speculate how few have survived making this singular fragile relic possibly unique. The paper is obviously wrinkled (but supple) and aside from some products stains and light rips into the top edge has no major condition problems like extended tears, holes or repairs to detract from its display qualities.
1921 E121 Amer. Caramel "Babe" Ruth, Pitching SGC 30 Good 2. We offer one of Babe Ruth's earlier baseball cards after his trade to the NY Yankees. So early, that the company did not even seek to use a likeness of him in a Yankee uniform. Additionally, this card as opposed to the other we have offered in the same auction is a variation and has the quotes around "Babe." This illustration captures The Babe as a pitcher for his previous team, the Boston Red Sox. Technical grade aside, the image at first glance is quite receptive. There is a lack of rounded corners, elevated overall wear or heavy creasing associated with this grade level. The card has a slight corner crease and two areas of reverse surface loss. An eye-catching copy and a terrific Ruth collectible.
1921 Exhibits Geo. Whitted PSA NM-MT+ 8.5 - The Highest Graded Exhibit from the 1920's. Graded NM/MT+ 8.5 by PSA, not only is this card the highest graded copy for this subject, out of the 750+ 1921 Baseball Exhibits graded to date it is the only card to receive this regal assessment. Of the thousands of Exhibit Baseball cards graded by PSA from every Exhibit production issued over the 18 year span from 1921 through 1938, this is one of only two cards to earn a NM-MT+ grade. We are talking two cards out of thousands. A condition rarity to say the very least.
1922 E121 American Caramel "Babe" Ruth, Holding Bird PSA VG-EX 4. Extremely difficult to find in high-grade, this American Caramel card from the E121 Series of 120 features the legendary New York Yankees Hall of Fame outfielder Babe Ruth. One of several Ruth variations in the series, this one has "Babe" in quote marks and pictures him holding a bird while standing next to an unidentified individual during what appears to be some type of pregame ceremony. This represents a fantastic opportunity to add this gem to one's early candy card collection.
1922 E121 American Caramel Near Set (123/124) - #1 on the PSA Set Registry! Set GPA: 2.70; Set Rank: #1 on the PSA Set Registry. From every era there are a few sets which define the times. The 1922 E121 American Caramel-Series of 120 edition is one of those defining productions. The series offers over 30 Hall of Famers, including one member of the Football HoF. Baseball legends like Ruth (2), Cobb (2), Johnson, Hornsby (2), Collins, Alexander, Speaker, Sisler plus so many other stars and superstars, some making multiple appearances are present. The set is also home for some of the rarest variations of the vintage era. This presentation includes 123 of the 124 registered cards. Missing is only a "Babe" Ruth/Montage for completion of the PSA composition. Only the most passionate hobbyist attempts to try to come close to accumulating anything close to a near set as it is one of the more challenging "E" sets of the 20th Century to complete. As it pertains to the registry, this presentation is 99.1% complete and offers some of the highest graded examples known. Over a dozen names are the highest grade known with none higher, most are pop 1 status. Pop reports and registry status aside, the significance of this offering is the completeness. Most collectors abandon this issue when the realization that acquiring the final 25% of the set is going to be nothing short of excruciating. A set this intact has never been offered publicly before. As far as we have been able to confirm, the next most complete "set" at auction was 86 different cards. Certainly an accomplishment, but barely over the two-thirds mark. Includes: Graded - PSA EX-MT 6: 1 card, Toporcer/Topocer; PSA EX 5: 1 card, Maranville; PSA VG-EX 4.5: 1 card, Wingo; PSA VG-EX 4: 21 cards, w/Bancroft, Hoyt, Huggins, Wheat and R. Youngs; PSA VG+ 3.5: 2 cards, Faber; PSA VG 3: 55 cards, w/Alexander, Carey, Collins, Hooper, Hornsby/2B, McGraw, Rixey and Roush; PSA GD+ 2.5: 4 cards, w/ Cobb/Throwing, Hornsby/O.F. and Johnson; PSA GD 2: 21 cards, w/ Cobb/Batting and Schalk/Catching; PSA FR+ 1.5: 2 cards, w/ Speaker/Small Projection; PSA PR 1: 14 cards, w/ Frisch, Heilmann/Batting, "Babe" Ruth/Holding Ball, "Babe" Ruth/Holding Bird, Schalk/Batting and Sisler/Batting; PSA Authentic: 1 card. There are two additional confirmed variations known. For the most critical, this presentation is a 123 of 126 card near set and still an attention grabbing 97.6% complete. Please see our web site for a complete list of the contents of this near set.
1923 W515-1 Baseball Uncut Strip (10) With Babe Ruth! Not commonly found in this configuration, we offer this 10-card uncut strip of W515-1 baseball cards featuring four Hall of Famers including Babe Ruth. Overall, the strip presents at the excellent level with no creases or stains. The strip includes: #'s 41 Johnston, 42 Kamm, 43 Jones, 44 Snyder, 45 John McGraw, 46 Scott, 47 Babe Ruth, 48 Shocker, 49 Grover Alexander and 50 Rabbit Maranville. The outer cards are VG due to corner rounding. The inner cards are all essentially Near Mint to Mint condition.
1926 Holland Creameries Oscar Bluege #7 SGC 30 GD 2. Graded 30 Good 2 by SGC, the only example graded to date by both SGC and PSA! From the famously rare Holland Creameries "Worlds Champions" series of 1926 comes this possibly unique #7 Oscar Bluege. A series of very faint spider creases accounts for the technical grade but do nothing to lessen its near excellent level appearance.
1926 Holland Creameries Paul Zahniser #9 SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, one of two total examples graded to date by either SGC or PSA! The second of three offerings from the famously rare Holland Creameries "Worlds Champions" series currently dated 1926. Card #9 is Washington Senators pitcher Paul Zahniser. During his brief six-year career, he spent two years with the Senators--1923 and 1924, their world championship season. In 1925 & 1926 Zahniser pitched for the Boston Red Sox. With a "World's Champions" tagline and Zahniser pictured with Washington it makes sense this issue is actually a 1925 or even a late-1924 release. Soiling which affects the top portion of the card front and back (more so on the back) with no surface loss or creases explains the technical end with strong visual appeal.
1926 Holland Creameries "World's Champions" Joe Judge #15 SGC 30 Good 2. Graded 30 GD 2 by SGC, the only example graded to date by either SGC or PSA! Rounding out our offerings from the extremely rare Holland Creameries "Worlds Champions" series of 1926 is card #15 Joe Judge, the Washington Senators 1st Baseman. Judge maintained a respectable .298 lifetime batting average over his 20-year career, 18 playing with the Senators, and is one of those overlooked talents. The offered card has a series of faint creases but maintains a higher level of aesthetic appeal.
1927 Exhibits Geo. H. Babe Ruth PSA Good 2. Graded Good 2 by PSA. The Great Bambino makes for an impressive display here for his entry in the 1927 Exhibit Baseball series from the legendary 1927 season. An eye-catching "Good" the technical grade reflects glue residue which affects the uppermost portion of the reverse along the top border. A classic Ruth collectible and one of the better cardboard collectibles issued during that revered season.
1927 Honey Boy Ice Cream "Steamer" Maxwell #1 SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, one of four total examples graded to date. The lone hockey subject from the rare "Honey Boy Ice Cream" set. Fred "Steamer" Maxwell was a defenseman who seemed to love the purity of his sport. The Winnipeg native is one of a rare few who can claim that despite having the opportunity to turn professional, he retained a lifetime amateur status. While playing for the Winnipeg Monarchs he led the team to the 1915 Allen Cup and won a gold medal in the 1920 Summer Olympics. One of the finest players of his time, Maxwell turned down offers by professional teams opting to remain an amateur. This is his only appearance on any type of trading card. The offered rarity has a slight reverse wrinkle and the obvious stain in the lower left corner. A couple other stains on the reverse account for technical grade but fail to hinder visual appeal. Within this auction are 20 of the 21 cards from this set.
1927 Honey Boy Ice Cream Tris Speaker #10 SGC 60 EX 5 - Highest Grade Known! Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, this is the finest graded copy of only a handful submitted to date. Part of an obscure Canadian issue, this rarity features Hall of Fame outfielder Tris Speaker. Speaker was one of the greatest outfielders to ever play the game. These black-and-white, 1-5/8" x 2-3/8" cards issued by Purity Ice Cream Co. in Winnipeg, Canada could be redeemed and if done so were hole-punched or "canceled" in exchange for a brick of Honey Boy ice cream. The offered card has three quality corners plus one with a bit of bluntness; There are no creases, wrinkles or surface loss. The nicely centered portrait of "The Grey Eagle" is unique to this issue. A fantastic type card for this series.
1927 Honey Boy Ice Cream Babe Ruth #14 SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4, one of only four total examples graded to date. The immense popularity of Babe Ruth reached well past the Canadian border. This wholly obscure 21-card series of course had to have a card of the larger-than-life home run star. Assumed to have been issued the year of of his record-breaking sixty home run, World Championship campaign of 1927, this card was unquestionably the most coveted of the Honey Boy subjects at the time of issue. The rugged profile is of a young Babe, still with the Boston Red Sox but this would have mattered not to the young Ice Cream fan who relished the chance to own a portrait of his baseball hero. The card itself has survived the test of time quite well. Without the largely unobtrusive opposite corner stains, this rare Ruth collectible would appear at home with an EX/MT label and few would argue. Any Honey Boy makes for an impressive addition to any vintage collection. To add the "Babe" is an opportunity not to be missed.
1927 Honey Boy Ice Cream Grover Alexander #18 SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, the highest graded example of only a pair graded to date. The 1927 Honey Boy Ice Cream set of 21 cards was redeemable for a brick of "Delicious Honey Boy Ice Cream," resulting in a painfully severe lack of availability to modern hobbyists. Thankfully, this card featuring Hall of Fame pitcher Grover Cleveland Alexander survived being disposed of or canceled in some horrific manner. This 2nd known copy has nice corner quality, spot stains on the right edge and centering as seen. Condition issues aside, this series is on the want list of most advanced vintage collectors. Any opportunity to acquire one should not be missed.
1927 Honey Boy Ice Cream Near Set (16/21). Each card has been graded by SGC. Every subject has a total population of six or fewer, most pop totals are four or less. A true "attic find" this fresh-to-the-hobby presentation has been the property of one family since the 1920's. Found among the personal belongings in the proverbial "trunk in the attic" the cards have remained in rather nice condition for the last 82 years. This rare series is on the want list of almost every advanced collector. Their rarity is likely explained by the offer of a free "brick" of ice cream which could be exchanged for a complete set of 21-cards. Particularly interesting is that the cards were only "redeemable at our plant" suggesting the circulation of these 1-9/16" x 2-3/8" thin card stock collectibles was limited to one local town. As was the practice with these promotions which could be exchanged for a valuable prize, one card was pulled from circulation. In light of what we know from other sets, George Sisler (card #11) is missing here from an original holding plus the pop report shows only one submitted Sisler. We believe that much like the important "pulled" cards, Sisler is the extremely rare control card for Honey Boy. The overall rarity of the set camouflaged any additional level of rarity of a single subject. In addition to this 16-card partial set we offer four additional single card lots of stars "Steamer" Maxwell (his only card appearance), Tris Speaker, Grover Alexander and Babe Ruth. Includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards w/#s 5 Siddle and 6 Cass; SGC 40 VG 3: 8 cards w/#s 2 Browne, 3 C. McVey, 4 Perlman, 7 Bradley, 13 Roush, 15 Heilmann, 16 Groh and 19 Bancroft; SGC 30 GD 2: 4 cards w/#s 8 Caslake, 12 Meusel, 17 Eddie Collins and 20 Frank Frisch; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 2 cards w/#s 9 W. McVey and 21 Burns.
1928 Harrington's Ice Cream Baseball Partial Set (31/60). In the late-1920's the fashionable card format of the day was a 1-3/8" x 2-1/2" thin card with a gritty one-color image. These sets were light on design but abundant with the greatest names of the era. A number of food related sets were produced in this manner by candy, ice cream, and some anonymous sources. The ice cream sets offered to exchange a set of cards for a sizeable quantity of ice cream. With Harrington's, youngsters could exchange a Ruth card for an ice cream novelty or a complete set of 60 cards for one gallon of ice cream. Naturally, the company didn't want to give away too many gallons of product. As with other exchange offers, a control card was held back. We are offering elsewhere in this auction what we believe is the card that served that purpose, #48 Earl Smith. Consigned to us from the original owner, this offering is the largest supply of Harrington's Ice Cream cards (to the best of our research) ever presented at public auction. Also offered elsewhere are the "key" Ruth and Cobb cards from this elusive set. Every card has been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #46 Terry; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 5 cards w/#'s 11 Uhle, 17 Mays, 29 Lazzeri, 40 Kamm and 55 Rommel; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 cards w/#'s 20 Kelly and 54 Sisler; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, #3 Dugan; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 7 cards w/#'s 4 Faber, 31 Smith, 37 Sheely, 42 McGraw, 49 Goslin, 51 Harris and 60 McInnis; SGC 40 VG 3: 6 cards w/#'s 7 Meusel, 32 Carey, 45 P. Waner, 50 Frisch, 57 Coveleskie and 58 Bell; SGC 30 GD 2: 7 cards w/#'s 1 Grimes, 14 Traynor, 15 Mitchell, 30 Hoyt, 34 Gonzalez, 44 Alexander and 59 L. Waner; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 1 card, #19 Bancroft; SGC 10 PR 1: #23 Schalk.
1928 Harrington Ice Cream Babe Ruth #6 SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, one of a pair at this grade with a trio graded higher. By 1928, Ruth was well established as the home run king and long past his days as a pitching star. Yet, here Ruth is depicted throwing warm up in his unmistakable Red Sox uniform. This scarce Ruth collectible has all the qualities of an excellent card with one surface impression that may actually be an imperfection in the stock. The surfaces are very bright and fresh. The coarse print quality of the the young Mr. Ruth and rough factory cut gives the card a fantastic degree of nostalgic appeal. A fine addition to any Ruth collection.
1928 Harrington Ice Cream Ty Cobb #27 SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, one of a trio for the grade with only one known higher. Offered is one of Ty Cobbs' toughest late-1920's food related card collectibles. The steely eyed concentration of the great "Georgia Peach" is evident despite the raspy quality of his full-figure batting portrayal. Fresh to the hobby, this impressive copy has problem free surfaces, typical excellent level corners and nicely centered graphics. The bold reverse is problem free with fully legible ad copy. A scarce opportunity to acquire one of the last issued cards of Ty Cobb before his retirement from baseball.
Extremely rare 1928 Harrington's Ice Cream Earl Smith-Green Print #48 SGC 30 GD 2 - Only Two Known! The practice of inserting a thin cardboard insert cards as an inducement to purchase tobacco or a food item is a tradition that goes back over 125 years. Little did wide-eyed innocent youngsters spending his/her pennies and nickels know the joke was on them. To enhance sales, the practice of not printing a particular card or severely limiting the public distribution of a single card when an exchange program where complete sets of cards were redeemed for a valuable prize were instituted. The existence of these rarities is the lore of legend and some of the most valuable and treasured cards in the hobby. At the top of this list are the Butter Cream Babe Ruth, 1932 US Caramels Fred Lindstrom, V117 Maple Crispette Casey Stengel and Ivy Andrews from the R300 George Miller series. When a set was returned along with a prize to a consumer, the cards were canceled in some distinctive manner. The act of stamping, hole punching and even cutting cards in half was employed. Harrington's Ice Cream cards are small Black-and-White cards which appeared in 1928 and are quite scarce today. The backs advertise a complete set can be redeemed for a gallon of ice cream. Card #48 Earl Smith has only been found in a distinct Green color ink. The size, stock and print quality all match traditional cards except for the hue. We do not believe this is some odd coincidence. To date, over 240 total Harrington's have been submitted to SGC and PSA. PSA has never graded card #48 and this is one of only two graded by SGC. This is the finer copy of the pair. Both employ this green ink format. We maintain this card was the "control card" and the green ink versions we see today are the "canceled" version. This necessity was designed to halt the practice of some enterprising adolescent from turning over the same set more than once. This is no printing glitch which made a letter look like another or where a letter fragment disappeared. We believe Harrington's dealers were supplied this green variation to trade out the black-and-white version, which were then eventually destroyed in some manner. This card and the other Harrington's in this auction are all from the same source. To the skeptic, we remind them that even after all of this time new discoveries are being made. At times, it is one card like the R306 Ruth, other times it is an entire series like the 1920 Peggy Popcorn find. The '33 Goudey Lajoie and R328 Lindstrom have a marquee status all their own in part because they originate from widely distributed and/or immensely popular series. This card originates from a scarce edition and is so incredibly rare its existence could hardly be hyped. The facts are this card is many times more rare then the '33 Lajoie, twice as rare as the Lindstrom and equally as rare as the R306 Babe Ruth. What other card can make that heady claim?
1929 Exhibits "Star Picture Stamps" Babe Ruth/Dempsey/Chaplin SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC. This multi-subject exhibit holds great appeal to variety of different collectors. Certainly a "key" entry in the series, the impressive line up includes sports legends Jack Dempsey and Babe Ruth, Hollywood icons Tom Mix, Charlie Chaplin, Harold Lloyd, Douglas Fairbanks, and Al Jolson plus Aviation great Charles Lindbergh. The Babe is depicted in his "uniform" from the film "The Babe Comes Home" (1927). The reverse is designed for use as a postcard but has not been used as mail.
1929-30 R315 Anonymous Babe Ruth SGC 84 NM 7. Graded 84 NM 7 by SGC, one of the second-highest graded examples known with one higher. This set is a hobby mystery which may never be solved. The cards are found in different formats but never any implication as toward who sponsored them. This example is an impressive full-figure classic pose of the Babe probably watching one of his 714 career home runs land in the stands. Precisely centered graphics, two razor sharp corners, two corners with hints of wear and a complete lack of creases or wrinkles make for a truly high end 1920's era Ruth collectible.
1931 W517 Babe Ruth, Throwing #4 PSA VG-EX+ 4.5. The 54-card W517 set is an issue of 3" x 4" cards generally found in a sepia color, though other colors are known. Babe Ruth is featured on two of the cards. This one features Ruth dressed in the Yankees classic pinstripes and in a throwing motion. Nice looking oversized card.
1931 W517 Babe Ruth, Portrait #20 PSA VG-EX 4. The 54-card W517 set is an issue of 3" x 4" cards generally found in a sepia color, though other colors are known. Babe Ruth is featured on two of the cards. The most valuable card in this issue is presented here, a magnificent photographic portrait of the game's greatest figure assuring that ranking.
1931 W517 Lou Gehrig #35 PSA VG-EX 4. The 54-card W517 set is an issue of 3" x 4" cards generally found in a sepia color, though other colors are known. Babe Ruth is featured on two of the cards, with the lone Lou Gehrig card being nearly as desirable. The "Iron Horse" is featured in a great candid photographic portrait on this oversized card.
1931 W517 Baseball PSA-Graded Collection (12) With HoFers! Each card has been graded by PSA. Issued in strips of three cards, consumers have to have been pretty careful about separating cards in order to get a numerical grade by modern grading services. This a prime start toward a complete set. Graded - PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 1 card, #13; PSA EX 5: 2 cards, w/#'s 17 and 40 Simmons; PSA VG-EX+ 4.5: 1 card, #16 Frisch; PSA VG-EX 4: 3 cards, w/#'s 1 Combs, 11 Kelly and 25; PSA VG+ 3.5: 1 card, #33 O'Doul; PSA VG 3: 1 card, #23 Terry; PSA GD+ 2.5: 2 cards, w/#'s 12 T. Jackson and 26; PSA GD 2: 1 card, #41.
1932 US Caramel Rabbit Maranville #10 SGC 70 EX+ 5.5. Graded 70 EX+ 5.5 by SGC. The United States Caramel Co. was one of the final caramel companies to insert baseball cards with their products. Appearing in 1932, this edition is easily identified by the deep red backgrounds which surround the finely detailed portraits. This card #10 of the Boston Braves feisty infielder Rabbit Maranville has slight surface wear near the top on the reverse and light touches of wear to corner tips. An attractive card for the grade.
1933 Delong Baseball SGC-Graded Complete Set (24). The DeLong Co. of Boston was among the first to sell baseball cards with gum, issuing a set of 24 cards in 1933. The striking larger-than-life depictions have captivated generations of collectors, and this series commands a great amount of popularity to this day. Each card has been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #1; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 1 card, # 11; SGC 60 EX 5: 4 cards, w/#s 6 Cochrane, 12 Traynor, 14 Gomez and 20; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 7 cards, w/#s 2 Simmons, 4 Terry, 7 Gehrig, 8 Cuyler, 15, 23 Grove and 24 Goslin; SGC 40 VG 3: 6 cards, w/#s 3, 5 Gehringer, 10 O'Doul, 16, 17 and 19; SGC 30 GD 2: 4 cards, w/#s 9, 13 Maranville, 18 and 22 Klein; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 1 card, #21 Foxx.
1933-36 Zeenut PCL Joe DiMaggio, Throwing-Without Coupon SGC 30 Good 2. Years before he was known as "Joltin' Joe," married to Marilyn Monroe, hit in 56 straight games or that his name was spelled "DiMaggio," Joe terrorized the PCL with his fielding and batting prowess for the San Francisco Seals. It surprised no one that a major league club would recognize his vast talent. The New York Yankees took note immediately and as they say, "the rest is baseball history." At first, one sees an excellent looking card with terrific eye appeal. There are two areas of surface loss along the bottom on the reverse but not one wrinkle or crease to be found. Zeenut enthusiasts know that is a unique statement to make in regards to a Collins-McCarthy collectible. Condition aside, this is an extremely scarce and historically important card which chronicles one of baseballs best from the earliest years of his professional career.
1933-36 E137 Zeenut Lefty O'Doul, Black Sleeves-With Coupon SGC 30 Good 2. After his all-star career had come to an end, Lefty O'Doul went out west to manage for the San Francisco Seals of the Pacific Coast League. Thankfully, the Collins-McCarthy Co. chronicled the era giving collectors some of the rarest collectibles of major league players either before (such as Joe DiMaggio) and after, like O'Doul, their big league days had past. The offered "Black Sleeves" variety has but one small area of reverse surface loss along a short portion of the right edge and minor surface chipping near the bottom border to account for the grade which seems harsh when compared to the aesthetic appeal. To add desirability, the 1/2" coupon which are normally cut off and exchanged for prizes has remained attached bringing the card to its intended 3-1/2" height.
1933-36 E137 Zeenut Baseball Collection (7) - All With Coupons! Few may realize the Collins-McCarthy Co. was the "Topps" of the east coast. For a quarter-century card collecting followers of teams of the immensely popular Pacific Coast League had a card of a favorite local player paired with their favorite brand of candy treat-Zeenut. Zeenut cards, or "E137s." Almost from day one, cards came with coupons attached to the bottom portion to be redeemed for various premiums. This explains why most E137s have these coupons missing. This attractive selection of seven all have the prized coupon portion intact. Includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards, w/ Sheehan-Seals, and Ballou-Seals; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards, w/ Stoneham-Missions, Gibson-Seals and C. Beck-Missions; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, Rhyne-Seals, SGC 10 Poor 1: 1 card, Salkeld-Seals.
1933 Goudey Joe Cronin #109 PSA NM-MT 8. In 1933, at the age of 26, Cronin became player/manager of the Washington Senators. In his first year at the helm, he led the club to an American League pennant, losing in the World Series to the New York Giants. He also hit .309 that year, finished second in MVP voting, and was the starting shortstop in the inaugural All-Star Game.
Nearly perfect centering and brilliant coloring and registration highlight this high-grade gem. Of the 267 Cronin cards submitted to PSA, only one has graded higher.
Nearly perfect centering and brilliant coloring and registration highlight this high-grade gem. Of the 267 Cronin cards submitted to PSA, only one has graded higher.
1933 Goudey Rogers Hornsby #119 PSA NM-MT 8. A high-grade exemplar from the most popular baseball issue among the early gum series. This one features Rogers Hornsby, a 7-time NL Batting Average Leader. Hornsby hit a remarkable .424 in 1924. Four sharp corners, in addition to brilliant coloring and registration highlight this high-grade gem. Of the 385 Cronin cards submitted to PSA, only three have graded higher.
1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #144 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. By 1933, Babe Ruth was well-established as the game's all-time greatest, and he enjoyed worldwide fame. The Goudey Gum Company -- the first American manufacturer to issue baseball cards with each stick of gum -- took full advantage of this fact, opportunistically featuring Ruth on no less than four cards in its initial 240-piece effort. The '33 Goudey set is rightfully viewed as a consummate masterpiece, with gorgeous portraiture capturing many of the greatest names of the National Pastime's pre-World War II era. And certainly there were none greater than Babe Ruth, who strikes his classic, full-length batting pose here on what may be the set's most recognizable card. Brilliant color and flawless registration brings the Babe to life more than three-quarters of a century after this collectible's release, and the offered example's truly remarkable freedom from wear defies all logic. An aggregate census of nearly 1,000 pieces (precisely, 999 copies of the #144 Ruth card) has been validated by SGC and PSA; this is one of just three specimens that's achieved a NM/MT+ designation, with a minuscule five cards graded higher.
1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #149 SGC 50 VG/EX 4. The game's greatest star from the era's most popular set. Centering and corner wear are the only factors preventing this card from a higher mark. This is one of the three bust-posed images of Babe Ruth included in the 1933 Goudey set. Ruth may have been near the end of his illustrious career by 1933; but in typical Ruthian fashion, he managed a home run in the inaugural All-Star game held that year in Chicago.
1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #149 PSA VG+ 3.5. The first line of his card back biography summarizes the legendary ballplayer's greatness. "Home run king of the big leagues." As tribute to his sovereignty, Ruth's likeness was featured on four different 1933 Goudey cards. A respectable representation featuring nice centering and colors that still reverberate even after three-quarters of a century. The obvious corner wear does little to diminish the charm of this great little piece of American history.
1933 Goudey Lloyd Waner #164 PSA NM-MT 8. The smaller portion of the "Big Poison" and "Little Poison" Waner brother combo, there was nothing little about his game. His brother Paul, a fellow Baseball Hall of Fame member stated, "He is a better player than me and can spot me 25 feet and then beat me in a sprint. A batter's got to knock a fly over the fence to keep him from reaching it, and he doesn't miss 'em either." A fine high-end exemplar from the popular 1933 Goudey gum issue, this card featuring Lloyd Waner is nearly impossible to improve upon. Only the slightest touches of wear to the corners are visible upon closer inspection. Of the 221 Waner cards submitted to PSA, only two have graded higher.
1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #181 SGC Authentic. Please note that our consignor has informed us that the card holder does not derive from the Halper sale as noted in the catalog copy.
We offer a pairing of a 1933 Goudey #181 Babe Ruth (SGC Authentic) and a custom made holder. The felt-lined, 5-3/4" x 8-3/4" x 1-9/16" hard cover "book" was custom made with a card name embossed on the spine for identification. This card has been trimmed but presents at the EX-MT level. Although not quite that original dream, this pair does offer amazing display and conversation value. The screw-down holder is included should one want to return the card back inside the holder.
We offer a pairing of a 1933 Goudey #181 Babe Ruth (SGC Authentic) and a custom made holder. The felt-lined, 5-3/4" x 8-3/4" x 1-9/16" hard cover "book" was custom made with a card name embossed on the spine for identification. This card has been trimmed but presents at the EX-MT level. Although not quite that original dream, this pair does offer amazing display and conversation value. The screw-down holder is included should one want to return the card back inside the holder.
1933 Goudey Babe Ruth #181 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Magnificent representation of this key card from one of the hobby's most beloved issues transports us back to the days of the Depression without the unpleasantness of failed banks and bread lines. Essentially untouched by the passing of three quarters of a century, this gorgeous relic provides marvelous spotless surfaces to go along with barely a suggestion of wear to outer corner tips. The harshest critique we can find is that Ruth's precisely registered image lies just to the left of center. To give the clearest indication of the superiority of this specimen, we must note that it is equaled by just one other, with only one condition miracle higher at the top of the SGC population report. For many whose cardboard concentration tends toward the bubble gum era, this will be considered the most noteworthy auction offering. It would be difficult to dispute that this is worthy of being the crowning touch to a vintage Ruth collection.
1933 R319 Goudey Baseball Near Set (208/240). Few can deny the intangible "something" that these cardboard treasures possess which simply enthralls the viewer. Without a doubt a collector grade delight, this presentation was originally assembled 76 years ago and has seen a few losses, a few additions and makes no excuses for showing their age. For the true vintage hobbyist who is enticed by the idea of being the next to fully appreciate these timeless collectibles. Missing #'s 1, 49-53, 85, 92, 100, 104, 106, 111, 117, 134, 136, 144, 149, 155, 160, 174, 178, 181, 191, 195, 197, 204, 207, 218, 223, 225, 232 and 234 for completion. Highlights include: w/#'s 2 Vance (GD/VG), 5 Herman (FR), 7 Lyons (FR), 19 Dickey (color added), 20 Terry (FR), 22 Traynor (GD), 23 Cuyler (white added), 25 P. Waner (FR), 29 Foxx (FR), 31 Lazzeri (VG), 35 Simmons (GD, stamp), 42 Collins (FR), 44 Bottomley (FR), 47 Manush (FR), 56 Ruffing (GD), 58 O'Doul (FR), 60 Hoyt (GD/VG), 62 Martin (VG/EX), 63 Cronin (GD), 64 Grimes (FR), 73 Haines (VG), 74 Rixey (FR), 76 Cochrane (GD), 79 Faber (VG), 89 Speaker (FR), 107 Manush (GD), 109 Cronin (GD, stamp on rev.), 110 Goslin (GD), 119 Hornsby (GD/CG), 125 Terry (PR), 127 Ott (PR), 128 Klein (GD), 134 Rice (FR), 138 Pennock (GD), 147 Durocher (FR), 154 Foxx (PR), 158 Berg (VG/EX), 164 L. Waner (FR), 168 Goslin (VG/EX), 187 Manush (PR), 188 Hornsby (GD), 189 Cronin (VG/EX), 194 Averill (FR), 202 Hartnett (GD/VG), 207 Ott (FR), 211 Wilson (GD), 216 Gomez (FR), 220 Grove (FR), 222 Gehringer (PR), 229 Vaughan (PR), 230 Hubbell (FR) and 240 Schumacher (GD). Grades 55% GD to VG with some a little nicer, 45% PR to FR with a few color added.
1933 Goudey Baseball Complete Set (239). The 1933 Goudey baseball set is considered the king of the early gum card issues and it's easy to see why with its tremendous artwork, colors, and vast selection of Hall of Famers including Ruth, Gehrig, Foxx, Hornsby, Hubbell and Ott. This is a really attractive middle to high end complete set almost entirely in very good or better condition. A total of 19 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 8 cards w/#'s 42 Collins, 60 Hoyt, 63 Cronin, 128 Klein, 158 Berg, 181 Ruth, 194 Averill and 207 Ott; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 cards w/#'s 168 Goslin and 216 Gomez; SGC 60 EX 5: 4 cards w/#'s 64 Grimes, 92 Gehrig, 188 Hornsby and 223 Dean; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, #144 Ruth; SGC 30 GOOD 2: 1 card, #149 Ruth; SGC Authentic: 3 cards w/#'s 53 Ruth, 160 Gehrig and 230 Hubbell. Ungraded Cards - #'s 1 Bengough (GD), 2 Vance (GD), 5 Vance (GD), 7 Lyons (VG), 19 Dickey (PR), 20 Terry (GD/VG), 22 Traynor (VG), 23 Cuyler (VG/EX), 25 Waner (VG/EX), 29 Foxx (trimmed), 31 Lazzeri (GD), 35 Simmons (VG/EX), 47 Manush (VG), 49 Frisch (VG/EX), 62 Martin (VG/EX), 76 Cochrane (VG/EX), 79 Jones (VG/EX), 89 Speaker (VG/EX), 102 Jackson (VG), 107 Manush (EX), 109 Cronin (VG/EX), 110 Goslin (VG/EX), 114 Sewell (EX), 117 Maranville (VG), 119 Hornsby (VG/EX), 125 Terry (VG/EX), 127 Ott (VG), 134 Rice (EX), 138 Pennock (VG/EX), 147 Durocher (VG/EX), 154 Foxx (altered), 164 Waner (VG/EX), 189 Cronin (FR), 197 Ferrell (VG/EX), 217 Crosetti (VG/EX), 220 Grove (GD), 222 Gehringer (VG/EX), 234 Hubbell (VG/EX). Grades 46% EX to EX/MT, 43% VG to VG/EX, 6% PR to GD, 5% altered/trimmed. SMR value approaches $14,000.
1933 Tattoo Orbit William Cissell PSA NM 7. Graded NM 7 by PSA, one of a pair at this level with a trio graded higher. Colorful, crisp and clean, this high end Cissell will endear itself to the finest Tattoo orbit collections.
1933 Tattoo Orbit Chick Hafey PSA NM 7. Graded NM 7 by PSA, one of a pair at this level with a handful graded higher. Just a slight hint of staining limited to one corner area on the reverse of note. Nice attractive high-end scarcity of the Cincinnati Reds HoFer.
1933 Tattoo Orbit Charles Henry Root PSA NM 7. Graded NM 7 by PSA, one of four at this level with only one graded higher. Colorful, crisp and clean with one bit of corner wear at the tip accounting for the technical assessment. A high-end beauty from this obscure 1930's release.
1933 Tattoo Orbits Baseball PSA-Graded Group of (5). Offered is a high grade selection of five 1933 Tattoo orbit baseball cards. Each is near the highest grade level available with five or fewer nicer examples known. Includes: Graded - PSA NM 7: 2 cards, Robert Seeds and Jimmy Dykes; PSA EX-MT 6: 3 cards, Riggs Stephenson, Frank Grube and Irving Burns.
1933 V353 World Wide Gum Jimmy Foxx #29 SGC 86 NM+ 7.5. Graded 86 NM+ by SGC, this is by far the highest graded example recorded to date. Philadelphia Athletics Hall of Fame slugger Jimmy Foxx has been preserved here in the form of a 1933 World Wide Gum V353 issue. A slight surface impression on the reverse fails to take away from the precision centering and bold colors. A condition rarity likely not to be improved upon.
1933 World Wide Gum Mickey Cochrane #69 PSA NM-MT 8. The scarcer World Wide Gum version of an important Goudey card. Cochrane's 1933 Goudey card is easily his most recognizable with its vivid red background and steely eyed portrait. The example offered here has exceptional centering, trace levels of toning and superb ink clarity and color. The four high quality corners contribute to its tremendous appeal. It's hard to imagine what another copy would need to look like for a higher grade. Only two have attained this level. None have been recorded higher.
1933 V353 World Wide Gum Baseball SGC-Graded Quartet (4). Each card has been graded by SGC. World Wide Gum was based in Montreal and was the "Goudey" of Canada. These collectibles have all the visual appeal of their American counterparts but are much more scarce. Includes: Graded - SGC 92 NM-MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #37 Jimmy Wilson; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #57 Bill Walker; SGC 84 NM 7: 1 card, #20 Bill Terry (HoF); SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #25 Paul Waner (HoF).
1934-36 R318 Batter-Ups SGC-Graded Collection (79). Offered is a 79-card selection of mostly different R318 National Chicle "Batter Up" baseball cards issued from 1934-36. If your taste in 1930's baseball cards leans toward the photographic over the illustrative, this classic series was made for you. The colorful array produced by the various hues is enhanced by the selection of HoFers and scarce high numbers. Unless noted, cards are the common ink colors. Every card has been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded: - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 2 cards w/#'s 75 and 184; SGC 84 NM 7: 7 cards w/#'s 5 Hubbell/Brown, 23 Gomez/Blue, 24 Averill/Magenta, 65, 68, 71/Magenta, and 189; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 14 cards w/#'s 28 Foxx/Magenta, 52, 57 Greenberg/Brown, 60/Magenta, 69/Magenta, 76, 108, 125 Martin, 135, 166, 170, 172, 181, 182 Crosetti; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 cards w/#'s 126 Ferrell and 165; SGC 60 EX 5: 15 cards w/#'s 1 Barger/Blue, 3 Lopez/Black, 5 Hubbell/Green, 52/Blue (2), 53/Blue, 58/Blue, 86 Gomez, 92, 122 Lindstrom, 164, 171, 187, 191 and 192; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 23 cards w/#'s 13/Blue, 16 Hafey, 23 Gomez/Magenta, 28 Foxx/Blue, 30 Dickey/Magenta, 31 Grove/Green, 35 Hornsby/Black, 42 Gehringer/Blue, 43, 43/Magenta, 45 Lazzeri/Magenta, 54, 56, 59/Magenta, 67/Magenta, 80, 121, 130 Gehringer, 143, 144 Foxx, 146, 149 Berg and 160 O'Neill; SGC 40 VG 3: 10 cards w/#'s 12, 24 Averill/Magenta, 25 Cochrane/Sepia, 29, 31 Grove/Magenta, 39, 40/Blue, 65/Blue, 87 and 83; SGC 30 GD 2: 3 cards w/#'s 18/Magenta, 79 and 157 Waner; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 2 cards w/#'s 1 Berger/Blue and 90; SGC Authentic: 1 card, #95. SMR value exceeds $9,000.00.
1934 Goudey Jimmy Foxx #1 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Whenever a top Hall of Famer appears as the number one card in a set, the odds of finding a quality example are lessened dramatically. If you have been searching for a high quality #1 Jimmie Foxx card from the 1934 Goudey set, your search is over. Rare for a first card from a vintage series, this vibrant example shows none of the wear usually associated with handling or the dreaded rubber band. A very well centered example, with vivid colors and sharp corners. One can search high and low for an exemplar of this elevated status and never find it. Only three SGC examples have been graded higher than this one.
1934 Goudey Lefty Grove #19 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. This superstar southpaw was a key ingredient in Connie Mack's second great dynasty in the late 1920's and early 1930's. Grove pitched the final game of his Hall of Fame career for the Boston Red Sox the same day that Ted Williams elevated his 1941 batting average to .406. Just the hint of bluntness at one corner tip is the most we can find to criticize. This very attractive example has great colors, sharp corners and larger borders than many '34 Goudey's.
1934 Goudey Walter Betts #36 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, one of a trio for the graded with only two graded higher. Very clean card where centering was just enough to "drop" the grade to NM-MT. Strong colors, flawless printing and blemish free surfaces.
1934 Goudey Lou Gehrig #61 SGC 60 EX 5. This is the second of the two Gehrig entries in the 1934 Goudey issue, both of which are considered the tops in the hobby as far as cards from the Iron Horse go. Here we present his #61 card, slabbed by PSA and graded a strong EX exemplar. On the brink of his '34 Triple Crown season, Lou is depicted from the waist up wielding the lumber that would help him attain that goal. A truly pleasing example that many would consider adding to their collection.
1934 Goudey Oscar Melillo #45 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, one of four for the grade with only two graded higher. Clean card with one age spot on the reverse and just hints of wear at corner tips.
1934 Goudey Lou Gehrig #61 SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC. One of the two Gehrig entries from the 1934 Goudey issue which bears his namesake. Both Gehrig cards are considered among the most highly sought after cards in the hobby. This solid middle-grade example has modest corner wear and obvious centering issues. It also offers good color, precision print registration and a total lack of wrinkling or creases. On the brink of his Triple Crown season, this version depicts Lou from the waist up wielding the lumber that would help him attain that goal.
1934 Goudey Bill Hallahan #82 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, one of only two at this grade level with four higher. A stunning high quality card from the scarce 1934 Goudey high-number series.
1934 Goudey Jim Mooney #83 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. Graded 92 NM/MT+ 8.5 by SGC, one of a trio at this grade level with only one recorded higher. A few age specs and centering which sits a sliver too high accounts for the grade. A strong scarce high number with good colors and high quality corners.
1934 R320 Goudey Baseball SGC-Graded NM or NM+ Collection (16). Each card has been graded by SGC. A very attractive assembly which represents almost 20% of the entire series. Includes: SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/#'s 66 Harder and 76 Trosky; SGC 84 NM 7: 14 cards w/#'s 3 Grimm, 14, 15, 25, 31 (2), 41, 56, 57, 67, 75 Werber, 77 Vosmik, 86 Johnson and 88 Peel.
1934 Goudey Baseball SGC-Graded Collection (20). Each card has been graded by SGC. We offer a very nice high end selection of 1934 Goudey baseball cards which includes a couple HoFers and scarce high numbers. Includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 4 cards, w/#s 2 Cochrane, 64, 92 and 93; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 1 card, w/#s 9; SGC 60 EX 5: 15 cards, w/#s 5, 19, 22 Vaughan, 25, 45, 46, 47, 48, 51 Collins, 52, 53, 68, 70, 73 and 78.
1934 Diamond Stars Heinie Manush (1935) #30 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. Graded 92 NM/MT+ 8,5 by SGC, one of a quartet with none graded higher. A low pop beauty at the pinnacle of known examples. Manush was a Washington Senators HoF caliber outfielder and batting champion. Clean front/back with good registration. A slight touch at one corner tip and a sliver from perfection account for the technical grade.
1934 Diamond Stars Sam Rice #32 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. Graded 92 NM/MT+ 8,5 by SGC, one of a trio with only one graded higher. A low pop beauty near the pinnacle of known examples. Fantastic and colorful entry from the 1934-36 Diamond Stars issue features the Hall of Fame star Sam Rice, whose prowess with the bat kept him near the top of the majors in many major hitting statistics. Small hints of wear at one corner tip keeps it from Mint status.
1934 Diamond Stars Ted Lyons #43 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, one of two at this graded with one graded higher. An art deco style, a hall of fame player, and in near mint to mint condition. This beauty has it all. With four strong corners, beautiful registration and strong nostalgic eye appeal. Centering seem to be the main factor for the technical assessment.
1934 Diamond Stars Rogers Hornsby #44 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, one of two at this graded with less than a handful graded higher. An amazing force at the plate, Rogers Hornsby holds the record for highest batting average in a season with the whopping .424 that he hit in 1924. That year was no fluke, either, as Hornsby also won two Triple Crowns of batting and two NL MVP Awards. This very strong example has centering and a slight print imperfection to account for the grade. Surfaces are problem free and all four corners are sharp.
1935 Diamond Stars Mel Ott #50 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. Graded 92 NM/MT+ 8,5 by SGC, one of a pair for the grade with two graded higher. A low pop beauty near the pinnacle of known examples. Diamond Stars enthusiasts know the card stock for this set can tone with passage of time even on card with no other physical condition issues. This card has suffered no such fate. There are hints of tone to the reverse and along the bottom edge of the front but the colors are unaffected and jump off the surface. The corners are unquestionably sharp and centering is a mere sliver away from precision. A sharp card of the Giants HoF power hitter.
1934 Diamond Stars Hank Greenberg Error #54 SGC 86 NM+ 7.5. A true rarity in every sense of the word. The 1935 Diamond Star misspelled Greenberg has had a total of 12 examples as confirmed by SGC. This is one of only two copies at this tier with only one solo example attaining higher status. This is the scarcer variation where Greenberg's name is spelled "Greenburg." Only a limited amount of these made it out before the correction was made. This card off-center graphics but offers stunning colors, tremendous clarity and eye appeal. Hank Greenberg was a powerful slugger who could have compiled one of the greatest careers in Major League history if it hadn't been for injuries. Beautiful NM+ specimen.
1934 Diamond Stars Jim Bottomley-1935 #59 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. Graded 92 NM/MT+ 8.5, this is one of just two at this grade level with none graded higher. Just the slightest hints of wear at two corner tips keeps this colorful beauty from the ultimate "1-of-1, none higher" status. The new winner will just have to accept the precision centering, great colors and blemish free surfaces.
1934 Diamond Stars Jimmie Foxx #64 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. A beautiful representation from the popular 1930's National Chicle issue featuring Hall of Fame Boston Red Sox slugger Jimmie Foxx. Great color, sharp corners and clean front and back surfaces are clearly evident when viewing this high-end example. After 92 confirmed examples graded to date, this card ranks in the top-ten for quality.
1934 Diamond Stars Ducky Medwick #66 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, one of a half-dozen at this graded with three higher. Medwick was a scrappy athlete with skills both at the plate and on the field. He was an integral role in the success shared by the St. Louis Cardinals during the 1930's and '40's. This is a solid example with faint toning along the right edge barely affecting the overall coloring.
1934 Diamond Stars Irving Burns #75 SGC 96 Mint 9 - Pop 2 With None Higher. Graded 96 Mint 9 by SGC, one of only two at this grade with none higher. A impressive low pop example at the highest grade level known with a nicer copy highly unlikely to appear. The is "1935, Green back" variation has everything the vintage hobbyist desires. Solid mint condition.
1934 Diamond Stars Walter Berger #108 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, this is the only example for this grade with only one known graded higher. This card has it all. Beautiful coloring, sharp corners, bright surfaces, it's a rare high-number and the last card in the set. Did we mention is it close to perfect. Something rarely said about a first- or last-card from any vintage series. A quality card with tremendous eye appeal.
1934-36 R327 Diamond Stars High SGC-Graded Group of (9). Just nine subjects but a lucky seven names read from the roster of Baseball's Hall of Fame. Includes: Graded - SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/#'s 48 Ferrell and 77 Gehringer; SGC 84 NM 7: 7 cards w/#'s 27 Traynor, 30 Manush, 34 hack, 35 Averill, 43 Lyons, 66 Medwick and 86 Crosetti/1936
1934-36 R327 Diamond Stars SGC-Graded Partial Set (80/108). Every card has been graded by SGC. This really strong almost entirely middle- to high-grade assembly would make a great addition to any vintage collection. It also presents a nice opportunity for its break up value for trading/selling. Highlights include: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 2 cards w/#'s 79/1935 and 93/1936; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 8 cards w/#'s 9 Cochrane/1935, 25/1935, 38 Chapman/1935, 47/1935, 55/1935, 70/1935, 72/1935 and 76/1935; SGC 84 NM 7: 18 cards w/#'s 10/1936, 27 Traynor/1935, 28 Lopez/1935, 29/1935, 30 Manush/1935, 33 Rowe/1935, 41/1935, 45 White/1935, 48 Ferrell/1935, 49/1935, 50 Ott/1935, 61/1935, 66 Medwick/1935, 67/1935, 71/1935, 73/1935, 78/1935 and 81/1935; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 12 cards w/#'s 5/1936, 8/1936, 26 Martin/1935, 31 Cuyler/1935, 34/1935, 40/1935, 42/1935, 52/1935, 58/1935, 63 Jackson/1935, 68/1935 and 86 Crosetti/1936; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 8 cards w/#'s 37/1935, 39 Hubbell/1935, 43 Lyons/1935, 46/1935, 60 Ruffing/1935, 77 Gehringer/1936, 91 Harris/1935 and 100 Averill/1936; SGC 60 EX 5: 17 cards w/#'s 6/1935, 17 Frisch/1935, 20/1935, 22/1935, 32 Rice/1935 35 Averill/1935, 51/1935, 62/1935, 69/1935, 75/1935, 83 Waner/1935, 84/1935, 85/1936, 89/1936, 92/1936, 96/1936 and 98 Rowe/1936; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 6 cards w/#'s 11 Dickey (1934), 14 Terry/1935, 21 (1934), 56/1935, 65/1935 and 80/1935; SGC 40 VG 3: 5 cards w/#'s 12/1935, 13 (1934), 57/1935, 59 Bottomley/1935 and 87/1936; SGC 30 GOOD 2: 3 cards w/#'s 16 Waner/1935, 24/1935 and 94/1936; SGC 10 POOR 1: 1 card, #82/1935. SMR value exceeds $7,500.
1934-36 R327 Diamond Stars Complete Set (108) Plus 11 Variations. Offered is a very pleasing middle to high grade 108-card complete set of 1934-36 R327 National Chicle Diamond Stars plus 11 variations. This stylish art deco style series has remained a hobby favorite after 75 years. This selection is filled with stars and Hall of Famers including both scarce error cards. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 2 cards w/#'s 39 Hubbell/1935 and 71 Bluege/1935; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/#'s 28 Lopez/1935 and 63 Jackson/1935; SGC 84 NM 7: 6 cards w/#'s 18 Hafey/1935, 43 Lyons/1935, 53 Melillo/1935, 58 Myatt/1935, 62 Frankhouse/1935 and 102 Mungo/1936; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 6 cards w/#'s 30 Manush/1936, 48 Ferrell/1935, 54 Greenburg/Error "Greenberg", 55/1935, 85/1936 and 105 Lombardi/1936; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 1 card, #9 Cochrane/1936; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, #86 Crosetti/1936; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 5 cards w/#'s 1 Grove/1935, 2 Simmons/1935, 44 Hornsby/1935, 64 Foxx/1935 and 80 Chiozza/1935-Blue; SGC 40 VG 3: 2 cards w/#'s 2 Simmons/1936 and 54 Greenberg/1935-Correct. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 3 Maranville/1935 (EX), 11 Dickey/1935 (VG/EX), 14 Terry/1935 (VG/EX), 16 Waner/1934 (VG), 17 Frisch/1935 (EX), 26 Martin/1935 (GD), 27 Traynor/1935 (VG/EX), 30 Manush/1935 (VG/EX), 31 Cuyler/1935 (EX), 31 Cuyler/1936 (VG/EX), 32 Rice/1935 (trimmed), 36 "Ernie" Lombardi (VG/EX), 36 "Earnie" Lombardi (VG/EX), 50 Ott/1935 (EX), 59 Bottomley/1935 (VG/EX), 60 Ruffing/1935 (EX), 66 Medwick/1936 (VG), 74 Lazzeri/1935 (EX), 77 Gehringer/1935-Blue (Altered), 83 Waner/1935 (VG/EX), 91 Harris/1935 (VG/EX), 95 Appling/1936 (EX), 97 Lopez/1936 (VG), 99 Traynor/1936 (trimmed), 100 Averill/1936 (trimmed), 103 Dickey/1936 (VG). Grades 8% NM to NM/MT, 57% EX to EX/MT, 35% VG to VG/EX. SMR value approaches $5,500.
1935 Goudey 4-On-1 Babe Ruth/Brandt/Maranville/McManus SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC. The most important card from the 1935 Goudey "4-in-1" series features four members from the Boston Braves, including Babe Ruth in his final season in the majors. Other players on the card are HoFer Rabbit Maranville plus Brandt and McManus. Just modest wear at corners and edges account for the technical grade. This would be the final card to include the legendary Yankee and friend to children everywhere issued during his playing career. The card displays a "Picture 1, card J" reverse.
1936 R322 Goudey Baseball Complete Set (25). Offered is a 25-card complete set of R322 Goudey baseball cards from 1936. Nine cards have been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 3 cards w/Derringer, Klein and P. Waner; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards w/Camilli, Cochrane and Harris; SGC 40 VG 3: 4 cards w/Bordagaray, Coscarat, Cuyler and Hemsley. Ungraded - including: Gomez (FR) and Greenberg (FR, pin holes). Grades 40% VG to EX, 16% GD to GD/VG, 54% PR to FR.
1936 V355 World Wide Gum SGC-Graded Group of (8) - With Gehrig! Please note error in copy. 67 O'Neil card is graded SGC 50 VG/EX 4, as pictured.
Each card has been graded by SGC, this modest in size, it's just eight cards, feature no less than four hall of famers including Lou Gehrig on one of his more scarce card collectibles of the 1930's. Includes: #'s 1 Dykes (SGC 50 VG/EX 4), 10 Marberry (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 67 O'Neil (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 84 Polli (SGC 50 VG/EX 4), 96 Lou Gehrig (SGC 60 EX 5), 107 Frank Frisch (SGC 60 EX 5), 124 Roy Schalk (SGC 80 EX/NM 6) and 129 Rabbit Maranville (SGC 60 EX 5).
Each card has been graded by SGC, this modest in size, it's just eight cards, feature no less than four hall of famers including Lou Gehrig on one of his more scarce card collectibles of the 1930's. Includes: #'s 1 Dykes (SGC 50 VG/EX 4), 10 Marberry (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 67 O'Neil (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 84 Polli (SGC 50 VG/EX 4), 96 Lou Gehrig (SGC 60 EX 5), 107 Frank Frisch (SGC 60 EX 5), 124 Roy Schalk (SGC 80 EX/NM 6) and 129 Rabbit Maranville (SGC 60 EX 5).
1937 O-Pee-Chee Lefty Grove #137 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, one of four at this grade with none higher. This 2-3/8" x 2-7/8" beauty is the only card from series to have a population of four. One must speculate if that is misleading and is the result of one or two attempts at resubmission. This impressive card has impeccable surface and sharp corners. An original perforation point at the corner gives the appearance of a hint of softness which may explain the technical judgement. Lefty never looked sharper.
1938 Goudey (R323) Baseball PSA-Graded Lot of 20. Group of 20 PSA-graded cards from the popular Goudey Heads-Up series. Includes PSA NM-MT 8: #258 Doerr (HOF); PSA NM 7: #249 Foxx (HOF), 270 Lombardi (HOF), 283 Werber, 285 Radcliff, 286 Medwick (HOF); PSA EX-MT 6: #248 Bartell, 251 Hadley, 257 Lopez (HOF), 259 Werber, 262 Medwick (HOF), 263 Owen, 265 Gehringer (HOF), 275 Hadley, 279 Solters; PSA EX 5: #241 Gehringer (275), 252 Bonura, 260 York, 266 Fox, 287 Owen.
1939 Play Ball Vernon Gomez #48 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. Graded 92 NM/MT+ by SGC, one of a trio at this grade with only three nicer. Lefty Gomez was, quite simply, one of baseball's great winners when it mattered most. His 6-0 mark during World Series games is still a record and he also holds a 3-0 record in All-Star Game appearances. Here the fiery hurler is featured for his entry in the 1939 Play Ball issue, a tremendous example which is just one corner tip (slight fuzziness at the tip) away from mint level status.
1939 Play Ball Baseball High Grade SGC Near Set (150/162). The effort to assemble a complete set of 1939 Play ball brand baseball cards is no small task. To do so in higher grade is a daunting challenge not for the faint of heart. This impressive array offers much in terms of quality and represents much of that necessary pain, sweat and perseverance. Offered are 150, almost all in excellent to near mint or better condition, of the 161 cards needed to complete this landmark series. Each card has been graded by SGC. Include: Graded Cards - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 3 cards w/#'s 38, 47 and 65; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 23 cards w/#'s 18, 24, 25, 29, 36, 45, 48 Gomez, 52 Henrich, 53 Hubbell, 54, 61, 62, 71, 74, 82 Klein, 86, 96, 97, 102, 115, 133, 151 and 153; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 29 cards w/#'s 7 Doerr, 10, 11, 12, 16, 22, 31, 33, 37, 41, 43, 60 Rowe, 76, 78, 80, 88 Keller, 90, 91, 99, 100, 101, 107, 110, 111, 123, 128, 148, 150 and 160; SGC 84 NM 7: 53 cards w/#'s 1 Powell, 2, 3 Ruffing, 6 Durocher, 9, 14, 17, 19, 23, 27, 28, 32, 35, 39 Ferrell, 44, 46, 51 Ott, 55 Vaughan, 57, 58, 67, 69, 72, 75, 77, 79, 81, 83, 84, 85, 87, 93, 95, 98, 103 Berg, 104, 105, 106, 109, 112 Waner, 117, 118, 119, 121, 124, 132, 134, 137, 140, 142, 144, 147 and 159; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 22 cards w/#'s 4, 5 Sewell, 8, 13, 15, 20, 21, 34, 40, 42, 50 Gehringer, 56 Greenberg, 64, 73, 89 Waner, 94 Manush, 114, 139, 143 Averill, 149, 155 and 156; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 5 cards w/#'s 30 Dickey, 113, 116, 130 and 152; SGC 60 EX 5: 12 cards w/#'s 49, 68, 120, 129, 131, 135 Owen, 138, 141, 145, 146, 158 and 161; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards w/#'s 125, 127 and 162 Moore. SMR value approaches $12,000. Cards in SGC 92 and 86 were figured at the SGC 88 and 84 prices respectively.
1939 R303-B Goudey Premiums Joe DiMaggio PSA NM 7-Equals Highest Grade Known! Graded NM 7 by PSA, one of two at this grade level with none higher. The regal portrait of the immensely talented youngster foretells the serious nature of the man to become a baseball icon. At an impressive 4-11/16" x 7-1/4" these thin card stock premiums begin to show their age even with the slightest amount of handling. The condition of this beautiful premium of the legendary "Yankee Clipper" Joe DiMaggio seems to defy conventional wisdom. With four razor sharp corners and problem free surfaces, one can only speculate the technical assessment had the central image rest a sliver higher up to make the defining condition factor precise. A wonderful addition to any DiMaggio collection.
1939 R303-B Goudey Premiums Arky Vaughn PSA Mint 9-The Only Mint Example of This Series! Graded Mint 9 by PSA, this fantastic gem is a pop 1-of-1 on two levels. It is the only Vaughn graded Mint 9 and is the only card for this entire series to be anointed with a Mint 9 label. Arky Vaughn was the superstar of his team who name got in the papers, but was a very talented shortstop who managed to catch the eye of the great Honus Wagner. Over 16 seasons Vaughn batted .318 and appeared in nine all-star games, his personal best was a startling .385 in 1935. Startling is also a great term for this Goudey premium of the scrappy shortstop. Razor sharp corners, blemish free surfaces and precise centering combine for one impressive 1930's collectible.
1939 R303-B Goudey Premiums Complete Set (24) - #2 on the PSA Set Registry! Set Ranking: #2 on the PSA Set Registry! The thin paper and larger dimensions-4-11/16" x 7-3/16"- makes this series one of the most difficult late 1930's editions to find in high grade. Five subjects hold the title "Pop 1-of-1 with None Higher." Includes: PSA NM+ 7.5: 1 card, Dickey; PSA NM 7: 1 card, Simmons; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 1 card, Herman; PSA EX-MT 6: 12 cards, w/Appling, Chapman, Cronin, Feller, Foxx, Gomez, Greenberg, Higgins, Keltner, Kreevich, Lombardi and Ott; PSA EX 5: 7 cards, w/Case, Goodman, Gordon, Heath, Mancuso, Vaughan and York; PSA VG-EX 4: 2 cards, w/DiMaggio and Vosmik. Note: This presentation plus the two single DiMaggio and Vaughn lots offered elsewhere in this auction comprise the #2 registered set. Replacements have been found to complete this presentation. The replacements do not change the #2 ranking.
1939 V351 World Wide Gum Joe DiMaggio SGC 84 NM 7. Graded 84 NM 7 by SGC, by far the highest graded example of only a pair recorded to date. Acquiring high quality american collectibles from early in the career of Joe DiMaggio is enough of a arduous task for the modern hobbyist. A high grade Canadian item is a truly a unique treasure. This scarce World Wide Gum (Goudey to you U.S. citizens) premium of the Yankees legend has survived about as well as any V351 ever will. As a matter of fact it is the highest grade level awarded to one of these premiums. A terrific addition to the collection of any DiMaggio or New York Yankees specialist.
1941 Play Ball Baseball Complete Set (72). Offered is a 72-card complete set of 1941 Play Ball baseball cards featuring all of the great 1940's superstars. Joe DiMaggio, Ted Williams, Jimmie Foxx, Hank Greenberg, and a fresh-faced Brooklyn Dodger named Pee-Wee Reese plus others all appear in vivid color, a first for this card brand. A total of 10 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 84 NM 7: 1 card, #20 Ruffing; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #37; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 cards w/#'s 14 Williams and 21 Keller; SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards w/#'s 6 Hubbell and 16 Greenberg; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards w/#'s 15 Cronin, 17 and 54 Reese; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, #19 Gehringer. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 8 Ott (FR), 13 Foxx (PR), 63 Dom DiMaggio (GD/VG), 64 Doerr (VG), 70 Dickey (GD), 71 Joe DiMaggio (VG, autographed) and 72 Gomez (VG). Grades 26% EX to EX/MT (one better), 52% VG to VG/EX, 22% PR to GD. SMR exceeds $2,000.
1945-46 Caramelo Deportivo Ray Dandridge "Rookie" #25 PSA VG 3. Graded VG 3 by PSA, one of three at this grade with none graded higher. Ray Dandridge was one of the finest fielders and hitters to ever play baseball but never played one game in the Major Leagues. A victim of racial segregation, Dandridge's career lasted from 1933-1949 playing for both the Negro Leagues and in Mexico. Although his talents would have been enough to warrant a call to the majors even after 14 years, it was not to happen for Dandridge who would spend the final years of his career playing or managing for the New York Cubans or Triple-A clubs. In 1949, he lead the American Association in batting (.362 average) and fielding percentage. Even in his final season (1955) where most players generate only modest statistics, Ray batted an amazing .360. Dandridge retired with a .355 lifetime batting average. He was inducted into Baseball's Hall of Fame in 1987. His fielding ability was such that his peers have said he never made more than two errors in a season. All from a man who never was allowed to play Major League Baseball. Dandridge only appears in two sets. Only the Caramelo Deportivo series from 1945-46 and 1946-47 have included him. This 1945 "rookie" card has the characteristics of a typical VG card, some corner wear and a few slight wrinkles. The image is clean and offers good visual appeal. A very solid entry for any hobbyists specializing in rookie cards, hall of famers or the Negro Leagues.
1945-46 Caramelo Deportivo Ray Brown "Rookie" #30 SGC 30 Good 2. Graded 30 GD 2 by SGC, only three examples grade higher. Raymond Brown was a dominating pitcher in the Negro Leagues, Cuba, Mexico and Canada from 1930 to 1948. Brown spent most of his career with the Homestead Grays, retiring in 1948 while playing for Mexico. As a pitcher, he had his choice of pitches but the curve ball was his prized talent. It is said he would opt for the curve ball regardless of the batter's count or potential scoring situation. He was also known as a more than reliable pinch hitter. Confirmed records show a 109-30 (.762) W-L record. In 1938, the Pittsburgh Courier sent a list of five names of players with Major League potential. On that list was Brown, Paige, Gibson, Buck Leonard and Cool Papa Bell. The offered "rookie" card of Brown has a series of creases, almost inevitable with these thin paper cards, and spots of surface roughness on the reverse. The roughness most likely the result of being removed from an album. The display value stands in direct contradiction to physical aliments allowing this respectable specimen to present close to the excellent level.
1945-46 Caramelo Deportivo Martin Dihigo "Rookie" #65 PSA Good 2. Graded Good 2 by PSA, of the seven total examples submitted to that service this is the highest graded copy recorded to date. Martin Dihigo was quite possibly the finest all-around player of his or any generation ever to step onto a baseball diamond. First baseman, Third baseman, outfielder and even pitcher, Dihigo excelled at every position and to this day is recognized by his peers for his immense talent. He is a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame in Mexico, Cuba and as of 2006, the ultimate baseball shrine in Cooperstown. The very thin paper stock Caramelo Deportivo or "Sporting Caramels" were circulated in Cuba in 1945-46 and is one of the most significant foreign baseball sets ever produced. The set was almost entirely overlooked until top talent from the Negro Leagues were inducted into the HoF. This was one of the few sets to have featured Negro League athletes, as they were limited to playing in Latin-America, Mexico or Cuba. As baseball fans, we should all be thankful we have these fragile collectibles to honor them. Dihigo only appears in three series, all from the mid-1940's and this is his "rookie" card appearance. The offered example is mostly clean with easily seen paper loss on the obverse but no loss on the reverse which is extremely rare for the issue. It seems this beauty never made it into the special album designed to house the entire series. Without this condition flaw which affects the overall eye appeal very little this would be a solid NM card as centering and corner quality are what one expects to see on a card at that level. A significant addition to any Hall of Fame Rookies or Negro Leaguers specialty collections.
1940's Premium Photos Attributed to "Bond Bread" Collection (18). Although there is no confirmation as to an exact origin, the subject roster, media and quality makes them unlike any team photo pack piece we have even encountered. Simply because the images used for these very scarce premiums matches the "Bond Bread" series from the same year they are attributed to that brand. Here the lower quality images and thin, fragile paper, plus the larger 6-5/8" x 9" inconsistent size scratches team photo pack off the "What Are These?" list of possibilities. They are more than likely premiums sold at stadiums or as one hobbyist suggested (if there is a Bond Bread connection) given to bakery reps to promote the actual card series. Origin unknown, what we are offering is what we believe is the largest lot of these scarcities ever presented at public auction. Since a full checklist is not yet known, we can not determine just how close to a complete set these photos represent. The 18 -piece group includes: Branca, Brown, Cooper, Furillo, Gordon, Jansen (2), Keller (VG), Kerr, Lockman, Marshall (2), Mize (VG/EX), Ott (EX), Reese (VG/EX), Reiser, Jackie Robinson (EX) and Vaughn. Grades VG to EX.
1947-2003 American & National League Rookie of The Year Collection. Every year, a new crop of baseball rookies takes to the field with an exuberance only youth can provide. At the end of that first season the finest from each league is rewarded with the "Rookie of the Year" award. This presentation consists of 130 cards showcasing every player awarded rookie of the year from 1947 through 2003. In a few cases, more than one card is provided for a player. The list of names is impressive. Future Superstars/HoFers like Jackie Robinson, Willie Mays, Frank Robinson, Luis Aparicio, Billy Williams, Willie McCovey, Cal Ripken, Johnny Bench, Rod Carew, Ton Seaver, Eddie Murray, Pete Rose, Thurman Munson, Ichiro Suzuki, Mike Piazza, Jeff Bagwell, Derek Jeter plus many others. Cards from 1947-1980 grade 80% EX to EX/MT, 20% VG to VG/EX. Post 1980 cards graded NM to or better with a couple slightly lesser. In total, 12 cards have been graded by a third party service. Please see our web site for a detailed list of the content of this collection.
1948 Bowman Yogi Berra #6 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. This remarkable showpiece of the popular Hall of Famer's rookie card has only nine examples graded higher. With sharp corners and undisturbed borders, this attractive beauty ranks high even among high end examples. The black-and-white photograph of the young Yankee catcher is sublime, and the card's print quality is suitably intense. A difficult piece to find a replacement which displayed any significant amount of improvement.
1948 Bowman Baseball High End SGC-Graded Partial Set (36/48) Plus a Dozen Duplicates. Every card has been graded by a third party service. Typical centering issues aside, this presentation has an abundance of sharp corners, blemish free surfaces and is at no loss for stars, single-prints and HoFers. The 36-card partial set has a GPA of 83.2 and ranks #3 on the SGC Set Registry. Includes: Graded - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 6 cards w/#'s 7 Reiser SP, 9, 21 Fain, 28 Verban SP, 33 and 34 Jones SP; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 11 cards w/#'s 10, 11, 17 Slaughter, 19 Henrich, 20 Kerr SP, 21 Fain, 27 Gordon, 31 McCahan, 32 Rigney, 41 and 43; PSA NM-MT 8: 1 card, #8 Rizzuto; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 7 cards w/#'s 2 Blackwell SP, 4 Mize, 13 Marshall SP, 14 Reynolds, 23, 27 and 35; SGC 84 NM 7: 10 cards w/#'s 3 Kiner, 6 Berra, 12 Sain, 24 Leonard SP, 29 Page SP, 30 Lockman SP, 31, 33, 39 and 40 Marion; PSA NM 7: 1 card, #5 Feller; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 6 cards w/#'s Marshall SP, 16 Lohrke SP, 22 Bevins SP (2), 29 Page SP and 37 Hartung; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 3 cards w/#'s 14 Reynolds, Shea SP and 29 Page SP; SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards w/#'s 28 Verban SP and 34 Jones SP; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, #7 Reiser SP. SMR Value exceeds $6,000.
1948 Leaf Johnny Mize #46 SGC 88 NM/MT 8 - Highest Grade Known. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, tied with only one other as the highest graded examples known to date. The boyish charm of the New York Giants HoF caliber 1st baseman is well portrayed in this colorful and attractive high grade copy.
1948 Leaf Ted Williams #76 SGC 84 NM 7. One of the hobby's most alluring Ted Williams cards is his #76 entry from the 1948-49 Leaf issue. The deep red image area does much to highlight the phenomenal swing that the Splendid Splinter was known for. Graphics which are centered slightly to the left and low of perfection is the main criticism found for this very fresh and largely problem free example.
1948 Leaf Ralph Kiner #91 SGC 86 NM+ 7.5. Graded 86 NM+ 7.5 by SGC, among a handful of the finer examples known to date. From Leaf's first venture into the baseball card market we offer this fine HOF rookie card from Ralph Kiner's earliest days with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
1948 Leaf Baseball High End SGC-Graded Collection (12). Every card has been graded by SGC. A high quality selection of these very colorful cards. Includes: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 2 cards w/#'s 22 Evans and 29 Valo; SGC 84 NM 7: 7 cards w/#'s 10 Trout, 17 Overmire, 26 Chapman, 77 Smalley, 82 Lindell, 95 Stirnweiss and 136 Aberson/Full Sleeves; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 3 cards w/#'s 32 Spahn, 65 Elliot and 84 Hudson.
1948 Topps Magic Photos Baseball (K Series) Graded Complete Set (19) - #1 on the PSA Set Registry! Set GPA: 6.44. Set Registry Rank: #1 on the PSA set Registry! The most highly sought after segment of the magic photo series are the 19 baseball players comprising series K. This assembly not only offers physical quality but image quality as well. Most display strong images with good detail and a full range of values, not an easy task for a set designed to be developed by the young consumer. Four subjects, including Mathewson and Johnson hold the prized "Pop 1-of-1 with none higher" title. A finer complete set of these would be extremely difficult to assemble. Includes: PSA NM-MT 8: 1 card, #10K Mathewson; PSA NM 7: 7 cards, w/#'s 9K Mack, 12K Alexander, 14K Gehrig, 15K Johnson, 16K Young, 18K Tinker/Evers and 19K; PSA EX-MT 6: 7 cards, w/#'s 1K, 2K, 5K, 6K Ruth, 7K Speaker, 13K Cobb and 17K Sisler; PSA EX+ 5.5: 1 card, w/# 11K Wagner; PSA EX 5: 3 cards, w/#'s 3K, 4K and 8K Hornsby.
Circa 1950 Japanese Menko Baseball Uncut Sheet. The Menko has been a popular form of play in Japan for more than 250 years. The object of the game is to capture your opponents cards by flipping them over or by knocking them out of a ring; not unlike American kids who commonly flipped and competed for each other's baseball cards in the 1950's. Literally translated "menko" means small object with a face. Through the years, materials used for making menkos have changed; with paper or cardboard becoming the most predominant format. Most of the early paper or cardboard menkos portrayed faces of samurai warriors, politicians or soldiers.
Baseball players and menkos became a popular combination after three instrumental developments within the country. First, interest in baseball was stirred by a tour of U.S. All-Stars in 1934 which included Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Jimmy Foxx. Second, baseball stars and Sumo wrestlers replaced Japanese soldiers and samurai warriors as cultural subject matter after defeat in World War II and the occupation by General MacArthur prohibited the glorification of traditional Japanese heroes. Finally, the televising of Japanese professional baseball in the late 1950's, especially those featuring the Tokyo Giants and the Hanshin Tigers, helped to further popularize the sport.
This attractively matted uncut sheet measuring an overall 40" x 30" features a repeating pattern of six larger images featuring players for a total of 24 large menkos, with another 20 smaller menkos included in between. A fascinating early piece of Japanese baseball card history.
Baseball players and menkos became a popular combination after three instrumental developments within the country. First, interest in baseball was stirred by a tour of U.S. All-Stars in 1934 which included Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Jimmy Foxx. Second, baseball stars and Sumo wrestlers replaced Japanese soldiers and samurai warriors as cultural subject matter after defeat in World War II and the occupation by General MacArthur prohibited the glorification of traditional Japanese heroes. Finally, the televising of Japanese professional baseball in the late 1950's, especially those featuring the Tokyo Giants and the Hanshin Tigers, helped to further popularize the sport.
This attractively matted uncut sheet measuring an overall 40" x 30" features a repeating pattern of six larger images featuring players for a total of 24 large menkos, with another 20 smaller menkos included in between. A fascinating early piece of Japanese baseball card history.
1949 Bowman Baseball Complete Set (240) Plus Six Variations - With 131 Graded Cards! The 1949 Bowman series is a benchmark in baseball card production. It is the first major release of the modern era and has remained a target for passionate card aficionados ever since. The simple design and color scheme both harken back to a more innocent era and yet it upped the creativity quotient needed by the competition to pull in the hard-earned pennies and nickels of a new generation of young sports fans. This presentation is very nice overall. Either upgraded or left intact, it deserves to be a proud element of any vintage collection. In total, 131 cards (129 SGC and 2 PSA) have been professionally graded. Highlights include: Graded - SGC 96 MINT 9: 1 card, #47 Sain; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 12 cards w/#'s 24 Musial, 48, 63, Pafko, 109, 123, 159, 162 Roe, 164, 190, 208, 213 and 218; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 50 cards w/#'s 4, 7, 16, 18 Thomson, 28, 32, 51, 58, 60 Berra, 64 DiMaggio, 74, 98 Rizzuto NNOF, 100 Hodges, 102, 111 Schoendienst, 114 Reynolds, 124, 131, 136, 139, 141, 142, 145, 149, 155, 163, 172, 174, 175 Appling, 177, 179, 181, 183, 187, 191, 194 Branca, 199, 200, 203, 209 Keller, 217, 223, 225, 227, 233 Doby, 234, 235, 236, 237 and 240 Young; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 16 cards w/#'s 1 Bickford, 8, 15, 29 Kiner, 46 Roberts, 85 Mize, 93, 95, 104, 109, 122, 146, 151, 186, 195 and 210 Gordon; SGC 84 NM 7: 33 cards w/#'s 2, 19, 31, 36 Reese, 40, 56, 57, 73, 98 Rizzuto, 103, 119, 125, 140, 143, 147, 152, 156, 157, 158, 160, 167, 168, 173, 185, 188, 201, 204, 212, 221, 224 Paige, 229 Lopat, 231 and 238 Lemon; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 14 cards w/#'s 9, 10, 14, 21, 45, 50 Robinson, 65 Slaughter, 84 Campanella, 148, 166, 170, 178, 189 and 211; PSA EX-MT 6: 1 card, #216; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 cards w/#'s 23 Doerr and 215; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, #61 Barney; PSA EX 5: 1 card, #226 Snider. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 11 Boudreau (EX), 26 Kell (VG/EX), 27 Feller (EX), 33 Spahn (EX), 82 Page (EX/MT), 110 Wynn (GD). Grades 48% NM to NM/MT, 45% EX to EX/MT, 7% VG to VG/EX (some lesser, with about 5 trimmed/miscut). SMR value exceeds $20,000.
1950 Bowman Baseball SGC-Graded Group of (6). Each card has been graded by SGC. A very attractive selection of 60-year old collectibles. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 MINT 9: 2 cards, w/#'s 81 and 114; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 3 cards, w/#'s 102, 104 and 168; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, #90
1951 Bowman Baseball High Grade (SGC) Group of (5). Every card has been graded by SGC. This is a sharp selection highlighted by a 96 Mint 9 Ed Lopat. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 Mint 9: 3 cars w/#'s 79 Hegan, 203 law RC and 218 Lopat; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #132 Michaels; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card,. #105 Kolloway. SMR value is $1,475.00.
1951 Berk Ross Uncut Panels Complete Set (36) - #3 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 79.3; Set Ranking: #3 on the SGC Set Registry. Offered is a rarely seen High Grade 1951 Berk Ross Panel set, that has been graded by SGC. A very difficult issue to find in high grade, due to the large size and poor storage options. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 1 card, #4-1/4-3 Woodling/Sanford; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 8 cards w/#'s 1-5/1-7 Johnson/Mize, 1-6/1-8 Coleman/DiMaggio, 2-13/2-15 Robinson/Sitko, 2-14/2-16 Walker/Stewart, 3-2/3-4 Goodman/Raschi, 3-5/3-7 Page/Seminick, 4-2/4-4 Mapes/Byrne and 4-5/4-8 Ford Roberts; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 12 cards w/#'s 1-1/1-3 Rosen/Rizzuto, 2-2/2-4 Spahn/Berra, 2-5/2-7 DiMaggio/Hamner, 2-6/2-8 Brown/Jones, 2-10/2-12 Goliat/Maxim, 3-1/3-3 Kiner/Reynolds, 3-10/3-12 LaMotta/Heintzelman, 3-13/3-15 Williams/Franz, 3-14/3-16 Walker/Abel, 4-6/4-7 Konstanty/Meyer, 4-9/4-11 Simmons/Sharman and 4-10/4-12 Jethroe/Saddler; SGC 84 NM 7: 4 cards w/#'s 1-2/1-4 Lemon/Bauer, 2-9/2-11 Lopat/White, 3-6/3-8 Lopat/Sisler and 3-9/3-11 Waitkus/Unruh; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 3 cards w/#'s 1-14/1-16 Hart/Hogan, 2-1/2-3 Musial/Henrich and 4-13/4-15 Dupont/Justice; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 cards w/#'s 1-10/1-12 Ennis/Schnittker and 3-17/3-18 Sherman/Owens; SGC 60 EX 5: 3 cards w/#'s 2-17/2-18 Button/Patton, 4-14/4-16 Galiffa/Cunningham and 4-17/4-18 Rice/Dillard; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, 1-9/1-11 Asburn/Cousy; SGC 40 VG 3: 2 cards w/#'s 1-13/1-15 Charles/Martin and 1-17/1-18 Durnan/Quackenbush.
1951 Topps Red Backs Panels Near Set (25/26). Set GPA: 80.4: Set Ranking: #2 on the SGC Set Registry! This series was available as single cards in 1-cent wax packs and a 2-card panels sold in 5-cent wax packs. The panels were then separated as intended making intact panels a scarce commodity in today's marketplace. Missing #'s 22/54 for completion. This high grade set includes: Graded - SGC 96 Mint 9: 3 panels w/#'s 12/7, 28/48 and 30/46 Spahn; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 4 panels w/#'s 8/47 Wynn, 10/32, 34/27 and 38/45 Snider; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 7 panels w/#'s 13/17, 16/5 Rizzuto, 19/50, 25/2, 42/36 Zernial/Philadelphia, 43/4 and 44/23; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 panel, #'s 18/14; SGC 84 NM 7: 1 panel, #'s 11/24; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 3 panels w/#'s 3/21, 33/51 and 41/9; SGC 60 EX 5: 4 cards w/#'s 15/35 Kiner, 29/39, 37/49 and 40/20 DiMaggio; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 panel, #'s 26/1 Berra; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 panel, #'s 6/31 Hodges.
1951 Topps Blue Backs High Grade Complete Set (52) Plus Wrapper. The little game cards, launched by Topps as part of the company's first offensive against Bowman's unquestioned market supremacy, are much tougher to acquire in high grade than is often assumed. Top quality specimens contain hidden spider creases on the reverse. A very pleasing set. A total of 14 cards have been graded by PSA. The paper wrapper presents EX/MT with folds as issued. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA MINT 9: 2 cards w/#'s 2 Majeski and 38 Noren; PSA NM-MT 8: 6 cards w/#'s 32, 33, 36, 37 Doerr, 48 and 50 Mize; PSA NM 7: 6 cards w/#'s 5, 7, 19, 20 Branca, 31 and 39. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 3 Ashburn (EX), Schoendienst (NM) and 30 Slaughter (EX). Grades 57% NM to NM/MT, 24% EX to EX/MT, 19% VG to VG/EX. SMR value exceeds $1,200.
1951 Topps Red Backs High Grade Complete Set (52) Plus Zernial Variation and Wrapper. Sold two cards in a package for a mere penny, the Topps Red Backs have a stronger selection of star players than their Blue Back counterparts. The wax paper wrapper presents EX/MT with folds as issued. A total of 6 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: #'s 1 Berra (VG/EX), 4 Stephens (PSA NM-MT 8), 5 Rizzuto (NM), 8 Wynn (VG/EX), 15 Kiner (PSA NM 7), 20 DiMaggio (EX), 22 Feller (VG/EX), 23 Boone (PSA NM-MT 8), 24 Bauer (NM/MT), 26 Easter (PSA NM-MT 8), 30 Spahn (NM), 31 Hodges (EX), 36 Zernial (PSA NM-MT 8), 36 Zernial/Philadelphia (PSA MINT 9) 38 Snider (NM), 39 Kluszewski (EX) and 50 Irvin (NM). Grades 46% NM to NM/MT, 29% EX to EX/MT, 25% VG to VG/EX.
1952 Bowman Frank Smith #186 PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA, one of only a trio at this coveted grade with none higher. Great card with all the "mint" qualities hobbyists look for.
1952 Bowman Willie Mays #218 SGC 84 NM 7. The tremendously skilled portrait artists employed by Bowman show their best work with this image of the Say Hey Kid at the beginning of his fabled career. Terrific registration and the cleanest of surfaces put this example at an elite level. A slight shift in centering and a tad sharper fourth corner and this bold beauty would be the proud owner of a higher grade label.
1952 Bowman Baseball High End SGC-Graded Group of (6). Every card has been graded by SGC, each is among the finer examples graded to date. Includes: Graded: SGC 96 MINT 9: 3 cards w/#'s 139 Priddy, 161 Jensen and 195 Baumholtz; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #194; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 2 cards w/#'s 162 Irvin and 211. SMR value exceeds $1,500.
1952 Topps Andy Pafko #1 PSA EX 5. As the lead card in the landmark 1952 Topps set, it is difficult to find a high grade example. Pafko was traded from the Chicago Cubs to the Brooklyn Dodgers during the 1951 season as part of an eight-player deal between the two clubs. A very attractive copy of one of the keys to the 1952 Topps set.
1952 Topps Yogi Berra #191 SGC 84 NM 7. For all his post-career fame, it is easy to forget that Yogi Berra was a three-time American League Most Valuable Player (1951, 1954 and 1955). The popular New York Yankees Hall of Fame catcher was coming off his first MVP season, when this card from the landmark 1952 Topps series was released. Of the 100 Berra cards submitted to SGC, only three have been graded higher.
1952 Topps Mickey Mantle #311 PSA Good 2. The most important and desirable of all post-war trading cards, the Topps Mickey Mantle rookie will remain a dream for many a collector, as the scarcity and demand for the card has driven the price tag well above many a budget. For those intent upon sharing in the joy, but unwilling to part with five figures to do so, we present this rather nice looking example graded "Good" by SGC. The grading points lost upon this coveted rarity relate to the uniform corner and minor surface wear; in addition to the creases found at bottom left and top center.
1952 Topps Mickey Mantle #311 PSA VG 3. The single most desirable card of the post-war era is the Topps Mantle rookie, which appears here in all of its vintage glory. While it is the tremendous historical relevance of the Mick that drives value, it's also interesting to note that the #311 card is the first in the final short-printed series of this set, with commons from this range booking for four times what the lower numbers bring. Typical edge and corner wear, in addition to a moderate snowy appearance in printing at upper left quadrant, account for the Very Good grade.
1952 Topps Mickey Mantle #311 SGC 50 VG/EX 4. When it comes to cards issued before the Second World War, the Honus Wagner T206 is the undisputed king. But after that great conflict, the Topps Mantle rookie claims the prize as the most coveted and valuable card in the hobby. Here we present a fine example of the card on every collector's wish list, picturing a young legend looking skyward toward destiny. This card boasts near precision centering and mild corner wear typical for the grade. Faint staining in lower-left and slight surface wear at the top right corner round out the condition detriments. Colors are nice with precise registration. Wax and gum stains so commonly found on cards from this set are likewise absent here. One of the best investments in the hobby.
1952 Topps Bobby Thomson #313 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, this is the only card at this grade level with only one higher. Hopefully some young New York Giants fan pulled this beauty from a pack 57 years ago and treasured it for years. This stunning collectible appeared just one year after Thomson hit his historic home run and it looks like it hasn't aged a day since. The fantastic hues, bright white borders and four sharp corners scream high quality ands make for an awesome presentation. The graphics rest a little high which is the only element keeping this card from an even higher assessment, possible even Mint status. Impressive NM-MT condition.
1952 Topps Roy Campanella #314 SGC 84 NM 7. Graded 84 NM 7 by SGC, one of just five examples graded at this level. Originating from the rare high-number series of the immensely popular 1952 Topps baseball series. Campanella is without a doubt one of the key entries in that elusive final run of subjects. This attractive copy offers rich colors which contrast nicely against a "glowing" yellow background. Nicely centered and displaying four corners which show just touches of wear, this example is destined to be a prized entry for any high end 1952 Topps collection.
1952 Topps Leo Durocher #315 SGC 86 NM+ 7.5. Graded 86 NM+ 7.5 by SGC, only three examples are graded higher. Lots to love about this card. First, it derives from the debut Topps set. Next, it's part of the tough high numbered series of that issue. And, finally, Leo's a bona fide Hall of Famer! This marvelous representation provides just the slightest edge and corner wear to suggest its age, ranking it with two other examples in this grade on the SGC population report history.
1952 Topps Warren Hacker #324 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, one of two at this grade level with just one graded higher. A scarce '52 Topps high number. Slightly low sitting graphics keep this beauty from greater assessment. Nice eye catching pack fresh appeal.
1952 Topps Sam White #345 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, the only example at this grade level with just one higher. A total of only thirteen have been graded to date. Great coloring and frosty white frame.
1952 Topps Cal Abrams #350 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, only one example has been graded higher. Among the finest of the 23 Abrams' graded to date.
1952 Topps Karl Drews #352 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. Graded 92 NM/MT+ 8 by SGC, the only example at this grade level with just one higher. A total of only sixteen have been graded to date. Great coloring surrounded by a bright white frame.
1952 Topps Smoky Burgess #357 SGC 86 NM+ 7.5. Graded 86 NM+ 7.5 by SGC, one of a pair at this grade level with just two graded higher. Smoky's loveable mug never looked so fresh from the pack. One tiny bit of wear at one corner tip and slightly elevated centering do nothing to take away the nostalgic hues and frosty white frame.
1952 Topps Dick Brodowski #404 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, one of a trio at this grade and just one copy has been graded higher. Great colors and a lock Mint 9 with slightly adjusted centering.
1952 Topps Baseball SGC 88 NM-MT 8 Collection (5 Different). Each high-grade condition scarcity is among the finest example graded to date by SGC. Not one has a grade population over four. Includes: SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 5 cards w/#'s 108 Konstanty, 116 Scheib (none higher), 117 Lollar (none higher), 123 Yost and 124 Kennedy.
1952 Topps Baseball SGC 88 NM/MT 8 Collection (5 Different). Every card has been graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC. The most "common" of this attractive selection (#207) has a population of "2." The others represent the only copy at this grade, three have only one higher. Includes: SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 5 cards w/#'s 206 Ostrowski, 207 Harris, 228 Brazle, 248 Shea and 260 Castiglione.
1952 Topps Baseball Starter Set (135) With High Numbers and Mantle! The general rule for 1952 Topps baseball collections is that low and middle series cards are in nice shape and the high numbers are either low grade or missing altogether, and Mantle is always non-existent. We are pleased to say that rule has been broken. This 135-card starter set (84 lo/middle, 51 high #s) is a fresh-to-the-hobby find and is almost 40% high numbers and yes, the Mantle IS included! Includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 3 cards, w/#'s 347 Adcock, 357 Burgess and 392 Wilhelm; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 2 cards, w/#'s 374 and 382 Jones; SGC 30 GD 2: 4 cards, w/#'s 314 Campanella, 315 Durocher and 407 Mathews; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 2 cards w/#s 311 Mantle and 400 Dickey. Ungraded - w/#s 88 Feller (GD/VG), 129 Mize (FR), 191 Berra (FR), 227 Garagiola (VG), 243 Doby (VG), 246 Kell (VG), 250 Erskine (VG) and 372 McDougald (FR). Low/Middle series cards grade 42% VG to VG/EX with a couple nicer, 58% FR to GD/VG. High-Number cards grade 37% VG to VG/EX with a few nicer, 63% FR to GD/VG. The value of just the graded cards exceeds $8,750.
1952 Topps Baseball Near Set (398/407). NOTE: For clarity, the condition breakdown has been updated.
Offered is a 398-card near set of 1952 Topps baseball cards. Missing #'s 193-200, 311 for completion. A total of 80 cards, including many high numbers have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded - PSA NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #154; PSA NM 7: 16 cards w/#'s 31 Zernial, 159, 188, 266, 271, 324, 329, 332, 346, 347 Adcock, 349, 361, 362, 369 Groat, 375 and 380; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 6 cards w/#'s 162, 170, 251, 366, 367 and 368; PSA EX-MT 6: 33 cards w/#'s 23 Spahn/Red, 103, 166, 223, 253, 279, 284, 295, 318, 323, 325, 340, 343, 352, 359, 364, 370, 373, 381, 392 Wilhelm, 394 Herman, 402 and 403; PSA EX+ 5.5: 4 cards w/#'s 11 Rizzuto/Black, 122 Jensen, 322 and 357 Burgess; PSA EX 5: 17 cards w/#'s 88 Feller, 204, 276, 288, 299, 320, 321 Black, 333 Reese, 339, 341, 344 Blackwell, 353, 374, 379, 395, 396 Williams and 404; PSA VG-EX 4.5: 2 cards w/#'s 313 Thomson and 315 Durocher; PSA VG-EX 4: 6 cards w/#'s 37 Snider, 312 Robinson, 382 Jones, 384 Crosetti, 400 Dickey and 406; PSA VG 3: 3 cards w/#'s 261 Mays, 372 McDougald and 407 Mathews; PSA GD+ 2.5: 2 cards w/#'s 1 Pafko and 277 Wynn. Ungraded - #'s 2 Runnels (FR), 20 Loes SP (GD/VG), 22 DiMaggio (VG/EX), 26 Irvin (VG/EX), 29 Kluszewski (VG), 36 Hodges (GD), 48 Page/Red-Correct (VG/EX), 49 Sain/Red-Correct (GD, ink on rev.), 57 Lopat (FR), 59 Roberts (GD), 65 Slaughter (VG/EX), 66 Roe (GD/VG), 67 Reynolds/Red (color added), 91 Schoendienst (VG), 129 Mize (VG/EX), 175 Martin (VG/EX), 191 Berra (GD), 215 Bauer (VG/EX), 216 Ashburn (FR), 227 Garagiola (GD), 243 Doby (VG), 246 Kell (VG), 250 Erskine (GD), 268 Lemon (VG/EX), 314 Campanella (altered), 342 Labine (VG/EX) and 351 Dark (VG).
The low and middle series cards grade: 2% NM to NM+, 24% EX to EX/MT+, 57% VG to VG/EX+, 14% lesser, 3% trimmed with one color added.
The high number cards grade: 12% NM, 36% EX to EX/MT, 39% VG to VG/EX, 3% lesser, 10% trimmed/altered.
Offered is a 398-card near set of 1952 Topps baseball cards. Missing #'s 193-200, 311 for completion. A total of 80 cards, including many high numbers have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded - PSA NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #154; PSA NM 7: 16 cards w/#'s 31 Zernial, 159, 188, 266, 271, 324, 329, 332, 346, 347 Adcock, 349, 361, 362, 369 Groat, 375 and 380; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 6 cards w/#'s 162, 170, 251, 366, 367 and 368; PSA EX-MT 6: 33 cards w/#'s 23 Spahn/Red, 103, 166, 223, 253, 279, 284, 295, 318, 323, 325, 340, 343, 352, 359, 364, 370, 373, 381, 392 Wilhelm, 394 Herman, 402 and 403; PSA EX+ 5.5: 4 cards w/#'s 11 Rizzuto/Black, 122 Jensen, 322 and 357 Burgess; PSA EX 5: 17 cards w/#'s 88 Feller, 204, 276, 288, 299, 320, 321 Black, 333 Reese, 339, 341, 344 Blackwell, 353, 374, 379, 395, 396 Williams and 404; PSA VG-EX 4.5: 2 cards w/#'s 313 Thomson and 315 Durocher; PSA VG-EX 4: 6 cards w/#'s 37 Snider, 312 Robinson, 382 Jones, 384 Crosetti, 400 Dickey and 406; PSA VG 3: 3 cards w/#'s 261 Mays, 372 McDougald and 407 Mathews; PSA GD+ 2.5: 2 cards w/#'s 1 Pafko and 277 Wynn. Ungraded - #'s 2 Runnels (FR), 20 Loes SP (GD/VG), 22 DiMaggio (VG/EX), 26 Irvin (VG/EX), 29 Kluszewski (VG), 36 Hodges (GD), 48 Page/Red-Correct (VG/EX), 49 Sain/Red-Correct (GD, ink on rev.), 57 Lopat (FR), 59 Roberts (GD), 65 Slaughter (VG/EX), 66 Roe (GD/VG), 67 Reynolds/Red (color added), 91 Schoendienst (VG), 129 Mize (VG/EX), 175 Martin (VG/EX), 191 Berra (GD), 215 Bauer (VG/EX), 216 Ashburn (FR), 227 Garagiola (GD), 243 Doby (VG), 246 Kell (VG), 250 Erskine (GD), 268 Lemon (VG/EX), 314 Campanella (altered), 342 Labine (VG/EX) and 351 Dark (VG).
The low and middle series cards grade: 2% NM to NM+, 24% EX to EX/MT+, 57% VG to VG/EX+, 14% lesser, 3% trimmed with one color added.
The high number cards grade: 12% NM, 36% EX to EX/MT, 39% VG to VG/EX, 3% lesser, 10% trimmed/altered.
1953 Bowman Color Duke Snider #117 SGC 96 Mint 9. Duke Snider's 1953 Bowman Color high-numbered card is one of the key entries in the majestic set. When found in this condition, it makes for an especially desirable piece. Although many of the cards in this tremendous issue are extremely difficult to find with near perfect centering, the offered card demonstrates superior balance of borders. All four of its corners are square and its borders free of any print. The card's back is clean and its colors are notably bright. This is a superb example that will fit very nicely into a high-grade set or just for the Snider collector. Of the 604 Snider cards submitted to SGC and PSA, this is 1 of only 8 to receive a Mint 9 grade with none higher.
1953 Briggs Meat John Dixon SGC Authentic. Of the multitude of regionally circulated baseball card promotions of the last century, one of the most highly sought after and difficult to find are the Briggs Meat hot dog baseball players from 1953-54. The set showcased just a few teams and the cards were found on the bottom panel of packages of hot dogs. Today they are rare and when found are usually in deplorable condition. The offered hand cut card of John Dixon (SGC Authentic) has some of the creasing and stains so often encountered with this issue while retaining good eye appeal.
1953 Topps Baseball Complete Set (274). Presented is a 274-card complete set of 1953 Topps baseball cards which is one of the most popular sets from the 1950's. This issue would be the last to utilize original artwork of players. The set offers Satchell Paige's only Topps card. A total of 28 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA NM-MT 8: 2 cards w/#'s 207 Ford and 220 Paige; PSA NM-MT 8 (OC): 2 cards w/#'s 69 and 122; PSA NM 7: 19 cards w/#'s 1 Robinson, 16, 26, 33, 42, 43 McDougald, 50, 51, 61 Wynn, 82 Mantle, 114, 125, 126, 141 Reynolds, 142, 163, 170, 263 Podres and 273 Haddix; PSA EX-MT 6: 3 cards w/#'s 76 Reese, 137 Rutherford and 254 Roe; PSA EX 5: 2 cards w/#'s 78 Schoendienst and 244 Mays. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 10 Burgess SP (VG/EX), 27 Campanella (EX), 31 Blackwell SP (EX), 37 Mathews (VG/EX), 41 Slaughter SP (VG/EX), 54 Feller (VG/EX), 62 Irvin (VG/EX), 77 Mize (VG/EX), 78 Schoendienst SP (VG/EX), 81 Black SP (VG/EX), 86 Martin SP (VG/EX), 104 Berra SP (VG/EX), 119 Sain SP (EX), 138 Kell SP (GD), 147 Spahn SP (VG), 149 DiMaggio SP (EX), 151 Wilhelm SP (GD), 162 Kluszewski SP (EX), 191 Kiner (color added), 228 Newhouser SP (EX), 258 Gilliam SP (EX), 265 Jensen SP (EX), 280 Bolling SP (VG/EX). Grades 13% NM to NM/MT, 74% EX to EX/MT, 11% VG to VG/EX (few lesser), 2% color added. SMR Value exceeds $10,000.
1954 Bowman Mickey Mantle #65 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. A timeless image depicting a iconic athlete, Mantle's '54 Bowman card is a favorite among collectors for obvious reasons. Nostalgic hues and Mick's all-american smile have lost none of their charm after 55 years. This example exhibits sharp corners, good gloss and precision centering. Only a hint of wear near the upper left corner prohibit the folks at SGC from awarding this card with a higher grade. Very pleasing Near-Mint to Mint condition.
1954 Bowman Ted Williams #66 SGC 84 NM 7. One of the more recognizable cards from the hitting great who inspired his share of nicknames including "The Kid," "The Thumper," "The Splendid Splinter," and "Teddy Ballgame." Pulled from the set, likely due to contractual problems, the 1954 Bowman #66 Ted Williams is one of the most sought-after postwar rarities. The Williams card was replaced by Jim Piersall after the initial print run. Slightly off-centered, this example is otherwise fresh and clean with sharp corners; a faint wax stain does little to detract from the visual appeal of the reverse, and rich, deep coloring.
1954 Bowman Willie Mays #89 SGC 86 NM+ 7.5. In the 50th Anniversary of the National League, Willie Mays was still on fire, lighting up the senior circuit starting with his stellar ROY campaign in 1951. Three seasons later, and the year of this card's release, Mays collected what would be the first of two NL MVP Awards. Aside from graphics which rest slightly to the left and high of center, this brilliant copy has rich, deep colors and a near flawless white frame.
1954 Bowman Roy Campanella #90 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. The exceptional portrait of the Hall of Fame Dodger backstop comes to us from the '54 Bowman baseball issue. Roy Campanella's #90 card could boast a finer status as the only criticism we find is the graphics which sit to the left and a sliver high of center. Eye catching colors and a bright white frame.
1954 Topps Baseball Complete Set (250). This classic presents both portrait and action shots on each card. High-powered rookies have established the 1954 Topps issue as a collector favorite for decades, as legends like Hank Aaron, Al Kaline, Ernie Banks and Tommy Lasorda make their cardboard debuts within. A total of 19 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #128 Aaron; PSA NM-MT 8: 5 cards w/#'s 42, 51, 71, 142 and 145; PSA NM 7: 7 cards w/#'s 1 Williams, 94 Banks, 130 Bauer, 141, 148, 166 Podres and 201 Kaline; PSA EX-MT 6: 3 cards w/#'s 15 Rosen, 90 Mays and 159; PSA EX 5: 2 cards w/#'s 132 Lasorda and 197; PSA VG/EX+ 4.5: 1 card, #10 Robinson (Gray Back). Ungraded Cards - include #'s 3 Irvin (EX), 7 Kluszewski (VG/EX), 13 Martin (VG/EX), 14 Roe (GD), 17 Rizzuto (EX), 30 Mathews (EX/MT), 32 Snider (EX/MT), 36 Wilhelm (EX), 37 Ford (VG), 45 Ashburn (EX), 50 Berra (VG/EX), 70 Doby (EX), 85 Turley (EX), 102 Hodges (EX), 137 Moon (VG/EX), 139 The O'Brien Twins (EX), 205 Sain (EX), 239 Skowron (VG), 250 Williams (EX). Grades 5% NM to NM/MT, 70% EX to EX/MT, 25% VG to VG/EX. SMR value approaches $12,000.
1954 Topps Baseball Complete Set (250). This classic presents both portrait and action shots on each card. High-powered rookies have established the 1954 Topps issue as a collector favorite for decades, as legends like Hank Aaron, Al Kaline, Ernie Banks and Tommy Lasorda make their cardboard debuts within. Includes: Graded - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #196; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 4 cards, w/#s 20 Spahn, 67, 143 and 195; SGC 84 NM 7: 7 cards, w/#s 4, 19, 33, 45 Ashburn, 70 Doby, 133 and 147; PSA EX-MT 6: 3 cards, w/#s 10 Robinson, 32 Snider and 94 Banks; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 2 cards, w/#s 37 Ford and 201 Kaline; SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards, w/#s 128 Aaron and 250 Williams; PSA EX 5: 1 card, #90 Mays. Ungraded - includes: #'s includes: #'s 1 Williams (EX), 3 Irvin (EX), 13 Martin (EX), 17 Rizzuto (EX), 30 Mathews (FR, pin hole), 36 Wilhelm (EX), 50 Berra (EX), 85 Turley (EX), 102 Hodges (EX), 132 Lasorda (VG), 166 Podres (VG) and 239 Skowron (EX). Grades 6% NM or better, 83% EX to EX/MT, 11% VG to VG/EX with a couple lesser.
1954 Topps Baseball High End Complete Set (250). This is an attractive presentation of what has been and probably always will be considered one of Topps' best productions. A total of 37 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 4 cards w/#'s 46, 215, 216 and 221; PSA NM-MT 8: 17 cards w/#'s 7 Kluszewski (OC), 20 Spahn, 24, 25 (OC), 34, 39, 101 (OC), 108, 117, 118, 132 Lasorda (MC), 147, 151, 194, 207, 246 and 249; PSA NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/#'s 73 and 76; PSA NM 7: 6 cards w/#'s 1 Williams, 10 Robinson, 42, 53, 104 and 145; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 1 card, #17 Rizzuto; PSA EX-MT 6: 4 cards w/#'s 27, 84, 94 Banks (MC) and 205 Sain; PSA EX+ 5.5: 2 cards w/#'s 91 and 250 Williams; PSA EX 5: 1 card, #128 Aaron. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 3 Irvin (VG/EX), 13 Martin (EX/MT), 14 Roe (VG/EX), 30 Mathews (EX), 32 Snider (EX), 36 Wilhelm (EX), 37 Ford (VG), 45 Ashburn (EX), 50 Berra (GD), 70 Doby (VG/EX), 85 Turley (VG/EX), 90 Mays (trimmed, top edge), 102 Hodges (EX), 130 Bauer (VG/EX), 137 Moon (EX), 139 The O'Brien Twins (EX), 166 Podres (EX), 201 Kaline (trimmed) and 239 Skowron (trimmed). Grades 16% NM to NM/MT, 65% EX to EX/MT, 16% VG to VG/EX, 3% trimmed. SMR value approaches $4,000.
1955 Carnival Candy "Who Am I?" Washington Shortstop SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded VG-EX 4 by SGC, this is the only card from this entire series graded to date by either SGC or PSA. Many advanced type card specialists will appreciate the opportunity to fill a hole found in most type-card collections. The rarity of this series is explained by the offer of a "VALUABLE FREE PRIZE" in exchange for a full set of cards with the correct names. This card should be Senators shortstop Jose Valivielso or Bobby Kline.
1955 Red Man Tobacco SGC-Graded Collection (32). Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, AL-22 Bauer; SGC 84 NM 7: 5 cards w/#'s AL-3 Ford, AL-5 Grim, AL-21 Piersall, NL-6 Maglie and NL-15 Hamner; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 6 cards w/#'s AL-10 Porterfield, AL-16 Berra, NL-9 Sarni, NL-14 Erskine, NL-17 Reese and NL-18 Schoendienst; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 4 cards w/#'s AL-7 Hegan, AL-14 Wynn, AL-20 Runnels and NL-8 Mueller; SGC 60 EX 5: 4 cards w/#'s AL-17 Coleman, AL-19 Jensen, AL-25 Consuegra and NL-11 Thompson; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 9 cards w/#'s AL-4 Fox, AL-12 Vernon, AL-18 Doby, AL-23 Carrasquel, NL-5 Logan, NL-12 Wilhelm, NL-21 Jablonski, NL-23 Bell and NL-25 Grissom; SGC 40 VG 3: 3 cards w/#'s AL-6 Harshman, AL-9 Noren and AL-11 Rosen. SMR value exceeds $1,300.
1955 Topps Jackie Robinson #50 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. Graded 92 NM/MT+ 8.5 by SGC, just two copies are known in higher grade. This card could have just been freed from an unopened pack. It displays the clearest portrait and brightest color hues one can imagine in this timeless card. This nearly flawless example of the Brooklyn Dodgers versatile HoFer and civil rights icon has only trace evidence of print imperfection to account for the grade. It's difficult to believe that there are two finer examples tucked deeply away into vintage collections. A well deserved grade for a card which sets itself apart from the rest for all good qualities just as the man did himself starting some 60 year ago.
1955 Topps Baseball Complete Set (206). This was Topps' first horizontally oriented baseball issue. The format presented dual portrait and action photos along with a facsimile signature. The format was a hit and was used again for the 1956 Topps issue. A total of 16 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA NM-MT 8: 5 cards w/#'s 56, 82, 123 Koufax, 164 Clemente (OC) and 170; PSA NM 7: 8 cards w/#'s 2 Williams, 4 Kaline, 24 Newhouser, 92 Zimmer, 187 Hodges, 189 Rizzuto, 194 Mays and 210 Snider; PSA EX-MT 6: 3 cards w/#'s 155 Mathews, 190 Woodling and 198 Berra. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Rhodes (EX), 28 Banks (EX), 31 Spahn (VG), 47 Aaron (EX), 50 Robinson (EX), 75 Amoros (EX), 100 Irvin (GD), 120 Kluszewski (EX), 124 Killebrew (VG/EX), 125 Boyer (VG), 152 Agganis (EX). Grades 8% NM to NM/MT, 74% EX to EX/MT, 18% VG to VG/EX. SMR value exceeds $7,000.
1955 Topps Double Headers Unperforated SGC-Graded Partial Set (36/66). Every card has been graded by SGC. The '55 Topps Double Header format owes its inspiration to the T201 Mecca Double Folders series sold some 40+year prior. The entire 36-card partial set is the scarcer "unperforated" variety. These cards are not easily found in high grade due to the limited storage options which accommodated the extended card size. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 Mint 9: 4 cards w/#s 51/52, 53/54, 57/58 and 73/74; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 6 cards w/#s 27/28 Rhodes, 71/72, 75/76, 93/94, 97/98 and 99/100; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 12 cards w/#s 9/10, 29/30, 35/36, 43/44, 55/56, 59/60, 61/62, 63/64, 65/66, 83/84, 85/86 and 107/108; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 5 cards w/#s 21/22, 49/50, 91/92, 103/104 and 125/126; SGC 84 NM 7: 7 cards w/#s 5/6, 23/24, 37/38, 39/40, 69/70 Williams, 101/102 and 127/128 Spahn; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #3/4 Irvin; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 1 card, #129/130.
1956 Topps Mid To High Grade Complete Set (340) Plus Both Checklists! This set represents the second consecutive year that Topps employed a horizontal card design featuring both a portrait and an action scene. In addition to the 340-card regular set, there are two unnumbered checklist cards included. A total of 36 cards (33 PSA, 2 SGC and 1 GAI) have been professionally graded. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA NM-MT 8.5: 1 card, #215; PSA NM-MT 8: 2 cards w/#'s 79 Koufax and 99 Zimmer; PSA NM-MT 8 (OC): 8 cards w/#'s 5 Williams, 83, 103, 110 Berra, 150 Snider, 175, 188 and 251 Yankees; PSA NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #82; PSA NM 7: 13 cards w/#'s 22, 30 Robinson, 31 Aaron, 43, 81, 120 Ashburn, 121 (MC), 134 (OC), 165 Schoendienst, 166 Dodgers, 200 Feller, 340 McDermott and Checklist 1/3; GAI NM 7: 1 card, #108; SGC 84 NM 7: 2 card w/#'s 25 Kluszewski and 140 Score; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 1 card, #10 Spahn; PSA EX-MT 6: 5 cards w/#'s 7, 88, 112, 135 Mantle and 141; PSA EX 5: 2 cards w/#'s 171 and 205. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Harridge (EX), 8 Alston (EX), 15 Banks (VG), 20 Kaline (EX), 33 Clemente (EX), 61 Skowron (EX), 101 Campanella (EX), 107 Mathews (EX), 109 Slaughter (VG/EX), 113 Rizzuto (EX), 118 Fox (EX/MT), 135 Mays (VG/EX), 145 Hodges (EX), 164 Killebrew (EX), 181 Martin (EX), 187 Wynn (VG/EX), 194 Irvin (EX), 208 Howard (EX/MT), 226 Giants Team (EX), 240 Ford (EX), 292 Aparicio (EX), 307 Wilhelm (VG/EX), 332 Larsen (VG/EX) and CL 2/4. Grades 23% NM to NM/MT, 70% EX to EX/MT, 7% VG to VG/EX. SMR value exceeds $3,500.
1957 Topps Frank Robinson #35 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. The Frank Robinson rookie card is one of the keys to completing a 1957 Topps set. The offered example would merit an even higher mark if centered just a bit more from left to right, a beautiful card in every other aspect. Robinson was signed by the Cincinnati Reds as an amateur free agent in 1953 and made his debut on April 17, 1956. He won the NL Rookie of the Year award in 1956, hitting 38 home runs at the age of 20. Of the 2,270 Robinson cards submitted to SGC and PSA, only 17 have graded higher.
1957 Topps Mike Garcia #300 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Mike Garcia had a 14-year career, 12 seasons with the Indians. A two-time twenty-game winner, he was 19-8 in 1954, with a league leading ERA for the AL pennant winners that year. Twice he also led the league in shutouts. A mighty dependable pitcher, his winning percentage of .594 shows his value. Of the 20 Garcia cards submitted to SGC, this is 1 of 3 to receive an 88 NM/MT grade with none graded higher.
1957 Topps Baseball Mid To High Grade Complete Set (407). Presented is a mid to high grade 1957 Topps baseball set. A very tough mid series and plenty of rookie cards, including Frank Robinson, Brooks Robinson, Jim Bunning, Rocky Colavito and more, makes this set from the 1950's one of the more desirable ones. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #164; PSA NM-MT 8: 4 cards w/#'s 70 Ashburn, 122 Boyer, 150 and 355 (ST); PSA NM-MT 8 (OC): 3 cards w/#'s 38 Fox, 165 Kluszewski and 215 Slaughter; PSA NM 7: 13 cards w/#'s 1 Williams, 18 Drysdale, 53, 76 Clemente, 98 Dark, 100 Harridge/Giles, 130 Newcombe, 140 Thomas, 170 Snider, 250 Mathews, 340, 341 and 407 Mantle/Berra (OC); PSA EX-MT 6: 3 cards w/#'s 20 Aaron, 90 Spahn and CL 1/2. Ungraded Cards - includes #'s 2 Berra (EX), 7 Aparicio (EX), 10 Mays (EX), 15 Roberts (EX), 24 Mazeroski (EX), 25 Ford (VG/EX), 30 Reese (EX), 35 Robinson (trimmed), 40 Wynn (EX), 55 Banks (EX), 62 Martin (EX), 80 Hodges (EX/MT), 85 Doby (VG/EX), 95 Mantle (VG), 97 Yankees Team (VG/EX), 121 Boyer (EX), 125 Kaline (EX), 203 Wilhelm (EX), 210 Campanella (GD/VG), 212 Colavito (trimmed, tape on reverse), 277 Podres (EX/MT), 286 Richardson (EX/MT), 302 Koufax (VG), 312 Kubek (GD/VG), 317 Giants Team (EX), 324 Dodgers Team (VG/EX), 328 Robinson (EX), 338 Bunning (VG/EX), 400 Dodgers' Sluggers (EX). Grades 24% NM to NM/MT, 69% EX to EX/MT, 7% VG to VG/EX (few lesser). SMR value exceeds $2,300.
1958 Hires Root Beer SGC-Graded Collection (36). Every card has been graded by SGC, some are among the finest examples submitted for grading to date. This one-time release owes its design to Bowman which had planned on using the "knot-hole" design for the gum maker's never-seen 1956 baseball edition. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 1 card, #58 Sullivan; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card #47 Nixon; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, #22 Narleski; SGC 84 NM 7: 13 cards w/#'s 24 Friend, 26 Nieman, 31 Kline, 37 Gardner, 38 Runnels, 46 Thomson, 48 Loes, 49 Sauer, 50 Antonelli, 51 Spencer, 52 Lehman, 62 Lockman and 72 Stephens; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 10 cards w/#'s 18 Brown, 30 Skinner, 32 Miranda, 33 Avila, 40 Sisler, 64 Grissom, 66 Zuvernik, 68 Busby, 70 Barclay and 71 Foiles; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 3 cards w/#'s 27 Thomas, 56 Jensen and 65 Baker; SGC 60 EX 5: 5 cards w/#'s 11 Carrasquel, 19 O'Connell, 35 Jablonski, 73 Worthington and 76 Pilarcik; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, #53 White; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, #75 Boyd.
1958 Topps Mickey Mantle #150 SGC 86 NM+ 7.5. High grade exemplar from the 1958 Topps issue featuring popular New York Yankees Hall of Fame outfielder Mickey Mantle. Just months before the release of this card, Mantle won his second consecutive AL MVP award in 1957, certainly keeping his eye on a third. The card exhibits light amounts of wear to corners with nice coloring and obvious slightly askew registration.
1958 Topps Pancho Herrera, Missing "a" #433 PSA NM 7. Graded NM 7 by PSA, one of three at this grade level with only a handful deemed higher. For vintage card enthusiasts the T206 "Magie" misspelling is the king of the printing mishaps. Hobbyists who specialize in 1950's have the famous Pancho Herrera missing "a" variation from the 1958 Topps baseball edition to pursue. Where the "Magie" error accounts for just about a full third of the submitted T206 Magee portraits (20 of 62), only 20 of the 268 (or a mere 7%) '58 Herrera cards submitted have been the missing "a" variation. Its uniqueness is hobby legend and it's desirability is beyond question. This particular beauty has rich lush coloring, a bright white frame, near perfect centering and of course, a fully missing "a" plus a partially missing "r" from Herrera's last name emblazoned across the top portion of the card. The last missing "a" variation in this condition sold over 2 years ago for just over $7,200.00. It is a hobby classic and one of the finer examples known to date.
1958 Topps Baseball 11-Card Uncut Strips (4). A process takes place before collectors are able to pull out individual cards from wax paper packs. In their original state cards are part of large production sheet which often contain over 100 cards. Offered is a scarce selection of four 11-card uncut strips from the high-number series from the 1958 Topps Baseball edition. Luckily, many cards are from the Sporting News All-Stars sub-set which appear as the final cards in the set and includes an exciting list of some of the greatest players of the era. Subjects include Hank Aaron, Luis Aparicio, Ernie Banks, Nellie Fox, Mickey Mantle (3), Willie Mays, Stan Musial (3), Frank Robinson, Warren Spahn, and Eddie Mathews and Ted Williams. These are unique items with both collectible Tremendous display value.
1958 Topps Baseball Complete Set (494). Offered is a 494-card complete set of 1958 Topps baseball cards. Highlights include: Graded - PSA NM 7: 4 cards w/#s 52 Clemente/White, 88 Snider, 375 Reese and 487 Mantle AS; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 3 cards w/#s 187 Koufax, 476 Musial AS and 485 Williams AS; PSA EX-MT 6: 1 card, #47 Maris; PSA EX+ 5.5: 1 card, #1 Williams; PSA EX 5: 4 cards w/#s 5 Mays, 30 Aaron/White, 150 Mantle, 418 Mantle/Aaron. Ungraded Cards - includes: #'s 25 Drysdale (EX/MT), 70 Kaline/White (VG/EX), 85 Aparicio (EX/MT), 90 Roberts (EX), 142 Slaughter (EX/MT), 162 Hodges (EX/MT), 190 Schoendienst (EX/MT), 238 Mazeroski (EX/MT), 270 Spahn (EX/MT), 285 F. Robinson (EX/MT), 288 Killebrew (EX/MT), 307 B. Robinson (EX/MT), 310 Banks (EX), 320 Ford (EX/MT), 343 Cepeda (EX/MT), 351 Crandall/Mathews/Aaron/Adcock (EX/MT), 370 Berra (EX/MT), 393 Kubek (EX/MT), 400 Fox (EX/MT), 436 Mays/Snider (VG/EX), 440 Mathews (EX/MT), 480 Mathews AS (EX/MT), 482 Banks AS (EX/MT), 484 F. Robinson AS (EX/MT), 486 Mays AS (), 488 Aaron AS (EX/MT) and 494 Spahn AS (EX). Grades 94% EX to EX/MT (more EX/MT) with four nicer, 6% VG to VG/EX with three lesser (all lesser are marked CLs).
1958 Topps Baseball Complete Set (494). The 1958 Topps baseball series consists of 494 cards and included "All-Star" cards for the first time. One card (#145) was not issued after Ed Bouchee was suspended from baseball. This issue is noted for bright colors and numerous star cards, including high profile rookies of Maris, Cepeda, and Flood. A few of the Yellow Letters are here in place of their white letter counterparts. A total of 27 cards (24 PSA, 2 GAI, 1 SGC) have been professionally graded. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA NM-MT 8.5: 1 card, #242; PSA NM-MT 8: 5 cards w/#'s 1 Williams (OC), 47 Maris (OC), 48, 203 and 491; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #494 Spahn AS; PSA NM 7: 15 cards w/#'s 50, 52 Clemente, 82, 174, 238 Mazeroski, 246 Yankees, 263, 307 Robinson, 375 Reese, 434 (ST), 436 Mays/Snider, 443, 448, 450 and 495; GAI NM 7: 2 cards w/#'s 13 YL and 88 Snider; PSA EX-MT 6: 3 cards w/#'s 30 Aaron YL, 70 Kaline YL and 487 Mantle AS. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 5 Mays (VG/EX), 19 Giants (VG/EX), 25 Drysdale (EX), 70 Kaline (EX), 85 Aparicio YL (EX), 88 Snider (EX/MT), 90 Roberts (EX), 100 Wynn (VG/EX), 101 Richardson (EX), 115 Bunning (VG/EX), 150 Mantle (VG/EX), 162 Hodges (VG/EX), 187 Koufax (VG/EX), 230 Ashburn (EX), 238 Mazeroski (VG/EX), 270 Spahn (EX), 271 Martin (EX), 285 Robinson (EX), 288 Killebrew (EX), 310 Banks (EX), 314 Alston/Snider (VG/EX), 320 Ford (EX/MT), 321 Williams/Kluszewski (EX/MT), 343 Cepeda (EX), 351 Braves Fence Busters (VG/EX), 368 Colavito (EX), 370 Berra (EX), 418 Mantle/Aaron (VG/EX), 420 Pinson (EX), 440 Mathews (miscut), 464 Flood (EX), 476 Musial AS (EX/MT), 480 Mathews AS (EX/MT), 482 Banks AS (EX/MT), 484 Robinson AS (EX), 485 Williams AS (NM, small), 486 Mays AS (trimmed), 488 Aaron AS (EX/MT), 494 Spahn AS (VG/EX). Grades 15% NM to NM/MT, 78% EX to EX/MT, 7% VG to VG/EX. SMR value exceeds $2,300.
1950's-1960's Topps, Fleer & Leaf Wax Pack Counter Display Box Collection (38). NOTE: The Fleer "Baseball Greats" box is from 1961, not "1960" as stated in the catalog.
Offered is a 38-piece collection of 1958 through 1969 Topps, Fleer and Leaf counter display boxes. Includes: 1958 Topps (3 Different) - All 5-Cent Wax. Dated '58 (Presents FR, tape repair) and Undated (Presents GD w/corner split and FR); 1959 Topps (2 Different) - Both 5-Cent Wax. Dated '59 (Presents FR, stapled repairs) and Undated, Final Series Sticker on bottom (Presents EX); 1960 Leaf (1) - 5-Cent Wax. Presents EX-MT; 1961 Fleer "Baseball Greats" (1) - Presents EX with minor rips into top panel; Early 1960's Generic (2) - Both 10-Cent and stamped "Baseball Series." Topps code "TG-3" Presents VG with taped corner and GD with taped corner and water stain; 1960 Topps (3) - All 5-Cent Wax. Fronts show graphics with catcher. One with "5th Series" sticker (GD), one with a sticker removed (VG) and one with corner split (FR); 1961 Topps (1) - Undated, 5-Cent Wax. Presents near EX, holes in bottom; 1961 Nu-card "Baseball Scoops" (1) - Presents VG, separated at one fold in top panel; 1962 Topps (2 Different) - Both 5-Cent Wax. Fronts: Great Major League Stars (Presents NM) and "Extra! Baseball Stamps (Presents VG/EX); 1963 Topps (2 Different) - Both 5-Cent Wax. Fronts: Generic Graphics (Presents EX/MT) and "Stickers in Every pack" (Presents VG/EX); 1964 Topps (2 Different) - Both 5-Cent Wax. Fronts: Generic Graphics (Presents GD, tape repair) and Musial/Metal Coins in pack (Presents GD w/pencil and pen marks); 1964 Topps "Giants" (1) - Presents EX-MT; 1965 Topps (4 Different) - Fronts: 1) Iron On Transfers (Presents GD), 2) Generic (Presents near EX), 3) Embossed All-Star (Presents EX-MT) and 4) Final Series Sticker (Presents GD w/ripped top panel; 1966 Topps (4) - Fronts: 1) Koufax Rub-Off (Presents EX with corner split), 2-4) Generic Graphics (Presents EX, VG, FR w/tape); 1967 (?) Topps Cello (1) - Presents VG; 1967 Topps (3 Different) - All 5-Cent Wax. Fronts: 1) Pin-Up (Presents GD w/separated top panel), 2) Generic, Gum Rush back panel (Presents near EX w/partially separated top panel) and 3) Generic with Frozen Pops back panel (Presents VG with marker on front panel, tape on top); 1968 Topps (2 Different) - Both 5-Cent Wax. Fronts: Generic graphics (Presents EX) and "Playing Card in Each Package" (Presents EX with one ding in top panel); 1969 Topps (3 Different) - Front Panels: 1) Deckle Edge (Presents FR, loose top), 2) Magic Rub-Off-Decals (Presents near EX) and 3) F. Howard and Rose (Presents VG/EX).
Offered is a 38-piece collection of 1958 through 1969 Topps, Fleer and Leaf counter display boxes. Includes: 1958 Topps (3 Different) - All 5-Cent Wax. Dated '58 (Presents FR, tape repair) and Undated (Presents GD w/corner split and FR); 1959 Topps (2 Different) - Both 5-Cent Wax. Dated '59 (Presents FR, stapled repairs) and Undated, Final Series Sticker on bottom (Presents EX); 1960 Leaf (1) - 5-Cent Wax. Presents EX-MT; 1961 Fleer "Baseball Greats" (1) - Presents EX with minor rips into top panel; Early 1960's Generic (2) - Both 10-Cent and stamped "Baseball Series." Topps code "TG-3" Presents VG with taped corner and GD with taped corner and water stain; 1960 Topps (3) - All 5-Cent Wax. Fronts show graphics with catcher. One with "5th Series" sticker (GD), one with a sticker removed (VG) and one with corner split (FR); 1961 Topps (1) - Undated, 5-Cent Wax. Presents near EX, holes in bottom; 1961 Nu-card "Baseball Scoops" (1) - Presents VG, separated at one fold in top panel; 1962 Topps (2 Different) - Both 5-Cent Wax. Fronts: Great Major League Stars (Presents NM) and "Extra! Baseball Stamps (Presents VG/EX); 1963 Topps (2 Different) - Both 5-Cent Wax. Fronts: Generic Graphics (Presents EX/MT) and "Stickers in Every pack" (Presents VG/EX); 1964 Topps (2 Different) - Both 5-Cent Wax. Fronts: Generic Graphics (Presents GD, tape repair) and Musial/Metal Coins in pack (Presents GD w/pencil and pen marks); 1964 Topps "Giants" (1) - Presents EX-MT; 1965 Topps (4 Different) - Fronts: 1) Iron On Transfers (Presents GD), 2) Generic (Presents near EX), 3) Embossed All-Star (Presents EX-MT) and 4) Final Series Sticker (Presents GD w/ripped top panel; 1966 Topps (4) - Fronts: 1) Koufax Rub-Off (Presents EX with corner split), 2-4) Generic Graphics (Presents EX, VG, FR w/tape); 1967 (?) Topps Cello (1) - Presents VG; 1967 Topps (3 Different) - All 5-Cent Wax. Fronts: 1) Pin-Up (Presents GD w/separated top panel), 2) Generic, Gum Rush back panel (Presents near EX w/partially separated top panel) and 3) Generic with Frozen Pops back panel (Presents VG with marker on front panel, tape on top); 1968 Topps (2 Different) - Both 5-Cent Wax. Fronts: Generic graphics (Presents EX) and "Playing Card in Each Package" (Presents EX with one ding in top panel); 1969 Topps (3 Different) - Front Panels: 1) Deckle Edge (Presents FR, loose top), 2) Magic Rub-Off-Decals (Presents near EX) and 3) F. Howard and Rose (Presents VG/EX).
1959 Oklahoma Today Mickey Mantle SGC 96 Mint 9. Graded 96 Mint 9 by SGC, one of only three total graded to date and by far the finest known example. Oklahoma Today was a publication which showcased the sights and points of interest in the great state of Oklahoma. The Summer issue from 1959 featured an article about players from Oklahoma and an inserted page of 20 "stamps" dedicated to those athletes. Mickey Mantle is the "key" subject of this obscure promotion. This is a scarce Mantle collectible in the optimal condition.
1959 Topps Bob Gibson #514 SGC 96 Mint 9. The offered high-numbered rookie card has all of the attributes one would expect in such a high-grade exemplar; flawless centering, clean white borders, sharp corners and a brilliant surface highlight this seemingly pack-fresh card. Bob Gibson was one of the last of his breed, a tough, durable pitcher who used intimidation to dominate hitters through most of the 1960's. He was 156-81 from 1963 to 1970, including one of the best seasons a pitcher has ever had in 1968: 22-9, 1.12 ERA and 13 shutouts. The pitching mound was lowered in 1969, in large part due to Gibson's dominance. Among his accomplishments; 8-time NL All-Star, NL MVP in 1968, 2-time NL Cy Young Award Winner, 1964 and 1967 World Series MVP awards and 9-time NL Gold Glove Winner. Of the 213 Gibson cards submitted to SGC, this is 1 of only 4 to receive a 96 Mint 9 grade with none graded higher.
1959 Topps Baseball Complete Set (572). The colorful 1959 Topps baseball series drew to a close the first, and most highly regarded decades of baseball card production. Today, the 572-card set remains widely popular among modern hobbyists. This high grade set is virtually crease/wrinkle free and offers vibrant colors, bright borders and quality corners throughout. A total of 46 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 3 cards w/#'s 290, 374 Ditmar and 413; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 10 cards w/#'s 223 Cardinals, 263, 282, 303, 329 Tigers, 356, 391, 400 Jensen, 423 and 424; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 21 cards w/#'s 16, 26, 31, 78, 91, 93, 98, 110, 193, 240 Bauer, 291, 304 Cubs, 332, 364, 397 Senators, 399, 418, 419 Brewers, 425, 426 and 438; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #129; SGC 84 NM 7: 9 cards w/#'s 20 Snider, 79, 82, 202 Maris, 246, 352 Roberts, 408 Fox/Aparicio, 469 Banks BT and 478 Clemente; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 2 cards w/#'s 10 Mantle and 50 Mays. Ungraded Cards - include 40 Spahn (EX), 102 Alou (EX), 150 Musial (EX), 163 Koufax (EX), 180 Berra (EX), 260 Wynn (EX/MT), 270 Hodges (EX), 295 Martin (EX), 300 Ashburn (EX), 317 NL Hitting Kings (EX/MT), 338 Anderson (VG/EX), 350 Banks (VG/EX), 360 Kaline (EX), 380 Aaron (EX), 387 Drysdale (VG/EX), 430 Ford (NM), 435 Robinson (EX/MT), 439 Robinson (VG/EX), 450 Mathews (miscut), 461 Mantle HL (EX), 464 Mays HL (NM), 467 Aaron HL (EX/MT), 468 Snider HL (EX/MT), 470 Musial HL (EX/MT), 509 Cash (VG/EX), 510 Yankees Team (VG), 514 Gibson (EX), 515 Killebrew (EX), 543 Corsair Trio (EX/MT), 550 Campanella (EX), 559 Banks AS (VG), 561 Aaron AS (VG/EX), 562 Kaline AS (EX), 563 Mays AS (EX), 564 Mantle AS (VG/EX), 571 Spahn AS (VG). Grades 25% NM to NM/MT, 62% EX to EX/MT, 13% VG to VG/EX.
1947-1966 Exhibits Whitey Ford Portrait PSA Mint 9. Produced by the Exhibit Supply Co. of Chicago, these issues cover a span of 20 years. Each unnumbered, black-and-white card is printed on heavy cardboard measuring 3-3/8" x 5-3/8" and is blank-backed. Of the 14 Ford Portrait cards submitted to PSA, this is the lone Mint 9 example with none graded higher.
1947-1966 Exhibits Mickey Mantle Portrait PSA NM-MT 8. Produced by the Exhibit Supply Co. of Chicago, these issues cover a span of 20 years. Each unnumbered, black-and-white card is printed on heavy cardboard measuring 3-3/8" x 5-3/8" and is blank-backed. Of the 22 Mantle Portrait cards submitted to PSA, this is 1 of only 5 to receive a NM-MT 8 grade with just one graded higher (8.5).
1947-1966 Exhibits Mickey Mantle, Portrait SGC 96 Mint 9. This exhibit portrays Mickey in the 1960's as the leading star of the Yankee machine and the undeniable key entry to this massive edition. A perfect candid angle shot of "The Mick" in his home pinstripes with a facsimile signature across his chest. Corners are of the sharpest nature and the reverse displays virtually no marks, stains or any other imperfections. One does not exist in a better grade, this one is a keeper!
1947-1966 Exhibit Baseball Hall of Famers SGC 96 Mint 9 Trio (3). Each card has been graded 96 Mint 9 by SGC. Issued over the span of almost 20 years, this massive series is a playground of hall of famers, variations and scarce subjects. We offer three members of Baseball's Hall of Fame and each is assessed at the pinnacle of condition. The judgement all the more eyebrow raising as SGC submitters know the firm tends to be tougher on postcard sized issues. The lot includes: Yogi Berra/"Yogi Berra" (SGC 96 Mint 9), Eddie Mathews/Name spelled "Matthews" (SGC 96 Mint 9) and Willie Mays/Portrait (SGC 96 Mint 9).
1947-66 Exhibit Baseball High End SGC-Graded Collection (16). Each card has been graded by SGC. Filled with stars, superstars, teams and variations, this small but very enticing selection offers some of the finest examples ever graded for these subjects by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 Mint 9: 4 cards w/Friend, Kubek/Dark Background, Maglie and Pierce; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 3 cards w/Fox, Maris and Roberts/Plain Script; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 4 cards w/Alvis, Reese/Partial Ball Showing, Wertz/Batting and Yankees-1952; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 3 cards w/ Bauer/NY Cap, Ennis and Dodgers-1952; SGC 84 NM 7: 1 card, Minoso; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, F. Robinson.
1960 Fleer "Baseball Greats" Collection (187). A nice selection of 1960 Fleer Baseball Greats including #72 Williams which has been graded SGC 96 Mint 9. This collection contains an amazing amount of Hall of Famers. The back of the cards give their career highlights and any World Series totals if they played. A total of 21 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 4 cards w/#'s 58 Gehringer, 60 Grove, 64 and 72 Williams; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 9 cards w/#'s 18, 20 Collins, 37, 40 Tinker, 41 Baker, 62 Wagner, 64, 74 and 75; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 7 cards w/#'s 36 Ott, 42 Cobb (2), 44, 59, 61 and 62 Wagner; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, #62 Wagner. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 2 Mathewson (3: EX/MT and 2 EX), 3 Ruth (EX), 6 Johnson (2: both EX/MT), 26 Feller (2: both EX/MT), 28 Gehrig (VG/EX), 42 Cobb (2: EX/MT and EX), 47 Young (2: NM and EX/MT), 53 Foxx (2: both EX/MT), 72 Williams (VG/EX). Grades 34% NM to NM/MT, 61% EX to EX/MT, 5% VG to VG/EX. SMR value approaches $2,000.
1961 Chemstrand Baseball PSA Gem MT 10 Collection (5). Every card has been graded Gem MT 10 by PSA. A unimprovable selection of these scarce collectibles. Includes: Graded: PSA GEM MT 10: 5 cards, Ernie Banks, Yogi Berra, Al Kaline, Harmon Killebrew and Frank Malzone.
1961 Fleer Johnny Mize #63 PSA Gem Mint 10 - Only "Gem MT 10" Known. Johnny Mize fits right in with the stellar Hall of Fame line up greats which comprise this popular edition. This beauty has everything a hobbyist looks for in cards deemed the highest of quality. A unique condition rarity and the finest example known to date.
1961 Golden Press Baseball PSA-Graded Complete Set (33). A theme of excellence permeates this offering, as the top condition of this classic set matches the elite status of the Cooperstown enshrinees honored within. Highlights include: Graded - PSA MINT 9: 23 cards w/#s 4 Greenberg, 5 Terry, 6 Hubbell, 7 Hornsby, 8 Dean, 10 Gehringer, 11, 12 Cochrane, 13, 14, 15 Traynor, 16 Gehrig, 17 Grove, 18 Bender, 19, 20, 21 Baker, 22 Foxx, 23 McGraw, 25 Cobb, 26, 27 Dickey and 28; PSA NM-MT 8: 10 cards w/#s 1 Ott, 2 Alexander, 3 Ruth, 9 DiMaggio, 24 Mathewson, 29 Johnson, 30 Speaker, 31 Lajoie, 32 Wagner and 33 Young. SMR value exceeds $2,500.
1961 Nu-Card "Baseball Scoops" High Grade Complete Set (80). The Nu-card set is a collaboration of baseball's most memorable highlights. All cards are presented in an individual newspaper front-page style that makes for a unique and informational baseball set. (This set is numbered 401 to 480). A total of 44 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded - SGC 98 GEM MINT 10: 4 cards w/#'s 402 Spahn, 415 Richardson, 430 Turley and 451; SGC 96 MINT 9: 24 cards w/#'s 404 Mays, 405, 406, 411, 413, 421 Musial, 423, 425 Schoendienst, 427 Mays, 435, 439 Williams, 445 Rizzuto, 446, 452 Williams, 453 Berra, 454, 455 Ruth, 460 Feller, 466, 468, 469, 471 Wynn, 475 and 477 Mathewson; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 9 cards w/#'s 407, 408. 412 Mathews, 416 Maris, 422 Mantle, 434 Dickey, 438 DiMaggio, 458 Ott and 479 Hubbell; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 7 cards w/#'s 409, 424 Gehrig, 428 Robinson, 462 Aaron, 463 Spahn, 470 and 478. Ungraded Cards - including #'s 420 Banks (NM/MT), 429 Campanella (NM), 437 Reese (NM/MT), 443 Cobb (NM/MT), 447 Ruth (NM), 448 Young (NM), 450 Mantle (NM) and 467 DiMaggio (NM/MT). Grades 76% NM to NM/MT, 24% EX to EX/MT (some lesser). SMR value exceeds $1,500.
1961 Peters Meats Minnesota Twins Near Set (25/26). The long and history filled run of the Washington Senators came to an end in 1960 when the team folded and the baseball lights went out in our nation's capital. In 1961, bright new lights lit up the darkness as the Minnesota Twins were born. Naturally, local businesses took advantage with special promotions showcasing the new team. These promos were limited to the local region and are not common in today's market. One of the more popular was the Peter's Meats set of 26 cards which were issued in various formats as part of the packages of hotdogs and other meat products. The key to this set is HoFer Harmon Killebrew (EX+). This 25-card presentation (missing #25) offers the 5-3/8" x 3-3/4" and 4-7/8" x 4-1/2" full back panel style formats. The set presents at the EX to EX/MT levels with a few slightly lesser due to creasing/surface scratches. None have the heavy grease stains associated with this production.
1961 Topps Brooks Robinson #10 PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA, the highest grade available as not one "10" has been submitted. The Hall of Fame third baseman who earned the name "The Human Vacuum Cleaner," Brooks Robinson is the subject of this quality cardboard from the 1961 Topps set. Bright, fresh colors and precision centering.
1961 Topps Checklist 265-352, Copyright at 336 #273 PSA Gem Mint 10. Thankfully this card was never used for which it was intended. Absolutely problem free and the only checked box will be the one the winner takes off his want list after adding this quality entry to his/her collection.
1961 Topps Baseball SGC 96 Mint 9 Collection (35). Every card has been graded 96 Mint 9 by the conservative eyes of SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 MINT 9: 35 cards w/#'s 4 Green, 9 Purkey, 13 Cottier, 17 Checklist, 18 Grant, 23 Demeter, 26 Stock, 34 Hawkins, 37 Maxwell, 52 Crowe, 55 Davenport, 60 Held, 64 Grammas, 75 Lindy Shows Larry, 83 Bruce, 94 Kucks, 101 Phillips, 103 Amaro, 129 Hobaugh, 172 Dillard, 190 Williams, 193 Conley, 199 Boyd, 203 Bressoud, 391 Brown, 397 Woodeshick, 420 Broglio, 428 Barker SP, 452 Allen, 453 Schofield, 454 Green, 455 Wynn and 519 Pagliaroni. SMR value exceeds $3,000.
1961 Topps Baseball Mid to High Grade Complete Set (587). The season the M&M boys were rewriting the record books must have made tearing open wax packs that much more of a thrill for youngsters hoping to find one of these two Yankee idols. The clean format color photographic portraits make this a collector favorite as well. A total of 58 cards (52 PSA, 4 SGC, 2 BVG) have been professionally graded. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA MINT 9: 3 cards w/#'s 95 Cash, 138 (PD) and 374; PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #124; PSA NM-MT 8: 22 cards w/#'s 17 CL, 21, 25, 65 Kluszewski, 219, 307 Mantle WS, 344 Koufax (OC), 347, 388 Clemente, 402, 406 Mantle BT, 410, 417 Marichal, 443 Snider, 532 (OC), 556, 560, 573, 574 Aparicio AS, 580 Robinson AS, 581 Kaline AS and 582; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, #577 Aaron AS; PSA NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #576 Maris AS; BVG 7.5 NM+: 1 card, #10 Robinson; PSA NM 7: 23 cards w/#'s 1 Groat, 80 Killebrew, 113, 160 Ford, 230, 300 Mantle (OC), 350 Banks, 360 Robinson, 396, 401 Ruth BT, 404, 408 Mathewson BT, 409 Johnson BT, 421, 425 Berra, 455 Wynn, 477 Fox MVP, 482 Mays MVP, 524, 533, 545 Wilhelm, 551 and 578 Mantle AS; SGC 84 NM 7: 3 cards w/#'s 150 Mays, 484 Aaron MVP and 538; BVG 7 NM: 1 card, #478 Maris MVP; PSA EX-MT 6: 1 card, #535. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 2 Maris (EX), 10 Robinson (EX), 35 Santo (EX), 41 Clemente/Mays LL (EX/MT), 44 Mantle/Maris LL (VG/EX), 120 Mathews (EX/MT), 141 Williams (EX), 200 Spahn (EX), 207 Dodger Southpaws (NM), 211 Gibson (EX), 228 Yankees Team (EX), 260 Drysdale (VG), 287 Yastrzemski (VG/EX), 290 Musial (EX), 371 Skowron SP (EX/MT), 405 Gehrig HL (EX/MT), 415 Aaron (EX/MT), 429 Kaline (VG), 430 Mazeroski SP (VG), 460 Hodges (EX/MT), 472 Berra MVP (NM), 475 Mantle MVP (EX), 480 Campanella MVP (VG/EX), 485 Banks MVP (EX), 517 McCovey (EX), 571 Mazeroski AS (VG/EX), 572 Robinson AS (EX/MT), 575 Banks AS (VG/EX), 579 Mays AS (EX), 586 Ford AS (EX/MT), 589 Spahn AS (EX). Grades 24% NM to NM/MT, 67% EX to EX/MT, 9% VG to VG/EX. SMR value approaches $4,000.
1962 Exhibits Baseball Near Master Set (63/64) - #1 on the PSA Set Registry! Set GPA: 6.40; Set Ranking: #1 on the PSA Set Registry. The Exhibit Supply Co. had been producing sets since the early parts of the 20th Century but was soon to be an entity of the past. This set is one of the final original sets produced by the prolific firm. Every card in this presentation is among the finest copies recorded to date. Missing Gentile/Red for completion. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 1 card, Moon/Red; PSA NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/Ford and Mays/Red; PSA NM 7: 16 cards w/Aaron/Red, Banks/Red, Cash, Cepeda/Red, Ford/Red, Gentile, Groat, Kaline, Koufax, Koufax/Red, Landis/Red, Mahaffey/Red, Mantle/Red, Moon, Musial and Spahn/Red; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 14 cards w/Aparicio, Aparicio/Red, Boyer/Red, Burdette, Cash/Red, Cepeda, Colavito/Red, Francona/Red, Hoak, Mahaffey, Mantle, Mays, Pappas and Siebern; PSA EX-MT 6: 20 cards w/Aaron, Berra, Berra/Red, Boyer, Burdette/Red, Clemente/Red, Colavito, Fox, Fox/Red, Groat/Red, Hoak/Red, Kaline/Red, Killebrew, Killebrew/Red, Malzone, Malzone/Red, Maris, Pappas/Red, Pinson and Siebern/Red; PSA EX+ 5.5: 2 cards w/Banks and Francona; PSA EX 5: 7 cards w/Landis, Maris/Red, Mathews, Mathews/Red, Musial/Red, Pinson/Red and Spahn; PSA VG-EX 4 (MK): 1 card, Clemente.
1962 Post Cereal Yogi Berra #7 PSA Gem Mint 10. Hand cut PSA Gem Mint 10 card from the 1962 Post Cereal issue features Hall of Fame catcher Yogi Berra with the New York Yankees. Of the 44 Berra cards submitted to PSA, this is 1 of only 2 to receive a Gem Mint 10 grade with none higher.
1962 Topps Ted Savage #104 SGC 98 Gem 10 - The Only Known Gem 10! Ted Savage was the International League MVP in 1961 with the Buffalo Bisons and played for eight teams in a nine-year major league career. His best season was 1970, when he posted a line of .279/.402/.482 in 276 at-bats for the 1970 Milwaukee Brewers. Of the 21 Savage cards submitted to SGC, this is the lone 98 Gem 10 example with none graded higher.
1962 Topps Baseball SGC 96 Mint 9 Collection (8). Every card has been graded 96 Mint 9 by SGC, each is among the finest examples graded to date. Includes: Graded: SGC 96 MINT 9: 8 cards w/#'s 19, 23, 101, 104, 152, 156, 181 and 512. The SMR value exceeds $1,350.00.
1962 Topps Baseball High Grade Complete Set (598). A total of 43 cards (42 PSA and 1 GAI) have been professionally graded. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA MINT 9: 2 cards w/#'s 406 and 451; PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 3 cards w/#'s 277 CL, 340 Drysdale and 583; PSA NM-MT 8: 18 cards w/#'s 10 Clemente, 25 Banks, 31 Tresh, 45 Robinson, 50 Musial, 51, 52 Clemente LL, 53 Maris/Mantle LL, 54 Mays LL, 73 Fox, 76, 101, 140 Ruth/Gehrig, 183, 395 Mays AS, 475 Ford AS, 576 and 584; PSA NM+ 7.5: 3 cards w/#'s 200 Mantle, 350 Robinson and 543; GAI NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #530 Gibson; PSA NM 7: 13 cards w/#'s 5 Koufax, 18 Mantle/Mays, 30 Mathews, 70 Killebrew, 150 Kaline, 320 Aaron, 345, 471 Mantle AS, 524, 544 McCovey, 550, 575 Schoendienst, 594 Uecker and 595; PSA EX-MT 6: 3 cards w/#'s 199 Perry, 300 Mays and 425 Yastrzemski. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Maris (EX/MT), 60 Koufax/Drysdale LL (NM), 99 Powell (EX/MT), 100 Spahn (EX/MT), 139 Ruth (EX/MT), 167 McCarver (EX/MT), 218 Torre (EX/MT), 251 Yankees Team (EX/MT), 288 Williams (NM), 310 Ford (EX), 313 Maris IA (EX), 315 Ford IA (EX), 317 Musial IA (EX/MT), 318 Mantle IA (EX/MT), 360 Berra (VG), 387 Brock (GD/VG), 394 Aaron AS (EX), 396 Robinson AS (VG/EX), 401 Maris/Cepeda (EX), 500 Snider (VG/EX), 505 Marichal (EX), 592 Bouton (EX), 596 Pepitone (EX), 598 Hickman (EX). Grades 47% NM to NM/MT, 48% EX to EX/MT, 5% lesser. SMR value exceeds $5,000. All 8.5's and 7.5's were figured at 8 and 7 prices respectively.
1963 Fleer Baseball Complete Set (66). A total of 6 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include - #'s 4 Robinson (EX), 5 Mays (EX), 8 Yastrzemski (EX), 18 Lee (SGC 96 NM/MT 9), 25 Richardson (EX), 33 Freese (SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5), 38 Farrell (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 41 Drysdale (SGC 84 NM 7), 42 Koufax (SGC 70 EX+ 5.5), 43 Wills (EX), 45 Spahn (VG), 46 Adcock (VG), 56 Clemente (SGC 70 EX+ 5.5), 61 Gibson (EX). Grades 15% NM to NM/MT, 72% EX to EX/MT, 13% VG to VG/EX (one lesser). SMR exceeds $400.
1963 Fleer Baseball Complete Set (66) Plus Checklist. 1963 was the one brief year a nationally issued baseball card set appeared which didn't have the Topps brand name. Thankfully, peppered among the 66 subjects chosen (plus a rare unnumbered checklist) is a nice selection of the day's top names who would eventually make their way into Baseball's Hall of Fame. Foregoing the gum insert standard, a small cookie was enclosed in each pack as an added bonus. A total of 8 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include - #'s 4 Robinson (EX), 5 Mays (SGC 84 NM 7), 8 Yastrzemski (SGC 86 NM+ 7.5), 41 Drysdale (SGC 70 EX+ 5.5), 42 Koufax (EX), 43 Wills (SGC 86 NM+ 7.5), 45 Spahn (EX), 46 Adcock (VG/EX), 47 Craig (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 55 Burgess (SGC 84 NM 7), 56 Clemente (SGC 84 NM 7), 61 Gibson (PSA EX-MT 6), 64 Cepeda (SGC 84 NM 7), CL (GD, marked then erased). Grades 28% NM to NM/MT, 60% EX to EX/MT, 12% VG to VG/EX (with one lesser)
1963 I.D.L. Drug Stores Roberto Clemente PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA, one of four at this exalted level. One of the more obscure and coveted Clemente regional is this unassuming 4" x 5" one-color promotions circulated by I.D.L. Drug Stores in 1963. Every subject has a total population of nine or fewer.
1963 I.D.L. Drug Stores Willie Stargell PSA Mint 9 - Pop 1-of-1 with None Higher! Graded Mint 9 by PSA, this is the only example to be graded at this level. This extremely tough to find regional not only features a Hall of Fame Member in Willie Stargell but this 4"x x 5" rarity was circulated during his rookie season of 1963. A very scarce collectible certain to entice the most passionate Pittsburgh Pirates or Stargell enthusiast.
1963 Topps Mickey Mantle #200 SGC 96 Mint 9. The only example recorded to date at the coveted 96 Mint 9 level by SGC. Few would debate the validity of the statement, "Mickey Mantle is one of Baseball's greatest athletes" and "This is one of his finest Topps collectibles." Topps' dual-portrait format for the 1963 edition made for one of the firm's most visually exciting productions. Here, Mantle is portrayed displaying the tool which helped make him a legend, his trusty bat and a full-color more formal portrait, lacking only that all-american smile. The quality of the near perfect centering, (yes, it does sit a sliver from perfection), the four razor sharp corner tips, blemish free surfaces and the bright hues all combine to equal the highest graded of the over 325 judged by the conservative SGC judges. A premier investment quality specimen.
1963 Topps Hank Aaron #390 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. One of the most universally respected players ever to play the game, any Hank Aaron card makes a wonderful addition to any collection. Just the hint of fuzziness at one outer corner tip away from greater technical glory. Pack fresh in appearance, this beauty is top rate in almost all categories.
1963 Topps Bob Clemente #540 PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA, among the top 2% of the over 1,300 Topps '63 Clemente cards submitted to date. One of the most attractive cards of Puerto Rican legend and HOF outfielder Roberto Clemente of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Card exhibits blazing colors and precision registration. Clean on the front and back.
1964 Topps Mickey Mantle #50 SGC 96 Mint 9. A perfect way to remember the last of the Mick's postseason appearances. In all, Mantle and the Yankees appeared in 12 World Series over a 14-year span (1951-1964). It was a bittersweet ending in 1964, with the Cardinals defeating the Yankees in seven games. It would be difficult to improve upon this card's pack fresh appearance; though if one were to nitpick, slightly better centering could have arguably pushed it to the lone top position of SGC's population chart. Of the 429 Mantle cards submitted to SGC, this is 1 of only 3 to receive a 96 Mint 9 grade with none graded higher.
1964 Topps Baseball High Grade Complete Set (598). A total of 9 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include - #'s 1 Koufax LL (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 5 Koufax/Drysdale LL (NM), 9 Mays/Aaron LL (NM), 21 Berra (EX/MT), 29 Brock (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 35 Mathews (EX), 50 Mantle (SGC 86 NM+ 7.5), 55 Banks (SGC 84 NM 7), 120 Drysdale (SGC 84 NM 7), 125 Rose (EX), 146 John RC (EX), 150 Mays (EX), 155 Snider (EX), 167 Piniella (EX/MT), 177 Killebrew (EX), 200 Koufax (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 210 Yastrzemski (EX), 225 Maris (SGC 84 NM 7), 230 Robinson (EX), 243 Allen (EX), 250 Kaline (EX), 260 Robinson (EX/MT), 287 Conigliaro (EX), 300 Aaron (EX), 306 Mays/Cepeda (EX/MT), 331 A.L. Bombers (miscut), 342 Stargell (EX), 350 McCovey (EX), 380 Ford (EX/MT), 400 Spahn (EX), 423 Aaron/Mays (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 440 Clemente (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 460 Gibson (EX/MT), 468 Perry (EX) and 541 Niekro (EX). Grades 17% NM to NM/MT, 76% EX to EX/MT, 7% VG to VG/EX. SMR value exceeds $1,600.
1965 Bazooka Panel with Bob Clemente #13/14/15 SGC 98 Gem 10. Panel of three cards graded SGC 98 Gem Mint 10 includes Bob Veale, Roberto Clemente and Johnny Callison. Of the 69 Bazooka panels submitted to SGC, this is 1 of only 3 grading 98 Gem 10 and the lone example featuring Clemente.
1965 Topps Baseball SGC 96 Mint 9 Collection (17 Different). Every card has ben graded by 96 Mint 9 by SGC, each equals the highest available grade known and has a population of five or fewer. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 Mint 9: 17 cars w/#'s 37, 39, 43, 81, 84, 91 Cubs, 97 Gonzalez (pop 1-of-1 with none higher), 102, 106, 116 Rookies, 152, 231 Adair (1-of-1 with none higher), 233 Zimmer (1-of-2 with none higher), 239 Edwards (1-of-1 with none higher), 247 Moon (pop 1-of-1 with none higher), 253 Carter (1-of-1 with none higher) and 274 Harris (pop 1-of-1 with none higher). SMR value is just over $1,100.00.
1965 Topps Embossed Baseball Mid to High Grade Collection (198). Offered is a 198-card collection of the uniquely designed 1965 Topps Embossed insert cards. The delicate gold foil was bruised easily resulting in high grade examples a challenging task for the modern hobbyist. A total of 13 card have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 4 cards w/#'s 16 Robinson, 25 Bouton, 38 and 52; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 5 cards w/#'s 5 Skowron, 13 Kaline, 35, 45 Cepeda and 58 Banks; SGC 84 NM 7: 4 cards w/#'s 11 Mantle, 40 Williams, 58 Banks and 65 Richardson. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Yastrzemski (3: 2 EX and 1 VG/EX), 8 Koufax (EX), 11 Mantle (4: EX/MT and 3 EX), 13 Kaline (3: 2 EX/MT and EX), 15 Drysdale (2: NM and EX), 16 Robinson (3: EX/MT and 2 EX), 19 Clemente (EX/MT), 22 Robinson (2: EX/MT and EX), 26 Mathews (2: NM and EX), 27 Mays (2: both EX), 56 Killebrew (3: EX/MT and 2 EX), 59 Aaron (3: 2 EX and VG) and 69 Gibson (NM). Grades 10% NM to NM/MT, 80% EX to EX/MT, 5% VG to VG/EX.
1967 Topps Mets Rookies-Tom Seaver #581 PSA NM-MT 8. When this card was issued in 1967, little could anyone have realized just what a contribution the young man on the right side of this card would make to the game. Just 2 years later, a 24-year old Seaver posted a record of 25-7 during the regular season and, along with fellow pitching phenom Nolan Ryan, made the 1969 Miracle Mets World Series champions. "Terrific" representation including slick gloss, precision centering and three mint corners. A bit of fuzziness in the lower left accounts for the technical grade. This example is ripe for grade review.
1968 Topps Mets Rookie Stars-Nolan Ryan/Koosman #177 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Far and away the most important and valuable card in the 1968 set is the one that introduced the future strike out king to the baseball world. Boasting a physical appearance worthy of royalty, this important rookie representation features sharp corners and strong centering to go along with its sharp registration. Just ten examples have ever charted higher in SGC history.
1968 Topps Johnny Bench Rookie #247 PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA. Important rookie card of the popular backstop Johnny Bench remains in Mint condition. Great looking card judged the experts at PSA.
1968 Topps Johnny Bench #247 SGC 98 Gem 10 - Highest Graded Example! Graded 98 Gem MT 10 by SGC, the only copy at this unimprovable grade level with over 450 challengers failing to, yes, we're going to say it, make the grade. Few could argue the immense success of the "Big Red Machine" was the heart of the team-Johnny Bench. This rookie year Bench collectible is to this day a 1-of-1 rarity and may never be matched. Its hues, glossy blemish free surfaces, razor sharp corners and centering, all converged to give the hobby this ultimate Bench rookie card. For the 1968 Topps set aficionado who desires the best, this is undoubtedly it. Superb Gem Mint condition.
1968 Topps Baseball High End Complete Set (598). Offered is a 598-card mid to high grade complete set of 1968 Topps baseball cards. A total of 6 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include - #'s 1 Clemente LL (EX/MT), 3 Clemente/Aaron LL (EX), 20 Robinson (NM), 45 Seaver (PSA NM 7), 50 Mays (EX/MT), 58 Mathews (VG/EX), 80 Carew (EX), 86 Stargell (NM), 100 Gibson (EX/MT), 110 Aaron (PSA NM-MT 8), 144 Morgan (EX), 145 Drysdale (EX/MT), 150 Clemente (NM), 177 Ryan (PSA NM 7), 205 Marichal (NM), 220 Killebrew (EX/MT), 230 Rose (EX/MT), 240 Kaline (EX/MT), 247 Bench (VG/EX), 250 Yastrzemski (NM), 280 Mantle (PSA NM-MT 8), 290 McCovey (PSA MINT 9), 330 Maris (PSA NM-MT 8), 355 Banks (EX), 363 Carew AS (EX), 369 Yastrzemski AS (EX), 370 Aaron AS (EX), 374 Clemente AS (EX), 378 Gibson AS (EX), 385 Hunter (NM), 408 Carlton (VG/EX), 480 Manager's Dream (EX), 490 Mantle/Mays/Killebrew (EX/MT), 500 Robinson (EX), 520 Brock (EX), 528 Tigers (VG/EX), 530 Bird Belters (EX), 575 Palmer (EX). Grades 27% NM to NM/MT, 65% EX to EX/MT, 8% VG to VG/EX. SMR value approaches $1,400.
Baseball Collectibles
1968 Topps Baseball Cello Pack with HoFer Don Drysdale Showing-B GAI-Graded. Graded GAI EX-MT+ 6.5, this scarce cello pack has survived 40 years and still looks about as fresh as the day it was first sold. The wonderful thing about this cello is the last card in the pile which is card #145 Dodgers HoF pitcher Don Drysdale. Dodgers star John Roseboro (card #65) graces the top of the small stack. Assuming all cards inside are from the 1st or 2nd series, other possibilities are Aaron, Clemente, Perez, World Series, League Leaders, Carew, Seaver, and maybe even a Nolan Ryan rookie.
Baseball Cards
1969 Topps Padres Rookies #637 PSA Gem Mint 10 - Pop 1-of-1. Graded Gem MT 10 by PSA, the only example at this grade. A fresh from the pack stunner and a condition rarity.
1969 Topps Baseball High End Complete Set (664). Offered is a high grade 1969 Topps baseball set. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA GEM MINT 10: 1 card, #11 A.L. SO Leaders; PSA MINT 9: 10 cards w/#'s 4 McCovey/Williams LL, 80 Cash, 180, 207, 241, 250 Robinson, 337, 414, 428 Brock AS and 545 Stargell; PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 5 cards w/#'s 95 Bench, 269, 390, 616 and 620; PSA NM-MT 8: 12 cards w/#'s 3, 6 McCovey/Banks LL, 9, 54, 73, 100 Aaron, 130 Yastrzemski, 175, 222, 292, 410 Kaline and 601 McGraw; PSA NM 7: 6 cards w/#'s 120 Rose, 150 McLain, 190 Mays, 260 Jackson, 295 Perez and 510 Carew; PSA EX-MT 6: 1 card, #533 Ryan; PSA EX 5: 1 card, #500 Mantle. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Yaz LL (EX), 2 Rose LL (EX), 20 Banks (NM), 35 Morgan (NM), 50 Clemente (EX), 85 Brock (EX/MT), 99 Nettles (EX/MT), 200 Gibson (NM), 255 Carlton (NM), 375 Killebrew (EX/MT), 400 Drysdale (EX/MT), 424 Rose AS (EX/MT), 425 Yastrzemski AS (NM), 430 Bench AS (EX/MT), 440 McCovey (NM), 480 Seaver (NM), 485 Perry (EX), 550 Robinson (NM), 573 Palmer (NM), 597 Fingers (NM), 630 Bonds (NM), 650 Williams (NM). Grades 32% NM to NM/MT, 62% EX to EX/MT, 6% VG to VG/EX.
1969 & 1970 Transogram Baseball Collection (73) - Includes Many HoFers! Transogram was a toy maker which produced small plastic figures which truth be told had little to no resemblance to the intended subject. They did however very wisely incorporate full-color cards as part of the back panel of the thin cardboard toy boxes. Issued in 1969 and 1970, this 73-card selection is filled with mostly full, or very close to full size examples and an extended list of HoFers. Highlighted by: Aaron (GD), Banks (EX/MT), Clemente (EX/MT), Gibson (VG/EX), John (NM), Kaline (EX/MT), Killebrew (EX), Mays (EX/MT), McCovey (VG/EX), Robinson (GD/VG), F. Robinson (VG), Rose (EX/MT), Ryan (EX), Seaver (2: EX/MT, VG), B. Williams (EX/MT) and Yastrzemski (EX/MT).
1970 Kellogg's Baseball PSA Mint 9 Complete Set (75). This was the first nationally circulated set to offer new "3D" technology first seen with the extremely rare 1968 test issue. Every card has been graded Mint 9 by PSA. Kellogg's brand baseball cards would become a household item for the next 15 years. Abundant with stars and HoFers, this set includes: Graded - PSA Mint 9: 75 cards w/#s 1, 2 Rose, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 Seaver, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 Mays, 13, 14, 15 F. Robinson, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 B. Robinson, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 Clemente, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 Jackson, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40 Banks, 41, 42, 43, 44 Brock, 45, 46, 47 Carew, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52 Kaline, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58 Bench, 59, 60, 61 Killebrew, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71 Gibson, 73 Morgan, 73, 74 and 75.
1971 Kellogg's Baseball High Graded Complete Set (75). A total of 35 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 98 GEM MINT 10: 2 cards w/#'s 22 and 63 (AB 2772); SGC 96 MINT 9: 24 cards w/#'s 9 (Hits 850), 13, 16, 17 Brock, 18, 20 Powell, 21 (K 587), 23, 25, 33 McCovey, 34, 35 Blair (R 385), 36 (K 581), 38, 45, 47, 49, 50 Banks, 52, 53 Alou (RBI 274), 62 Torre, 65 Rose, 71 and 74 John (BB 443); SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 4 cards w/#'s 4 (RBI 95), 7 (1970 AL), 14 Howard (1968 NL) and 19 Aparicio; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 5 cards w/#'s 3 (IP 2239), 5 Clemente, 6 Perry (IP 2015), 40 and 42. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 2 Seaver (EX/MT), 10 Mays (EX), 15 Robinson (EX), 44 Kaline (NM) and 51 Gibson (VG). Grades 75% NM to NM/MT, 19% EX to EX/MT, 6% VG to VG/EX. SMR value exceeds $1,700.
1971 Topps Baseball High Grade Set (752). Topps' 1971 baseball set is both loved and hated for the same reason: those black borders. They show any type of wear immediately but when they are in high grade the cards look amazing. This is a fresh looking set with lots of attractive cards. A total of 94 cards (88 PSA and 6 SGC) have been professionally graded. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA MINT 9: 2 cards w/#'s 298 and 376; SGC 96 MINT 9: 6 cards w/#'s 394, 399, 401, 403, 520 John and 620 Howard; PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 2 card w/#'s 321 and 350 Williams; PSA NM-MT 8: 71 cards w/#'s 13, 17, 88, 93, 105, 106, 113, 116, 117 Simmons, 120, 126, 130, 155, 178, 183 Hodges, 211, 219, 223, 232, 236, 240, 256, 265 (No Black Blob), 266, 284, 307, 315, 316, 323, 325 Marichal, 330, 333, 341 Garvey, 348, 353, 356, 366, 368, 371, 375, 400 Aaron, 425, 431, 442, 448, 452, 456, 458, 461, 464, 468, 469, 470, 471, 479, 482, 486, 497, 504, 506, 508, 521, 532, 533, 543, 545, 547, 555, 558, 578 and 631; PSA NM+ 7.5: 11 cards w/#'s 1 Orioles, 26 Blyleven, 137, 208 Martin, 228, 252, 413, 255, 338, 657 and 730; PSA NM 7: 2 cards w/#'s 513 Ryan and 630 Clemente. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 5 Munson (EX), 14 Concepcion (EX/MT), 20 Jackson (VG/EX), 45 Hunter (NM), 50 McCovey (NM), 55 Carlton (EX/MT), 100 Rose (EX), 160 Seaver (EX/MT), 180 Kaline (EX/MT), 210 Carew (EX/MT), 230 Stargell (EX/MT), 250 Bench (EX), 300 Robinson (EX/MT), 450 Gibson (EX), 525 Banks (EX), 530 Yastrzemski (EX), 550 Killebrew (EX), 570 Palmer (EX/MT), 580 Perez (EX/MT), 600 Mays (EX), 625 Brock (EX), 640 Robinson (NM), 709 Baylor/Baker SP (EX). Grades 39% NM to NM/MT, 61% EX to EX/MT (few lesser). SMR value of the graded cards exceeds $2,700.00.
1971 Topps Tattoos Roberto Clemente PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA, one of a handful graded at this highly desirable assessment. One of the great Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder's more rarely seen collectibles. A nice addition to a Clemente registry assembly.
1972 Topps Luis Aparicio #313 PSA Gem Mint 10. Graded Gem MT 10 by PSA, one of only four examples at this most revered level. Pictured with the second "Sox" team he served, this eye catching collectible hails from the twilight of Aparicios' career.
1972 Topps Baseball Complete Set (787). A total of 12 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 4 cards w/#'s 661, 712 Bonds IA, 738 and 763; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 5 cards w/#'s 79 Fisk, 309 Clemente, 742, 749 Alston and 780; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, 774; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #595 Ryan; SGC 84 NM 7: 1 card, #695 Carew. Ungraded Cards - #'s 37 Yastrzemski (NM), 49 Mays (EX/MT), 100 Robinson (NM), 130 Gibson (EX), 270 Palmer (EX/MT), 299 Aaron (EX), 300 Aaron IA (EX/MT), 310 Clemente IA (EX), 420 Carlton (VG), 433 Bench (NM), 435 Jackson (VG/EX), 441 Munson (EX/MT), 445 Seaver (EX/MT), 550 Robinson (EX/MT), 559 Rose (EX/MT), 560 Rose IA (EX), 600 Kaline (EX), 686 Garvey (EX), 696 Carew IA (EX/MT), 751 Carlton Traded (NM), 752 Morgan Traded (EX), 754 Robinson Traded (EX), 761 Cey (EX). Grades 31% NM to NM/MT, 60% EX to EX/MT, 9% VG to VG/EX. SMR value exceeds $700.
1972 Topps Baseball High Grade Complete Set (787). One of Topps' most colorful and extensive productions. There is a broad selection of fresh looking cards in this presentation. A total of 44 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA GEM MINT 10: 1 card, # 638; PSA MINT 9: 27 cards w/#'s 39, 49 Mays, 51 Killebrew, 76, 86, 100 Robinson, 103, 115, 118, 129, 186, 255, 270 Palmer, 280 McCovey, 283, 324, 334, 345, 347 Seaver BP, 365, 368, 434 Bench IA, 435 Jackson, 442 Munson IA, 447 Stargell, 682 and 694; PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 4 cards w/#'s 72, 147, 158 and 769; PSA NM-MT 8: 10 cards w/#'s 50 Mays IA, 79 Fisk, 90, 304, 309 Clemente, 550 Robinson, 559 Rose, 560 Rose IA, 595 Ryan and 752 Morgan TR; PSA NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #761; PSA NM 7: 1 card, #310 Clemente IA. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 37 Yastrzemski (EX), 130 Gibson (NM/MT), 300 Aaron IA (EX/MT), 420 Carlton (NM), 433 Bench (EX/MT), 441 Munson (NM), 445 Seaver (EX/MT), 600 Kaline (NM), 686 Garvey (NM), 695 Carew (NM), 696 Carew IA (NM), 751 Carlton Traded (NM), 754 Robinson Traded (NM), 761 Cey (NM). Grades 64% NM to NM/MT, 36% EX to EX/MT (few lesser). SMR value exceeds $3,800.
1972 Topps Baseball GAI-Graded Rack Pack Showing Three HoF Cards! Rack packs may have cost more but they were worth the price. You actually had the chance to see at least six of the cards you were buying. Naturally, packs with stars or HoFers went first and were opened the quickest. It's amazing this beauty has survived as such. Graded NM-MT 8 by GAI, this rack pack shows three HoFers on front: Hank Aaron IA, Johnny Bench IA and Johnny Bench. How some youngster kept from ripping this very hard to find triple HoF treat is beyond us.
1972 Topps Test Cloth Stickers PSA-Graded Near Set (32/33). Every card has been graded by PSA. With a non-weighted set grade average of 8.65, instant "#1 PSA Set Registry" acclaim is achieved, and doubtless ensured for years to come. This incredible near set reflects NM-MT 8 to Mint 9 or finer condition in almost every component. One can hardly calculate the staggering level of difficulty inherent in assembling a high-grade set of these fragile and scarce test issue collectibles. The hand-cut items' unusual and delicate composition -- wherein a rectangle of "cloth"-like material containing the piece's image adheres uncertainly to a thin, waxed-cardstock back -- places nearly insurmountable hurdles in the path of the condition-conscious hobbyist. The stickers are prone to separation from their backings, fraying at the edges, and virtual disintegration when subjected to even the most careful handling, but those built-in liabilities are manifest in none of the top-flight specimens comprising this array. The rarity of 1972 Topps Test Cloth Stickers is undeniable, as is the improbability and significance of constructing a bright, uncirculated collection of the magnitude presented here. The gallery's subject roster is headlined by Hall of Famers Hank Aaron, Roberto Clemente, Luis Aparicio and Willie McCovey, all of whom are shown in highly prized depictions. This near set is missing only Foster for completion. The unique offering includes: Graded - PSA GEM MINT 10: 4 cards w/Johnny Callison, Joe Lahoud, Al Severinsen and Bob Watson; PSA MINT 9: 17 cards w/Luis Aparicio IA SP, Ike Brown, Roberto Clemente, Willie Davis (OC), Al Fitzmorris, Danny Frisella, Frank Howard SP, Ron Klimkowski, Jim Lefebvre, Elliott Maddox, Marty Martinez, Willie McCovey SP, Hal McRae SP, Syd O'Brien SP, Aurelio Rodriguez, Steve Stone SP and Stan Swanson SP; PSA NM-MT 8: 9 cards w/Hank Aaron, Checklist #264-319, Dave Concepcion SP, Ron Cook, Jim Fregosi, Woodie Fryman SP, Red Sox Team, Art Shamsky SP and Roy White SP; PSA NM 7: 2 cards w/Bobby Floyd and Terry Harmon.
1973 Topps '53 Reprints PSA-Graded Lot of 4. Long before Topps reprinted virtually the entire 1953 set in its "Archives" program in 1991, selected cards from the '53 set had been reprinted in a rare eight-card issue. It is thought only 300 of the sets were made. Card backs feature a career summary written as though in 1953; the backs are formatted differently than original 1953 Topps cards and are printed in black-and-white. Includes PSA Mint 9 - #1 Satchell Paige, 2 Jackie Robinson; PSA 8 NM-MT - #4 Al Rosen, 7 Peanuts Lowrey.
1974 Topps Test Baseball Puzzles Near Set (11/12). This near set of 11 1974 Topps Test Puzzles never saw public distribution. Each puzzle measures 5" X 7 1/8" and contains 40 pieces. Nine of the 11 puzzles are well centered with the exception of Nolan Ryan and Dick Allen which are shifted to the left and have no right border, a typical ailment for this release. Also included is a trio of the 29-cent wrappers, each featuring Tom Seaver. Missing Jackson for completion. The near set includes: Hank Aaron, Dick Allen, Johnny Bench, Bobby Bonds, Bob Gibson, Bobby Murcer, Jim Palmer, Nolan Ryan, Tom Seaver, Willie Stargell and Carl Yastrzemski. Overall NM condition.
1975 Topps Baseball High Grade Complete Set (660). A total of 8 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include - #'s 1 Aaron HL (NM), 5 Ryan HL (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 7 Ryan HL (SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5), 20 Munson (NM), 61 Winfield (NM/MT), 70 Schmidt (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 223 Yount (SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5), 228 Brett (SGC 96 MINT 9), 260 Bench (SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5), 280 Yastrzemski (NM), 300 Jackson (EX), 320 Rose (NM), 370 Seaver (EX), 500 Ryan (NM), 540 Brock (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 616 Rice (NM), 620 Carter (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 660 Aaron (EX). Grades 86% NM to NM/MT (with MINT examples left to be graded), 14% EX to EX/MT (few lesser). SMR value exceeds $700.
2000 Topps Subway Series Fan Fare PSA-Graded Complete Set (36). Topps produced a 100-card set to promote the subway world series between the New York Yankees and New York Mets. Beyond the standard cards were these extremely rare special limited inserts which had an actual NY city subway token placed inside a special die cut area in the cards. Each boasts a serial number, hologram and "SSR" number prefix. With every card Mint 9 or Gem Mint 10, once this set is added, the winner achieves instant PSA Registry glory. Includes: Graded - PSA Gem MT 10: 18 cards w/#'s 2, 4, 5 Zeile. 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Leiter, 12, 15, 17, 19, 20 Jeter, 23 Posada, 24 O'Neil, 25, 30 Clemens and 32; PSA Mint 9: 18 cards w/#'s 1, 3 Piazza, 6, 13, 14, 16, 18 Benitez, 21 Justice, 22 Williams, 26, 27, 28 Canseco, 29 Hernandez, 31 Pettitte, 33 Cone, 34, 35 and 36 Rivera.
Football Cards
1935 National Chicle Knute Rockne #9 PSA NM 7. The second most valuable card in the set, though first in our hearts. Rockne is properly memorialized in the wake of his tragic death in an airplane crash, the only figure in the issue unaffiliated with the professional ranks. Rockne was an instrumental force, both as innovator and teacher during the infancy of the game at the collegiate level. Fine centering and coloring, with only minimal corner wear preventing a higher mark. Still tremendously desirable in this strong grade.
1935 National Chicle Knute Rockne #9 SGC 84 NM 7. The second most valuable card in the set, though first in our hearts. Rockne is properly memorialized in the wake of his tragic death in an airplane crash, the only figure in the issue unaffiliated with the professional ranks. Fine centering and very minimal signs of wear leave us with a tremendously desirable collectible.
1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski #34 PSA EX 5. Far and away the most valuable card in the National Chicle set, Bronko outpaces his closest competitor by multiples when it comes to value and desirability. The most famous football player in the game at the time of the set's issue, Nagurski first burst onto the national scene as a fullback and defensive tackle with the University of Minnesota and later starred with the Chicago Bears and as a professional wrestler.
1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski #34 PSA Authentic. The 1935 National Chicle football issue utilizes outstanding artwork as its main selling point. In addition to being the most valuable card in the National Chicle set, Bronko Nagurski also holds the distinction of having the largest recorded NFL Championship ring size at 19½. The left and right edges of the card's reverse side have been altered or "enhanced" after apparent removal from old notebook. Card presents as Near Mint in every other regard.
1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski #34 SGC 20 Fair 1.5. For collectors who cast a dreamy eye toward owning a high grade example of this preeminent football card collectible, we happily present this more modest yet highly attractive and desirable representation of National Chicle's most valuable card. The card exhibits typical edge and corner wear along with one small spot of surface loss, brilliantly camouflaged under his chin on his white jersey which results in a technical grade which seems harsh when compared to eye appeal. With centering being only a small degree off, the lack of multiple major creases (there is one light one) and extensive surface loss normally associated with this grade make this a very respectable entry into a vintage gridiron collection. Condition aside, this is one of the most sought after football cards in the hobby, and for good reason.
1948 Bowman Football Complete Set (108). Considered the first football set of the modern era, this supremely desirable set is where the finest football card collections begin. The '48 Bowman football cards were printed in three sheets, with the third sheet holding all of the cards with numbers divisible by three (ie: 3, 6, 9, 12, etc.) printed in much shorter supply. A significant premium for these cards is the result. Important rookies are Baugh, Conerly, Luckman, Pihos, Bulldog Turner, Van Buren and Waterfield. Highlights include - Graded - SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #4; SGC 84 NM 7: 1 card, #31; PSA NM 7: 10 cards, w/#s 1 Tereshinski, 6, 8, 10, 13, 40, 87, 90, 96 and 104; PSA EX-MT 6: 8 cards, w/#s 5, 11, 26 Waterfield, 38, 52, 88, 92 and 93; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 2 cards, w/#s 66 and 83; BVG EX-MT 6: 1 card, #7 Van Buren; SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards, w/#s 29 and 54; BVG EX 5: 1 card w/# 101; PSA EX 5: 1 card, w/# 39; PSA VG-EX 4: 1 card, w/# 23; BVG VG-EX 4: 2 cards w/#s 49 and 57; SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card, #61 Wojciechowic. Ungraded - w/#s 3 Lujack SP (VG), 12 Conerly SP (EX), 17 Trippi (VG/EX), 22 Baugh (GD/VG), 36 Turner (VG), 60 Nickel SP (EX), 63 Pihos SP (VG/EX), 80 Dudley (GD/VG), 95 McAfee (PR), 99 Gilmer SP (VG), 107 Luckman (GD/VG) and 108 Ray SP (GD). Grades 10% NM to NM+, 32 % EX to EX/MT, 41% VG to VG/EX, 17% PR to GD.
1948 Leaf Bobby Layne, Red Pants-Bobbie Error #6 PSA EX-MT 6. Graded EX-MT 6 by PSA, this rare variation is the only example at this grade with only one recorded nicer. All-time great QB Bobby Layne rookie card with the rare "red pants" variation. The standard release shows the area of his pants in yellow. Ah, what a small error on film stripping will do.
1948 Leaf Johnny Lujack #13 SGC 86 NM+ 7.5. Graded 86 NM+ 7.5 by SGC, one of the finer examples known and a sharp copy for the grade. The HoF quarterback is depicted ready to throw another 6-point special.
1948 Bowman Pat Harber #33 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5 - Pop 2, Highest Grade Known! Graded 92 NM/MT+ 8.5 by SGC, tied with only one other at the highest grade level available. A stunning beauty sums up this rookie card of Chicago Cardinals fullback Marlin Harber. A slight bit of fuzziness to the top layer of one corner tip on the reverse keeps this from being recognized as the best copy to date.
1948 Leaf Sammy Baugh #34 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, an absolutely stunning example of HOF quarterback Sammy Baugh's rookie year appearance in the 1948 Leaf issue. The simple color scheme leaps at the viewer and is perfectly complimented by the surrounding borders which have remained a frosty white. This vibrant copy has but the slightest touches of wear at corner tips as fodder for criticism. The reverse bears a bold print strike and a near flawless surface.
1948 Leaf George Connor #37 SGC 86 NM+ 7.5. Graded 86 NM+ 7.5 by SGC, equal to three others at this grade with only one example recorded a half-grade higher. Very attractive example of Connors' rookie card appearance. The bright white frame couldn't possibly complement the vibrant hues better. The reverse is boldly struck on a largely blemish-free surface.
1948 Leaf Football SGC 88 NM/MT 8 Trio (3). Each card has been graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, each is among the top three finest examples recorded to date. Looking like they just rolled off the press yesterday, any one of these colorful stunners would be proud additions to the highest-quality football assemblies. Includes: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 3 cards w/#'s 14 Kutner (Pop 1, one higher), 32 Zimmerman (Pop 2, none higher) and 35 Fritsch (Pop 2, one higher.)
1948 Leaf Football High End SGC-Graded Collection (10). Every card has been graded by SGC. This is a very attractive selection of 1948 Leaf football cards highlighted by the rookie card of HoFer Pete Pihos. Includes: Graded - SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 6 cards, w/#'s 9, 10, 11, 17 Washington/Black Letters, 18 and 39; SGC 84 NM 7: 4 cards, w/#'s 16 Pihos RC, 38, 41 and 36 Dudley RC.
1948 Topps Magic Photos Football Thrills (R Series) and All-American Football (C Series) Graded Complete Sets - Both #1 on the PSA Set Registry. Each card has been graded by PSA, with one exception every card equals or stands alone as the highest grade known. Not one card has a population greater than seven, most are three or fewer; Seven cards score a "Pop 1-of-1 with None Higher" title. Both High quality series rank #1 on the PSA set registry. Includes: 1948 Topps magic Photo All-American Football - Series C (13) - Set GPA: 6.10. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 1 card, #13C Army-Notre Dame; PSA NM 7: 1 card, #6C Lujack; PSA EX-MT 6: 10 cards w/#s 1C, 2C, 3C Walker, 4C, 5C, 7C Bednarik, 8C, 10C, 11C AND 12C; PSA EX 5: 1 card, #9C. 1948 Topps Magic Photo Football Thrills-Series R (5) - Set GPA: 6.14. Includes: Graded - PSA NM 7: 1 card, #3R Northwestern; PSA EX-MT 6: 4 cards, w/#s 1R, 2R, 4R Yale vs Columbia and 5R Cornell.
1948-52 Exhibits Color Tint Herman Wedemeyer SP SGC 80 EX/NM 6 - Highest Grade 1-Year Short Print! Graded 80 EX/NM 6 by SGC, one of two at this grade level with none graded higher. The Hawaiian-born Wedemeyer only played professional football for two years but went on to become an actor (he was Det. "Duke" Lukela in the crime drama Hawaii Five-O from 1972-1980) and politician. This is his only card appearance. Although issued over a span of years, this 60-card series is known for having various levels of scarcities due to subjects only appearing for one or two years. The rarest of the short-prints are the ones from 1948 and the undisputed king of the short prints is Herman Wedemeyer; the meager seven examples submitted to SGC are testimony to that status. The offered card is an undebatable EX/NM card with only slight wear at corners to speak of. If the card itself doesn't hold enough appeal, this is a rare "Green Tint" variation as opposed to the traditional black-and-white style commonly seen.
1948-52 W468 Exhibit Football Rare Color Tint Short-Prints Collection (13). Yes, there are times when "13" can be a lucky number. The lucky winner of this lot not only gets 13 cards which are all rare 1-year only short-print subjects but each is a scarce color tint variation as well. Every card has been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 4 cards, w/Jack Jacobs/Green, Nate Johnson/Red, Steve Pritko/Yellow and Walt Schlinkman/Pink; SGC 60 EX 5: 3 cards, w/Bob Cifers/Green, De Witt Coulter/Pink and Les Horvath/Red; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards, w/Bob Cifers/Yellow, Les Horvath/Yellow and Clyde Le Force/Sepia; SGC 40 VG 3: 2 cards, w/Les Horvath/Sepia and Nate Johnson/Green; SGC 10 PR 1: 1 card, Irv Comp/Sepia;
1948-52 W468 Exhibits Football SGC-Graded Collection (16 Different). Every card has been graded by SGC. Modest in quantity, huge on quality. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 MINT 9: 5 cards w/Albert, Barwegan, Connor, Ratterman and Tunnell; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 2 cards w/Smith and Trippi; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 9 cards w/Baugh, Dottley, Geri, Hoernschmeyer, Matson, Morrison, Rykovich, Taliaferro and Younger.
1948-52 W468 Exhibit Football Scarce Postcard Back and Color Tint SGC-Graded Collection (20). Advanced W468 fans have a lengthy selection of variations to pursue. This lot of 20 cards is an enticing gallery of colors and scarce postcard (PC) back variations. This selection also contains a nice choice of 2-year short prints. Includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, Fred Morrison/PC Back; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 1 card, Bulldog Turner/PC Back; SGC 60 EX 5: 7 cards, w/ Paul Christman/Blue, John Lujack/Pink, John Lujack/Yellow, Bulldog Turner/Green, Bob Waterfield/PC Back, Bob Williams/PC Back and Claude Young/Yellow; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 4 cards, w/ Sid Luckman/Green, John Mastrangelo/Blue, Y.A. Tittle/Yellow and Steven Van Buren/Blue; SGC 40 VG 3: 6 cards, w/ Sammy Baugh/Yellow, Sid Luckman/Sepia, Vitamin T. Smith/PC Back, Bob Waterfield/Yellow, Claude Young/PC Back and Tank Younger/PC Back); SGC 20 FR 1.5: 1 card, Norman Standlee/Sepia.
1948-1952 W468 Exhibit Football Complete Set (59) - #1 on the SGC Registry! Each card has been graded by SGC. Set Registry Rank: #1; Grade Average: 85.7. These cards were Issued over the span of four years, but some subjects appeared for only one or two years, making them difficult to locate today. In this impressive set, not one card has been graded less than excellent. A must have for the quality minded football specialist. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 Mint 9: 8 cards w/Canadeo, Christman, Dottley, Hoernschmeyer, Matson, Ratterman, McColl and Taliaferro; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 7 cards w/Albert, Connor, Geri, Justice/SP, Morrison, Motley and Younger; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 11 cards w/Barwegan, Baugh, Davis/SP, Fears, Graham, Hoerner, Layne, Ruby, Smith, Sitko and Tunnell; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 6 cards w/Conerly, Lujack, Perry, Rhodemyre, Tripucka, and Waterfield; SGC 84 NM 7: 12 cards w/Bednarik, Dudley, Hirsch, Johnson, Ortman, Pihos, Rykovich, Schlinkman/SP, Trippi, Turner, Van Buren and Williams; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 12 cards w/ Comp/SP, Coulter/SP, Dobbs, Harder, Horvath/SP, Luckman, Mastrangelo, Pritko/SP, Standlee, Tittle, Wedemeyer/SP and Young; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 1 cards w/ Jacobs/SP; SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards w/ Cifers/SP and Le Force/SP.
1950 Bowman Marion Motley #43 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM-MT 8 by SGC, tied with a trio of others at this grade level with only one higher. Eye-catching example of Motley's rookie card appearance. Precision centering, good coloring and nearly flawless surfaces. Strong card for the grade, a scruffy factory cut to the bottom edge on the reverse seems to fully account for the technical grade.
1950 Bowman Sammy Baugh #100 PSA NM-MT+ 8.5. Graded NM-MT+ 8.5 by PSA, one of just two at this level. A classic portrait of this early Hall of Famer, suited up and ready for battle. Surfaces and image quality are as good as it gets, with precision centering and corners that have survived the past fifty-five years with just the slightest touch from human hands. Only a trio sit atop the population charts, in over 250 attempts.
1950 Bowman Football PSA NM-MT 8 Lot of 9. Fantastic grouping of 9 cards from the 1950 Bowman football issue, all grading PSA NM-MT 8. Includes #12 Joe Golding, 27 Sid Luckman (HOF), 30 Hugh Taylor, 36 Frankie Albert (R), 47 Larry Coutre, 53 Dick Huffman, 58 Bill Fischer, 73 Don Doll, 75 John Panelli.
1950 Bowman Football High End SGC-Graded Collection (15). Every card has been graded by SGC, This is a very fresh and attractive selection of these colorful collectibles. Includes: Graded - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #44; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 4 cards w/#'s 56, 57, 63 and 116; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 4 cards w/#'s 62, 117, 133 and 134 Pihos; SGC 94 NM 7: 6 cards w/#'s 45 Graham, 55, 58, 59, 109 and 113.
1950 Bowman Football Collection (190). Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA NM+ 7.5: 4 cards w/#'s 87, 105, 106 and 129 Trippi; PSA NM 7: 12 cards w/#'s 8 Speedie, 21, 35 Perry, 37 Layne, 46, 47, 52 Hirsch, 77, 100 Baugh, 103 Conerly, 116 and 135; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 2 cards w/#'s 32 and 104; PSA EX-MT 6: 10 cards w/#'s 6 Groza, 7, 9 Canadeo, 11, 38 Hart, 43 Motley, 45 Graham, 56, 80 and 93; PSA EX 5: 3 cards w/#'s 43 Motley (2) and 78 Lavelli; PSA VG-EX 4: 1 card, #45 Graham. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Walker (EX), 8 Speedie (EX), 15 Younger (EX), 16 Davis (EX), 17 Waterfield (EX), 23 Van Buren (EX/MT), 28 Turner (EX), 36 Albert (VG/EX), 37 Layne (VG/EX), 38 Hart (2: EX/MT and EX), 51 Fears (VG/EX), 52 Hirsch (VG/EX), 103 Conerly (2: both EX/MT), 107 Nomellini (VG/EX), 128 Finks (EX), 132 Bednarik (EX), 134 Pihos (2: EX and VG/EX). Grades 16% NM to NM/MT, 71% EX to EX/MT 13% VG to VG/EX. SMR value approaches $2,500.
1950 Bowman Proofs & 1960 Fleer Missing Inks Collection (8). Each collectible has been encapsulated by SGC. Just how do the cards we collect become the cards we collect? One ink pass at a time. Offered is a 8-piece selection of progressive proofs or final cards at various stages of completion. Includes: SGC Authentic: 1950 Bowman #74 Sandifer -.../Cyan, ...Cyan & Yellow and ...Final. All have blank backs. 1960 Fleer - Black and Yellow inks only on fronts. w/#'s 26 Tripucka, 58 Blanda, 74 Shoemaker, 98 Grantham and 124 Jack Kemp. Each Fleer card is a final card with a completed back and were pulled from wax packs by the consignor. We find no reason why numerical grades were not assigned.
1950 Topps Felt Backs Joe Paterno #64 PSA NM-MT 8. The obscure 1950 Topps Felt Backs set features collegiate football players and contains a card of then relatively unknown Joe Paterno as a co-captain and quarterback at Brown University. Already inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, Paterno holds the record for the most victories by a Division IA/ FBS football coach and has coached more bowl game wins and undefeated seasons than any other coach in college football history. At age 82, "Joe Pa" will coach his 60th season on the Penn State coaching staff in 2009, holding the record for most seasons for any football coach at any university. This remarkably high-grade exemplar boasts brilliant coloring and clean front and back card surfaces. Of the 44 Paterno cards submitted to PSA, this is the lone NM-MT 8 with none graded higher. A perfect companion (and upgrade) to the #1 PSA registry set also offered in this auction.
1950 Topps Felt Backs Football Complete Set - #1 on the PSA Set Registry! Set GPA: 6.74: Set Ranking: #1 (By Far) on the PSA Set Registry. As passionate hobbyists we rip open the mail coverings which dare to hide the latest catalog of quality sports offerings placed up for auction. Truth be told after perusing that final page we remember but a few noteworthy lots that leave an indelible mark in our over-charged short-term memories. The set is Topps' first major release devoted to football. The 1950 Topps Felt Back edition is the prized acquisition of gridiron specialists. It elevates the pulse of football collectors, just as the 1952 Topps baseball series does to followers of our national pastime. The set is the cornerstone on which football collections are built on. The delicate felt layer is so prone to wear it would seem high grade examples would go the way of the 5- and 1-cent wax packs of gum cards. Unless some fortunate soul discovers an unopened box and (with some final additions) bestows upon the hobby the currently reigning king of 125-card complete master sets. The numbers are impressive to say the least: 103 felts (82.4%) equal the highest grade known; Forty-six (37%) earn the coveted "Pop 1-of-1 With None Higher" title; Thirty-seven others are pop 2 (30) or pop 3 (7) with none higher. The all collegiate level subject roster includes appearances of such stars/rookies as Joe Paterno, Glen Davis, Ernie Stautner, Leo Nomellini, Doak Walker and Jackie Jensen. To piece together a set of this quality card-by-card would be a monumental task few if any would undertake. The set is highlighted by: Graded - PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 2 cards, w/ McKissack/Yellow and Turek/Yellow; PSA NM-MT 8: 25 cards, w/Bell, Clark, Coleman, Glen Davis, Dublinski, Fleishmann, Gitschier/Yellow, Gregus, Hagan, Charlie Justice, Kuhn, Laun, Lehew, Martin/Yellow, Mouser, Rakestraw, Sebek, Shaw/Yellow, Stalloni/Yellow, Szulborski , Teninga/Yellow, Towler/Yellow, Ulinksi, Weiner and Wilson; PSA NM+ 7.5: 3 cards, w/ Mathews/Yellow; PSA NM 7: 56 cards, w/Galiffa, Leon Hart/Brown, Leon Hart/Yellow, Jackie Jensen/Yellow, Malekoff/Yellow, Miller/Yellow, Leo Nomellini, Joe Paterno, Sitko/Yellow, Stautner and Doak Walker/Yellow; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 2 cards; PSA EX-MT 6: 30 cards, w/Jackie Jensen/Brown, Lee/Yellow, Malekoff/Brown, Perini/Yellow, Darrell Royal/Brown, Shaw/Brown, Sitko/Brown, Towler/Brown and Doak Walker/Brown; PSA EX 5: 5 cards, w/ Darrell Royal/Yellow and Turek/Brown; PSA VG-EX 4: 2 cards. Please see our web site for a detailed list of the contents of this complete master set.
1950 Topps Felt Backs Football SGC-Graded Collection (26). Offered is a 26-card selection of the small, just 7/8" X 1-7/16," but very highly prized 1950 Topps Felt back series. The colorful release is notable for its actual-cloth reverse, along with a printed pennant that coincides with the player's alma mater. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 4 cards w/Deuber, Krueger, O'Day and Weiner; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 4 cards w/Lehew, Murphy, Powers and Ward; SGC 60 EX 5: 10 cards w/Bailey, Bell, Campbell, Carey, Gitschier, Glick, Lyle, Mouser, Pavich and Wren; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 8 cards w/Burson, Davis, Hughes, Lee, Sawle, Songin, Szelborski and Wagner.
1951 Bowman Otto Graham #2 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. Graded 92 NM/MT+ 8.5 by SGC, the only example at this grade with only one known higher. Featured on this close to pristine '51 Bowman card is Cleveland Browns HoF quarterback Otto Graham. Grahams' multi-faceted accomplishments include the mastery of multiple sports, as evidenced by his participation in the 1945-46 Rochester Royals' National Basketball League title. The offered example has tremendous color quality and a bright white frame.
1951 Topps Magic Football Unrubbed Complete Set (75) - #1 on the PSA Set Registry!. Set GPA: 7.17: Set Ranking: #1 on the PSA Set Registry. Each reverse was equipped with a scratch-off area designed to be removed to reveal the answer to a trivia question about the player. Today, "unrubbed" cards are quite scarce. To assemble an entire set with this status is a daunting challenge. This presentation offers the new winner the following: Over two-thirds (72%) stand alone as or equal the highest grade available; 25 cards are "Pop 1-of-1 with none higher;" Sixty-two cards have grade populations of "1" or "2," Card #s 16 and 19 have the "highest" populations with "4" As noted on the registry by the consignor, 56 cards are 100% completely unrubbed. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 2 cards w/#'s 12 Weatherall and 24; PSA NM-MT 8: 15 cards w/#'s 3, 11, 15, 22, 23, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32, 43, 49, 52, 53 and 71; PSA NM+ 7.5: 9 cards w/#'s 4 Parilli, 10 Janowicz, 18, 20, 40, 50, 56, 66 and 73; PSA NM 7: 42 cards w/#'s 1 Monahan, 2 Wade, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 21, 25, 26, 28, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 41, 42, 44, 45, 46, 47, 51, 54, 55, 57, 58, 59, 61, 64, 67, 68 70, 72 Bright, 74 and 75 Carey; PSA EX-MT 6: 6 cards w/#'s 39, 60, 62, 63, 65 and 69; PSA EX 5: 1 card, #48 Young.
1952 Bowman Football Large Near Set (140/144). Offered is a 144-card complete set of 1952 Bowman Large football cards. Missing #'s 36, 72, 99 and 135 for completion. In total, 30 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, #131; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #121; SGC 84 NM 7: 5 cards w/#'s 92 Pihos, 122, 123, 124 and 129 Christiansen; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 6 cards w/#'s 31, 32, 33, 100, 120 and 130; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 3 cards w/#'s 20, 28 Rote SP and 84; SGC 60 EX 5: 6 cards w/#'s 3 Walker, 10 Bednarik SP, 16 Gifford, 30 Baugh, 63 Conerly SP and 77; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 8 cards w/#'s 1 Van Brocklin SP, 2 Graham, 14 Brown, 17 Tittle, 19 Connor SP, 45 Van Buren SP,48 Halas and 142 Landry. Ungraded Cards - Included #'s 4 Owen (EX), 12 Trippi (EX), 13 Fears (VG/EX),18 Justice SP (VG/EX), 23 Marchetti (VG/EX), 27 Miller SP (EX),29 McElhenny (EX+), 37 Hirsch SP (EX), 39 Tunnell (EX), 46 Donovan SP (EX), 78 Layne (VG), 83 Perry (VG), 85 Robustelli (EX), 105 Groza (EX), 108 Johnston SP (GD), 125 Nomellini (EX), 126 Romanik SP (GD/VG), 127 Matson SP (GD), 137 Waterfield (VG/EX), 140 Lary (VG/EX) and 144 Lansford SP (GD). Grades 5% NM or better, 31% EX to EX/MT, 51% VG to VG/EX, 13% lesser with some trimmed/miscut.
1955 Bowman Football Complete Set (160). This very well designed set was Bowman's last before it was purchased by Topps in early 1956. The set is the home to the rookie cards of Gatski, McCormack, Ringo, St. Clair, Summerall plus others. The complete set of 160 cards is highlighted by: Graded Cards - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #55; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 10 cards w/#'s 11, 12, 13, 14 Ford, 37 Groza, 34, 36, 81, 83 and 107; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #45; SGC 84 NM 7: 4 cards w/#'s 91, 94, 108 and 140; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 4 cards w/#'s 43 Fears, 48, 90 and 153 Renfro. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Walker (EX), 2 McCormack (EX), 7 Gifford (EX), 16 Conerly (EX), 25 Matson (EX), 26 LeBaron (VG/EX), 32 Van Brocklin (EX), 42 Johnson (EX), 44 Perry (EX), 52 Summerall (EX), 62 Blanda (EX/MT), 70 Ringo (EX), 71 Layne (VG/EX) 72 Tittle (EX), 75 McElhenny (GD), 101 St. Clair (EX), 119 Gatski (VG/EX), 121 Robustelli (VG/EX), 134 Stautner (EX), 136 Tunnell (EX), 152 Landry (VG/EX), 158 Bednarik (VG/EX), 160 Dupre (VG/EX). Grades 16% NM to NM/MT, 75 % EX to EX/MT, 9% VG to VG/EX (few lesser).
1955 Topps Otto Graham #12 PSA NM-MT 8. The 100-card Topps All-American set includes past and contemporary college stars. One college stand out that made good was Cleveland Browns HoF quarterback Otto Graham. Shown with Northwestern, Graham is a "key" subject of this popular series. The card is well-centered, with four sharp corners, clean white borders, brilliant coloring and registration, and is clean front and back.
1955 Topps Don Hutson #97 PSA NM-MT 8. Scattered among the 100 cards which comprise the 1955 Topps "All-American" series is a list of players who for some reason were printed in lesser quantity than the rest. A "key" example is Alabama all-american Don Hutson. Because Hutson didn't make his mark at the professional level, for the football card fan, he is a scarce and challenging entry to acquire.
1955 Topps All-American Football PSA-Graded Collection (19 Different). Offered is a fresh selection of 1955 Topps All-American football cards. Each card has been graded by PSA, the subject roster includes stars, a HoFer and some scarce short-prints. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 8 cards w/#s 5, 29 Nomellini SP, 33, 53, 57 Hanson SP, 60, 78 and 95 Cagle SP; PSA NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #51 Purvis SP; PSA NM 7: 8 cards w/#s 8, 19, 22, 49, 63 Justice, 67, 86 Booth SP and 98 Feathers SP; PSA EX-MT 6: 2 cards w/#s 39 and 82.
1955 Topps "All-American" PSA-Graded Collection (19 Different). . Offered is a fresh selection of 1955 Topps All-American football cards. Each card has been graded by PSA, the subject roster includes a number of scarce short-print names. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 7 cards w/#s 18 Heffelfinger SP, 24, 25 Myslinski SP, 34 O'Brien SP, 50, 62 and 72; PSA NM-MT 8 OC: 3 cards w/#s 69, 71 and 74; PSA NM 7: 8 cards w/#s 7, 13, 30, 44, 47, 54 Dooley SP, 66 and 94 Bernard SP; PSA EX-MT 6: 1 card, #26 Kelly SP.
Very Scarce 1956 W806 and 1957 (Unc.) New York Giants Team Issue Complete Sets (2). Offered are two complete sets of New York Giants team issued series from 1956 and 1957. A selection of obscure regional and/or team sets brings a collection from "average" to "advanced." These large sized - 5" x 7" - black-and-white photo sets are rarely offered complete or in any quantity. Players included are Chandler, Robustelli, Rote, McAfee, Huff, Grier, Gifford, Conerly, Brown and many more. The 1956 set grades 83% EX/MT to NM/MT (includes HoFers), 17% EX with a couple slightly lesser; the 1957 set grades EX/MT to NM/MT with most NM or better, just a couple slightly lesser due to age spots.
1957 Topps Bart Starr #119 SGC 86 NM+ 7.5. Offered is an attractive example of Football Hall of Famer Bart Starr's rookie card from the 1957 Topps issue. Centering rests slightly to the right horizontally and a sliver low. Originating from the scarce "high number" series, this card delivers lustrous surface gloss and a fresh presentation, only minimally affected by an irregular layer of orange ink within the "Action" pose background.
1958 Topps Gino Marchetti #16 SGC 96 Mint 9 - Pop 1-of-1 With None Higher! This amazing card of Baltimore Colts Hall of Famer Gino Marchetti is a one-of-a-kind. It is the only example graded 96 Mint 9 by SGC with none graded higher by that firm and a quick PSA pop report search shows a whopping "0" in the Mint 9 column for card #16 from the 1958 Topps football set. Unimprovable centering, razor sharp corners and good color all combine to give us what is to date the finest '58 Topps Marchetti in the hobby.
1958 Topps Jim Brown #62 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, less than a handful have graded higher. No true football fan doesn't want the rookie card of the greatest NFL running back to ever don shoulder pads. Fresh out of Syracuse University, this introduction to young gridiron fans depicts Jim in the brown and orange uniform he would don for the entire length of his career. Clean surfaces; great colors; centering that sits horizontally to the left of center. A key entry worthy of being the foundation upon which any serious football collection should be built.
1958 Topps Football High Grade SGC Collection (10). Every card has been graded by SGC, each is among the finest examples assessed to date. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 Mint 9: 7 cards w/#'s 47 Carson, 50 Morris, 57 Morral, 71 McElhenny, 81 Creekmur, 93 Perry and 126 McDonald; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 3 cars w/#'s 41 49ers, 76 Butler and 85 LA Rams.
1958 Topps Football High Grade Complete Set (132). Offered is a 1958 Topps Football complete set of 132 cards in overall high grade condition. This set contains the powerhouse rookie card of Jim Brown, along with a star studded cast of Bart Starr, Johnny Unitas, Frank Gifford, George Blanda and Sonny Jurgensen. A total of 15 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 1 card, #25; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #129 Blanda; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 7 cards w/#'s 12 Ameche, 19, 26, 47, 113, 120 Berry and 130; SGC 84 NM 7: 5 cards w/#'s 2 Layne, 73 Gifford, 86 Tittle, 104 and 132 Bosseler; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #62 Brown. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Filipski (VG/EX), 10 Moore (VG/EX), 16 Marchetti (VG), 22 Unitas (EX), 35 Bednarik (EX/MT), 42 Tunnell (EX), 52 Groza (EX), 57 Morrall (EX), 84 Conerly (EX/MT), 89 Nomellini (EX/MT), 90 Jurgenson (EX), 106 Donovan (VG/EX), 122 McElhenny (EX/MT) and 127 Matson (VG/EX). Grades 30% NM to NM/MT, 62% EX to EX/MT, 8% VG to VG/EX.
1958 Topps Football Unopened Cello Pack-Unitas on back PSA NM 7. Graded Nm 7 by PSA. Cello packs always had two huge advantages above wax packs. Cellos held more cards and you could actually see two of the cards you were getting. needless to say the packs with top names were not only purchased first but also opened the quickest. This still sealed beauty shows a Dale Dodrill-Front and HoF quarterback Johnny Unitas on the back and who knows who is resting in between.
Football Collectibles
1960-1970 Topps High Graded Unopened Wax Pack Trio (3). Each pack has been graded by GAI. Offered is a high end trio of Topps Football unopened wax packs. The lot includes: 1960 Topps CFL Football (5-cent, GAI Gem Mint 9.5), 1968 Topps Football-1st Series (5-cent, GAI Mint 9) and 1970 Topps Football-1st Series (10-cent, GAI Mint 9).
Football Cards
1961 Topps Football Complete Set (198) - #5 on the PSA Set Registry! Set GPA: 8.12; Set Registry rank: #5 on the PSA Set Registry. Topps took the clean design of the '61 baseball edition for the 198-card 1961 football series. This is an attractive presentation of this colorful edition and hobby favorite. The athlete is the star for this set, emphasized by the simple design and 1-color background treatment. Every card has been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded - PSA MINT 9: 23 cards w/#'s 22, 53, 66 49ers, 109, 119, 136, 137, 138, 146 Cannon, 148, 152 Youngelman, 154, 155, 156, 161, 164, 168 Mix, 169 McGuire, 183, 186 Flores, 192, 195 and 197; PSA NM-MT 8: 175 cards w/#'s 1 Unitas, 2 Moore, 3 Ameche, 4 Berry, 5, 6 Parker,7 Marchetti, 8, 9 Colts, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 Jones, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 LeBaron, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 Karras, 36 Schmidt, 37, 38 Hornung IA, 39 Starr, 40 Hornung, 41 Taylor, 42 McGee, 43, 44 Ringo, 45 Jordam, 46, 47 Packers, 48, 49, 50 Matson, 51, 52, 54, 55, 56 Rams, 57 Unitas IA, 58 Tittle, 59 Brodie, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64 Nomellini, 65, 67 Checklist, 68, 69, 70 Mitchell, 71 Brown, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77 Brown IA, 78, 79 McElhenny, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85 Conerly, 86, 87 Rote, 88 Brown, 89, 90 Robustelli, 91 Huff, 92, 93 Giants, 94 Conerly IA, 95 Jurgenson, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101 Bednarik, 102, 103 Eagles, 104 Layne, 105 Johnson, 106, 107, 108, 110, 111, 112 Steelers, 113 Layne IA, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 120, 121 Cardinals, 122 Checklist, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 139 Robinson, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145 Blanda, 147, 149, 150 Maynard, 151, 153, 157, 158, 159, 160, 162, 163, 165, 166 Kemp, 167 Lowe, 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182 Otto, 184, 185, 187, 188, 189, 190 Taylor, 191, 193, 194, 196 and 198 Checklist.
1962 Kahn's Football High Grade Partial Set (21/38). Offered is a 21-card high grade partial set of 1962 Kahn's football cards. Ten cards have the "Pop 1-of-1 With None Higher" title; Two others are "Pop 2 with none higher." The remainder of the subjects are among only three to five total cards graded for that player. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 Mint 9: 4 cards Costello, Bobby Layne, Morrow and Nutter; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 3 cards w/Dial, Michaels and Sample; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 7 cards w/Britt, Cassady, Hickerson, Krupa, Orr, Plum and Reger; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, Case; SGC 84 NM 7: Carpenter, James and Renfro; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 card w/Houston and Tarkenton; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, Parrish.
1962 Post Cereal Football High End Complete Set (200). This is an impressive presentation assembled under the strictest of quality standards. Poorly cut cards is usually an issue with Post Cereal productions. This 200-card complete set offers mainly cards with the vast majority of the key line showing. Where a border doesn't show one quickly realizes there is not a great size variation from card to card and all are so very close to being full size. Usually, grades are lowered due to the smaller dimensions but not so with these hand cut beauties. In total, 19 cards have been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 7 cards w/#'s 6 Hornung, 10 Moore, 54 McCord, 61 Brown, 117 Morris, 136 Connelly and 193 Krakoski; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/#s 74 Baker and 169 Pardee; SGC 84 NM 7: 4 cards w/#'s 12 Starr, 24 Morrison, 41 Richardson and 59 Schmidt; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 2 cards w/#s 135 Clarke and 184 Tarkenton; SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards, #s 29 Tittle and 111 Ditka; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, #62 Fiss; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, #93 Baker. Ungraded - Includes: #s 28 Shofner (NM), 43 Walston (VG/EX), 90 Unitas (VG/EX), 97 Johnson (EX), 103 St. Clair (EX), 110 Coia (EX, stains), 133 Tracy (NM), 139 Green (VG/EX), 145 Tubbs (EX/MT), 153 Koman (EX/MT), 158 Guglielmi (VG/EX), 176 Joyce (VG), 186 Youso (EX/MT) and 188 Anderson (EX/MT). Presents 81% EX/MT to NM/MT, 19% VG/EX to EX (mainly due to a faint wrinkle or rev. wax staining) with a few lesser.
1962 Topps Football High Grade Complete Set (176). Offered is a 1962 Topps Football complete set of 176 cards. Attractive mid-grade example of the most condition-sensitive football set Topps has ever produced. Features rookie cards of Mike Ditka and Fran Tarkenton, as well as, twenty-seven other Hall of Famers. A total of 11 cards (7 SGC and 4 PSA) have been professionally graded. Highlights include w/#'s 1 Unitas (VG/EX), 5 Berry SP (EX/MT), 8 Marchetti (NM), 17 Ditka (VG/EX), 27 Renfro SP (EX), 28 Brown (EX), 32 Groza (EX), 36 Davis SP (EX/MT), 39 Meredith SP (EX), 49 Cowboys (EX), 63 Starr SP (PSA NM-MT 8), 64 Hornung SP (PSA NM 7), 66 Taylor SP (SGC 84 NM 7), 67 McGee SP (SGC 86 NM+ 7.5), 68 Ringo SP (VG), 75 Packers SP (EX), 76 CL SP (EX), 79 Matson SP (SGC 84 NM 7), 88 Gabriel SP (VG/EX), 90 Tarkenton SP (SGC 80 EX/NM 6), 92 McElhenny SP (EX), 102 Tittle (PSA NM 7), 104 Gifford (PSA NM 7), 110 Huff (EX), 115 Jurgenson (SGC 84 NM 7), 127 Layne (SGC 84 NM 7), 151 Kilmer (EX), 152 Brodie (SGC 84 NM 7), 164 Snead SP (EX), 176 CL (EX). Grades 16% NM to NM/MT, 78% EX to EX/MT, 6% VG to VG/EX.
1964 Kahn's Weiners Football SGC-Graded Collection (8) - All Pop 1, Most With None Higher! Every card has been graded by SGC, seven subjects hold the coveted status "Pop 1-of-1 With None Higher" while the lone exception is pop 1-of-1 with one graded higher. All eight have total population numbers of two, three or four. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 Mint 98 Gem 10: 1 card, Clendon Thomas; SGC 96 Mint 9: 5 cards w/Dick Hoak, Bobby Mitchell, Del Shofner, Norm Snead and Abe Woodson; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, Billy Wade; SGC 84 NM 7: 1 card, Larry Morris.
1964 Philadelphia Football High Grade Complete Set (198). Offered is a 198-card complete set of the first of four nationally distributed football card sets Philadelphia Gum produced to de-throne the Topps corporate giant. A total of 18 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA GEM MINT 10: 1 card, #89 Gabriel; PSA MINT 9: 4 cards w/#'s 6 Matte, 78 Ringo, 91 Olsen and 98; PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #41 Browns; PSA NM-MT 8: 10 cards w/#'s 3 Mackey, 15, 30 Brown, 53, 61 Lane, 71 Adderly, 77, 85, 116 and 124 Tittle; PSA NM 7: 2 cards w/#'s 17 Ditka and 74 Hornung. Ungraded Cards - include w/#'s 1 Berry (VG/EX), 12 Unitas (EX), 14 Shula (EX), 28 Halas (NM), 48 Lilly (EX), 51 Meredith (EX), 56 Landry (EX), 72 Davis (EX/MT), 79 Starr (EX/MT), 80 Taylor (EX), 82 Wood (NM), 84 Lombardi (EX), 109 Tarkenton (EX/MT), 117 Gifford (EX/MT), 161 Johnson (NM), 186 Jurgenson (EX), 197 CL (NM), 198 CL (NM). Grades 46% NM to NM/MT, 54% EX to EX/MT (few lesser). SMR value approaches $1400.
1964 Philadelphia Football High Grade Complete Set (198) - With 91 Graded Cards! Offered is 198-card complete set of 1964 Philadelphia Gum football cards certain to please the most condition sensitive gridiron specialist. A total of 91 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 19 cards w/#'s 19, 22, 23 Petitbon, 39, 40, 47, 56 Landry, 57, 96, 104 Marshall, 105, 112 Van Brocklin, 130, 140, 142, 144, 163, 166 and 174; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 34 cards w/#'s 4 Marchetti, 14 Shula, 16, 21, 26, 53, 60, 62 Lary, 102, 109 Tarkenton, 115, 121, 123, 127, 128, 129, 131, 132, 138, 139, 146, 148, 151, 154, 155, 160, 162, 172, 181, 182, 184, 185 Huff, 191 and 198 CL 2; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 26 cards w/#'s 3 Mackey, 7, 11, 12 Unitas, 24, 25, 31 Collins, 38, 43, 59, 61 Lane, 70, 71 Adderly, 73 Gregg, 75 Jordan, 78 Ringo, 80 Taylor, 82 Wood, 90, 91 Olsen, 98, 134, 147, 156, 170 and 189 Mitchell; PSA NM-MT 8: 1 card, #74 Hornung; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 6 cards w/#'s 30 Brown, 51 Meredith, 72 Davis, 76 Kramer, 84 Lombardi and 124 Tittle; PSA NM 7: 4 cards w/#'s 45, 79 Starr, 116 and 186 Jurgensen. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Berry (EX/MT), 17 Ditka (EX), 48 Lilly (EX), 161 Johnson (NM), 197 CL 1 (VG/EX). Grades 65% NM to NM/MT, 30% EX to EX/MT, 5% VG to VG/EX. SMR value exceeds $3,500.
1965 Philadelphia Football High Grade Complete Set (198). Offered is a 198-card high grade complete set of 1965 Philadelphia Gum football cards. A total of 21 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA NM-MT 8: 10 cards w/#'s 6, 15, 19 Ditka, 42, 53 Renfro, 72 Adderly, 112, 146, 147 and 187 Huff; PSA NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/#'s 41 Warfield and 84 Lombardi; PSA NM 7: 9 cards w/#'s 23, 33, 50 Meredith, 76 Hornung, 81 Starr, 102, 105 Eller, 174 and 195 Taylor. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Colts (NM), 12 Unitas (EX), 14 Shula (NM), 28 Halas (NM), 31 Brown (EX), 47 Lilly (EX), 56 Landry (NM), 79 Nitschke (EX/MT), 82 Taylor (EX), 94 Olsen (EX), 105 Eller (NM), 110 Tarkenton (EX/MT), 188 Jurgenson (NM), 189 Krause (EX/MT), 195 Taylor (NM), 197 CL (EX/MT), 198 CL (EX). Grades 50% NM to NM/MT, 50% EX to EX/MT (few lesser). SMR value approaches $800.
1965 Philadelphia Football High Grade Complete Set (198). Offered is a 198-card complete set of 1965 Philadelphia Gum football cards. This was the debut production aimed at dethroning Topps from the top of the sports card market. Freshly pulled from vending boxes, in total, 78 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 17 cards w/#'s 9, 49 McDonald, 50 Meredith, 59, 64, 65 Morrall, 66, 69, 79 Nitschke, 80 Pitts, 87 Gabriel, 90 Lundy, 95, 106, 134, 157 and 162; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 34 cards w/#'s 3, 7, 12 Unitas, 16, 19 Ditka, 22, 31 Brown, 38, 40, 41 Warfield, 44, 46, 47 Lilly, 54, 57, 74, 85, 97, 98, 100, 115 Brown, 127, 132, 136, 171 Brodie and 178; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 20 cards w/#'s 8 Moore, 13, 17, 26, 53 Renfro, 56 Landry, 72 Adderly, 82 Taylor, 88 Grier, 89 Jones, 110 Tarkenton, 113, 118, 120, 130, 144, 148, 149, 151 and 176 Johnson; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 6 cards w/#'s 48, 76 Hornung, 81 Starr, 83 Wood, 105 Eller and 185; SGC 84 NM 7: 1 card, #180. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 14 Shula (EX/MT), 188 Jurgensen (EX), 197 CL 1 (VG/EX) and 198 CL 2 (VG/EX). Grades 60% NM to NM/MT, 35% EX to EX/MT, 5% VG to VG/EX. SMR value of graded cards approaches $3,500.
1966 Philadelphia Football High Grade Complete Set (198). Offered is an attractive 198-card complete set of Philadelphia Gums' football edition from 1966. A total of 53 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 6 cards w/#'s 29, 36, 65, 130, 132 and 156; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 16 cards w/#'s 13 Falcons Insignia, 23 Parker, 31 Butkus, 44, 58 Hayes, 59 Howley, 96 Jones, 99, 100, 105, 106, 108, 109, 163, 167 and 182; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 26 cards w/#'s 4, 10, 11, 15 Berry, 21 Moore, 33, 42, 45 Hickerson, 49, 54, 55, 61 Meredith, 63 Renfro, 79, 87 Nitschke, 88 Starr, 110, 112, 114 Tarkenton, 124, 127, 141 Ringo, 152, 159, 162 and 174; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/#'s 39 Sayers IA and 81 Caffey; SGC 84 NM 7: 3 cards w/#'s 24 Unitas, 38 Sayers and 154. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 32 Ditka (EX), 41 Brown (EX), 60 Lilly (EX), 89 Taylor (EX), 197 CL (EX) and 198 CL (EX). Grades 59% NM to NM/MT, 41% EX to EX/MT (few lesser). SMR value approaches $3,000. Dick Butkus was figured at the NM/MT level. The spread between a NM/MT and MINT goes from $900 to $7,500.
1967 Philadelphia Football High Grade Complete Set (198). Offered is a 198-card complete set of 1967 Philadelphia Gum football cards. Overall, a very attractive assembly pulled from vending boxes. Centering is the defining component for many cards. In total, 52 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 4 cards w/#'s 3, 62, 161 and 179; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 14 cards w/#'s 8, 16, 20 Mackey, 25 Bears, 36, 42 Hickerson, 63, 66, 96, 122, 142 Snead, 146, 170 and 178 Wilcox; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 28 cards w/#'s 7 Nobis, 12, 18, 23 Unitas, 26, 29 Ditka, 32, 33, 41, 45, 52 Hayes, 65, 68, 74 Adderly, 81 Skoronski, 97, 106 Tarkenton, 107, 116, 124, 147, 160, 165 Smith, 175, 176, 181, 183 and 187; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/#'s 109 and 138; SGC 84 NM 7: 4 cards w/#'s 43 Kelly, 82 Starr, 194 and 195. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 35 Sayers (EX), 54 Jordan (NM), 55 Lilly (EX/MT), 58 Reeves (EX/MT), 123 Hornung (EX/MT) and 185 Jurgensen (NM). Grades 45% NM to NM/MT, 50% EX to EX/MT, 5% lesser.
1967 Royal Castle Miami Dolphins "Wahoo" McDaniel PSA NM-MT 8. Graded NM-MT by PSA, this is the highest graded example from a total population of three. Two cards were issued per week over the course of the season at Royal Castle Diners, this very rare regional issue showcased the players of the newly formed Miami Dolphins. If the limited distribution didn't make acquiring single cards difficult enough a number of subjects were short printed as well. Of the 41 Total cards submitted to PSA, this close to mint copy of Ed (Wahoo) McDaniel is one of only four to earn a Near Mint to Mint label.
1967 Topps Football High Grade Collection (458) - With 72 SGC Graded Cards! Recently pulled from the vending stock of a long-time hobby dealer, these 450+ football cards from 1967 will effortlessly impress the condition conscious collector. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 9 cards w/#'s 23, 25, 26, 37, 64, 67, 85, 91 and 118; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 30 cards w/#'s 4, 16 Flores (3), 23, 24 Kemp, 25, 26, 29, 34, 37, 52, 54, 57, 59 Checklist, 61 Dawson, 62 (2), 67, 71 Buchanon, 74 Gilchrist, 75, 77, 85, 91, 94, 99, 100, 115 and 123 Alworth; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 26 cards w/#'s 2, 6, 7, 22, 28, 32, 46 (3), 52, 59 Checklist, 61 Dawson, 69 Bell, 73, 76, 78, 79, 82 McDaniel (2), 89, 90, 92, 96, 105 Otto, 109 Cannon and 116 Davidson; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 6 cards w/#'s 36, 82 McDaniel, 106 Biletnikoff, 123 Alworth (2) and 125 Mix; SGC 84 NM 7: 1 card, #82 McDaniel. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Huarte (2: EX and VG/EX), 13 Buoniconti (7: 1 NM, 6 EX to EX/MT), 24 Kemp (3: 2 EX to EX/MT, 1 VG/EX), 61 Dawson (4: 1 NM, 3 EX to EX/MT), 71 Buchanon (NM), 82 McDaniel (3: 1 NM, 2 EX to EX/MT), 97 Maynard (5: all EX to EX/MT), 105 Otto (3: 1 NM, 2 EX to EX/MT), 106 Biletnikoff (NM), 123 Alworth (3: 1 NM, 2 EX to EX/MT) and 132 Checklist (3: 2 EX and 1 VG/EX). Grades 41% NM to NM/MT, 51% EX to EX/MT, 8% lesser. SMR value approaches $2,500.
1968 Topps Football High Grade Complete Set (219). Offered is a very nice 1968 Topps football complete set of 219 cards. A total of 21 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA MINT 9: 1 card, #161 Tarkenton; PSA NM-MT 8: 16 cards w/#'s 20, 25 Meredith, 32, 53, 56, 57, 60 Hart, 81, 87, 98, 153, 160 Taylor, 175, 184, 207 Jordan and 218; PSA NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/#'s 12 and 118; PSA NM 7: 2 cards w/#'s 75 Sayers and 100 Unitas. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Starr (EX), 25 Meredith (NM), 49 Warfield (NM), 55 CL (EX), 60 Hart (NM), 65 Namath (EX), 75 Sayers (NM), 100 Unitas (NM), 127 Butkus (EX/MT), 142 Blanda (NM/MT), 149 Kemp (EX), 157 Nitschke (EX/MT), 160 Taylor (NM), 161 Tarkenton (NM), 162 Ditka (NM), 163 Russell (EX/MT), 168 Biletnikoff (NM), 169 Maynard (EX/MT), 171 Dawson (EX/MT), 181 Lilly (EX/MT), 193 Alworth (EX), 196 Griese (EX/MT), 219 CL (EX/MT). Grades 38% NM to NM/MT, 62% EX to EX/MT (mainly due to centering, few lesser). SMR value exceeds $500.
1969 Topps Football Mid- To High-Grade Collection (546) A total of 35 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 9 cards w/#'s 12, 58, 105, 113 Johnson (3), 122, 227 Jurgensen and 257; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 20 cards w/#'s 17, 30, 34 Olsen, 39, 44, 60 Maynard, 66, 70, 97, 114 Mitchell, 119, 120 Csonka (2), 127, 147, 161 Griese, 182, 198, 207 Mackey and 227 Jurgensen; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 4 cards w/#'s 75 Meredith, 80 Checklist, 193 and 249 Brodie; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 2 cards w/#'s 120 Csonka and 175. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 25 Unitas (2: NM and EX), 26 Piccolo (GD), 51 Sayers (2: EX/MT and VG/EX), 69 Alworth (2: both NM), 80 Checklist (2: NM and EX/MT), 132 Checklist (4: 2 EX/MT and 2 EX),139 Butkus (EX), 150 Tarkenton (3: EX/MT and 2 EX), 161 Griese (2: EX/MT and EX), 201 Biletnikoff (2: NM and EX/MT), 215 Starr (EX/MT), 232 Blanda (2: NM and EX) and 263 Lamonica (2: NM and EX/MT). Grades 36% NM to NM/MT, 56% EX to EX/MT, 8% VG to VG/EX. SMR value exceeds $800.
1969 Topps Football High Grade Complete Set (263). The beautifully rendered 1969 Topps football set, released in two series, features brightly colored backgrounds and full-bleed printing in the first series (the second half has a white border). The issue includes rookie cards of Larry Csonka and Bryon Piccolo and star cards of Unitas, Starr, Griese, Sayers and Blanda. A total of 22 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 2 cards w/#'s 12 and 60 Maynard; PSA NM-MT 8: 9 cards w/#'s 35, 69 Alworth, 85, 86, 104, 107, 118, 128 Davidson and 170; PSA NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/#'s 68 and 120 Csonka; PSA NM 7: 9 cards w/#'s 25 Unitas, 26 Piccolo, 30, 41, 75 Meredith, 100 Namath, 102, 121 and 145. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Kelly (EX/MT), 20 Dawson (EX/MT), 51 Sayers (EX), 139 Butkus (NM), 150 Tarkenton (NM), 161 Griese (NM), 215 Starr (EX), 232 Blanda (NM), 263 Lamonica (EX/MT). Grades 51% NM to NM/MT, 49% EX to EX/MT (few lesser). SMR value exceeds $500.
1970 Topps Super Football Square Proofs Complete Set (35) - #1 on the PSA Set Registry! Set GPA: 8.93. Set Registry Ranking: #1 on PSA Set Registry. Before they became the circulated version we all recognize so well-you know with thick card stock and die cut rounded corners-they were these: Proofs on thin stock, with blank backs and square corners, the result of processing a full proof sheet. For some reason, PSA will no longer encapsulate these proofs. This is as about as nice a set as one will ever encounter. Includes: Graded - PSA Mint 9: 12 cards w/Dawson, Griese, Hayes, Kapp, Lamonica, Namath, Nobis, Sayers, Simpson, Starr, Tarkenton and Webster; PSA NM-MT 8: 3 cards, w/Alworth, Butkus and Unitas. Grades 34% Mint, 49% NM to NM/MT, 17% EX/MT with one slightly lesser.
1970 Topps Super Football Uncut Sheet. The 1970 Topps Supers were a 35-card set issued three per pack with a stick of gum. Card backs showed the reverse of the player's regular 1970 card; though this uncut sheet is blank-backed. The uncut sheet of 63 cards from the 1970 Topps Super football issue measures 31-1/4" x 39-1/2". Twenty-eight of the cards from this 35-card issue are duplicated leaving the final seven cards in the series as short-prints. The short-printed cards include Tommy Nobis, Bob Hayes, Joe Kapp, Daryle Lamonica, Joe Namath, George Webster, Bob Griese. Other highlights include Frank Tarkenton, Bart Starr, Dick Butkus, Johnny Unitas, Gale Sayers and a rookie O.J. Simpson. Though the typical wear at the corners with most uncut sheets is also evident here; it is remarkably free of creasing and could be framed and matted to a Near Mint to Mint appearance.
1971 Bazooka Football Complete Set (36) - A Twelve Full Box Set! This set is very difficult to find in this form as a complete set! Offered is a complete 36-card set of 1971 Bazooka football cards in the form of twelve full boxes. Each box offers three sequential cards still intact on the back panel. Highlights include: #'s 1 Namath, 4 Butkus, 11 Jurgensen, 14 Simpson, 18 Olsen, 21 Starr, 25 Tarkenton, 27 Sayers, 28 Unitas, 35 Griese and 36 Alworth. Overall, the boxes present at the EX/MT to NM range with light factory-induced wrinkles or light creases at edges. Unaffected cards are in Mint condition.
1971 Dell Football Complete Set (48) - #1 on the PSA Set Registry! Set GPA: 8.95; Set Ranking: #1 on PSA Set Registry. With four exceptions, every player stands alone as or equals the highest grade available; Eleven cards hold the title, "Pop 1-of-1 With None Higher." Rookie card fans should be aware of the appearance of HoF QB Terry Bradshaw. Includes: Graded - PSA Gem MT 10: 16 cards w/Adderly, Blanda, Brodie, Farr, Gordon, Griese, Johnson, Jones, Lanier, Lilly, Little, Namath, Nobis, Olsen, Philbin and Sayers ; PSA Mint 9: 29 cards w/Abramowicz, Barney, Bell, Bradshaw, Brown, Butkus, Carr, Carter, Curtis, Dawson, Eller, Gabriel, Garrison, Hayes, Jackson, Johnson, Jurgensen, Kelly, Lane, Lucci, Maynard, Page, Shaw, Simpson, Rossovich, Tarkenton, Warfield, Washington and Wilson; PSA NM 7: 1 card, Plunkett; PSA EX 5: 2 cards w/Lamonica and Unitas.
1972 Topps Football High Grade Complete Set (351). This high grade 351-card complete set is ideal for the most condition conscious hobbyist. Over 60% of this set has been graded at the NM or higher level. This colorful issue is prized for the notoriously difficult high number series and key rookies of Staubach, Spurrier, Hendricks, Joiner, Little, Manning, Plunkett, Riggins and Upshaw. A total of 88 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA MINT 9: 30 cards w/#'s 38, 57, 97, 109, 116, 119, 121, 124 Brodie IA, 126 Riggins IA, 265 Yary AP, 266, 267 Little AP, 270, 271 Warfield AP, 272 Griese AP, 275, 280 Lilly AP, 281 Hendricks AP, 282 Wilcox AP, 284 Johnson AP, 286, 287 Houston AP, 296, 300 Page, 306 Preston, 307, 309 Nobis, 312, 321 and 323; PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 2 cards w/#'s 13 Riggins and 80 Griese; PSA NM-MT 8: 49 cards w/#'s 2, 10, 11, 14, 15, 40 Gabriel, 43, 47, 59, 62, 65 Plunkett, 73, 74, 75, 77, 88, 90, 96, 98, 99, 107, 110 Sayers, 115, 135, 144, 160 Simpson, 165 Unitas, 171, 188, 194, 197, 205, 213, 215, 226, 235 Blanda, 245 Dawson, 246, 248 Alworth, 249, 251 Unitas IA, 264, 274, 277 Eller AP, 278 Smith AP, 279 Page AP, 298, 304 and 308 Morrall; PSA NM 7: 7 cards w/#'s 100 Namath, 105 Hayes, 140 Csonka, 181 Olsen, 240 Little, 244 Joiner and 351 Willard. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 55 Manning (NM), 93 Hendricks (EX/MT), 106 Alzado (NM), 120 Bradshaw IA (EX), 122 Staubach IA (EX/MT), 150 Bradshaw (EX), 170 Butkus (NM), 186 Upshaw (NM), 200 Staubach (NM), 291 Spurrier (EX/MT), 294 CL (EX/MT), 338 Spurrier IA (NM), 340 Dawson IA (EX/MT), 341 Butkus IA (EX/MT), 343 Namath IA (EX), 348 Blanda IA (EX). Grades 64% NM to NM/MT, 36% EX to EX/MT (few lesser). SMR value approaches $3,000.
1972 Topps Football High Numbers PSA GEM MT 10 Group of (8). Each card has been graded Gem MT 10 by PSA. Assessed to be without flaws, all ten cards reside from the scarce high-number series of the '72 Topps football series. Includes: Graded - PSA GEM MT 10: 10 cards w/#'s 265 Yary AP, 266 Wright AP, 267 Little AP, 270 Taylor AP, 275 Yepremian AP, 280 Lilly AP, 312 Marsalis and 321 Howell.
1976 Topps Football High Grade Complete Set (528). Offered is a high grade 528-card completes et of 1976 Topps football cards. A total of 6 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include - #'s 44 Martin (NM/MT), 75 Bradshaw (NM), 100 Harris (SGC 96 MINT 9), 128 Fouts (SGC 96 MINT 9), 140 Swann (NM), 148 Payton (SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5), 158 White (EX), 220 Lambert (SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5), 395 Staubach (EX/MT), 415 Stabler (SGC 96 MINT 9), 427 Jones (NM/MT), and 522 Bleier (SGC 88 NM/MT 8). Grades 75% NM to NM/MT, 25% EX to EX/MT. SMR value exceeds $350.
1977 Topps Mexican Football PSA-Graded Collection (48) - With Largent Rookie! Every card has been graded by PSA. Offered is a high grade selection of 1977 Topps Mexican Football cards, its star studded line-up topped by a Steve Largent rookie card. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #92; PSA NM-MT 8: 31 cards w/#'s 18, 94, 115, 134, 138, 164 (OC), 189, 240, 249, 251, 255, 282 (OC), 294, 307 Douglass, 322, 331 Plunkett (OC), 336, 343, 345, 364, 395, 413, 462, 483 (OC), 484, 496, 503, 510, 518, 521 and 523; PSA NM 7: 11 cards w/#'s 107, 147, 168, 175, 177 Largent, 181, 258, 268, 299, 320 and 372; PSA EX-MT 6: 5 cards w/#'s 103, 182, 183, 354 and 374. The SMR value is over $1,200.00.
1977 Topps Mexican Football PSA Mint 9 Collection (19). Only 2.6% of the over 8,100 '77 Topps Mexican football cards has achieved the coveted "mint" assessment. Each card is one of only two, three or four "9" examples known to date. Not one card number has a Gem MT "10" in the books. Includes: Graded - PSA Mint 9: 19 card w/#'s 18, 65, 77, 121, 134, 140 Ham, 206 Browns CL, 214 Dolphins CL, 254, 313, 325, 334, 336, 343, 414, 429, 452, 469 and 479.
1977 Topps Mexican Football Graded PSA NM-MT+ 8.5 Collection (9). Each card has been graded NM-MT+ 8.5 by PSA, each subject has a population of three or fewer, some are the highest grade known with none higher. The eye-catchers of this modest high quality selection are HoF quarterbacks Terry Bradshaw and Dan Fouts. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 9 cards w/#'s 32, 88, 92, 117, 245 Terry Bradshaw (pop 1, two higher), 274 Dan Fouts (Pop 3, none higher), 445, 452 and 462.
1977 Topps Mexican Football Display Box Quartet (4). On very rare occasions Topps produces a specific set of cards for a market outside the USA. In 1977 they paralleled their 528-card US edition with a set marketed in Mexico with all English text now in Spanish (except the word "Football" which would be sure to disappoint youngsters looking for a treasured card of their favorite soccer star). Here are four display boxes, each advertised as having 36 packs, from that one time production. The boxes as they appear: 1) Top panel ripped into two, both ends attached with tape, packs exposed; Packs appear undisturbed. 2) Top panel attached by tape at seal, packs partially exposed. 3) Top Intact, tape at side seal, packs appear untouched. 4) Top detached but taped at top and side, packs appears untouched. Note: The boxes/packs appear unsearched/untampered with but we cannot guarantee the assessment of third party grading services. Please bid accordingly.
Basketball Cards
1948 Bowman George Mikan #69 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, only two examples have survived in nicer condition. A new chapter for the role of the center was penned by this 6' 10" Hall of Fame legend. There isn't a big man currently in the NBA who doesn't owe Mikan a debt of gratitude. His style and presence on the court whether he was taking a shot over the heads of his opponents, going for a rebound or blocking a shot, Mikan changed the game and at the same time the popularity of the sport. Even this high quality square of cardboard seems unfit to pay homage to the first great center of the modern era. It is fitting that his rookie card appearance comes within the first great basketball issue of the modern era of trading cards. Perfect color, precision centering and tight registration (a rare treat for this set) are paired with two blazing mint corners and two with the slightest suggestions of wear. The boldly printed two-color reverse is free of blemishes and unsightly stock imperfections, another rare treat for the issue.
1948 Bowman Basketball SGC-Graded Collection (8). Every card has been graded by SGC. From Bowmans' first and only basketball production. Includes: Graded - SGC 84 NM 7: 6 cards w/#;s 3, 5 Single Cut Off Post Play, 27, 32 Holzman RC, 33 and 35; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #24; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, #7 Logan.
1948 Bowman Basketball SGC 88 NM/MT 8 Collection (17 Different). With basketball sharing a small percentage of fans compared to baseball examples in any condition from this one time basketball series by Bowman are noticeably more difficult to find for modern collectors. Highlights include: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 17 cards w/#'s 2 Hamilton, 3 Bishop, 5 Single Cut Off Post, 10 Davies, 11 Single Cut, 13 Armstrong, 15 Hale, 16 Hertzberg, 19 Ehlers, 23 Double Cut Off Post, 24 Klier, 25 Senesky, 26 Brookfield, 31 Gilmur, 32 Holtman, 33 Smiley and 58 Risen. SMR value of this high grade lot exceeds $4,000.
1948 Kellogg's Pep George Mikan PSA NM-MT 8. Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, one of a trio at this grade with none higher. George Mikan credits go so very far beyond his personal achievements. His style of play changed the way future generations of athletes approached the role of center and the game itself. His debut season is marked by two cards related appearances. Most will immediately think of his Bowman Gum card but far fewer realize his is a key entry in the 1948 Kellogg's Pep ports series as well. This far more scarce rookie of Mikan depicts the smiling young man who was about embark on a basketball career which would earn him a place among the games' most elite members. This attractive example has but the slightest touches of wear at corner tips which surround a crisp, nicely centered real-photo portrait of the young future court king.
1948 Topps Magic Photos Basketball (B & Q Series) Graded Complete Set (11) - #1 on the PSA Set Registry! Each card has been graded by PSA, with one exception every card is the highest grade known from a population of four or fewer, Five are pop 1-of-1. Both very well preserved series rank #1 on the PSA set registry. Includes: 1948 Topps Magic Photo Basketball Thrills-Series Q (5) - Set GPA: 5.63. Includes: Graded - PSA EX-MT 6: 4 cards w/#'s 1Q, 2Q, 3Q and 4Q; PSA EX 5: 1 card, #5Q. 1948 Topps Magic Photo All-American Basketball-Series B (6) - Set GPA: 5.72. Includes: Graded - PSA EX-MT 6: 4 cards w/#'s 1B, 3B, 5B and 6B; PSA EX 5: 2 cars w/#'s 2B and 4B.
1957-58 Topps Basketball Complete Set (80). . This scarce set represents Topps first basketball issue with not another set appearing for twelve more years until the 1969-70 issue. It includes many important rookies including Sharman, Schayes and most noteworthy, the short-printed Bill Russell. A total of 13 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA NM 7: 4 cards w/#'s 6, 9, 55 and 62 Galatin; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 1 card, #39 Loscutoff SP; PSA EX-MT 6: 7 cards w/#'s 10 Arizin, 14 Atha, 15 Ramsey, 28 Mikkelsen SP, 42 Stokes, 77 Russell (MC) and 78 Lovellette; PSA EX 5: 1 card, #13 Schayes. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 1 Clifton (VG), 2 Yardley (EX), 3 Johnston (EX), 5 Sharman (EX), 12 Martin (EX), 16 McGuire (EX/MT), 17 Cousy (EX), 19 Heinsohn SP (EX/MT), 24 Pettit (EX), 32 Kerr SP (EX), 37 Hagan SP (EX), 43 Hundley (VG/EX), 44 Gola (EX), 59 Bianchi SP (VG/EX), 71 Twyman (VG/EX) and 80 Schnittker SP (EX). Grades 5% NM, 79% EX to EX/MT, 16% VG to VG/EX. SMR value approaches $1,500.
1961-62 Fleer Rudy Larusso #26 SGC 96 Mint 9. Graded 96 Mint 9 by SGC, the only recorded entry at this level. A beautiful example of a Rudy Larusso rookie card assessed by the conservative judgement of SGC.
1961-62 Fleer Basketball High Grade SGC Collection (15 Different). Perhaps the most collectible basketball issue on the planet, and one of the most popular in any sport, the '61 Fleer set continues to impress as much today some five decades later. To describe this selection as "high grade" is as easy as being taken in by the freshness and visual appeal. Include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 1 card, #42 Twyman; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 5 cards w/#'s 11 Dukes, 12 Embrey, 21 Hundley, 35 Ramsey and 45 Ramsey IA; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 10 cards w/#'s 7 Braun, 9 Costello, 18 Hagan, 23 Jones, 24 Jordan, 27 Lee, 50 Dukes IA, 51 Gola IA, 54 Heinsohn IA and 65 Twyman IA. SMR value exceeds $2,500.
1968 Jack In The Box San Diego Rockets Complete Set (14) - #1 on the PSA Set Registry!. NOTE: This set is now the #2 set on the PSA Registry.
Set GPA: 9.42. Set Registry Rank: #2 on the PSA set Registry! In 1968 Jack-In-The-Box produced a 14-card set which showcased the players from the newly formed San Diego Rockets. These cards are among the precious few basketball cards to be circulated on any scale since the Fleer edition some seven years prior. Single examples are tough to acquire, a complete set of 14 is a true next-to-impossible achievement. With every card a rookie card, this set features the "true" rookie cards of HoFers Elvin Hayes and Pat Riley. The Henry Finkle and Harry Barnes cards are short-printed and are extremely rare in any condition. With one exception, each card equals the highest grade known for that subject. Includes: Graded - PSA Gem MT 10: 12 cards w/ Rick Adelman, Jim Barnett, John Block, Elvin Hayes, Toby Kimball, Don Kojis, Stuart Lantz, Pat Riley, Bobby Smith, John Trapp, Art Williams and Bernie Williams; PSA NM-MT 8: 2 cards w/ Harry Barnes/SP and Henry Finkle/SP. A fine addition to any basketball collection.
Set GPA: 9.42. Set Registry Rank: #2 on the PSA set Registry! In 1968 Jack-In-The-Box produced a 14-card set which showcased the players from the newly formed San Diego Rockets. These cards are among the precious few basketball cards to be circulated on any scale since the Fleer edition some seven years prior. Single examples are tough to acquire, a complete set of 14 is a true next-to-impossible achievement. With every card a rookie card, this set features the "true" rookie cards of HoFers Elvin Hayes and Pat Riley. The Henry Finkle and Harry Barnes cards are short-printed and are extremely rare in any condition. With one exception, each card equals the highest grade known for that subject. Includes: Graded - PSA Gem MT 10: 12 cards w/ Rick Adelman, Jim Barnett, John Block, Elvin Hayes, Toby Kimball, Don Kojis, Stuart Lantz, Pat Riley, Bobby Smith, John Trapp, Art Williams and Bernie Williams; PSA NM-MT 8: 2 cards w/ Harry Barnes/SP and Henry Finkle/SP. A fine addition to any basketball collection.
1969-70 Topps Basketball High Grade Complete Set (99). One of the most collectible basketball sets in the hobby, this classic "tall boy" issue includes plenty of key Hall of Fame rookie cards including Thurmond, Hawkins, Cunningham, Lucas, Bing, Unseld, Reed, Hayes, Monroe and DeBusschere. Condition issues typically plague the set, so a high-grade offering like this is a rare occurrence. The Lew Alcindor rookie, issued before he even played a game with the Milwaukee Bucks, was the inspiration behind Topps reestablishing itself in the basketball card market with a 99-card issue. A total of 10 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: #'s 1 Chamberlain (SGC 60 EX 5), 2 Goodrich (SGC 84 NM 7), 3 Russell (NM), 10 Thurmond (EX/MT), 15 Hawkins (EX/MT), 20 Havlicek (SGC 80 EX/NM 6), 25 Alcindor (SGC 86 NM+ 7.5), 35 Baylor (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 40 Cunningham (EX/MT), 43 Bradley (NM), 44 Wilkens (SGC 86 NM+ 7.5), 45 Lucas (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 50 Robertson (VG/EX), 55 Bing (EX), 56 Unseld (NM), 60 Reed (SGC 86 NM+ 7.5), 75 Hayes (EX), 80 Monroe (SGC 84 NM 7), 82 Nelson (NM), 84 Greer (EX), 85 DeBusschere (EX), 90 West (VG/EX) 98 Frazier (SGC 86 NM+ 7.5) and 99 CL (EX). Grades 50% NM to NM/MT, 42% EX to EX/MT, 8% VG to VG/EX. SMR value exceeds $1,000.
1969-70 Topps Basketball High Graded Complete Set (99). One of the most collectible basketball sets in the hobby, this classic "tall boy" issue includes an abundance of key Hall of Fame rookie cards including Thurmond, Hawkins, Cunningham, Lucas, Bing, Unseld, Reed, Hayes, Monroe and DeBusschere. Condition issues typically plague the set, so a fantastically high-grade offering like this is a rare occurrence. The Lew Alcindor rookie, issued before he even played a game with the Milwaukee Bucks, was the inspiration behind Topps reestablishing itself in the basketball card market with a 99-card issue. A total of 27 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 96 MINT 9: 1 card, #55 Bing; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #34 Finkel; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 12 cards w/#'s 9, 10 Thurmond, 15 Hawkins, 24, 35 Baylor, 40 Cunningham, 43 Bradley, 45 Lucas, 47, 56 Unseld, 69 and 75 Hayes; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 4 cards w/#'s 5, 60 Reed, 80 Monroe and 96; SGC 84 NM 7: 8 cards w/#'s 1 Chamberlain, 20 Havlicek, 25 Alcindor, 44 Wilkens, 64, 76, 82 Nelson and 90 West; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #85 Debusschere. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 2 Goodrich (EX/MT), 3 Russell (EX/MT), 50 Robertson (EX), 84 Greer (EX/MT), 98 Frazier (EX/MT) and 99 CL (VG/EX). Grades 61% NM to NM/MT, 39% EX to EX/MT (few lesser). SMR value exceeds $2,500.
1970 Topps Pete Maravich #123 SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5. One of the most beloved figures in post-war basketball history made his cardboard debut in this popular "tall boy" issue, and here we present a wonderful high-grade specimen featuring a baby-faced Pistol Pete. Color and registration is magnificent, and the wear so typically found within this issue is absent here. A gorgeous card.
1970-71 Topps Basketball High Grade Complete Set (175). Topps returned for the 2nd consecutive year to produce a basketball card set for the 1970-71 season. This 175-card "tall boy" style set offers the rookie card of a young man named Pete Maravich, who dominated the collegiate level at Louisiana State University. The condition issues which typically plague the set are held to a minimum resulting in a scarce chance at a high grade assembly. A total of 52 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA MINT 9: 4 cards w/#'s 12, 22, 100 Robertson (ST) and 102; PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 4 cards w/#'s 43, 114 Robertson AS, 125 Bing and 146; PSA NM-MT 8: 34 cards w/#'s 1 Alcindor/West LL, 3, 9, 10 Havlicek, 19, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 38, 51, 59, 61, 65 Baylor, 71, 75 Alcindor, 94, 96, 103, 106 Frazier AS, 110 Reed AS, 111, 124, 126, 141, 142, 143, 148 Sloan, 149, 155 Greer, 156, 165 Haskins and 173 NBA Game #6 Chamberlain; PSA NM 7: 10 cards w/#'s 2 West/Alcindor LL, 13 Riley, 24 CL, 50 Chamberlain, 86 Nelson, 112 Havlicek AS, 123 Maravich, 135 Debusschere, 137 Murphy and 160 West. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 7 Bradley (EX/MT), 20 Monroe (NM), 69 Silas (NM), 70 Hayes (NM), 101 CL (EX), 107 West AS (EX/MT), 120 Frazier (EX), 130 Hawkins (EX/MT) and 150 Reed (EX/MT). Grades 64% NM to NM/MT, 36% EX to EX/MT (few lesser). SMR value exceeds $2,000.
1970-1988 Topps and Fleer Basketball Unopened Packs Collection (15). Each pack has been graded by GAI. This exciting selection of 15 unopened wax packs represents all but one Topps production (1969) and the first three 1980's Fleer editions. The lot covers both basketball card production revivals. Includes: Topps (12 packs) - 1970 (GAI NM 7), 1971 (GAI Mint 9), 1972 (GAI NM-MT 8), 1973 (GAI NM-MT 8), 1974 (GAI NM-MT 8), 1975 (GAI Gem Mint 9.5), 1976 (GAI NM-MT 8, no holder), 1977 (GAI NM+ 7.5), 1978 (GAI NM 7), 1979 (GAI NM 7), 1980 (GAI NM-MT+ 8.5), 1981 (GAI NM+ 7.5); Fleer (3) - 1986 (GAI NM+ 7.5), 1987 (GAI Mint 9) and 1988 (GAI NM-MT+ 8.5). Not one pack is graded below the NM 7 level.
1986 Fleer Michael Jordan #57 SGC 98 Gem 10. Presented is one of the most sought-after modern cards of any type, and arguably the most popular card from any era or sport: here's an opportunity for a basketball card collector to reach the pinnacle. The offered rookie is clearly a pack-fresh example, with impeccable centering and superb color. The bold, perfectly focused and brilliant image of Jordan absolutely radiates through its pristine layer of uninterrupted, original surface gloss. Four perfect and apparently never-touched edges culminate in pinpoint-sharp corners at each aspect. Of the over 900 examples that have been graded by SGC and this superior example is one of only a precious few to achieve Gem Mint 98 status.
1986-87 Fleer Basketball High Grade Compete Set (132). This edition almost single handedly ushered in a new era in basketball card collecting. Its significance built on the extensive line-up of rookie cards of some of the greatest names of the era, including Michael Jordan. A total of 9 cards have been graded by PSA. Highlights include w/#'s 1 Jabbar (NM), 7 Barkley (PSA MINT 9), 9 Bird (PSA MINT 9), 22 Davis (PSA MINT 9), 26 Drexler (NM/MT), 27 Dumars (NM), 31 Erving (PSA MINT 9), 32 Ewing (PSA NM-MT 8), 53 Johnson (PSA NM-MT 8), 57 Jordan (PSA NM-MT 8), 68 Malone (PSA MINT 9), 77 Mullin (EX/MT), 82 Olajuwon (PSA NM-MT 8), 109 Thomas (NM), 121 Wilkins (EX/MT), 132 CL (EX/MT). Grades 87% NM to NM/MT, 13% EX to EX/MT (due to centering and not corner wear).
1986-87 Fleer Basketball High Grade Complete Set (132) Plus Sticker Insert Complete Set (11). In 1986, Fleer had been out of the basketball card market for a quarter of a century. They could not have picked a better year to re-apply the Fleer brand to basketball card collectibles. Immensely popular, the set offers the rookie cards of Akeem Olajuwon, Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, Patrick Ewing, and of course Michael Jordan. A total of 15 cards have been graded by SGC. Includes: 1986/87 Fleer - complete set of 132 cards. Graded Cards - SGC 98 GEM MINT 10: 2 cards w/#'s 27 Dumars and 82 Olajuwon; SGC 96 MINT 9: 6 cards w/#'s 7 Barkley, 9 Bird, 26 Drexler, 53 Johnson, 77 Mullin and 131 Worthy; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 5 cards w/#'s 1 Jabbar, 31 Erving, 57 Jordan, 68 Malone and 121 Wilkins; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, #109 Thomas. Ungraded Cards - include #'s 32 Ewing (NM/MT) and 132 CL (NM/MT). Grades 90% NM to NM/MT, 10% EX to EX/MT; 1986/87 Fleer Stickers (11) - w/#'s 1 Jabbar (EX), 2 Bird (NM/MT), 5 Erving (NM), 6 Ewing (NM/MT), 7 Johnson (NM/MT), 8 Jordan (SGC 88 NM/MT 8), 9 Olajuwon (), 11 Wilkins (EX/MT). Grades 78% NM to NM/MT, 36% EX/MT (rev. wax stains) with one EX.
1986-87 Fleer Stickers Michael Jordan #8 BGS Gem Mint 9.5. Scarcity and collectability combine to make the offered sticker among the most desired of all Jordan collectibles. With a scant population far below that of a PSA 10 sticker (67) or even a corresponding regular issue card in BGS 9.5 (117); it is safe to assume that this is not an opportunity sure to repeat itself anytime soon. These stickers are frequently found off-centered and most backs are found with wax stains due to packaging. Of the 2,360 Jordan stickers submitted to Beckett, this is 1 of only 5 to receive a Gem Mint 9.5 grade with none higher. Subgrades are as follows: Centering - 9.5, Edges - 9.5, Corners - 9.5, Surface - 9.
1987-88 Fleer Stickers Michael Jordan #2 BGS Gem Mint 9.5. The second-year Fleer Jordan sticker in BGS Gem Mint 9.5 has a smaller population than his rookie sticker; albeit with a lower number of submissions. This is partially due to a short run production of 1987-88 Fleer basketball cards after poor initial sales with the 1986-87 product. Also, just like the previous issue, nearly all cards from this set have wax-stained backs as a result of the packaging. Of the 917 Jordan stickers submitted to Beckett, this is 1 of only 4 to receive a Gem Mint 9.5 grade with none higher. Subgrades are as follows: Centering - 9.5, Edges - 9.5, Corners - 9.5, Surface - 9.
1988-89 Fleer Stickers Michael Jordan #7 BGS Gem Mint 9.5. Again, the 1988-89 Fleer Jordan sticker in BGS Gem Mint 9.5 has a smaller population than his rookie sticker. The MJ#7 sticker had extreme centering problems from side-to-side and top-to-bottom as well as slant or diamond cuts from top-to-bottom. Also, just like previous issues, wax-stained backs are a recurring problem. Of the 760 Jordan stickers submitted to Beckett, this is 1 of only 4 to receive a Gem Mint 9.5 grade with none higher. Subgrades are as follows: Centering - 9.5, Edges - 9.5, Corners - 9.5, Surface - 9.
Hockey Cards
1909 C59 Imperial "Lacrosse Series" Partial Set (37/100). Canada's second passion after hockey was Lacrosse. Many hockey stars played this sport during the hockey off-season and make appearances in these sets. The offered 37-card partial set is nicer than usually encountered in quantity. Ten cards have been graded by PSA. Some are small and may not meet min. size requirements for third party grading. Includes: Graded - PSA EX-MT 6: 3 cards w/#'s 2, 10 and 34; PSA EX 5: 3 cards w/#'s 44, 83 and 86; PSA VG-EX+ 4.5: 2 cards w/#'s 12 and 89; PSA VG-EX 4: 2 cars w/#'s 80 and 82. Grades 16% EX to EX/MT, 54% VG to VG/EX, 30% lesser.
1910 C60 "Lacrosse Series" Near Set (87/100). Although hockey is the undisputed national pastime of Canada, the sport of Lacrosse was a not so distant second. Lacrosse teams were seeded by hockey players looking to make some extra income. This series is rarely offered in quantity in any condition. This presentation represents a strong opportunity for the advanced hobbyists to fill a difficult entry into their collection. Many of the middle grade cards, which normally are so due to creases, are due to chipping of the delicate top surface layer. With an almost complete lack of major creases, this presentation offers tremendous visual appeal. In total, 22 cards have been graded by PSA. Includes: Graded - PSA NM 7 (OC): 2 cards w/#'s 1 Muir and 5; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 1 card, #8; PSA EX-MT 6: 9 cards w/#'s 25, 39, 48, 61, 68, 72, 81, 88 and 89; PSA EX 5: 2 cards w/#'s 38 and 67; PSA VG-EX+ 4.5: 1 card, #78; PSA VG-EX 4: 6 cards w/#'s 21, 26, 46, 65, 77 and 80; PSA VG 3: 1 card, #97 Lalonde. Ungraded - #75 Moran (GD). Grade 28% EX to EX/MT, 47% VG to VG/EX, 25% lesser with some trimmed/miscut.
1910-11 Sweet Caporal Postcards Marty Walsh #11 SGC 20 Fair 1.5. Graded 20 FR 1.5 by SGC, one of only two graded to date. This extremely rare series of real-photo postcards showcased 45 different professional hockey players and was produced for the "Sweet Caporal Cigarettes" brand tobacco. Clearly marked "Printed in Britain" the cards were believed to have had very limited distribution being sold only in larger, more expensive containers of tobacco or on a per carton of cigarettes basis. Our research also has found that each of the players depicted was given a set of the postcards. Postcard #11 shows Marty Walsh, a forward with a brief 5-year career, all with the Ottawa Senators, but he made the most of that part of his life. During that quick span he helped his team to three consecutive Stanley Cup titles, winning in 1909, 1910 and 1911. The reverse side of this offered rarity has issues with border staining and areas of surface loss. The obverse presents wonderfully (the lack of creases helps that) with just light corner wear giving it a close to excellent level presence. The crisp, well-defined image is the same used for the C55 hockey card series which appeared in 1911-12.
1910-11 Sweet Caporal Postcards Bruce Ridpath #14 SGC 30 Good 2. Graded 30 GD 2 by SGC, one of only two graded to date. The second of a pair we have to offer from this very rare series of real-photo hockey player postcards produced for the "Sweet Caporal Cigarettes" brand. Postcard #14 shows Bruce Ridpath. Coming up just 5 years prior, Ridpath's career year was 1911 with the Stanley Cup winning Ottawa Senators. His career ended shortly after when he was severely injured in a car accident. A very nice card for the grade, the reverse side has a couple of small spots of surface loss and light staining. The obverse shows one surface scratch in the upper right and some creasing along a segment of the left edge. The full figure, almost formal portrait is sharply defined with details present in his gloves and shoes. Certainly, a visually impressive card for the grade.
1912 C61 Imperial "Lacrosse Series" Newsy Lalonde PSA EX 5. Graded EX 5 by PSA, one of three at this grade with a trio assessed higher. In addition to being considered one of the greatest hockey players of the 20th Century Newsy Lalonde is also a legend in the sport of Lacrosse. He is a member of the hall of fame for both sports. Despite his hockey prowess, Newsy really made more money playing lacrosse. As a hockey player, he never made more than $2,000 a season but made up to $5,500 playing lacrosse. The offered C61 of Lalonde is one of his most scarce card collectibles and is one of the finer examples known to date. Free of any major condition problems, at first this card presents close to the NM level. Upon close inspection a few small spot surface impressions on the obverse and one 1/8" surface wrinkle on the reverse is more likely a stock imperfection. A wonderful example worthy of any advanced hockey collection.
1912 C61 "Lacrosse Series" Near Set (41/50). The third and most difficult of the early 20th century Lacrosse productions is the "C61" edition of fifty cards. rarely offered in quantity, this presentation offers 41 of the 50 cards and is one of the finest C61 sets ever offered at public auction. The "key" entry, Newsy Lalonde card is being offered elsewhere in this auction. In total, 22 cards have been graded by PSA. Includes: Graded - PSA EX-MT 6: 3 cards w/#'s 12, 13 and 22; PSA EX 5: 11 cards w/#'s 4, 8, 9, 14, 28, 30, 39, 41, 43, 44 and 48; PSA VG-EX 4: 5 cards w/#'s 16, 35, 36, 37 and 42; PSA VG 3: 2 cards w/#'s 25 and 47; PSA GD 2: 1 card, #45 Laviolette. Overall, the near set grades 34% EX to EX/MT, 44% VG to VG/EX, 22% lesser.
1924 V122 Willard Chocolate Hockey Players (4) Plus Very Rare Wrapper! Willards Chocolates was a Toronto based firm that produced a few sports theme sets in the mid-1920's. In 1924 the company produced a 56-card set showcasing athletes from various sports including, baseball, boxing, track and field and hockey. This presentation offers all four hockey subjects: #'s 43 Watson, 45 Collett, 47 Smith and 52 Munro. All four present nicely but were once housed in an album and have paper/glue residue affecting the top portion of the back of each card, Collett has creases. Also offered is a very rare two-color wrapper adorned with a somewhat crude drawing of a runner while promoting "A Picture in Every Bar" of "Willard's 'Sports' Nut Bar." The rarity of the wrapper explained by the chance to exchange 100 wrappers for "imported chain" for Girls and a "watch chain" for boys. The wrapper has fold lines as issued, plus area of paper damage along the left and right edges, the result of being opened. Despite condition flaws, the wrapper presents at the VG/EX level.
1951-52 Parkhurst Elmer Lach #1 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Isn't the first and last cards of a set supposed to be the lesser condition cards? If so, then one can only imagine the startling quality that followed up this beauty. It's all there: fresh surfaces, sharp corners and close to prefect centering. One of only four at this grade level with one known nicer.
1951-52 Parkhurst Teeder Kennedy #86 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. This immensely sharp card appears to only have one other like copy with none grading higher. One couldn't ask for better centering or corner quality. Well, you could as one corner tip does has slight "fuzzy" quality to the outer tip. A nicer example would be tough to find.
1951-52 Parkhurst Hockey (SGC) High Grade Collection (6). Every card has been graded by SGC, each is among the highest graded examples for each number. Includes: Graded: SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #27 Sullivan; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 5 cards w/#'s 21 Kyle, 29 Schmidt (HoF), 41 Peters, 85 Gardner and 97 Mickoski. SMR value is $1,450.00.
1951-52 Parkhurst Hockey High End SGC-Graded Collection (10). Every card has been graded by SGC, each is among the finer known examples graded to date. High graded cards from the first hockey set of the modern era are SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 6 cards, w/#'s 32 Barry, 67 Goldham, 80 Flaman, 90 Evans, 92 Kraftcheck and 97 Mickoski; SGC 84 NM 7: 4 cards, w/#'s 22, 59, 75 Broda and 88 Solinger.
1954-55 Topps Gordie Howe #8 SGC 84 NM 7. Early card featuring the man known simply as "Mr. Hockey," Gordie Howe with the Detroit Red Wings. Famous for his scoring prowess, physical strength, and the longevity of his career; Howe is the only player to have competed in the NHL in five (1940's through 1980's) different decades. Extremely clean card of an all-time hockey legend.
1954-55 Topps Hockey SGC-Graded Collection (13). Topps' first hockey effort from 1954-55 season is considered by many to be the finest looking hockey set of the modern era. We offer a lucky 13 SGC-Graded cards to add to the finer hockey collections. Includes: Graded Cards - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 2 cards w/#'s 17 Mortson and 25 Flaman; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 5 cards w/#'s 13 Timgren, 32 Henry, 36 Mackell, 39 Delvecchio and 47 Gardner; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 4 cards w/#'s 6 Chevrefils, 22 Hergesheimer, 29 Mickoski and 33 Conacher; SGC 84 NM 7: 2 cards w/#'s 4 Wilson and 43 McIntyre. SMR value exceeds $2,000.
1964-65 Topps Pit Martin #1 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, currently one of only seven examples at this grade level with a trio of higher known copies. Great eye appeal. A quality example with only centering which rests slightly to the left to account for the technical grade.
1964-65 Topps John Ferguson #4 SGC 96 Mint 9. Graded 96 Mint 9 by SGC, currently one of only three examples at this elevated grade level with none graded higher. Stunning colors with bright white borders.
1964-65 Topps Ron Murphy #56 PSA NM-MT 8. Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, currently one of a dozen examples at this grade level with none graded higher. Slight touches of wear at corner tips and centering which is slightly to the left and low of center.
1964-65 Topps Hockey Graded SGC 86 NM+ 7.5 Group of (17). Each card has been graded 86 NM+ 7.5 by SGC. This quality presentation includes: #'s 3, 5, 11, 12 Hall, 24, 29, 30, 32, 35, 37, 42, 43 Blake, 46, 47 Crozier, 49, 50 Boivin and 52 Talbot. The SMR value of this lot exceeds $1,500.
1964-65 Topps Hockey Graded NM-MT Group of (21). Each card has been graded at the respective NM-MT level by either SGC or PSA. The stunning lot includes: SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 17 cards w/#'s 2, 4, 6 Sawchuk, 9, 10, 16, 17, 18, 19, 23, 25, 28, 38, 41, 44 Kelly, 45 Imlach and 53; PSA NM-MT 8: 4 cards w/#'s 7, 13, 15 and 36. The SMR value approaches $2,700.
1966-67 Topps Bobby Orr #35 SGC 86 NM+ 7.5. A high-grade exemplar for a cornerstone piece of any serious hockey card collection; the Bobby Orr rookie card is a must-have hockey collectible. The slightest touches of wear at corners accounts for the technical grade. Extremely difficult to find in top grade due to sensitive wood grain borders, this glowing example offers problem free surfaces which have retained that fresh glossy appearance just as it did right out of the pack over 40 years ago. Issued before Orr ever played a professional game, the copy on the back reads in part, ..."certainly will become one of the future stars in the N.H.L." He certainly proved that copywriter correct.
1966-67 Topps Bobby Orr #35 SGC 60 EX 5. Bobby Orr's rookie card is one of the top three most highly prized cards of the hockey card universe. Extremely difficult to find in top grade due to sensitive wood grain borders. This example had corner wear typical for the grade level and is nicely centered. A perfectly respectable example of a key hockey rookie card.
1968-69, 1969-70 and 1970-71 Topps Hockey Complete Set Run (3). Offered is a run of three high end 132-card complete sets of Topps hockey sets starting with the 1968-69 production. Includes: 1968-69 Topps (132) - w/#'s 2 Orr (miscut), 6 Sanderson (PSA NM 7), 7 Esposito (VG/EX), 14 (PSA NM-MT 8), 16 Hull (PSA MINT 9 OC), 23 (PSA NM+ 7.5), 27 Harris (PSA MINT 9), 29 Howe (EX), 34 Sawchuk (EX/MT), 59 Tremblay (PSA NM-MT 8), 89 Parent (EX), 121 CL (miscut), 123 Horton (miscut). Grades 16% NM to NM/MT, 70% EX to EX/MT, 14% VG to VG/EX (with some miscuts); 1969-70 Topps (132) - w/#'s 1 Worsley (VG), 24 Orr (PSA EX-MT+ 6.5), 61 Howe (PSA NM 7), 70 Hull (EX, with Stamp on reverse), 89 Parent (EX), 101 (PSA NM-MT 8), 120 (PSA NM-MT 8), 132 CL (GD). Grades 17% NM to NM/MT, 73% EX to EX/MT, 10% VG to VG/EX. 1970-71 Topps (132) - w/#'s 1 Cheevers (GD/VG), 3 Orr (PSA EX-MT 6), 11 Esposito (PSA NM 7), 14 (PSA NM+ 7.5), 15 Hull (PSA NM 7), 29 Howe (GD), 67 Park (EX), 131 Perreault (EX), 132 CL (PR, marked). Grades 15% NM to NM/MT, 76% EX to EX/MT, 9% VG to VG/EX (few lesser). SMR value of the graded cards approaches $400.
1969-70 O-Pee-Chee Gordie Howe, Mr. Hockey NN SGC 98 Gem 10. Graded 98 Gem 10 by SGC, the only recorded example at this revered grade level. "Mr. Hockey", has a new title with this card" "Mr. Perfection." An extraordinary card which ranks at the top of the ladder. No other example has ever attained this lofty status. A perfectly centered example with richest of color. Collectors may wait a long time before they find another example like this.
1969-70 O-Pee-Chee SGC Mint 9 and Gem 10 Graded Collection (14). Every card is among the finest known examples grade to date. Includes: Graded - SGC Gem 10: 7 cards w/#'s 143 Peters RC, 156, 166, 173 Cherry RC, 187 Bower, 198 Nanne and 219 Harris AS; SGC 96 Mint 9: 7 cards w/#'s 139 Shack, 145, 154 Hextall RC, 169, 182 Horton, 197 and 204. SMR value (at the Mint 9 grade) is $770.
1969-70 O-Pee-Chee Hockey SGC 96 Mint 9 or Gem 10 Collection (15 Different). Every card has been graded 96 Mint 9 or 98 Gem 10 by SGC, every card is one of less than four at the grade and many are the highest grade available. Includes: Graded - SGC 98 GEM 10: 7 cards w/#s 141, 152, 160, 168, 179, 194 and 203; SGC Mint 9: 8 cards w/#s 137, 142, 150, 162, 181, 191, 202 and 218.
1969-70 O-Pee-Chee Hockey SGC 96 Mint 9 or Gem MT 10 Collection (15). Every card has been graded by SGC, each is among the highest graded example to date. Includes: Graded - SGC 98 Gem 10: 7 cards w/#'s 135 Caffery RC, 148 Laughton RC, 157 Delvecchio, 167 Provost, 177, 188 and 200; SGC 96 Mint 9: 8 cards w/#'s 140, 147, 155 Provost RC, 176, 183, 199, 208 Grant/Calder and 133.
1960-70 Topps Hockey Complete Set (132). This is a solid presentation of this timeless hockey production. Highlights include: Graded Cards - PSA MINT 9: 3 cards w/#'s 45 Horton, 54 Ullman and 57 Baun; PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 2 cards w/#'s 33 Giacomin and 87; PSA NM-MT 8: 12 cards w/#'s 12 Hall, 21, 24 Orr, 41, 43, 59, 68, 69, 92, 100, 102 and 127; PSA NM 7: 1 card, #36. Ungraded Cards - #'s 1 Worsley (EX/MT), 61 Howe (EX/MT), 70 Hull (GD, stamped), 89 Parent (VG/EX), 132 CL (VG). Grades 46% NM to NM/MT, 45% EX to EX/MT, 9% VG to VG/EX (one lesser).
1970-71 O-Pee-Chee Bob Clarke #195 SGC 96 Mint 9. A superb example of Bobby Clarke's Canadian rookie card; sure to find its way into a high-end hockey card collection or registry set. Bobby Clarke spent his entire 15-year career with the Philadelphia Flyers and is currently an executive with the team. A 1987 inductee into the Hockey Hall of Fame, Clarke led the Flyers to two Stanley Cups and was awarded the Hart Trophy as league MVP three times.
1973-74 O-Pee-Chee Hockey SGC 96 Mint 9 and gem MT 10 Collection (25 Different). Every card has been graded by SGC, each is among the very finest examples graded to date. Includes: Graded - SGC 98 Gem MT 10: 7 cards w/#'s 11 Pronovost, 46, 57, 89, 101 Islanders, 146 and 184; SGC 96 Mint 9: 18 cards w/#'s 16, 33, 40, 60, 79, 83, 94 Sabres, 102 Rangers, 107 Canucks, 125, 127, 129 CL, 148, 171 Hull AS, 206, 217, 228 and 257. SMR value (at mint 9) is $1,000.
1973-74 O-Pee-Chee Hockey SGC 96 Mint 9 and Gem MT 10 collection (25 Different). Every card has been graded by SGC, each is among the very finest examples graded to date. Includes: Graded - SGC 98 Gem MT 10: 7 cards w/#'s 1 Delvecchio, 24 Savard, 48, 86, 112, 122 and 168; SGC 96 Mint 9: 15 cards w/#'s 10, 18, 34, 43, 75, 81 Barber, 92 Flames, 95 Golden Seals, 104 Penguins, 114 Lapointe AS, 126, 130, 144, 166, 174, 216, 227 Maki and 232. SMR value (at mint 9) is $1,000.
1980's Topps & O-Pee-Chee Wayne Gretzky Gem Mint Trio (3). Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, and Wayne Gretzky. These are the singularly dominant figures in sport over the last quarter century. "The Great One," as Gretzky was known, is largely responsible for the expansion of the sport in both Canada and North America. Here we pull off a gem of a "hat trick" of our own, the lot includes: 1984-85 O-Pee-Chee #374 Gretzky Hart Trophy (BGS 9.5 Gem Mint), 1984-85 O-Pee-Chee #382 Gretzky Assist Leader (BGS 9.5 Gem Mint) and 1988 Topps Stickers #8 Gretzky (PSA Gem MT 10).
Boxing Cards
1887 N174 Gypsy Queen Prizefighters J.P. Clour SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, the finest copy known of only two recorded to date. John Pollock Clour was a true brawler in that he would fight anyone, regardless of size and his first "fight" in 1881 one reported to have occurred because his opponent insulted Clow's girlfriend. During his brief life (he was killed at the age of 28) and career Clow went from a middleweight to a heavyweight but never lost his devastating left hand punch. A solid card with a few mild condition issues and a clear, nicely detailed photo.
1887 N174 Gypsy Queen Prizefighters Jack Fogarty SGC 10 PR 1. Graded 10 Poor 1 by SGC, the only known copy recorded to date. This rarity offers a high quality image and just light rounding of corners. The technical grade reflects the three tiny pin holes found near the top and bottom borders. A very tough to find entry worthy of any vintage boxing collection.
1887 N174 Gypsy Queen Prizefighters Dominick McCaffrey PSA Good 2 (MK). Graded PSA Good 2 with a "MK: qualifier. Few names are as revered by 19th Century enthusiasts as the "Gypsy Queen" brand. This rare collectible of boxer Dominick McCaffrey presents visually as an excellent level card with one small surface scratch at his left knee. The qualifier refers to the "H.P. Jones, Representing MAU, SADLER & CO., 9 to 15 Beale St., San Francisco, CAL." on the reverse.
1887 N174 Old Judge Jack Burke SGC-Graded Pair (2). Each card has been graded by SGC, both come from a total population of only 10 for the subject. Jack Burke was a popular fighter who would unfortunately die at the young age of 36. His lifetime record was 40-9-23, his 1885 fight with the great John Sullivan is his most famous. The offered pair presents an opportunity to acquire two of the four known N174 formats. The pair includes: Jack Burke/Wavy Logo (SGC 10 Poor 1) and Jack Burke/Curved Overhead Logo (SGC 20 Fair 1.5).
1887 N174 Old Judge Patsey Cardiff SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, one of the finer among a total population of only eight for the subject. Cardiff had a claim to fame as being the man who could say he broke the arm of the great John L. Sullivan. The offered example is has a light image but has remained in prime physical condition.
1887 N174 Old Judge Patsey Cardiff SGC-Graded Pair (2). Each card has been graded by SGC, both come from a total population of only eight for the subject. The year before these scarce tobacco cards were issued, Cardiff broke the great John L. Sullivan's arm in a January 18th bout in Minneapolis, proving that Patsy was certainly no patsy. The offered pair presents an opportunity to acquire two of the four known N174 formats. The pair includes: Patsey Cardiff/Wavy Logo (SGC 40 VG 3) and Patsey Cardiff/Curved Overhead Logo (SGC 30 Good 2).
1887 N174 Old Judge Arthur Chambers SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, this is a pop 1-of-1 with none graded higher rarity from a total population of only four for the subject. Chambers was a lightweight English boxer who turned to pugilism after serving in the Royal Navy. He became the American Lightweight Champion in 1872. His title didn't come easy. In 1877 he lots a finger and took two years off and in 1879, Chambers defeated John Clark for the crown in a 136-round marathon bout. The offered card is a solid example for the grade with the distinctive "Curved Overhead Logo" format. The image retains fine detail and pleasing contrast.
1887 N174 Old Judge Mike Cleary, Curved Logo SGC 80 EX/NM 6. Graded 80 Ex/NM 6 by SGC, the only example for this grade with two others (one is available in this auction) higher. A very nice card with just a bit of age toning and one stain on the blank reverse. The quality corners mark the perimeter of a attractive central image which holds good detail and a full range of value. One of the nicer N174s known.
1887 N174 Old Judge Mike Cleary, Wavy Logo SGC 84 NM 7. Graded 84 NM 7 by SGC, from a total population of ten submissions, this is one of two examples for the grade with none higher. A physically strong copy with some faint age toning on the reverse. The central image boasts a blemish free surface and while not showing a full range of value has held onto a pleasing amount of detail. This card has attained the highest grade level available for this entire series.
1887 N174 Old Judge J.P. Clow, Wavy Logo PSA EX-MT 6. Graded EX-MT 6 by PSA, this is the highest graded example of only two total recorded to date. Pleasing card with a slightly fading image, reverse column shaped dust shadow but with quality corners and no creasing or wrinkling. A scarce subject regardless of the condition.
1887 N174 Old Judge Prizefighters J.P. Clow SGC-Graded Trio (3). Each card has been graded by SGC. John Clow began his brief career as a middleweight whose introduction to professional fighting came in 1881. His first fight was rumored to be to defend an insult hurled upon his girlfriend. He wouldn't live to see the 20th Century. The offered trio has one of three different formats known for this series and includes: John Clow/Wavy Logo Copy (SGC 10 PR 1), John Clow/Curved Logo Right Corner (SGC 20 FR 1.5) and John Clow/Curved Logo Above Head (SGC 40 VG 3. each offers good display quality as any major condition issues affect the reverse of the card.
1887 N174 Old Judge Prizefighters Jack Dempsey SGC-Graded Pair (2). Each card has been graded by SGC and offers a different format style. The name "Jack Dempsey" is bought a 20th and 19th Century name familiar to boxing fans. This lot includes: Jack Dempsey/Wavy Logo (SGC 10 PR 1) and Jack Dempsey/Curved Logo to Right (SGC 40 VG 3). Both have clear images with nice detail and a pleasing range of values.
1887 N174 Old Judge Mick Doolay SGC 80 EX/NM 6. Graded 80 EX/NM 6 by SGC, one of a trio at this grade level with none higher. The pink photo paper used was likely a premium of sorts when first circulated. Today, the effect give a highly nostalgic presentation. The offered very clean example of Australian heavyweight Mick Dooley certainly has survived in better shape than Dooley did after a career of going 24-16-5 with most losses coming by knockout. The card has aged some but surfaces are blemish-free and the corners have only minor wear at the tips. A visually unique high end example.
1887 N172 Old Judge George Godfrey SGC 84 NM 7. Graded 84 NM 7 by SGC, this is the stand alone highest graded example of only three total copies recorded to date. George Godfrey by today's standards would be a light-heavyweight. His career consisted of almost 100 fight but was refused a shot at the championship title by the great John L. Sullivan who as reigning champion refused to fight the stocky, black Canadian born fighter. History only knows was it Godfrey's skills or skin color which motivated Sullivan. The offered example is one of only a dozen total NM examples assessed at this grade level, the highest level available.
1887 N174 Old Judge Jake Kilrain SGC 70 EX+ 5.5. Graded SGC 70 EX+ 5.5, this high end example is among the finest of recorded to date. Jake Kilrain was a tough and durable fighter who even after 76 rounds of punishment by the great John Sullivan still wanted to continue even though his coach ended the fight by throwing in the sponge, the early version of throwing in the towel. The image has slightly faded to aging, the offered rarity nicely reflects the technical assessment. A pleasing copy contradicting its true age.
1887 N174 Old Judge Jake Kilrain, Wavy Logo PSA EX-MT 6. Graded EX-MT 6 by PSA, one of four for this grade with none higher. Since there are also only four TOTAL graded it is either a huge coincidence or this card was resubmitted. It is a strong example and wouldn't look out of place in a holder with a label with a slightly higher grade.
1887 N174 Old Judge Prizefighters George LaBlanche SGC-Graded Pair (2). Each card has been graded by SGC and offers a different format style. Not a world-class fighter, LaBlanche did have his famous, and yes, illegal "pivot punch" which helped carry him throughout his career. This lot includes: George LaBlanche/Wavy Logo (SGC 10 PR 1) and George LaBlanche /Curved Logo Overhead (SGC 40 VG 3). Both images have faded some with age but both card visually present at the EX level. Technical grades are due to issue with the blank reverses of each card.
1887 N174 Old Judge Prizefighters Jack McAuliffe SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, among the finer of less than ten total copies known. McAuliffe was Lightweight Champion of the World from 1886 to 1893 and is one of a select group to retire undefeated at 31-0-6 with 22 knockouts. A double handed fighter, Jack was known for his quick reflexes. Image is light but shows good detail. An atypical middle-grade card with light corner wear.
1887 N174 Old Judge Prizefighters Dominick McCaffrey PSA EX 5. Graded EX 5 by PSA, a pop 1-of-1 with none graded higher rarity. This "Wavy Logo" style card of boxer Dominick McCaffrey is one of only two copies graded to date. A visual pleaser, this example has but light wear at two corners and a light stain and some spot stains on the otherwise clean blank reverse. The image shows a strong range of values and pleasing detail.
1887 N174 Old Judge Prizefighters J.H. Myers SGC 30 Good 2. Graded 30 Good 2 by SGC, this is the only example recorded to date by any grading service. No, not a boxer but a very rare entry in this elusive edition. The Sydney Rowing Club name was changed to East Sydney (spelled "Sidney" on the card) in January of 1887. The Australian based club would exist until 1904. This rare example of J.H. Myers bears the "Old Judge" bottom block letter format (a format unknown to the mighty Burdick collection) and presents much nicer than the technical grade suggests. The grade reflects rubber band residue spots on the obverse and light staining/surface chipping on the reverse. A conservative assessment even with such condition factors.
1887 N174 Old Judge Prizefighters Paddy Ryan SGC 20 Fair 1.5 Pair (2). Both cards have been graded 20 Fair 1.5 by SGC, each is counted among a total population of only ten recorded entry's. Ryan claimed the title of "World's Heavyweight Champion" in 1880 but lost to the juggernaut that was John L. Sullivan in 1882, the last time a championship would be won in the bare knuckle style. The lot offers two different formats and includes Paddy Ryan/Wavy Logo and Paddy Ryan/Curved Log Above Head. Both exhibit creases and one has a faded vintage stamp on the reverse. A scarce pair of 120+ year old collectibles.
1887 N174 Old Judge Prizefighters Frank Slavin SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, tied with one other at the grade, this is among the finer known out of a total population of five. This attractive example offers both the scarce pink paper color and rare block letter "Old Judge Cigarette Factory" advertising format style. At first review, this appears to be a strong EX/MT quality card. The one surface corner chip and an average thumb nail sized surface impression account for the grade but do little to deter visual appeal. A tough subject which would nicely stand out among it's sepia cousins.
1887 N174 Old Judge John L. Sullivan, Fighting SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, one of three at this graded level with a handful graded higher. The undisputed key entry within this extremely elusive 120 year old series. Mild corner wear as seen with a nice solid central image. Some soiling and what appears to be surface impressions generally down the center of the otherwise blank reverse. The nicely detailed full figure portrait of the Irish heavyweight champion offers insight into the daunting task opponents faced as they bravely or foolishly entered the ring. A solid example despite condition detriments.
1887 N174 Old Judge Prizefighters Tommy Warren SGC 60 EX 5. Graded EX 5 by SGC, one of only seven total examples graded to date. Tommy warren had a chip in his shoulder as wide as was his 5' 4" height. His career spanned 17 years and Warren held the titles "Featherweight Champion of the Pacific Coast" and "Featherweight Champion of America." He seemed to be one of those unsettled souls who always seemed to find trouble as his life was filled with bar room brawls and even murder. Light spot staining and soiling on the reverse do not detract much from the clear image and the feisty fighter.
1887 N174 Old Judge Ike Weir SGC 80 EX/NM 6. Graded 80 EX/NM 6 by SGC, tied with one other at this grade level with only one higher. Pleasing card of the World's Featherweight Champion is his "Curved Logo" format variation.
1887 N174 Old Judge Tug Wilson SGC 80 EX/NM 6. To date, there have been six N174 Tug Wilson cards submitted to SGC and this is the stand alone finest example to be recorded. One brief segment of edge roughness in the top border and a slight but of wear at one corner on the reverse account for the technical judgement. The image is sharp and with good range of values, three corners are NM quality and surface are close to the finest one can expect for a 120 year old piece of cardboard.
1887 N174 Old Judge Prizefighters Tug Wilson SGC-Graded Pair (2). Both cards have been graded at the Good level by either PSA or SGC, each is counted among a total population of only eight total examples by both firms. Joe "Tug" Wilson was the only fighter to go four rounds with John L. Sullivan during Sullivan's tour of taking on all challengers. Granted, he dropped to the floor over 20 times to avoid a KO, but he technically went the distance. This scarce pair includes the Tug Wilson/Wavy Logo (PSA Good 2) and Tug Wilson/Curved Logo Above Head (SGC 30 Good 2) examples.
1887 N174 Old Judge SGC-Graded Group of (9). Every card has been graded by SGC. Old Judge Boxers are among the most popular 19th pugilist card collectibles. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a nice collector grade selection of these scarce remembrances of athletes long past. Cards present nicer than the technical grades suggest. Assessment due to issue affecting the blank reverse sides of the cards. Includes: Graded - SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, Burke/Curved Logo; SGC 30 GD 2: 3 cards w/ Dooley/Block Ad, McAuliffe/Curved Logo to Side and Murphy/Curved Logo to Side; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 3 cards w/ Edwards/Curved Logo to Side, Fogarty/Curved Logo to Side and Godfrey/Curved Logo to Side; SGC 10 PR 1: 2 cards w/ Kilrain/Curved Logo to Side and McCaffrey/Curved Logo to Side.
Rare 1880's Old Judge "Boxing Made Easy" 12-page Booklet. Significantly more scarce than the N174 tobacco cards which featured the top pugilists of the day is this 12-page booklet titled "Boxing Made Easy." Each page displays finely illustrated fighters in battle with poetic prose captioning each comedic scene. The back cover features a finely detailed illustration incorporating the likenesses of contemporary boxers Jack McAuliffe, Jack Dempsey and John L. Sullivan. The booklet itself appears to be in Excellent to Mint condition but on close inspection the following is apparent: small traces of color added to the cover; the lower segment of the back cover along the spine has been adhered to the last inner page; minor color touch to graphics. Enhancements aside, this is an unusual opportunity to acquire an extremely rare boxing/tobacco related collectible.
1887 N269 Lorillard's Jack McAuliffe #9 SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, one of four total examples; one of two at this grade level with one copy recorded a half-grade higher.
1887 N269 Lorillard's Pete McCoy #24 SGC 40 VG 3. Graded SGC 40 VG 3, one of only six total graded to date, only two nicer. Vintage boxer Pete McCoy is the subject here of the rarity that we present here from the 1887 N269 Lorillard's Mechanics Delight issue. A very attractive example from this obscure issue.
1887 N269 Lorillard's Jack Burke #29 SGC 50 VG/EX 4. . Graded SGC 50 VG/EX 4. One of only two total graded examples for this subject, one half-grade below the finest copy known. Just an obverse surface scratch and some light wrinkling on a reverse corner keep this very clean prize from higher assessment.
1887 N269 Lorillard's Geo. La Blanche #32 SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, a population 1 of 1 scarcity and the second highest graded example known.
1887 N269 Lorillard's John Regan #38 SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, one of only two total examples graded to date and the second highest graded example known.
1887 N269 Lorillard's Jimmy Mitchell #39 SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, one of only three total examples graded to date; tied with one other at the second highest level available. Very attractive with just a couple slight surface wrinkles. Great color and bright borders.
1887 N269 Lorillard's Bill Poole #42 SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, tied with two others at this, the highest grade level known for this subject. Rarity and condition sensitivity are undisputed when the finest example of only three known are only at the '3" level.
1887 N269 Lorillard's Boxers SGC-Graded Collection (8). Each card has been graded by SGC. The technical grades contrast the strong visual appeal of this selection of rare 19th century boxing collectibles. Includes: Graded - SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, #42 Poole; SGC 30 GD 2: 3 cards w/#'s 20 Pendergast, 27 Greenfield and 49 Coburn; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 4 cards w/#'s 4 Sheriff, 12 Smith, 18 Sayers and 49 Coburn.
1880's-1950's Vintage Boxing Complete, Near and Partial Sets (11) - An Instant Collection! This a great opportunity for anyone who has ever wanted to collect boxing cards and just needed a good place to start. These 353 individual cards comprise 11 different series, all showcasing the greatest boxers of the era. There are multiple appearances by Jeffries, Louis and Johnson as well as cards featuring Tunney, Marciano, Attell, Gans, Donovan, Dixon, Jackson, the rare '51 Murphy SP and the list goes on and on. Includes: 1887 N28 Allen & Ginter Boxers Partial Set (7/10) - w/Carney, Carroll, Kilrain, Lannon, McAuliffe, Smith and Weir. Grades 43% VG to VG/EX, 57% GD to FR with one altered; 1888 N29 Allen & Ginter Boxers Partial Set (5/8) - w/Edwards, Kerrigan, Jack McGee (SGC 30 GD 2), F. Murphy and J. Murphy. Altered/trimmed unless noted; 1910 T218 Hassan Near Set (58/62) - Graded: SGC 60 EX 5: 4 cards, w/E. Walsh, Murphy, Mellody and Al Kaufman; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, Mike (Twin) Sullivan; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, Jack Johnson/Side. Ungraded - w/ Jeffries/Front (VG), Jeffries/Side (VG) and Johnson/Front (FR). Grades 66% VG to VG/EX with four nicer, 31% lesser with some trimmed; 1910 T219 Honest Long Cut Near Set (48/50) - Grades 40% VG to VG/EX, 60% lesser with a few trimmed; 1910 T220 Mecca White Borders Near Set (48/50) - w/Jackson (FR) and Sullivan (VG). Grades 62% VG to VG/EX, 38% lesser with a few trimmed; 1910 T225 Khedival No. 101 - 25 Subjects Near Set (24/25) - Grades 21% GD to VG, 79% PR to FR; 1910 T225 Surburg No. 101 - 25 Subjects Partial Set (14/25) - Grades 64% GD to VG, 36% PR to FR;1910 T225 Khedivial No. 102 - 25 Subjects Complete Set (25/25) - Grades 44% GD to VG with a few nicer, 56% PR to FR; 1948 Leaf Near Set (39/49) - Includes: SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 3 cards, w/#s 55 Corbett, 71 and 80; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, w/# 51; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards, w/#s 33, 77 and 82; SGC 40 VG 3: 2 cards, w/#s 48 Louis and 64 Robinson; SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card, #73 Tunney. Grades 31% EX to EX/MT, 46% VG to VG/EX, 23% lesser/trimmed; 1948 Topps Magic Photo Boxers Partial Set (9/24) - w/#s 3, 7, 10, 11, 12, 14, 17, 23 and 24. Grades VG to EX with three lesser; 1951 Topps Ringside Partial Set (76/96) - Includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 5 cards, w/#s 43 Robinson, 22, 60 Attell, 65 and 74; PSA NM-MT 8: 1 card, w/62; PSA NM 7: 1 card, #6; PSA EX-MT 6: 1 card, #88 Louis. Ungraded - w/#s 32 Marciano (VG) and 49 Murphy SP (PR). Grades 47% EX to EX/MT with one nicer, 30% VG to VG/EX, 23% lesser/trimmed.
1888 N162 Goodwin "Champions" John L. Sullivan SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, tied with others at this grade but only four known higher. Corner wear as seen with close to perfect centering and rich colors. The reverse has light soiling and a few small specs of surface loss. The nicely detailed full figure portrait of the Irish heavyweight champion offers insight into the daunting task opponents faced as they bravely or foolishly entered the ring. A solid middle grade example.
1888 N332 S.F. Hess Joe Ellingsworth SGC 30 Good 2. Graded 30 Good 2 by SGC, just one of two total copies graded to date. The career of Joe Ellingsworth was without hype or fanfare. Dispersed over a span of 13 years he held a record of 7 wins, 5 losses and 1 draw. What is noteworthy is the existence of this rarity in today's market. N332s are a bit tougher to acquire than their Old Judge counterparts where all but one unnamed pugilist has over a few total examples known of each subject.
1888 N332 S. F. Hess John Morrissey SGC 10 Poor 1. Graded 10 Poor 1 by SGC, this is the only example of this card graded to date. The life of John Morrissey can be called a true "rags to riches" story. Starting his life as a bare-knuckle boxer, gambler and street thug from New York, Morrissey would eventually become a State Senator and US Congressman. His nickname "Old Smoke" came from a fight where he was pinned on burning coals during a fight only to come back and beat his opponent to within inches of his life all while smoke was coming from his back. The offered rarity appears EX/MT but a review of the reverse shows three areas of loss of the top surface layer. Morrissey is pictured from his later days as a politician in formal attire.
1893 N266 Red Cross "Boxing Positions and Boxers" Collection (8). As with other "Red Cross" brand productions, the N266 "Boxing Positions and Boxers" series is very scarce in any condition. This 8-card gallery of 115 year old collectibles includes: Baum/Campbell, Chambers/Clark, Dawson/Needham, Dixon/Johnson, Edwards/Collyer, Hall/Pritchard, Jackson/Slavin and McCoy/Reagan. Grades PR to GD with one miscut.
1895 N310 Mayo's Cut Plug Young Griffo-Name At Top SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC. Nice solid middle-grade example of this early pugilist edition. Light corner wear and a faint stain across much of the reverse ultimately fails to hinder the eye appeal of this 110+ year old collectible.
1895 N310 Mayo's Cut Plug Chas. Mitchell-Name At Top SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, tied with two others at this grade level with only one solo copy recorded a half-grade higher. Centering as seen. The graphics have remained bold and borders fresh on this 110+ year old collectible.
1895 N310 mayo's Cut Plug Billy Myers-Name At Top SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, tied with two others at this grade level with only one solo copy recorded higher. Centering is the factor keeping this attractive card from tying the lone half-graded nicer recorded entry.
1895 N310 Mayo's Cut Plug Billy Plimmer, Name at Bottom SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, tied with two others at this, the highest grade level with none graded higher. Everything should be so visually appealing at 114 years old. Very nice card for the series.
1895 N310 Mayo's Cut Plug Boxers Collection (21). Offered is a 21-card partial set of mostly different N310 Boxers produced for Mayo Cut Plug brand tobacco in 1895. This entire presentation contains matching "Name at Top" variations. Seven cards have been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 30 GD 2: 5 cards w/Dime, Edwards, Godfrey, Leonard and Smith; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 2 cards w/Jackson and Mitchell. Ungraded - Includes: Burns, Carney, Creeden, Daley, Daley, Edwards, Godfrey, Griffen, Hall, Kilrain, Lavigne, Mitchell, Smith (2) and Walcott (in 2 pieces). Grades PR to GD with one lesser.
1896 PE7-2 Whitehead & Hoag John L. Sullivan Pin Back. In whatever promotion he appears, John L. Sullivan is certainly among the "key" subjects sought after by collectors. The commanding photographic image of the last bare-knuckle Heavyweight Champion of the World was issued by the era's more prolific producer of pin back collectibles, the Whitehead & Hoag Co. of Newark, NJ. The offered 7/8" pin back shows light amounts of rust on segments of the back rim, Has the original paper insert intact (one small sliver of loss) and spots of age toning on the obverse. Despite these minor condition flaws, this is the type of item which appears very infrequently for auction or sale.
1909 James Jeffries Playing Cards John L. Sullivan SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, this is the second finest example known of a total population of four. These playing cards were named for noted fighter James Jeffries and his portrait graces the obverse of every card. The deck showcased a selection of top boxers including John L. Sullivan, the King of Diamonds, the "top" boxer of them all. Considering the "playing card" format it is surprising that high grade examples have survived. We would guess this brand was probably not the deck of choice for humble gatherings of neighborhood ladies playing cards.
1910-Era E75-E80 "E" Early Caramel Boxing Collection (70). The Early Caramel library of boxing sets is modest in quantity and reasonable in value (as compared to their baseball counterparts) although they are much more scarce than some baseball endeavors. This affords them a great level of appeal to modern collectors. With a library being complete at well under 200 cards, some think a full run of sets would be an easy task. This is nothing but hobby lore as the truth becomes apparent all too soon. Three cards have been graded by SGC. This presentation is a fine selection of mainly partial- to near-sets. Includes: 1910 E75 American Caramel (13/20) - Partial set. w/Attell (VG). Grades 54% VG to VG/EX, 46% GD to PR; 1910 E76 American Caramel (15/20) - Partial set. w/Corbett (GD), Jeffries (GD) and Sullivan (VG). Grades GD to PR with a few nicer; 1910 E77 American Caramel (22/24) - Near set. w/Attell (FR) and Johnson (SGC 30 GD 2). Grades 50% GD to VG, 50% PR to FR; 1910 E78 American Caramel (1) - Brannigan (trimmed); 1910 E79 American Caramel "27 Scrappers" (13/21) - Partial set of black backs. w/ Johnson/Burns (FR), Johnson/Cole (PR), Rawlings (SGC 30 GD 2) and Sharkey (SGC 40 VG 3). Grades 46% GD to VG, 54% PR to FR; 1910 E80 American Caramel "44 Scrappers" (6/11) - Partial set. w/Johnson (VR PR). Grades PR to FR with one nicer.
NOTE: The two missing E77 cards are: Benny Kaufman and Kaufman/Johnson.
NOTE: The two missing E77 cards are: Benny Kaufman and Kaufman/Johnson.
1910 E79 Phil. Caramel "27 Scrappers" Complete Set (21). The Philadelphia Caramel Co. is responsible for one of the finest boxing card productions of the early 20th Century. Titled "27 Scrappers," the 21-card series offers an all-star line up, including three Jack Johnson cards all in glorious color via professional quality portraits and fighting scenes. In total, 10 cards have been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards w/Jeffries and Sharkey-Receiving; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 2 cards w/Gans-Nelson and Ketchell; SGC 40 VG 3: 5 cards w/Hart, Johnson, Johnson-Cole, Kaufman-Sullivan and Rawlins-Right Hand; SGC Authentic: 1 card, Johnson-Burns. Ungraded - w/Attell (VG), Burns (GD, ink) and Sullivan (GD). Grades 62% VG to EX, 38% GD to GD/VG with one lesser and a couple trimmed.
Circa 1910 T100 Honest Silhouettes "Boxing" SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, one of only two examples graded to date. Usually print quality and colors are details we expound upon. Tobacco insert cards represent some of the finest printing projects of the late-19th and early-20th Century. The T100 series of 50 subjects is renowned for the lack of colors and detailed illustrations. Given just bits of information via the art of the silhouette, users are to guess what is being conveyed in such a limited scope. This rare "Boxing" example is one corner crease from a near excellent assessment. One can only guess when another example may become available.
1910 T220 Mecca Boxers Silver Borders Partial Set (16/26). The T220 Mecca Boxers series was circulated with standard white borders or a metallic silver ink border treatment. To date, only 26 of the 50 subjects have been found with this scarcer metallic ink treatment. Offered are 16 of the 26 known subjects. Includes: Burke, Choynski, Coburn, Dempsey, Edwards, Erne, Gans, Goldman, Jackson (VG/EX), Lavigne, McAuliffe, McCoy, McGovern, Ryan, Wilson and Driscoll/Glover. Grades 75% VG to VG/EX, 25% GD to GD/VG with one lesser.
1910 T220 Mecca Boxers-White Border Complete Set (50). Fifty early 20th century fighters come to full color glory with high grade complete set of T220 "Champion Athlete and Prize Fighters" White Border produced for the Mecca tobacco brand in 1910. This is a wonderful presentation of this benchmark edition and would make a welcome entry into any vintage boxing collection. Includes: Graded - SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 1 card, Burns; SGC 60 EX 5: 11 cards w/ Barry, Beecher, Carney, Choynski, Young Corbett, Dixon, Goldman, Heenan, Mace, McCoy and Wilson; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 13 cards w/ Burke, Cross, Donovan, Edwards, Fitzsimmons, Griffo, Hart, Mitchell, Sullivan, Welsh, Heenan/Sayers, Randall/Belasco and Sullivan/Kilrain; SGC 40 VG 3: 2 cards w/Dempsey and Madden; SGC 30 GD 2: 2 cards w/Maher and Sharkey. Ungraded - w/ Jas. Corbett (VG/EX), Donovan/Today (VG) and Jackson (VG). Grades 30% EX or better, 60% VG to VG/EX, 10% lesser.
1910 T223 Dixie Queen Boxing Near Set (49/50). The boxing card collector is all too aware of the scarcity that goes along with the name "Dixie Queen." This series is extremely difficult to complete with examples scarcely presented in quantity. This presentation offers 49 of the 50 subjects (missing Young Corbett). In total, 44 cards have been graded or assessed by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 4 cards w/Erne, Gans, Welsh and Jeffries/Sharkey; SGC 60 EX 5: 6 cards w/Carney, Jas. Corbett, Cross, McCoy, Sharkey and Randall/Turner; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, Beecher; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, Edwards; SGC 30 GD 2: 6 cards w/ Goldman, Hart, Heenan, McGovern, Moore and Wilson; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 18 cards w/Barry, Choynski, Coburn, Dixon, Donovan/Sixties, Donovan/Today, Frayne, Goodman, Griffo, Jackson, Lavigne, Mace, Madden, Maher, McAuliffe, Mitchell, Ryan and Wagner; SGC 10 PR 1: 5 cards w/Dempsey, Jordan, Heenan-Sayers, Randall-Belasco and Sullivan/Kilrain; SGC Authentic: 3 cards w/Burke, Burns and Mace/King. Ungraded - O'Brien (PR), Sullivan (corners clipped), Klaus (FR), Driscoll/Glover (incomplete) and Fitzsimmons (corners cut off).
1910 T223 Dixie Queen Peter Jackson SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, one of two for the grade with none graded higher. Peter Jackson was born in St. Croix, Danish West Indies who learned to box in Australia. He was considered one of the greatest pugilists of his time. Jackson was denied titled recognition due to the prevailing social attitudes based in ignorance and hate. Although an obvious contender for the Heavyweight title, white boxers, including John Sullivan, refused to fight him because he was black. Jackson's 61-round dual to a draw with Jim Corbett (who would beat Sullivan) is the finest evidence Jackson deserved to be among to fight the best of his day. His 97-3-3 lifetime record does include the titles "Australian Heavyweight Champion in 1886 and "Commonwealth (British Empire) Heavyweight Champion in 1892. The offered collectible is one of the most sought after 20th Century brands with Jackson being a "key" subject.
1910 T223 Dixie Queen Frank Klaus SGC 84 NM 7. Graded 84 NM 7 by SGC, by far the finest example of the pair currently known, the second copy is a 40 "VG." Frank Klaus was a busy fighter who logged in almost 90 fights over a 14 year career. The pinnacle of his career was the "Middleweight Champion of the World" title he earned in 1913. Fragile thin paper or not this beauty has survived the voyage of time quite well. Just the slightest hints of wear at corner tips surround the graphics which are centered about as nicely as they come.
1910 T223 Dixie Queen Jack O'Brien SGC 80 EX/NM 6. Graded 80 EX/Nm 6 by SGC, the highest graded example of only three submitted to date. O'Brien never looked better than he does depicted on this very well preserved copy. Terrific color and quality corners affected only by centering. A finer example may not exist.
1910 T223 Dixie Queen John L. Sullivan SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, The Dixie Queen brand is among the rarest of 20th century sponsors. Examples from the T223 series are not encountered very often. This is a prime opportunity to acquire the the "key" subject of the elusive series. The thin paper stock has survived without wrinkle or crease and no surface damage from previous storage. The card has mild corner wear to account for the grade. John L. Sullivan is the key subject from this rare edition and a prized acquisition for the advanced boxing specialist.
1910 T225 Khedival/Surbrug "Prizefighters-Series 101" PSA-Graded Complete Set (25). Every card has been graded by PSA. This 25-card presentation includes both Surbrug and Khedival brands backs. If registered as a single set, this lot represents one of the finer PSA-Graded T225 sets recorded to date. Includes: Graded - PSA VG-EX 4: 11 cards w/Cross, Driscoll, Gardner, Hart, Jeanette, Jeffries, Kaufman, Lewis, McFarland, Sharkey and Sullivan; PSA VG+ 3.5: 1 card, Papke; PSA VG 3: 9 cards w/Attell (MK), Barry, Frayne, "Kid' Goodman, Hyland, Nelson, Rothwell, Stewart (MK) and Sullivan; PSA GOOD 2: 1 card, Coulon; PSA FAIR 1.5: 1 card, Ketchel; PSA POOR 1: 2 cards w/O'Leary (MK) and Murphy.
1910 T225 Khedivial Boxers No. 101 SGC-Graded Complete Set (25) - A Matching Brand Assembly! Set GPA: 45.5; Set Ranking: #4 on the SGC Set Registry. Each card has been graded by SGC. This series is easily identified by the gray borders surrounding the colorful full figure illustrations. With ten different backs known, a 25-card complete set with matching format reverses is no small accomplishment and this is the only confirmed complete matching assembly. This lot offers the only "NM/MT+" cards (the highest grade level for the entire series) recorded among the over 525 assessed by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 2 cards, Frayne and Gardiner; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, Coulon; SGC 84 NM 7: 2 cards w/Barry and Kaufman; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, Rothwell; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, Jeffries; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 5 cards w/Attell, Hyland, Ketchell, Lewis and O'Leary; SGC 40 VG 3: 5 cards w/Cross, Driscoll, McFarland, Murphy and Jack Sullivan; SGC 30 GD 2: 3 cards w/Goodman, Stewart and M. Sullivan; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 4 cards w/Hart, Jeanette, Papke and Sharkey; SGC 10 PR 1: 1 card, Nelson.
1910 T225 Khedivial Boxers No. 102 Complete Set (25) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Each card has been graded by SGC. Set Registry ranking: #2; Grade Average: 44.4. The second of the T225 editions is easily identified by the white borders and "No. 102" series copy on the reverse. This clean presentation is a nice evenly conditioned set and would make a proud element to any vintage boxing collection. Includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 4 cards w/Donovan, Loughrey, O'Keefe and Robson; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 6 cards w/Beebe, Carey, Hayes, Kline, O'Toole and Willetts; SGC 40 VG 3: 13 cards w/Allen, Cobb, Devlin, Erne, Gannon, Hirst, Hogan, Houck, Langdon, Mansfield, Nitchie, Sayers and T. Sullivan; SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card, O'Brien; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 1 card, F. Corbett.
1910 T226 Red Sun Johnny Coulon SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, The only example at this grade level with just one higher. Quality corners and surfaces slightly hampered by an off-center image.
1910 T226 Red Sun Jack Goodman SGC 70 EX+ 5.5. Graded 70 EX+ 5.5 by SGC, one of only three total recorded. This is the only example at this grade level with one higher.
1910 T226 Red Sun AL Kaufman SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, one of only two examples at this grade level with one higher. Attractive copy with slight edge chips as seen.
1910 T226 Red Sun Young Loughrey SGC 70 EX+ 5.5. Graded 70 EX+ 5.5 by SGC, one of only two examples at this grade level with none higher! Slight wear to bottom right corner keeps this strong example from being the finest known copy.
1910 T226 Red Sun Phil. Jack O'Brien SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, one of only three total recorded. This example ranks equal to one other at the second finest grade level available. Turned to light, short impressions appear on right edge. Presents close to EX/MT.
1910 T226 Red Sun Mike Twin Sullivan SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, just two others grade higher than this visually impressive copy. One of the key fighters in the series.
1910 T226 Red Sun Tommy Sullivan SGC 70 EX+ 5.5. Graded 70 EX+ 5.5 by SGC, one of only four total recorded. This is the only example at this grade level with only one higher.
1910 T226 Red Sun Bull West SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, one of only three total recorded to date. This is the only example at this grade level with only one higher.
1910 T226 Red Sun Tommy Murphy PSA EX 5 - Pop 1 With None Higher. Graded EX 5 by PSA, a "Pop 1-of-1 With None Higher" status scarcity. PSA has only graded one addition copy from this very popular and elusive edition.
1910 T226 Red Sun Tommy O'Keefe SGC 70 EX+ 5.5. Graded 70 EX+ 5.5 by SGC, the only example at this grade with one higher. To date, only eight copies submitted to SGC. Visual appeal of higher graded cards. Slight surface wear in lower right corner on the reverse accounts for grade.
1910 T226 Red Sun Jim Stewart SGC 80 EX/NM 6 - Highest Graded Example! Graded 80 EX/NM 6 by SGC, the stand alone highest graded example of a total population of only five. Solid excellent to mint example with just light corner wear. Vibrant "Red Sun Cigarettes" reverse.
1910 T226 Red Sun Boxers SGC-Graded Collection (8). Each card has been graded by SGC. The subdued green borders and gritty portraits contradict the immense scarcity and importance these cardboard knockouts really have. Includes: Graded - SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, Coulon; SGC 40 VG 3: 3 cards w/Cross, Donahoe and Murphy; SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card, Driscoll; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 1 card, Fight Dock nelson; SGC 10 PR 1: 1 card, Attell; SGC Authentic: 1 card, Hayes.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarettes Walter Brookins SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, the finest example one of only two graded to date. The "Pet Cigarettes" is among the most rare and desirable of all 20th century tobacco card brands. This very strong copy of aviator Walter Brookins has some light soiling and reverse surface wear (not loss) to account for the technical assessment.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarettes Eddie Campi SGC 30 Good 2 - Only One Graded! Graded 30 Good 2 by SGC, this is the only example graded to date. The "Pet Cigarettes" is among the most rare and desirable of all 20th century tobacco card brands. Two creases account for the grade of this visually impressive rarity.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarettes Harley Davidson SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, the stand alone finest example one of only three graded to date. The "Pet Cigarettes" is among the most rare and desirable of all 20th century tobacco card brands. Although not connected to the famous motorcycle company of the same name, Davidson is one of less than a handful of notable roller skaters to be featured on any type of card. A single wrinkle sliver across the reverse, and only seen on the reverse, explains the grade. Great visual appeal.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarettes Jem Driscoll SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, the finest example one of only two graded to date. The "Pet Cigarettes" is among the most rare and desirable of all 20th century tobacco card brands. A single vertical crease explains the technical grade of this very rare boxing collectible.
1910 T229 pet Cigarettes Robert Fitzsimmons SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, the next finest example one of only five graded to date. The "Pet Cigarettes" is among the most rare and desirable of all 20th century tobacco card brands. Bob Fitzsimmons is one of the key boxing subjects from this rare production. No creases, no wrinkles, bright white borders and problem-free surfaces. A very nice card for the grade.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarettes Johnny Hayes SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, the finest example one of only two graded to date. The "Pet Cigarettes" is among the most rare and desirable of all 20th century tobacco card brands. A very light corner crease and a few minuscule specs of surface loss affecting an otherwise excellent condition card.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarettes Al Kaufman SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, one of a trio for the grade with only two others graded to date. This very rare "Pet Cigarettes" brand Al Kaufman has light stains and some surface roughness along a segment of the left edge on the reverse. Kaufman was considered one of the finest amateur boxers of his time.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarettes Tom Longboat SGC 80 EX/NM 6 - Finest of Only Two Graded To Date! Graded 80 EX/NM 6 by SGC, the finest copy of only two total grade to date. This very rare T229 "Pet Cigarettes" card of runner Tom Longboat has just slight amounts of wear at corner tips and along the reverse top edge. Longboat is a scarce Native American athlete from the Mohawk tribe.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarettes Owen Moran SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, one of a pair at this highest grade known from a total population of four. This very rare T229 "Pet Cigarettes" card of boxer Owen Moran is a solid excellent to mint looking card with one spot of loss on the front and some light age toning on the reverse. A tough T229 of a top name boxer.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarette Battling Nelson SGC 80 EX/NM 6. Graded 80 EX/NM 6 by SGC, the stand alone highest grade example known from a total population of four. This very rare T229 "Pet Cigarettes" card of boxer Battling Nelson is as solid of an excellent to mint card one can expect to find. Slightly down graded to one of the few 80 EX/NM cards assessed for this set, due to the faint age toning seen on the obverse. A tough T229 condition rarity.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarettes John L. Sullivan SGC 40 VG 3. Graded 40 VG 3 by SGC, one of just a half-dozen total graded to date. John L. Sullivan is the undisputed "key" subject from this very scarce series. The formal portrait of Sullivan is not of the titan who toured the country battling all on comers but of the retired legend, pictured as he was during the twilight of his sixty years on this earth. The brief series of short wrinkles fails to detract from the excellent quality eye appeal. If there is one name to acquire from this edition it is Sullivan, the greatest pugilist of his time.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarettes Chas. Willard SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, this is one of a pair at this grade with none graded higher. Willard was a pioneer in early aviation who championed the future of the commercial airline industry. The offered copy has a slight reverse wrinkle but presents as near mint card.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarettes Ad. Wolgast SGC 30 Good 2 - Only Example Graded! Graded 30 Good 2 by SGC, this is the only example graded to date by both SGC and PSA. Ad Wolgast, The Michigan Wildcat, fought between 1906 and 1920. During his career he won the World Lightweight Title and posted career victories over Battling Nelson, Joe Rivers, One Round Hogan and Frankie Burns. A member of the Boxing Hall Of Fame and one of the most significant fighters of his era, Wolgast was known for his toughness as much as his talent. This pet Cigarette insert card is one of his rarest collectibles.
1910 T229 Pet Cigarettes W.R. McWood SGC 70 EX+ 5.5. Graded 70 EX+ 5.5 by SGC, the stand alone highest graded copy of a total population of four. A solid copy of the long distance swimmers rarest collectible.
1910 T229 Kopek Cigarettes SGC-Graded Collection (19). Every card has been graded by SGC. paired in the ACC with the even more rare "Pet Cigarettes" brand, this is one of the largest quantities of T229 Kopeks to be offered at public auction. Above and beyond being the highest graded subject or not, most subjects are the one or two examples graded to date. Includes: Graded - SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards, w/Fitzsimmons-Boxer, Soldier King and J. Scott Leary; SGC 40 VG 3: 8 cards, w/George Bond, Frankie Burns, Jem Driscoll, Eddie Hanlon, Johnny Hayes, Tom Longboat, W.R. McWood and Billy Papke; SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card, w/Harry A. Gibson; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 3 cards, w/ Tommy Burns, Hugo Kelly and Joe Thomas; SGC 10 PR 1: 4 cards, w/Monte Attell-Boxer, James J. Corbett-Boxer, Johnnie Frayne-Boxer and Ad Wolgast-Boxer.
1911 T9 Turkey Red James Jeffries #55 PSA EX+ 5.5. Graded EX+ 5.5 by PSA, the only example at this grade with a handful higher. This T9 Turkey Red cabinet card featuring boxing legend James Jeffries has outstanding presentational qualities much nicer than the technical grade. One corner has a slightly elevated level of wear than the other three, all of which are EX-MT quality.
1911 T9 Turkey Red Sam Langford-No Offer Back #65 PSA EX+ 5.5. Graded EX+ 5.5 by PSA, one of only two at this grade with only one higher. This T9 Turkey Red cabinet card featuring boxer Sam Langford presents much nicer than the technical grade would suggest. The added bonus of a very scarce "No Mail-In Offer" format reverse makes this quality collectible all the more desirable. A little extra amount of wear at two corners on the reverse could be keeping this beautiful premium from equaling the finest example known.
Circa 1915 "Raver Star" James J. Corbett Felt Pennant. While the baseball, state flags or celebrity subjects are well known and widely collected, felts featuring other subjects are quite a bit more scarce. This attractive, lush purple pennant shaped felt measures a sizeable 3" x 7-1/4" and features heavyweight boxing legend James J. Corbett, best known for being the one man to defeat the Irish titan John L. Sullivan. The brand is "Raver Star" and to the best of our research this is the first of this type being offered at public auction. The print has remained largely unscathed while the formal portrait of Mr. Corbett has a few creases but visual appeal has been hardly compromised. A scarce and desirable boxing collectible.
1910's-1930's "W" Strip Cards Boxing Collection (107 Items) Offered is an extensive selection from the fascinating class of "W" strip card boxing collectibles. Most of the presentation is in the form of partial, near or complete sets. Includes: 1926 W512 (10 + Strip) - Complete set of 10 Cards. #'d 41-50. Presents EX/MT with a few lesser, one poor. Uncut strip of four (#'s 47-50) is VG; 1926 W513 (13) - Complete set of 14 cards. #'d 87-100. Presents 40% EX to NM, 60% VG to VG/EX with one lesser; 1923 W515 (10) - Complete set of 10 cards. Presents 70% EX, 30% VG (inc. #1 Dempsey) with one lesser; 1923 W515 Wonder Bread (4) - Partial Set 4 of 10 cards. w/#s 3, 6, 8 and 10. Presents GD to VG; 1920 W519/W521 (4) - w/#s 1 Dempsey (FR), 2, 8, 19 and 20. Presents PR to FR; 1925 W529-1 (10) - Complete set of 10 cards. Grades: #9 Dempsey (EX/MT), overall presents 30% EX/MT to NM, 70% GD to VG with one lesser; 1925 W529-3 (10) - Complete set of 10 cards. Grades: #9 Dempsey (VG), overall presents EX with a couple lesser; 1925 W529-4 (2) - w/#s 53 Leonard (GD) and 58 Carpenter (PR); 1925 W529-7 (1) - Jack Dempsey (VG/EX); 1921 W551 (10) - Complete set of 10 cards. Presents 70% EX to EX/MT, 30% VG with one lesser; 1927 W560 (9) - Complete set of 8 cards plus variation. Grades: Dempsey/Red (VG/EX), Dempsey/Red-Black (VG/EX) and Tunney (FR). Presents 33% EX, 45% VG to VG/EX, 22% lesser; 1920's W580 (33) -Partial set 33 of 50 cards. w/Attell (FR, tape on rev.), Dempsey (VG) and Johnson (EX). Presents 39% EX to NM, 36% VG to VG/EX, 25% lesser; 1920's W580 Strip of 10 cards (1) - w/Wolgast, Johnson, Griffo, Moran Bernstein and Young Corbett. Presents VG with stain on left affecting three cards; 1925-31 W590 (1) - Greb (FR, pin hole).
1923 Olympia Games, Ltd. "Boxing" Deck of Playing cards. With single cards appearing on an infrequent basis, nothing was known about them until this rare full deck of playing cards plus slip case appeared. We now know the deck was sold by Olympia Games in 1923 for the Canadian market and is simply titled "Boxing." This is only the second time this tough Canadian boxing set has been offered at public auction. The 32 featured boxers are highlighted by: Dempsey, Tunney, Leonard, Rosenberg, Carpentier, Pancho Villa, James Corbett and many others. The cards grade VG/EX to EX with some lesser due to a light crease. None have major condition detriments. The slip case is showing its age via tape repairs, straining and overall age toning but still presents nicely.
1924 Willards Chocolate Boxers SGC-Graded Group of (5). Each card has been graded EX 60 5 by SGC. Every card exemplifies the characteristics hobbyists desire in excellent level quality collectibles. Includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 5 cards, w/George Cook, Midget Smith, Jimmy Wilde, Curly Wilshur and Young Stribling.
1925 Magnums Cigarettes Jack Johnson SGC-Graded Pair (2). Offered is a pair of scarce British "Magnums Cigarettes" Jack Johnson tobacco insert cards. Issued with "The Favorite" in England, this highly desirable pair portrays Johnson both as a man, hardened by his life style and occupation (Card #5, SGC 70 EX+ 5.5) and as a battling titan (Card #18, SGC 60 EX 5).
1927 E211 York Caramel Prizefighters Sammy Mandell SGC 60 EX 5. Graded 60 EX 5 by SGC, the only example graded by either grading service and one of the only two individual E211s to achieve the "excellent" level. Only the imagination can begin to determine how rare this series is in today's marketplace. Only 41 TOTAL cards have been submitted to SGC and PSA from this most elusive production. Definitely not an opportunity to think twice about. Elsewhere in this auction are 21 additional E211s made available as single cards or lots.
1927 E211 York Caramel Prizefighters Bud Taylor #20 SGC 80 EX/NM 6 - Finest E211 Example Known! Graded 80 EX/NM 6 by SGC, the only example graded by either grading service. Only 41 total E211 cards have been submitted to SGC and PSA. This attention grabber hails as the undisputed king of the E211s as it is the highest graded copy by either PSA or SGC. Four corners with minor touches of wear encompass a boldly printed obverse. After we convey the clean surfaces the only criticism we have is centering which rests a thin rail away from perfect. For type-card specialists, this is the ultimate E211 to have.
1927 E211 York Caramel SGC-Graded Collection (10). Each card has been graded by SGC. One of two incredibly rare groups of ten E211 York Caramel boxers we have to offer in this auction. This 10-card selection of the rarest 20th century boxing cards includes: Graded - SGC 30 GD 2: 2 cards w/#'s 29 Von Porat and 37 Mandall; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 1 card, #51 Hull; SGC 10 PR 1: 6 cards w/#'s 25 Latzo, 30 Wiggins, 39 Callahan, 43 Valger, 48 Sanders and 54 Light; SGC Authentic: 1 card, #46 Fliegel.
1927 E211 York Caramel Boxers SGC-Graded Collection (10). Each card has been graded by SGC. Unlike their baseball counterparts E211 York Caramels boxing cards are among the rarest 20th Century boxing collectibles. Many would with no argument say they are THE rarest of all boxing editions. This is a unique opportunity to add not just one treasured example to your collection but ten rare gems. Includes: Graded - SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card, #52 Phil; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 1 card, #29 Von Porat; SGC 10 PR 1: 7 cards w/#'s 2 Stribling, 7 Dundee, 11 Ballerino, 14 Terris, 42 Van Ryan, 45 Gibbons and 49 Augustine; SGC Authentic: 1 card, #55 Callahan.
1920's Postcard With Dempsey/Kansas/Harris/Groh SGC 50 VG/EX 4. Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, this is the only example graded to date. Depending on the exact year this rarity appeared, the Exhibit Supply Co. either stole the 4-in-1 concept or had their idea stolen by the unknown maker of this card. The standard postcard format reverse clearly states "Not to be used in Exhibit Machines" so the final sponsor will remain a mystery. Either way, the card features boxers Rocky Kansas and Jack Dempsey as well as baseball players Heinie Groh and Stanley Harris. Some light corner/edge wear and a faint reverse wrinkle explain the grade. One can only guess how unique this peach-colored collectible truly is.
Rare 1929 Tabacalera La Morena Boxing SGC-Graded Trio (3). Offered is a trio of rare 1929 Tabacalera La Morena or "The Dark Tobacco Manufacturer." This trio of real-photo cards includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #160 Tiger Flowers; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, #127 Knute Hansen; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, #156 Tunney/Heeney.
1930 Carmelos La Estrella SGC-Graded Trio (3). Offered is a very rare trio of Cuban "Carmelos La Estrella" or "The Star Carmels" boxing cards. Not only is it very hard to find cards from this edition, they are even hard to see. Includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, Max Schmeling; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, Tiger Flowers; SGC 30 Good 2: 1 card, Jack Sharkey.
Boxing Collectibles
1930's-1950's Vintage Joe Louis Pin Backs/Button Trio (3). To declare that Joe Louis wasn't one of the greatest of his era would lead one to believe you just took a punch to the head by the great "Brown Bomber." His undeniable talents and personal fortitude elevated him above the unsavory underbelly of the sport. His status afforded him the privilege of being the marquee name for product endorsements, promotions and numerous collectibles. Here we offer three scarce vintage pin backs, all featuring the man Ring Magazine ranked #1 on the list of the 100 Greatest Punchers of all Time. Includes: 1) 1940 "Joe and I Want Willkie" 1-1/4" pin back, presents excellent; 2) Late-1930's or 1940's "World's Heavyweight Champion, Joe Louis" 1-1/4" pin back; paper fragment from price sticker on back. Presents excellent' 3) 1950's or 1960's "Joe Louis Milk Co." multi-color 2-1/2" button. Presents near mint to mint.
Boxing Cards
1933 Sport Kings SGC-Graded Trio (3) - With Gene Tunney. The set featured a multitude of champions from a multitude of different sports. This lot includes three high quality examples. Includes: #'s 9 Ed Blood/Skier (SGC 86 NM+ 7.5), 15 Reggie McNamara/Bicyclist (SGC 86 NM+ 7.5) and 18 Gene Tunney/Boxer (SGC 84 NM 7).
1946 M-Unc. The Ring "Heavyweight Champions" Complete Set (16) Plus Original Envelope. This mysterious promotion has yet to be explained and maybe fully checklisted. What we do have is an original mailing envelope advertising "16 Pictures of HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONS FROM JOHN L. SULLIVAN TO JOE LOUIS" all for the princely sum of 25-cents; 16 photo cards of the champs plus a "odd" Kid Herman card which clearly belongs as the Bantamweight champ appears on the reverse of the envelope. The two-color envelope is fair with wear and rips and an open seal. The players included are: Sullivan (EX+), Corbett (small), Fitzsimmons (EX/MT), Jeffries (VG/EX), Hart, Herman, Burns (loose piece), Johnson (EX/MT), Willard, Dempsey (VG), Tunney (trimmed), Schmeling, Sharkey, Carnera, Baer, Braddock and Louis (trimmed). Grades 31% EX to EX/MT, 38% VG to VG/EX with a couple lesser, 31% trimmed.
1946-47 Propagandas Montiel "Los Reyes del Deporte" Boxers (12 Different). This scarce 1940's Cuban series of "Los Reyes del Deporte" or "The Kings of Sport" were sold with Propagandas Montiel caramels and included baseball players (Major, Minor and Cuban Leaguers), boxers and wrestlers. The fragile paper stock and album produced for this series has made finding high grade examples almost an impossibility in today's marketplace. This selection of a dozen boxers shows all the signs of having been removed from an album. They are quite scarce in any condition. The lot includes: #'s 5 Burns, 7 Willard, 8 Jack Dempsey, 10 Schmeling, 11 Sharkey, 12 Carnera, 13 Baer, 14 Braddock, 19 Dundee, 20 Conn, 21 Williams and 22 Tunero. All are GD to PR. Condition aside, this is a pleasing selection of these very fragile paper collectibles which are rarely offered in quantity.
1948 Leaf Jack Johnson #17 SGC 96 Mint 9. Nicely centered example from the Galveston Giant, whose pugilistic exploits during the first part of the 20th Century was the stuff legends are made of. Released not long after his death in 1946, this high quality cardboard collectible from the 1948 Leaf boxing issue is the highest example that has been graded to date by SGC.
1948 Leaf John Sullivan #101 PSA NM+ 7.5. Graded NM+ 7.5 by PSA, one of a trio at this grade level with only three graded a half garde higher. A surprisingly sharp card which wouldn't raise an eye brow if encountered in a higher grade holder. A slight hint of wear at one corner tip is evident, but should that be enough to keep this sharp looking collectible worthy of the great John L. from higher technical judgement?
1948 Leaf Boxing High End SGC-Graded Collection (12). Every card has been graded by SGC. This bright and fresh looking selection have been stored away, untouched for years and the quality shows. Includes: Graded - SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 3 cards w/#'s 90, 93 Baer and 95; SGC 84 NM 7: 5 cards w/#'s 17 Johnson, 51, 57, 77 and 78; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 4 cards w/#'s 7, 13, 82 and 102 LaMotta.
1948 Topps Magic Photos Boxers SGC-Graded Trio (3). Offered is a trio of 1948 Topps Magic Photo cards from Series A, the "Boxing Champions." Not a random choice, the three names represent the top "key" subjects. Each has been graded by SGC. The lot includes: #'s 2A John L. Sullivan (SGC 80 EX/NM 6, light image), 5A James Jeffries (SGC 70 EX+ 5.5, very bold image) and 8 Jack Dempsey (SGC 70 EX+ 5.5, strong image).
Modern Age (1980-Present)
1948 Topps Magic Photos Boxing (A Series) Graded Complete Set (24) - #1 on the PSA Set Registry! Set GPA: 6.85. Set Registry Rank: #1 on the PSA set Registry! No less than six cards (some key names) boast the coveted "Pop 1-of-1 with none higher" status. Eighteen cards of this presentation (75%) equal the highest grade level recorded to date. Not only is the physical condition of these cards impressive, they display image quality to match. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 1 card, #9 Tunney; PSA NM 7: 18 cards w/#'s 2 Sullivan, 3, 4, 5 Jeffries, 6 Johnson, 8 Dempsey, 10 Schmeling, 11, 12, 13 Baer, 14, 16, 17 Zale, 18, 19 Robinson, 20, 21 and 22; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 1 card, #7; PSA EX-MT 6: 4 cards w/#'s 1 Burns, 15 Louis, 23 and 24.
Boxing Cards
1950's R437 Joe Palooka Candy Unopened Box with Stanley Ketchell. In the early 1920's, Ham Fisher developed a comic strip character named "Joe Palooka" who was a good-hearted boxer who didn't appreciate his livelihood. The character was used by Comics Novelty & Candy Co. to promote a line of candy and kids toys. Boxes showcased one of a dozen boxers as the back panel. This very rare complete box features Pugilist legend Stanley Ketchell. The box presents near excellent with a slight partially opening seam on the right edge of the back panel. A light shake suggests the original contents may be inside. We have left the box as-is and have not opened it to explore what 50 year old candy looks like nor has our consignor.
1951 Topps Ringside Rocky Marciano #32 PSA EX-MT 6. One of the greatest heavyweights of any era, "The Brockton Blockbuster" is featured on this high-grade 1951 Topps issue. Marciano, with forty-nine wins to his credit, remains the only heavyweight champion in boxing history to retire having won every fight in his professional career.
1951 Topps Ringside Ray Robinson #43 PSA NM-MT 8. America's pugilist darling for the WWII years and those that followed is seen here with the high-grade entry that we present here from the 1951 Topps Ringside issue. PSA-graded to a lofty NM-MT 8.
1951 Topps Ringside Bob Murphy SP #49 SGC 84 NM 7. Bob Murphy is at least as well known to collectors for his difficult short-printed card in the 1951 Topps boxing issue, as for anything he accomplished inside the ring. Murphy's biggest win came on June 27, 1951 against former middleweight champion Jake LaMotta, who had moved up to the light heavyweight division after losing his crown to Sugar Ray Robinson. Difficult to find in any grade, this high-end exemplar presents a unique opportunity for the many boxing card collectors trying to complete the 1951 Topps Ringside set or those searching for an upgrade to an already complete set.
1951 Topps Ringside Bob Murphy SP #49 BVG NM-MT 8. Graded NM-MT by Beckett Vintage Grading, one of a half dozen graded at this level by BVG, SGC and PSA combined . The #2 undisputed heavyweight champion of all modern boxing cards is card #49 of Bob Murphy from the Topps "Ringside" extravaganza of 1951. This single-print stunner was obviously pulled from a 5-cent pack and was once the upper portion of a two-card panel. This beauty goes the distance with its rich coloring, corner quality and that fresh from the pack appearance. A real crowd pleaser.
1951 Topps "Ringside" High Graded PSA Quartet (4). each card has been graded by PSA and is one of the finest examples recorded to date. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #25 Baker (Pop 1, one higher); PSA NM-MT 8: 3 cards w/#'s 6 Walcott (None higher), 31 Walcott (Only one higher) and 42 Flowers (None higher).
1951 Topps Ringside Complete Set (96). Topps' "Ringside" series from 1951 is a very colorful and well produced edition which showcased a wide selection of notable boxers both contemporary and the distant past. This set has two of the most sought after modern era boxing cards in the rare Murphy single print and the card of Rocky Marciano. Includes: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 2 cards, w/#'s 22 and 25; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 5 cards, w/#'s 12, 26, 31, 44 and 59 Corbett; PSA NM 7: 7 cards, w/#'s 1, 34, 60 Attell, 80, 83, 85 and 90; SGC 84 NM 7: 15 cards, w/#'s 2, 6 Walcott, 7, 16, 18, 37, 43 Robinson, 55 Fitzsimmons, 56 Gans, 72 Ketchell, 75, 77, 89, 91 and 96 Charles; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 9 cards, w/#'s 41, 42, 46, 64, 65, 70, 71, 74 and 88 Joe Louis; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, #3 LaMotta; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards, w/#'s 82, 53 and 54; SGC 40 VG 3: 4 cards, w/#'s 24, 32 Marciano, 49 Murphy (SP) and 69 Sullivan. Ungraded - includes #'s 11 Bear (EX) and 95 Tunney (VG/EX). Grades 30% NM to NM/MT, 45% EX to EX/MT, 25% VG to VG/EX with some lesser.
1951 Topps "Ringside" 5-Cent Unopened Pack GAI NM+ 7.5. The 1951 Topps "Ringside" series was sold via both 1-cent and 5-cent wax paper packs. The very scarce 5-cent variety is much more desirable as they are much harder to find and the contents are the 2-card panel configuration. The surface does show some light evidence of handling but no significant rips or tears. A tough 1950's boxing collectible and an ideal addition to any '51 Ringside collection.
1951 Topps Ringside Boxing Unopened Wax Pack PSA NM 7. Unopened pack graded PSA NM 7 from the 1951 Topps Ringside boxing series. Potential pulls include Rocky Marciano, Ray Robinson, Bob Murphy SP and Joe Louis.
Golf Cards
Rare 1901 Faulkner "Golf Terms" SGC-Graded Complete Set (12). Every card has been graded by SGC, with one exception, these are the ONLY cards from this series graded to date by both PSA and SGC! This very rare series offers some of the first cards to feature the sport of golf. Each cards puts a witty, so very utterly British, spin on a different golfing term, thus the title "Golf Terms." Includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 4 cards w/A Nasty Lie, Agriculture, Two to One Against and Two Up and One To Play; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 4 cards w/A Tee Caddie, A Rub of The Green, Fore and Well Forward; SGC 40 VG 3: 2 cards w/Caught In a Bunker and Pressed From Behind' SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card, A Halved Match: SGC 20 FR 1.5: 1 card, Giving It Socks. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time this set has been offered at public auction.
1926 Lambert "Who's Who In Sport" Bobby Jones #2 GAI NM-MT 8. Bobby Jones is considered by most to be the finest golfer of his or any other era. The consummate professional, his greatest achievement was in 1930 when he accomplished the first "Grand Slam" of golf by winning The Open Championship, the U.S. Open Championship, the United States Men's Amateur Golf Championship and The (British) Amateur Championship. This real photo tobacco insert card is the "rookie" card of Jones, the "Babe Ruth" of his sport. Produced by Lambert & Butler in 1926, Jones would retire from competition just four years later. Graded NM-MT 8 by GAI, this example has sharp corners, precision centering and good luster.
1926 Spaulding Champions Walter Hagen PSA NM-MT 8 - With Coupon. Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, one of four at this grade with four higher. Walter Hagen was one of the greatest golfers of his era. His prominence among the golfing elite is evidenced by his appearance in the multitude of golf related promotions. The 1926 Spalding Champions set featured Hagen as well as a list of others but it is Hagen who is the most desirable. The cards were circulated with a "Sport-Scrip" 10-cent coupon good for Spaulding brand sporting goods inside a wax paper glassine envelope. This lots includes an original coupon and envelope. This beauty has a crisp ink strike on a bright white field with four very sharp corners. The graphics sit a little high of center which seems to explain the technical grade. A wonderful early Hagen trading card appearance.
Miscellaneous Collectibles
1880's N28 & N29 Allen & Ginter "Worlds Champions" SGC-Graded Collection (30). Where other sets of the day went bold and colorful the two Allen & Ginter "World Champions" editions went elegant with a pure white background but retained the vibrant and finely detailed portraits. A total of 30 cards are included in this collection, (27) from the N28 and (3) from the N29 series (as noted). Include: Graded Cards - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, Temple-Cyclist (N29); SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 4 cards w/Dempsey-Pugilist, Ives-Cyclist (N29), Mitchell-Pugilist and Pettitt-Tennis (N29); SGC 60 EX 5: 5 cards w/Daly, Dion, McAuliffe-Pugilist, Teemer and Trickett; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 8 cards w/Acton, Bubear, Carney-Pugilist, Kilrain-Pugilist, Malone, McKay, Muldoon and Vignaux; SGC 40 VG 3: 7 cards w/Bogardus, Frey, Hosmer, McAuliffe-Pugilist, McLaughlin-Wrestling, Schaefer and Slosson; SGC 20 FAIR 1.5: 2 cards w/Sexton and Sullivan-Pugilist; SGC 10 POOR 1: 1 card, Daly; SGC A Authentic: 2 cards w/Adams and Carroll-Pugilist.
1887 Kimball "Champions" Near Set (49/50) - #1 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 47.7; Set Registry Rank: #1 on the SGC Set Registry. Athletes from around the world are featured in this fascinating production of "Champions" as defined by the W.S. Kimball & Co. The subjects include baseball players (3 of 4), boxer John L. Sullivan, Annie Oakley and the first recognition for the young boys and women athletes who are mostly forgotten about today. The 48-card near set offers 24 of the 25 subjects found with the "W.S. Kimball & Co. Cigarettes" tagline. Includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, Casey-Handball; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 3 cards w/Cardiff-Pugilist, Muller-Wrestler and Smith-Pugilist; SGC 60 EX 5: 10 cards w/Blondin, Heins, Jordan, Myers, Page, Perry-Boy Boxer, Rowe, Wallace, Warren-Pugilist and Wood; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 10 cards w/Burch-Baseball, Ferrell, George, Kane, McPherson, Muldoon, O'Leary, Paulsen, Ross and Wessels; SGC 40 VG 3: 21 cards w/Beach, Beardsley, Blatt, Boyton, Dempsey-Pugilist, Freeman, George, Hamilton, Hanlan, Henderson-Baseball, Humphrey, McLaughlin, Morsler, I. Murphy, J. Murphy, O'Neil-Baseball, Schaefer, Smith, Stewart-Female Boxer, Sullivan-Pugilist and Webb; SGC 30 GOOD 2: 3 cards w/Cockburn, Schloss and Whistler-Wrestler; SGC 20 FAIR 1.5: 1 card, Annie Oakley-Rifle Shot.
1888 N43 Allen & Ginter "The World's Champions, 2nd Series" Collection (18) Every card has been graded by SGC. Allen & Ginter reissued their own insert productions in the form of expanded 3-3/16" x 2-7/8" collectibles which resulted in one the most attractive 19th Century offerings. Building on the N29 series, the N43 versions of "The World's Champions-2nd Series" are quite scarce and make for prized discoveries. Include: Graded Cards - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, Crocker Cyclist; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 1 card, Lange Walker; SGC 60 EX 5: 6 cards w/Barry Hammer Throw, Boyton Swimmer, Carter Runner, Hill Club Swinger, Page High Jump and Pettitt Tennis; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards w/East Oarsman, Page High Jump and Queckenberner Weight Lifter; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, Temple Cyclist.
1888 N162 Goodwin "Champions" SGC-Graded Collection (16 Different). Featuring "Champions" of a multitude of sports, this edition has virtually universal appeal. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards w/Sexton Billiards and Steinitz Chess; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 5 cards w/Muldoon Wrestler, Ross Broad Swordsman, Rowell Pedestrian, Teemer Oarsman and Vignaux Billiards; SGC 40 VG 3: 3 cards w/Bogardus Marksman, Glasscock Baseball and Prince Bicyclist; SGC 30 GOOD 2: 4 cards w/Hanlan Oarsman, Slosson Billiards, Wood Jockey and Wood Bicyclist; SGC 10 POOR 1: 2 cards w/Stevens Bicyclist and Vignaux Billiards.
Olympic Cards
1913 Pan Handle Scrap Duke Kahanamoku SGC 20 Fair 1.5. Best remembered today as "The Father of Surfing," this native Hawaiian first entered the public consciousness as the greatest swimmer the world had ever seen. In August 1911, at an amateur swim meet, Kahanamoku was timed at 55.4 seconds in the 100 yard freestyle, smashing the existing world record by over four and a half seconds. A year later he would claim the Gold Medal at the Stockholm Summer Olympics in the same event, and then repeat his domination eight years later at the Antwerp Games. This "rookie" card of Kahanamoku dates to 1913 and one of a precious few trading card appearances made by the talented athlete. The offered example presents much nicer than the technical grade would suggest. The card presents at the excellent level but has one horizontal crease at the hairline level which acts as a minor visual distraction.
Miscellaneous Collectibles
1913 T221 Pan Handle Scraps "Champion Women Swimmers" Near Set (96/100). Offered is a 95-card near set of T221 Champion Women Swimmers produced for the Pan Handle Scrap tobacco brand in 1913. As best we can determine, this is the most complete set that has been offered at public auction. Missing #'s 57, 62, 63 and 85 for completion. Ten cards have been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #77 Laugenour; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 1 card, #17 Miss Ideal; SGC 60 EX 5: 6 cards w/#'s 16, 24, 30, 36, 61 and 97; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 2 cards w/#'s 10 and 98. Grades 8% EX to EX/MT, 67% VG to VG/EX, 25% lesser.
1913 T230 Pan Handle Scraps "World's Champion Athletes" Complete Set (50) - With SGC 40 VG 3 Kahanamoku. Pan Handle Scrap produced a 50-card set of "World Champion Athletes" in 1913 which gave the hobby one of its more prized entries, a card of legendary swimmer Duke Kahanamoku. This set of 50 cards is rarely offered complete (as we do here) in any condition. Each reverse gives a short bio and notable achievements of the athlete. This is a pleasing set in largely even condition. In total, six cards have been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, Duncan; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 2 cards w/Applegarth and Brundage; SGC 40 VG 3: 3 cards w/Duke Kahanamoku (pop 3, highest SGC graded available), Lindberg and M. Sheppard. Grades 80% VG to VG/EX with one nicer, 20% GD to GD/VG.
1933 Sports Kings Laverne Fator #13 PSA NM-MT 8. Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA. Sports Kings Gum was a product brand made by Goudey at the same time they produced the famous baseball series. This set featured stand out athletes from numerous walks of sport. This quite impressive example of card #13 Laverne Fator, one of the most successful jockeys of the 20th century. This is a wonderful copy with just minute condition issues and quite worthy of the grade.
1948 Kellogg's Pep Sports Stars Graded Complete Set (19) - #1 on the PSA Set Registry! Set GPA: 7.46; Set Ranking: #1 on the PSA Set Registry. Over half (11 cards) are pop 1-of-1s with none higher! Almost every subject has a pop of 1 or 2, the trio of exceptions are a pair of pop 3s and a lone pop 4. Seemingly overlooked by collectors, this series is very hard to acquire in high grade and rarely offered even though it has some very exciting things going for it. It offers the true rookie card of football HoFer Lou Groza as well as rookie year cards of Bob Waterfield and basketball titan George Mikan. Mikan's appearance here is MANY times scarcer than the Bowman brand rookie. It also includes the first cards of Hall of Fame golfers Sam Snead and Lloyd Mangrum. The thin photo paper stick is very condition sensitive and gets marred even with light handling. Most high grade examples are glued into the specially produced album made for this set. The only missing card is actually a "flipped negative" variation of Tony Zale. Includes: Graded - PSA Mint 9: 2 cards, w/Lou Groza and Mary Hardwick; PSA NM-MT 8: 8 cards, w/Donald Budge, James Ferrier, Lloyd Mangrum, George McAfee, Norm Standlee, Charlie Trippi/Correct, Dick Wakefield and Bob Waterfield; PSA NM 7: 7 cards, w/Phil Cavaretta, Orval Grove, Adolph Kiefer, George MIkan, Samuel Snead, Mike Tresh and Charlie Trippi/Reverse neg.; PSA EX-MT 6: 2 cards, w/Paul "Dizzy" Trout and Tony Zale.
1948 Topps Magic Photos Wrestling (D Series) Graded Complete Set (25) - #1 on the PSA Set Registry! Set GPA: 6.24. Set Registry Rank: #1 on the PSA set Registry! Over half of the set (14 cards or 56%) boasts the coveted "Pop 1-of-1 with none higher" title. Every card save for one earned the highest grade level available to date; Not one card has a total population over "4," most are pop "1" or "2." Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 1 card, #16D; PSA NM 7: 4 cards, w/#'s 9D, 10D, 19D and 23D; PSA EX-MT 6: 19 cards, w/#'s 1D, 2D, 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, 7D, 8D, 11D, 12D, 13D, 14D, 15D, 17D, 18D, 20D, 22D, 24D and 25D; PSA EX 5: 1 card, #21D.
1951 Wheaties Multi-Sport Mint 9 Near Set (5/6). Printed as the backs of single-serving size boxes of Wheaties, the six card 1951 set includes three baseball players and one football player, basketball player and golfer. Absent here is golfer Sam Snead. Includes PSA Mint 9 - Bob Feller, Johnny Lujack, Ted Williams and SGC 96 Mint 9 - George Mikan, Stan Musial.
1956 Topps "Adventure" High Graded Near Set (99/100). Offered is a 99-card near set of Topps "Adventure" cards from 1956. The series showcases a multitude of characters and well yes, adventurous activities from the extreme (such as feeding bald eagles and testing new aircraft) to the casual (such as fishing and roller skating). A number of sports are represented including surfing, boxing, baseball, hockey and track and field. Missing card #86 for completion. In total, 34 cards have been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 Mint 9: 8 cards w/#'s 27, 39, 41 Louis, 48, 49, 63 Hockey, 69 and 74; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 7 cards w/#'s 42, 53, 54, 58, 72, 77 Corbett and 80 Hart; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 10 cards w/#'s 4, 31, 34 Dempsey, 43, 47, 52, 55 Agganis, 56, 78 Fitzsimmons and 79 Jeffries; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 4 cards w/#'s 22, 44 Marciano, 87 Sharkey and 89 Baer; SGC 84 NM 7: 1 card, #35 Tunney; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 4 cards w/#'s 32 Johnson, 33, 76 Sullivan and 88 Carnera. Grades 15% Mint to NM/MT+, 65% NM to NM/MT, 20% EX/MT with a couple slightly lesser.
Non-Sport Cards
1887 N2 Allen & Ginter "American Indian Chiefs" Complete set (50) Plus White Swan Error. The N2 series of "Celebrated American Indian Chiefs" is one of the most endearing and highly sought after sets among the dizzying list of 19th Century tobacco insert card releases. The majestic nobility of the Native American leaders resonates via the breathtaking detail and vibrant hues afforded by the lithographers craft. This attractive complete set of all 50 cards are being offered for the first time at public auction. In total, 25 cards have been graded by PSA. Includes: PSA NM-MT 8: 1 card, Red Bird; PSA NM+ 7.5: 5 cards w/Lean Wolf, Mad Bear, Man and Chief, Striker and True Eagle; PSA NM 7: 7 cards w/Big Chief, Big Razor, British, Deer Ham, Great War Chief, King of the Crows and Spotted Tail; PSA EX-MT+ 6.5: 2 cards w/Cayatanita and Keokuk; PSA EX-MT 6: 5 cards w/Black Hawk, Chief Joseph, Crow's Breast, Keokuk's Son and Red Thunder; PSA EX+ 5.5: 1 card Noon Day; PSA EX 5: 1 card, John Yellow Flower PSA VG-EX 4: 2 cards w/Chief Gall & White Swan/Error; PSA Good 2: 1 card, Red Cloud. Ungraded - including: Geronimo (VG) and Sitting Bull (small, FR). Grades 25% NM to NM/MT, 18% EX to EX/MT, 25% VG to VG/EX, 32% GD to GD/VG with some lesser.
1887 G1 Allen & Ginter "Celebrated Indian Chiefs" Advertising Poster. Wow. Yes, a simple 3-letter expression, but the first which comes to mind when one see this stunning feast for the eyes. Produced as a necessity to promote the immensely popular trend of inserting small cards inside the packs of tobacco and cigarettes, these promotional posters have become treasured items by not just non-sport enthusiasts. Serious fine art and Americana collectors passionately pursue these as well. The lithographers craft is on grand display with this 20-5/8" x 29" gem boldly announcing the "The American Indian, Authentic Portraits of 50 Celebrated Indian Chiefs." Every subject in the 50-card N2 set is depicted in full size along with the tools of the hunt and a beautifully illustrated scene of a Native American hunting buffalo to provide for his tribe. We have Allen & Ginter to thank for sponsoring this head-turning testimonial to the highly skilled artisans of the "Linder, Eddy and Clauss, Litho. N. Y." The poster has had some restoration. The reverse clearly shows paper tape sealing small tears the paper. The worst is an 8" line in the lower left which is part separation, part crease. Color re-touching accompanies most of the tape repairs but almost all color additions are limited to the outer gold metallic border. There are other minor edge issues and noticeable corner wear. We mention this for clarity for as bad as it may read the paper is not brittle and if the colors have lost some of their brilliance then this amazing find must have at one time glowed-in-the-dark. A visual treat for the senses.
1887 A2 Allen & Ginter "Celebrated American Indian Chiefs" Album. As companion pieces to the tobacco insert cards the tobacco giants saw fit to produce associated multi-page albums. The albums showcased the cards all nestled around an amazing array of additional graphics and scenes. So much more than an elaborate visual checklist, these albums are a special class of collectibles unto themselves. One of the tougher and more popular is this beautifully crafted 6" x 8" multi-page album for the Allen & Ginter "Celebrated American Indian Chiefs" series. This version is an early printing by Linder, Eddy & Clauss, Lith. N.Y. as it contains two naming errors. From front cover to back, each page is so well designed it could stand alone and be placed on display. Overall, the album presents near the excellent level with most wear limited to corners of the outer cover pages.
1887 N3 "Arms of All Nations" Near Set (48/50) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 39.5; Set Registry Rank: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. This very colorful and finely produced Allen & Ginter release from 1887 offers a brief history of the brushes (weapons) used in the art of war which sadly made for such blood red results. The 48-card near set is missing Blunderbuss and the Carbine for completion. Includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, Cannon; SGC 60 EX 5: 7 cards w/Cimeter, Falchion, Harpoon, Knight's Lance, Scotch Claymore, Tooth Sword and Two Handed Sword; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 16 cards w/#'s Arab Musket, Arquebus, Battle Axe, Bow & Arrow, Chinese Short Sword, Headsman's Axe, Javelin, Mace, Malay Creese (Kris), Midshipman's Dirk, Navaja Knife, Rapier, Sling, Sword Bayoney (Bayonet), Tomahawk and War Club; SGC 40 VG 3: 12 cards w/#'s Bow Gun, Bowie Knife, Cross-Bow, Cutlass, Dagger, Greek Sword, Halberd, Machine Gun, Nubian Sword, Rifle, Russian Strelitz Axe and Shillalah; SGC 30 GOOD 2: 2 cards w/Abyssinian Spear and Saber; SGC 20 FAIR 1.5: 2 cards w/ Gladiator's Sword and Poniard; SGC AUTHENTIC: 8 cards w/Assagai, Bull Fighting Sword, Duelling Pistol, Flint-Lock Musket, Japanese Long Sword, Knight's Lance, Revolver and Stiletto.
1888 N18 Allen & Ginter "Parasol Drills" Complete Set (50) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 49.6; Set Ranking: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. An intriguing theme for a tobacco insert card series, Parasol Drills is a 50-card production of lovely ladies performing the most alluring moves one can do-with a parasol. Lots of great colors and as typical for the era, very nicely illustrated. Every card has been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 4 cards; SGC 60 EX 5: 13 cards; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 11 cards; SGC 40 VG 3: 10 cards; SGC 30 GD 2: 7 cards; SGC 20 FR 1.5: card. Please see our web site for a detailed list of the contents of this complete set.
1888 N22 Allen & Ginter "Racing Colors of The World" Complete Set (50) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 38.5; Set Registry Rank: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. Offered is a 50-card complete set of N22 Allen & Ginter "Racing Colors of the World" from 1888. This scarce edition was produced in two format, with and without white border treatments. This pleasing presentation offers a combination of the two styles. Includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card; SGC 60 EX 5: 7 cards; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 14 cards; SGC 40 VG 3: 10 cards; SGC 30 GD 2: 7 cards; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 3 cards; SGC 10 PR 1: 4 cards; SGC Authentic: 3 cards. Ungraded - 1 card, Prince Soltykoff (altered).
1888 N36 Allen & Ginter "The American Indian" SGC-Graded Group of (19). The N36 "The American Indian" series is often cited as being among the most attractive of the 19th Century tobacco card releases. Every card has been graded by SGC. Include: Graded Cards - SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, Wetcunie, SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 2 cards w/Deer Ham and Many Horns; SGC 40 VG 3: 7 cards w/Agate Arrow Point, Big Bear, Crow's Breast, Great Wolf Chief, War Captain (2) and White Shield; SGC 20 FAIR 1.5: 2 cards w/Grey Eagle and Iron Bull; SGC 10 POOR 1: 4 cards w/Lean Wolf, Red Bird, Striker and White Swan; SGC Authentic: 3 cards w/Agate Arrow Point, White Shield and Young Whirlwind.
1888 N86 Duke "Scenes of Perilous Occupations" Complete Set (50) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! NOTE: There are 11 cards graded SGC 60 (not 12) and 9 cards (not 8) graded SGC 50.
Set GPA: 57.8; Set Registry Rank: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. Presented is a 50-card complete set of N86 "Scenes of Perilous Occupations" produced by Duke Sons & Co. in 1888. The fronts showcase the more exciting, like "The Horse trainer" to treacherous ways which we don't think about like "..painters of church steeples." Each reverse gives a lively explanation of the perilous occupation. This set is a combination of yellow and green backgrounds. Includes: SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 2 cards; SGC 84 NM 7: 2 cards; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 6 cards; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 8 cards; SGC 60 EX 5: 11 cards; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 9 cards; SGC 40 VG 3: 8 cards; SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 2 cards; SGC 10 PR 1: card. A detailed list of grades/titles is available on our web site.
Set GPA: 57.8; Set Registry Rank: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. Presented is a 50-card complete set of N86 "Scenes of Perilous Occupations" produced by Duke Sons & Co. in 1888. The fronts showcase the more exciting, like "The Horse trainer" to treacherous ways which we don't think about like "..painters of church steeples." Each reverse gives a lively explanation of the perilous occupation. This set is a combination of yellow and green backgrounds. Includes: SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 2 cards; SGC 84 NM 7: 2 cards; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 6 cards; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 8 cards; SGC 60 EX 5: 11 cards; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 9 cards; SGC 40 VG 3: 8 cards; SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 2 cards; SGC 10 PR 1: card. A detailed list of grades/titles is available on our web site.
1888 N105 Duke & Sons "Cowboy Scenes" Complete Set (25). Today, a trip out south or west to Texas, Oklahoma or Arizona is taken for granted. In the 1880's the life of the cowboy was still the grit of tales and lore. The W. Duke, Sons & Co. series titled Cowboy Scenes for the Honest Long Cut brand showcase the exciting trials and tribulations of life in the wild, wild, west. This 25-card complete set includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 1 card, Lassoing a Steer; PSA NM 7: 1 card, Wild Mustangs; PSA EX-MT 6: 3 cards w/Attacking a Mail, The "Dug Out" and Painting the Town Red; PSA EX 5: 3 cards w/Outnumbered, The Ranche and Returning to the Ranche. Grades 36% EX to EX/MT with two nicer, 40% VG to VG/EX with a few lesser, 24% trimmed.
1888 N189 Kimball "Savage & Semi-Barbarous Chiefs" Near Set (49/50). For numerous ways, the N189 series of "Savage and Semi-Barbarous Chiefs and Rulers" holds great fascination. One can marvel at the traditional clothes and accompanying accessories of cultures from around the world. One can become enthralled at the marvelous detail afforded us by the lithographer's craft. Language buffs can expend quite some time and effort into the proper pronunciation of the provided titles. They also made good learning tools for helping youngsters looking to expand their world past the closest horizon. Missing Grey Hawk for completion. Includes: Graded - PSA Mint 9: 1 card, Dabularzi; PSA NM+ 7.5: 1 card, King Cetewayo; PSA EX-MT 6: 2 cards w/Maharana of Oudeypoor and Mnyamwezi Pagazi; PSA EX 5: 3 cards w/Chambarango, Rajah of Nagound and Sambhoo Sing; PSA VG-EX 4: 3 cards w/American Horse, Seyvid Barghash and Yellow Dog; PSA GD 2: 1 card, Princess Shah Jehan. Ungraded - w/Sitting Bull (FR). Grades 14% EX to NM or better, 51% GD to VG, 35% FR to PR.
1889 N85 W. Duke "Postage Stamps" SGC-Graded Complete Set (50). Every card has been graded by SGC. This 50-card complete set was circulated with an actual postage stamp adhered to each card. This unique feature could mean every card can be considered a one-of-a-kind collectible. Includes: Graded - SGC 60 EX 5: 7 cards w/By The Way, Country Post Office, I'll Be There, Pigeon Mail, Plantation Mail, Sad News and Unloading Mail Cars; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 14 cards w/Chinese Letter, French Letter, Give Us That Card, Got Any Duke's Stamp, Irish Channel Mail, Just In Time, Last Round, Miscarried Valentine, Ocean Mail, One For You Too, Overland Mail, Sir Rowland Hill, Who's That From and Zulu Mail; SGC 40 VG 3: 9 cards w/Burning Old Letters, First Letter, First Letter Carrier, Mail Car Interior, Mexican Mail, Postmaster General, Russian Mail, Sorting Mail and Spanish Letter; SGC 30 GOOD 2: 9 cards w/Good News At Last, He Has Not Forgot It, Hook Her Off, Letter's For The Front, Mail Aboard Ship, Mail In Winter, Ship Of The Desert, Ten Cent Special and Will Get There; SGC 20 FAIR 1.5: 7 cards; SGC 10 POOR 1: 3 cards; SGC A Authentic: 1 card.
1889 N99 Duke & Sons "Battle Scenes" Near Set (18/25). Offered is an 18-card near set of the immensely popular N99 "Battle Scenes" from 1889. Each displays a matching "Honest Long Cut" brand reverse. In total, eight cards have been graded by PSA. Includes: PSA EX-MT 6: 2 cards w/Heroism of Col. Rogers and Morgan's Great Raid; PSA EX+ 5.5: 3 cards w/The Attack on Federal Camp Shiloh, Monitor & Merrimac and McClellan at Battle; PSA EX 5: 1 card w/Merrimac Ramming; PSA VG-EX+ 4.5: 1 card w/Farragut Passing; PSA VG-EX 4: 1 card w/Stonewall Jackson at Chancellorsville. Grades 44% EX to EX/MT, 33% VG to VG/EX, 23% GD to GD/VG with one lesser.
1889 N114 Duke "Histories of Generals" Partial Set (22/50) Plus Grant Color Variation. Offered is a 15-card selection of N114 "Histories of Generals" from 1889. This very colorful edition showcases the great military leaders of the 19th Century. This presentation contains 22 of the 50 different subjects plus one color variation of Gen. Ulysses S. Grant. Includes: Graded PSA EX 6: 2 cards w/ Longstreet/Green and Pemberton/Yellow; PSA EX 5: 5 cards w/ Halleck/Green, McClellan/Yellow, Porter/Green, Sherman/Green and Sheridan/Green; PSA EX 5(MC): 1 card, Lee/Yellow. Ungraded - includes: Banks/Yellow, Beauregard/Green, Butler/Green, Foote/Green, Garfield/Yellow (VG/EX), Gordon/Green, Grant/Green (VG), Grant/Yellow (VG), Hardee/Green, Hill/Green, Hooker/Green, Johnston/Yellow, Polk/Green, Scott/Yellow and Stuart/Green. Grades 35% EX to EX/MT, 43% VG to VG/EX, 22% lesser.
1889 N124 Duke & Sons "Presidential Possibilities" PSA-Graded Partial Set (14 Different). Each card has been graded by PSA. The N124 "Presidential Possibilities" series is testimony to the well-honed skills of the lithographer. Offered are 14 of the 25 subjects which make up this treat for the eyes. Includes: Graded - PSA EX-MT 6 3 cards w/Butler, Hawley and Pattison; PSA EX 5: 2 cards w/Flower and Whitney; PSA VG-EX 4: 2 cards w/Grover Cleveland and William McKinley; PSA VG 3: 2 cards w/Alger and Blane; PSA GD 2: 1 card, Benjamin Harrison.
1889 N186 Kimball "Dancing Women" Near Set (48/50) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 48.9; Set Ranking: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. Offered is a 48-card near set of the second smokers delight behind his favorite tobacco, saucy images of dancing women from around the world. Includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 5 cards, w/Am. Indian, Mexican, Moorish, Roman and Swiss; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 cards; SGC 60 EX 5: 11 cards; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 10 cards; SGC 40 VG 3: 8 cards; SGC 30 GD 2: 9 cards; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 3 cards. Please see our web site for a detailed list of the contents of this near set.
1889 N232 Kinney "Surf Beauties" Complete Set (50) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 59.4; Set Registry Rank: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. Each card has been graded by SGC. Offered is a 50-card complete set of N232 Kinney "Surf Beauties" from 1889. Oh, who could have resisted these tiny masterpieces depicting lovely ladies from all around the world, frolicking in the surf or gracing the near by shore in their scandalous (for the era) attire. This 1-1/2" x 2-3/4" production has become one of the most popular choices of 19th non-sport card enthusiasts. Includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 13 cards w/Asbury Park, Atlantic City, Block Island, Calais, Cape May, Dinard, Granville, Isle of Shoals, Nahant, Nantasket, Ramsgate, St. Briac, St. Enogat; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 5 cards w / Coney Island, Nice, Old Orchard Beach, Ostende and Torquay; SGC 60 EX 5: 13 cards w/ Bar Harbor, Boulogne, Brighton, Cherebourg, Cohasset, Fire Island, Heligoland, Narragansett, Newport, Norderney, Old Point Comfort, Scarborough and Sea Grit; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 7 cards w/ Dieppe, Greve D'Azette, Livorno, Rockaway, St. Brelade, St. Clement and St. Malo; SGC 40 VG 3: 9 cards w/Long Branch/N.J., Mt. St. Michel, Nantucket, Parame, Santa Barbara, Swampscott, Trouville, Van Andre and Watch Hill; SGC 30 Good 2: 3 cards w/Deal Beach, Long Beach/L.I. and Monterey.
1890's Custom Bound Volume of Nine Duke, Sons & Co. Tobacco Card Albums. Another first for this veteran hobbyist is this custom bound, saddle stitched volume comprised of all nine albums promoting Duke, Sons & Co. 19th Century tobacco insert card series. Measuring 10-1/2" x 7," the outer covers plus spine appears to be made of leather which has seen better times. The front cover is loose but the interior binding is firm and back cover is attached. Inside the front cover has a hand numbered (#1773) foil-sticker and a sticker shaped like a sheriff's badge which reads, "Eugene Von Boeckmann, Printer and Bookbinder, 913 Congress Avenue, AUSTIN, TEXAS." The approx. 2" think relic includes the albums (in order as they appear): A30-N126 Rulers, Coats of Arms and Flags, A27-N133 State and Territorial Governors, Coats of Arms, A34-N 91 Yacht Colors of the World, N73 Fancy Dress Ball Costumes, N82 Musical Instruments, A26-N70/71 Costumes of All Nations (Actors & Actresses), A28-N78 Heroes of the Civil War (Histories of Generals), A33-N88 The Terrors of America and A31-N87 Shadows. A few pages designed to mount stamps from different countries follows. Inner pages include most front and back covers and appear to be complete. Interior pages show corner wear, a few have creases. A extremely colorful and very rare and intriguing 19th Century piece.
1892 N101 Duke "Breeds of Horses" Complete Set (25) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 47.6; Set Registry Rank: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. The larger dimensions and full bleed backgrounds make it a challenge to assemble a 25-card complete set in respectable condition. This is a very pleasing largely middle-grade assembly of this Duke Sons & Co. production from 1892. Includes: Graded SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 2 cards w/Canadian and Shetland Pony; SGC 60 EX 5: 6 cards w/Barb of Morocco, Cleveland Horse, Cossack, English Hunter, Tarpan of Russia, and Zebra; SGC VG-EX 5: 6 cards, w/Mexican Horse, Spanish Horse, Steeple Chase, Thoroughbred and Villous of Asia; PSA VG 3: 8 cards w/American Carriage, American Saddle, Dongola, Indian Pony, Marengo, Norman and Tartar; SGC 30 GD 2: 4 cards w/Arab, East Indian, Egyptian Donkey and Pecheron; SGC 20 FR 1.5: 1 card, Clydesdale.
Circa 1908 P31 National Flags Celluloid Pins Partial Set (48/70). After viewing and writing about hundreds and thousands of lots, it's so great when something comes across your desk that you have never seen before. As best we can determine this a selection of 48 different celluloid flag pins from around 1908. We base that on population quotes found on the back of each flag. Listed in the ACC as "P31," these scarce collectibles are celluloid, the pin is 1" long and there is no mention of a maker. Each reverse reads "70 Nations In Full Set" and we assume that to be correct. Countries represented are United States, Germany, Greece, Scotland, Mexico, Hungry, Persia, France, Chine, Turkey, Russia, Italy, England, etc., etc. Most reside as they have been, mounted to a 1-3/8" x 2-1/4" thin piece of card stock then wrapped in plastic keeping them safe and protected. The card was then stapled to a larger card. One pin loop is incomplete, the pins themselves present at the EX/MT to NM levels with a just few showing light surface wear.
Very Scarce 1901's-1920's "D" Weber Baking Collection (55) - Includes Uncatalogued Issue! Offered is a 55-card selection of very scarce "D" issue insert cards. These extremely fragile thin paper collectibles are rarely offered in quantity. Five distinct series are represented, all advertise products of the Weber Baking Company. Includes: D25 "The Cowboy His Life and Fun" (8) - As T53s. Grades 50% VG to VG/EX, 50% lesser; D34 "Flags of the World" (9) - as T59s. Grades VG to FR; D96 College Pennants (12) - Grades 50% VG to EX, 50% lesser; D117 Famous Men (5) - w/Hudson, Morse, Molly Pitcher (VG), Tolstoi (VG) and Von Moltke. Grades fair unless noted; 1926 D-Unc. "Projected Living Pictures" (21) - As D129. Grades VG to EX (manly EX) with some lesser.
1909-11 T59 "Flags of All Nations" Collection of (317). Not for the faint of heart, this colorful edition is a variation collectors dream. There are up to 10,000 different cards once reverse brands, series, factory #'s and ink colors are taken into consideration. Circulated over a 3-year period, these cards promote cigarettes, cigars and scrap tobacco. At its easiest level, "Flags of All Nations" is a collection of 200 different flags representing nations, colonies, cities, territories, pilot and yacht clubs, canoe associations and signal flags. There are 317 cards in this collection with the following brands represented: Big Run/100 & 200, Jack Rose/150 & 200, Recruit, Recruit/150 & 200, Sweet Caporal/100, 150 & 200. Grades 90% EX to NM, 10% slightly lesser.
1910 E3 American Caramel "Navy Caramels" Complete Set (20) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 46.1; Set Registry Rank: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. For illustration quality, this 21-card production is one of the finer offered by the candy giant. The fine detail and effects from the subtle shifts in ink colors results in a mini-size work of pure art. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 60 EX 5: 7 cards w/Connecticut, Dolphin, Georgia, Kansas, Missouri, New Hampshire and U.S. Cruiser; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 8 cards w/ Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, President's Yacht Mayflower, Rhode Island and U.S. Torpedo Boat; SGC 40 VG 3: 2 cards w/Michigan and U.S.S. Torpedo; SGC 30 GOOD 2: 2 cards w/Pennsylvania and Vermont; SGC A AUTHENTIC: 2 cards w/Illinois and New Jersey.
Circa 1910 S67 Indian Chiefs Silks Complete Set (50) - A Matching "Tokio" Brand Assembly. Utilizing the same artwork that appears on the N2 Allen & Ginter American Indian Chiefs series issued in 1888, these silks were issued by the American Tobacco Company - one per pack in Tokio cigarettes. Circulated in three versions, this is a complete set of 50 subjects which display the Tokio name along the bottom border. Gathering a complete set is an arduous enough task. A matching variation complete set (especially in this condition) is almost unheard of. Includes legendary American Indian figures Geronimo, Red Cloud, Sitting Bull, Chief Joseph and many others. Grades 80% Excellent to Near Mint, 20% VG with a few lesser (due to pencil mark (1) or paper adhered to the back).
1910-11 T42 Mecca "Birds Series" Gold Border Complete Run (50). This wonderfully illustrated 100-card edition showcases the beauty of man's fine feathered friends. Produced with a white or gold metallic border, this nicely preserved presentation represents the complete run of 50 birds adorned with the gold border style. In total, 12 cards have been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/Blue Headed Tanager and California Wax-Wing; SGC 84 NM 7: 5 cards w/Baltimore Oriole, Raven, Red-Head Duck, Saddle Backed Fan and Wood Duck; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, Ruffer Grouse; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 cards w/English Pheasant and Golden Pheasant; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, Bobolink; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, Impeyan Pheasant. Grades 20% NM to NM/MT, 70% EX to EX/MT, 10% VG to VG.
1910-11 T113 "Types Of Nations" High Grade Complete Set (50). "Types Of Nations" is a very attractive 50-card series of head-and-shoulders portrait illustrations of men in native garb representing 50 countries or regions from all around the world. The backs tell the story of each country, including products they produce and many other useful facts. A total of 18 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, Korea; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, Siam; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, Scotland; SGC 84 NM 7: 11 cards w/Abyssinia, Belgium, Egypt, England, France, Hungary, India, Italy, New Zealand, Philippine Islands and Wales; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 4 cards w/Australia, China, Madagascar and Persia. Grades 46% NM to NM/MT, 44% EX to EX/MT, 10% lesser.
1929 Carreras "Paramount Stars" SGC-Graded Complete Set (27). This condition sensitive 27-card series was one of the earlier sets to appear after the new era of the "talkies" had begun. Enhanced because it features stars who needed to cross that critical moment in their careers. The high gloss, real-photo format and unique appeal made these early collectible cards very popular which meant getting housed in an album. Some cards assessed below "EX/NM" presents as high as mint but have slight corner impression from previous storage. A visually impressive array. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 MINT 9: 1 card, #15 Hamilton; SGC 84 NM 7: 6 cards, w/#s 5 Gary Cooper, 11 Vidor, 18, 22, 24 and 26; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 2 cards, w/#s 21 Louise Brooks and 25; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 3 cards, w/#s 3 Fay Wray, 13 and 20; SGC 60 EX 5: 14 cards, w/#s 1 Bebe Daniels, 4 Conklin, 6, 7 Holt, 8 Bancroft, 9, 10, 12 Clara Bow, 14 W.C. Fields, 16, 17, 19, 23 and 27 Dix; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, #2.
1930's F277-1 Heinz "Famous Airplanes-Type 1" Near Set (24/25) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 70.2; Set Ranking: #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Found in boxes of Heinz "Rice Cake" and "Breakfast Wheat" cereal, this vivid and glossy production captured the larger-than-life aircrafts which showcased the quickly evolving field of aviation. Missing #24 for completion. Includes: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 5 cards w/#'s 8 Stearman, 12 Waco, 22 Bellanca Aircruiser, 23 Privateer and 25 Consolidated; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #14 Kellett Autogiro; SGC 84 NM 7: 9 cards w/#'s 2 Boeing 247, 3 Sikorsky Flying Boat, 6 Douglas Amphibion, 11 Northrop Delta, 13 Great Lakes Sport-Trainer, 15 Pitcairn Autogiro, 18 Curtiss-Wright Condor, 19 Douglas and 20 GA-43 Transport; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #21 Voltee Monoplane; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, #17 Fairchild; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards w/#'s 4 Kinner Monoplane, 5 Aeronca and 16 Vought Corsair; SGC 40 VG 3: 2 cards w/#'s 1 Roscoe Turner's Original "57" Racer and 9 Beechcraft; SGC 30 GOOD 2: 2 cards w/#'s 7 Stinson Model and 10 Lockheed Electra.
1930's R184 "Indian Chiefs" Complete Set (24) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 84.6; Set Registry Rank: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. Issued in strips, this 24-card series was one of the multitude of sets circulated during the late-1930's early 1940's in this form. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 MINT 9: 7 cards w/#'s 101 Little Crow, 107 Black Beaver, 108 Lone Wolf, 114 Old Bull, 116 Young Man Afraid, 118 Sitting Bull and 121 Crow King; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 7 cards w/#'s 111 Kicking Bird, 115 Little Big Man, 117 Two Moon, 119 Chief Gall, 122 White Man Runs Him, 123 American Horse and 124 High Bear; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 2 cards w/#'s 102 Red Cloud and 109 Big Tree; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #103 Little Wolf; SGC 84 NM 7: 1 card, #104 Magpie; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 2 cards w/#'s 112 White Horse and 113; SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards w/#'s 105 and 110; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 card, #120; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, #106.
1933 R30-1 Blatz Gum "Chicago's World Fair" Complete Set (32) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 81.9; Set Registry Rank: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. This colorful 32-card series was issued in 1-card packs with gum or unaccompanied by gum in 16-card boxes. This presentation consists of all "type 1" cards identified by the the distinctive blue ink printing on the backs. Includes: Graded - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #26 Travel Building; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 9 cards w/#'s 5 Agricultural Building, 6 Oriental Village, 7 Golden Pavilion, 14 Hall of Science, 16 Court of States, 18 Travel & Transport, 20 Hall of Science, 29 Fort Dearborn and 30 Electrical Group; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 3 cards w/#'s 12 Enchanted Island, 21 The Interior Court and 24 Three Fluted; SGC 84 NM 7: 10 cards w/#'s 8 Admiral Byrd's Polar Ship, 11 Sky Ride, 13 Hall of States, 17 Administration Building, 19 Admin. Building, 23 Golden Temple, 25 Hall of Science, 27 The Lincoln Group, 28 Panoramic View and 31 Administration Building; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 6 cards w/#'s 3 Intra-Mural Bus, 4 Dairy Building, 9 Electrical Group, 10 Hall of Science, 22 Golden Temple and 32 General Exhibits; SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards w/#'s 2 Buckingham Memorial Fountain and 15 Aeroplane View; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, #1 Hall Of Science.
1935 R69 Mickey Mouse "Is Minnie Taking a Screen Test" #67 PSA NM-MT 8. Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, this is one of three at this level with none graded higher. A condition rarity from this extremely popular edition.
1936 Carreras "Film Stars" SGC-Graded High End Complete Set (50). Ah, the glitz and glamour of the stars of the golden-age of Hollywood come to life in these high grade keepsakes with the added bonus of background information offered by none other than the era's top celebrity impersonator--Florence Desmond. The all-star cast includes Garbo, Gable, Hepburn, Dietrich, Davis plus so many others, it reads like a virtual who's who of Hollywood elite. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 MINT 9: 1 card, #34 Irene Dunne; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 2 cards, w/#s 9 and 11; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 19 cards, w/#s 2 Loy, 4, 6, 7, 8 Ginger Rodgers, 14, 17 Douglas Fairbanks, 23 Gary Cooper, 24, 32 Barbara Stanwyck, 35 Greta Garbo, 36 Marlene Dietrich, 37, 38, 39 James Cagney, 43, 47, 49 Joan Crawford and 50; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 8 cards, w/#s 3 Fred Astaire, 15, 18, 19 Montgomery, 22 Shirley Temple, 26, 29 and 31; SGC 84 NM 7: 13 cards, w/#s 10, 12, 16, 20, 21, 25, 28 Katharine Hepburn, 30, 33, 40 Jean Harlow, 42 Shearer, 44 Carole Lombard and 48 Bette Davis; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 4 cards, w/#s 1, 27, 41 Clark Gable and 46; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, #13; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 1 cars, # 45; SGC Authentic: 1 card, # 5.
1936 R60 G-Men & Heroes of The Law #33 PSA NM-MT 8 - Pop 1-of-1 With None Higher! Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, this is the only example at this grade level with none graded higher! The current ultimate example of card #33 "A Murder on An Arizona Trail."
1936 R60 G-Men & Heroes of the Law #89 PSA NM-MT 8 - Pop 1-of-1 With None Higher! Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, this is the solo example at this high grade with none higher. The reigning ultimate example of card #89 "The Flight of The Black Duck."
1936 R60 G-Men & Heroes If The Law #91 PSA NM-MT 8 - Pop 1 With None Higher!. Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, this is the only example at this grade level with none graded higher! The current ultimate example of card #91 Grilling A Lying Gunman" is deserving of its lofty assessment.
1936 R60 G-Men & Heroes of The Law #101 PSA NM-MT 8 - Pop 1-of-1 With None Higher! Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, this is the only example at this grade level with none graded higher! The current ultimate example of card #101 "The Capture of The Crank" has every quality hobbyists desire for the grade.
1936 R60 G-Men & Heroes of The Law #114 PSA NM-MT 8 - Pop 1-of-1 With None Higher! Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, this is the only example at this level with none graded higher. Attractive near mint to mint copy of card #114 "Swift Pursuit!"
1936 R60 G-Men & Heroes of The Law #123 PSA NM-MT 8 - Pop 1-of-1 With None Higher! Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, this is the only example at this grade level with none graded higher! The current ultimate example of card #123 "Radio Eavesdrops on Crime" has every quality hobbyists desire for the grade.
1936 R60 G-Men & Heroes of The Law PSA NM-MT 8 Group of (7) - All Highest Grade Known. Each card has been graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, every card wields "Pop 2 with none higher" acclaim. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 7 cards w/#'s 47, 98, 104, 117, 120, 126 and 128. Virtually unimprovable.
1936 G-Men & Heroes of The Law PSA-Graded Group of (8). Each card has been graded by PSA. Includes: Graded - PSA NM 7: 1 card, #137 The Crime In The Mirror; PSA EX-MT 6: 3 cars w/#'s 129, 147, 155, 158 and 162; PSA EX 5: 1 card, #166; PSA VG-EX 4: 1 card, #151.
1936 R60 Gum Inc. "G-Men & Heroes of The Law" PSA-Graded Near Set (132/168). Each card has been graded or assessed by PSA. No vintage non-sport collection is complete if the immensely popular "G-Men & Heroes of The Law" edition is nowhere to be found. The gritty graphics and thrilling narrations captivate and entice the senses harkening one back to the days of gangsters and gun molls. With various degrees of scarcity, this set is very difficult to complete in any condition. This presentation of mainly "EX" or better cards is a terrific start for any hobbyist passionate enough to complete the task. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 2 cards, w/#'s 427 and 277; PSA NM 7: 15 cards, w/#'s 9, 11, 32, 56, 60, 63, 82, 92, 97, 106, 112, 119, 121, 136 and 227; PSA EX-MT 6: 37 cards, w/#'s 36, 40, 45, 51, 62, 65, 67, 72, 75, 81, 83, 86, 93, 94, 100, 103, 107, 109, 132, 135, 137, 139, 149, 162, 177, 181, 212, 219, 233, 253, 266, 269, 279, 371, 411, 415 and 437; PSA EX 5: 42 cards, w/#'s 1, 26, 38, 39, 46, 49, 50, 53, 58, 76, 84, 96, 111, 115, 125, 127, 129, 131, 142, 147, 156, 158, 185, 191, 196, 201, 203, 206, 208, 210, 262, 271, 283, 307, 311, 326, 335, 343, 397, 401, 405 and 431; PSA VG-EX 4: 19 cards, w/#'s 1, 28, 57, 59, 64, 66, 80, 88, 155, 166, 214, 248, 319, 355, 381, 389, 419, 424 and 451; PSA VG 3: 4 cards, w/#'s 151, 169, 281 and 445; PSA GD 2: 1 card, #257; PSA Authentic: 12 cards, w/#'s 25, 29, 42, 44, 55, 74, 79, 239, 242, 275, 349 and 362.
Rare 1936 & '37 Universal "Flash Gordon" Complete Set (12) and "Wild West Days" Near Set (11/12). This is an enticing opportunity to acquire a pair of sets based on Universal films characters. One set showcases Buster Crabbe as the legendary space hero Flash Gordon and the other the tales of the wild west. Both sets of black and white collectibles are rarely offered in quantity. Includes: 1936 Universal "Flash Gordon" Complete Set (12) - includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, In The Claws; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 cards w/Tournament of Death and Trapped In The Turret; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, Battling The Sea Beast; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 6 cards w/Captured By Shark Men, Flaming Torture, Shattering Doom, The Destroying Ray, The Tunnel of Terror and The Unseen Peril; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, Fighting The Fire Dragon; SGC 30 GOOD 2: 1 card, The Planet Of Peril; 1937 Universal "Wild West Days" Near Set (11/12) - Includes: Graded - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, Wagon-Trail Ambush; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 2 cards w/Behinds The Bars and Walls of Fire; SGC 84 NM 7: 4 cards w/Death Rides The Range, Platinum Stampede, The Brink Of Doom and The Thundering Herd; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, Indians Are Coming; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards w/Redskins Revenge, Shot From Ambush and The Leap Of Life.
1930's F277-4 Heinz "Famous Aviators" SGC-Graded Near Set (16/25) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 69.0; Set Ranking: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. hard to find in any condition, Heinz's Type 4 "Famous Aviators" features some of the brightest and most colorful illustrations known. The grand hues and enticing commentary makes on dream of flying off into the wild blue wonder. Includes: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, #4 Col. Turner; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #3 Capt. Eddie; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 5 cards w/#'s 2, 9, 18, 19 and 24; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 cards w/#'s 15 and 22; SGC 60 EX 5: 6 cards w/#'s 1 Lindbergh, 7, 11, 20, 21 and 25 Balchen; SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card, #12.
1937 R41 Dick Tracy #134 PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA, equal with a handful of others as the highest graded examples known to date.
1937 Wolverine Gum Ripley's Believe It or Not #3 PSA NM 7 - Pop 1-of-2 With None Higher! Graded NM 7 by PSA, the only example at this grade with none graded higher. This solid Near Mint card features "A Life Saving Death Sentence," the tale of how Auguste Ciparis was the lone survivor after the 1902 volcano eruption which killed 45,000 people and leveled the city of St. Pierre. Ciparis was a prisoner sentenced to death, his underground cell ironically keeping him alive. Believe It or not....
1937 Wolverine Gum Ripley's Believe It or Not "The Great John L" #34 SGC 30 Good 2. Even the most scarce card series have that one stand out subject that seems to appear on a majority of want lists. card #34 "The Great John L" from Wolverine Gums' Ripley's Believe It or Not series is "that" card. Coveted by non-sport and boxing hobbyist alike, this scarce high-number talks of the exploits of the great Irish pugilist and is usually the final punch needed in knocking down to completion this overall not very plentiful edition. While being affected by a single vertical crease and some edge surface scuffing the offered copy is bright and very presentable.
1937 Wolverine Gum Ripley's Believe It or Not #46 PSA NM-MT 8 - Pop 1-of-1 With None Higher. Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, this example of card #46 "The Lone Survivor" is a both a high-number scarcity and a high-grade rarity. You won't believe that this card is a hint of wear at one corner tip away from Mint status.
1937 Wolverine Gum "Ripley's believe It or Not" SGC 88 NM/MT 8 Quartet (4). Each card has been graded 88 NM/MT 8 by SGC, each is a "pop 1" or "pop 2" condition rarity which earns the label "highest grade level known." The unbelievable (yes, we just had to say it) Ripley's collectibles are close to flawless cards and worthy of the most advanced non-sport collection. Includes: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 4 cards w/#'s 2 The Curse of the Skeletons, 7 Holy Scorpion Eater, 18 Paul Revere Did Not Make... and 22 The Scourge of God. All four would be extremely difficult to improve upon.
1937 Wolverine Gum "Ripley's Believe It or Not" PSA NM-MT 8 Pair (2). Both cards have been graded NM-MT 8 by PSA and are among the finest examples recorded to date. The offered pair includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 2 cards w/#'s 10 "Most Amazing Airplane Accident" (pop 1-of-2 with none higher) and 17 "Capt. Kidd was Not a Pirate" (pop 1-of-3 with none higher).
1937 Wolverine Gum "Ripley's Believe It or Not" SGC-Graded Partial Set (25/48). NOTE: A correction was made to the description. There are four cards graded SGC 88, four cards graded SGC 86 and eight cards graded SGC 84.
Every card has been graded by SGC. The unbelievable becomes reality via these colorful Wolverine Gum collectibles telling the stories which challenge our historical beliefs to real world events that we would think would be found outside the realm of possibility but... believe it not not. This mostly high end selection offers not only quality but a selection of the rare high-numbers with the last card, #48. Includes: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 4 cards w/#'s 6, 7, 9 and 20; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 4 cards w/#'s 8, 13, 18 and 30; SGC 84 NM 7: 8 cards w/#'s 1, 4, 5, 11, 14, 19, 21 and 22; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #3; SGC 60 EX 5: 3 cards w/#'s 2, 38 and 48; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards w/#'s 15, 27 and 29; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, #12; SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card, #23.
Every card has been graded by SGC. The unbelievable becomes reality via these colorful Wolverine Gum collectibles telling the stories which challenge our historical beliefs to real world events that we would think would be found outside the realm of possibility but... believe it not not. This mostly high end selection offers not only quality but a selection of the rare high-numbers with the last card, #48. Includes: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 4 cards w/#'s 6, 7, 9 and 20; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 4 cards w/#'s 8, 13, 18 and 30; SGC 84 NM 7: 8 cards w/#'s 1, 4, 5, 11, 14, 19, 21 and 22; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #3; SGC 60 EX 5: 3 cards w/#'s 2, 38 and 48; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 3 cards w/#'s 15, 27 and 29; SGC 40 VG 3: 1 card, #12; SGC 30 GD 2: 1 card, #23.
1938 Godfrey "Characters Come To Life" Complete Set (36). This 36-card Godfrey Phillips production titled "Characters Come To Life" showcased actors/actresses not as themselves but the movie roles they seemingly "brought to life" on the silver screen. This bright and colorful series is on very thin stock and is difficult to find in high grade. In total, 32 cards have been graded by SGC. Includes: Graded - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 4 cards, w/#'s 4 Lionel Barrymore, 18, 20 and 30; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #3 John Barrymore; SGC 84 NM 7: 14 cards, w/#'s 5, 8 Joan Crawford, 9, 15, 16, 17, 23 Laughton, 25, 26, 27, 28 Powell, 29 Rathbone, 33 and 34; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 4 cards, w/#'s 2, 7, 11 Kay Francis and 12 Errol Flynn; SGC 60 EX 5: 2 cards, w/#'s 10 and 24; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 7 cards, w/#'s 6, 13 Clark Gable, 14 Greta Garbo, 19, 21, 31 Shearer and 32. Grades 53% NM to NM/MT, 22% EX to EX/MT, 25% VG/EX.
1938 Gum Inc. "Horrors of War" Uncut Partial Sheet. Individually, Gum Incorporateds' Horrors of War cards offer some of the most graphic illustrations ever used for the gum card market. As an uncut sheet the they do make for an amazing display of color and artistry. The offered partial sheet has been pared down to 12-5/8" x 15-7/8" showing the full area or top/bottom portion of 28 cards. The seven rows of four cards each include: full cards - #'s 49-52, 55-58, 61-64 and 67-70 (twice) and portions of #'s 49-52 and 61-64. The sheet has survived in amazing condition. There are no creases or wrinkles and any wear is limited to the outer corners. The most fastidious eye would declare the back has overall light toning from age. Terrific display piece.
1938 R55 Gumakers "Frank Buck" Complete Set (50) - #2 on the SGC Set Registry! Set GPA: 52.3; Set Registry Rank: #2 on the SGC Set Registry. Frank Buck was a noted 20th Century adventurer who's motto was "Bring 'Em Back Alive." With no decoration to speak of, the quality illustrations are left unobscured, leaving every action scene involving lions, tigers, elephants, snakes and a multitude of wild species from some exotic local. This is a rare chance to acquire a complete 48-card homage to the man who lived the life every little boy who resided in an urban jungle dreamt of. From the deepest, darkest heart of the Gumakers imaginations, this presentation includes: Graded - SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 5 cards w/#'s 7, 15, 16, 23 and 41; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 5 cards w/#'s 8, 10, 11, 29 and 40; SGC 60 EX 5: 11 cards w/#'s 2, 4, 6, 18, 20, 30, 38, 43, 45, 46 and 47; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 13 cards w/#'s 5, 13, 14, 17, 22, 26, 28, 32, 35, 37, 42, 44 and 48; SGC 40 VG 3: 8 cards w/#'s 3, 9, 12, 24, 31, 34, 36 and 39; SGC 30 GOOD 2: 2 cards w/#'s 19 and 33; SGC 20 FAIR 1.5: 2 cards w/#'s 1 and 27; SGC 10 POOR 1: 2 cards w/#'s 21 and 25.
1938 R69 "Horrors of War" SGC-Graded Collection (15). This edition was an ingenious vehicle to bring war propaganda, all neatly wrapped with a sugary piece of gum, to a generation likely shielded from such all too real world events. A pleasing selection anchored by a few scarce high-numbers. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #93; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 3 cards w/#'s 32, 89 and 175; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 2 cards w/#'s 143 and 179; SGC 84 NM 7: 8 cards w/#'s 136, 174, 176, 177, 178, 257, 274 and 285; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 1 card, #102. SMR value approaches $1,500.
1939 Godfrey Phillips "Beauties Of To-Day-7th Series" SGC-Graded Complete Set (36). Pre WW II England was a golden era for finding a tobacco card of your favorite Hollywood celebrity or pin-up girl inside your favorite brand of smokes. This all came to a halt not long after this real-photo series was released. Offered is a high grade 36-card complete of lovely ladies/movie stars, almost entirely in near mint or better condition. Not a small feat considering the easily marred thin, glossy photo paper. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 MINT 9: 3 cards, w/#'s 7, 26 Carole Lombard and 33; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 4 cards, w/#'s 4, 23, 30 and 34 Frances Drake; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 12 cards, w/#'s 5, 8, 9, 10 Anne Rutherford, 14, 15, 16 Ida Lupino, 21 Blondall, 24, 25, 31 and 35 Frances Farmer; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 2 cards, w/#'s 27 and 32; SGC 84 NM 7: 11 cards, w/#'s 3, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18 Dorothy Lamour, 19, 20, 28, 29 and 36; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 3 cards, w/#'s 1, 6 and 22; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, #2.
Scarce 1939 V276 O-Pee-Chee "Fighting Forces" Near Set (46/48). While the fronts resemble Gum Incorporated's R173 "World In Arms" edition, a review of the backs reveals this selection is something very special. The title and clearly "Printed in Canada" copy uncovers this 46-card partial set to be V276 "Freedom Forces" made for the Canadian market. Single examples rarely appear for sale resulting in assembling a complete set extremely difficult. As well produced as their American cousins, this scarce accumulation grades 70% VG to EX, 30% lesser.
1939 R156 True Spy Stories #12 PSA NM-MT 8 - Pop 1-of-1, Highest Graded Known! Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, the stand alone highest graded example of only eight total recorded to date. If we MUST criticize some aspect, all we see is centering that sits low and a sliver to the right of perfection. Simply stunning hues and fresh, problem free surfaces make this a worth-while addition to the finest non-sport collection.
1939 R & J Hill "Modern Beauties" SGC-Graded Complete Set (50). You can't help but appreciate a title which lives up to its name. This presentation is so impressive one would think they were "modern" and not 70 years old and each card features one of 50 different glamorous "beauties." A beauty of a set as well, this presentation is 76% NM/MT or better and another 16% being NM. Every card has been graded by SGC and is one of only two total for each subject. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 MINT 9: 14 cards, w/#s 5, 6, 15, 16, 21, 22, 28, 29, 31, 34, 36, 38, 39 and 46; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 11 cards, w/#s 2, 8, 11, 17, 18, 19, 25, 27, 35, 42 and 47; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 13 cards, w/#s 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 23, 26, 32, 37, 45 and 49; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #43; SGC 84 NM 7: 4 cards, w/#s 24, 33, 41 and 44; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 3 cards, w/#s 30, 40 and 48; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 cards, w/#s 1 and 14; SGC 50 VG/EX 4: 2 cards, w/#s 20 and 50.
1940 Godfrey Phillips "Beauties of To-Day-2nd Series" High Grade SGC Complete Set (36). High quality, very colorful illustrations take center-stage with this high grade 36-card complete second series of Godfrey Phillips' "Beauties of To-day" in standard card size format. This is a wonderful trip back to when just a little naughty could be something very nice. Includes: Graded - SGC 96 MINT 9: 7 cards, w/#s 15, 16, 18, 19, 23, 33 Drake and 34; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 8 cards, w/#s 4, 9, 10, 17, 22 Betty Grable, 24, 28 and 30; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 13 cards, w/#s 5, 7, 8, 11 Lamour, 14, 21, 25 Powell, 26, 27, 29, 31, 32 Lombard and 35; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 2 cards, w/#s 6 and 20; SGC 84 NM 7: 3 cards, w/#s 2, 13 Goddard and 36 Dawes; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 2 cards, w/# 1 and 3; SGC 60 EX 5: 1 card, #12.
1940-45 Mutoscope "Glamour Girls" High End Complete Set (32). Anything which helped improve the moral of our boys fighting overseas is fine with us. The pin-up classics issued during the 1940's are still a favorite among card and pin-up fans alike. The scenes tantalizes the viewer with just enough information to entice the imagination. This 32-card complete set of "Glamour Girls" offers 23 cards graded by SGC and includes: Graded - SGC 92 NM-MT+ 8.5: 1 card; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 3 cards; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 5 cards; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 8 cards; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 1 card; SGC 60 EX 5: 5 cards. Overall, the set grades 28% NM to NM/MT with one nicer; 34% EX/MT, 38% EX. Please see our web site for a detailed list of the contents of this set.
1940-45 Mutoscope "All-American Girls" High Grade Complete Set (32). From the golden era of the pin-up, these delightfully saucy cards captivated the imagination of youngsters and reminded our troops over seas what they were fighting for. This is a 32-card complete set of "All-American Girls" offers 27 cards graded by SGC (some on the conservative side). Includes: Graded - SGC 96 Mint 9: 1 card, Miss-Placed Confidence; SGC 92 NM-MT+ 8.5: 1 card; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 3 cards; SGC 84 NM 7: 12 cards; SGC 80 EX/NM 6: 3 cards; SGC 70 EX+ 5.5: 2 cards; SGC 60 EX/ 5: 2 cards; SGC 50 VG/EX 41 card, Welcome Marines/Without Hat. Grades 56% NM to NM/MT with two nicer, 44% EX to EX/MT with two slightly lesser. Please see our web site for a detailed list of the contents of this set.
1941 War Gum "Observer Spots Battleship" #18 PSA NM-MT 8. Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, this card is tied with four others at the highest graded level available. A sliver of difference in centering, this could be the finest example known.
1941 R164 War Gum "Luzon's Sgt. York" #23 PSA NM-MT 8 - Highest Graded Known. Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, equal to four others at the highest graded level available. One corner tip of wear away from higher assessment.
1948 Kellogg's Pep Celebrities Complete Set (24) - #1 on the PSA Set Registry! Set GPA: 6.97; Set Ranking: #1 on the PSA Set Registry. Most subjects (75%) hold the coveted "Pop 1-of-1 with none higher" title; The others have a pop of only two or three. Every card stands alone as or equals the highest grade recorded to date. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 6 cards, w/Tom Breneman, Peggy Ann Garner, Kay Kyser, Fred MacMurray, Shirley Ross, Zachary Scott and Barbara Stanwyck; PSA NM 7: 14 cards, w/Dana Andrews, Humphrey Bogart, Judy Canova, Jack Carson, Claudette Colbert, Andy Devine, William Elliott, Hedy Lamarr, Virginia Mayo, Dennis Morgan, Janis Paige, George Sanders, Alexis Smith and Margaret Whiting; PSA EX-MT 6: 1 card, w/Alice Faye; PSA EX+ 5.5: 1 card, w/Joan Bennett; PSA VG-EX+ 4.5: 1 card, w/Jane Wyman.
1950 Topps R714-2 Frank Buck "Bring 'Em Back Alive" Complete Set (100). Offered is a complete set of 100 cards from the 1950 Topps Bring 'Em Back Alive issue. This set portrays Frank Buck and his many different fantastic and dangerous adventures in far-off lands. Six cards have been graded by PSA. Includes: PSA NM 7: 4 cards, w/#'s 2, 8, 9 and 16; PSA EX-MT 6: 2 cards, w/#'s 6 and 7. Grades 80% EX to EX/MT with some nicer, 20% VG to VG/EX (some due to centering) with a couple lesser.
1950 Topps "Freedom's War" Complete Set (203). Offered is a 203-card complete set of Topps' "Freedom's War" issue from 1950. The comprehensive set focuses on the tenets of war, with cards featuring soldiers, battleships, medals, planes and insignia of our highly touted military. Six cards have been graded by PSA. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 3 cards, w/#s 25, 40 and 52; PSA NM 7: 1 card, #89; PSA EX 5: 1 card, #102; PSA VG 3: 1 card, #99. Ungraded - Including #'s 97 (VG), 98 (GD), 100 (VG), 101 (VG) and 103 (GD). Grades 69% EX to EX/MT with some nicer, 31% VG to VG/EX (some due to centering) with some lesser.
1950 William Boyd "Hopalong Cassidy" Near Set (202/230). Offered is a 202-card near set of 1950 William Boyd (Topps) "Hopalong Cassidy" cards. William Boyd starred as Hopalong Cassidy and for a brief time was about as much of a household name as can possibly be. Grades 65% EX to EX/MT with some nicer, 23% VG to VG/EX, 12%lesser with some trimmed.
Circa 1950 Uncatalogued Military Generals Collection (20 Different). Regardless of the amount of reference material we have at our fingertips the non-sport arena often brings us the unknown. This uncatalogued selection of 20 military leaders may represent a complete, near or partial set of this rare edition. Printed on thin card stock, the approx. 2-1/8" x 3" cards offer no sponsorship info. nor numbering system. A few minor stains of ice cream(?) strongly suggests a food related issue while the hand cut nature of each imply they were sold as strips or as an uncut sheet. After each name is the rank or title each achieved. The roster includes: Arnold, Bullard, Clark, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Goethals, Ulysses S. Grant, Hancock, Robert E. Lee, Liggett, MacArthur, McNair, McClellan, Meade, Pershing, Sheridan, Sherman, Somervell, Spaatz, Stuart and Thayer. Overall, the hand cut selection presents VG to EX with a few lesser.
1951 Bowman "Jets, Rockets, Spacemen" #15 SGC 88 NM/MT 8. Graded 88 NM-MT 8 by SGC, one of the finest examples graded to date by either grading service.
1952 Post Cereal Roy Rogers Graded NM-MT 8 Pair (2). Each has been graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, both are tied with three or four others at this, the highest grade level available. The beloved western duo are featured on these rare cereal premiums which have some how managed to avoid the intended folding and separating to create a 3D-type scene. Includes: #'s 26 "Fists Must Work If Guns Fail" and 34 "Dale and Roy After an Adventure." Each is undeniably worthy of the grade.
1954 Topps Scoop 'Troy Falls To Greeks" #88 NM-MT 8. Graded PSA NM-MT 8 by PSA, one of only three at this grade with none graded higher. Near Mint to Mint condition.
1956 Topps "Flags of the World" Complete Set (80). Not content with producing the finest sports related cards sets of the time, Topps also gave non-sport collectors an attractive array of subjects to pursue. The 80-card "Flags of the World" series from 1956 is one of the gum makers more attractive creations and remains a popular choice by modern hobbyists. In total, 12 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 8 cards w/#'s 9, 22, 34, 36, 58, 76, 77 and 78; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 3 cards w/#'s 29, 33 and 50; SGC 84 NM 7: 1 card, #21. Grades 38% NM to NM/MT, 62% EX to EX/MT (few lesser).
1957 Topps Hit Stars "James Dean" #66 PSA NM-MT 8. Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, James Dean is undoubtedly a "key" subject of the ever popular "Hit Stars" edition. With just minute wear at corner tips, this copy would make a fine addition to any high-grade 1950's non-sport collection.
1959 Fleer Three Stooges #30 PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA. An nice card for the grade and none have been graded higher. A high quality example from this extremely popular series.
1959 Fleer Three Stooges #32 PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA. A high quality example from this extremely popular series.
1959 Fleer Thee Stooges #42 PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA. Another high quality example from this extremely popular series.
1959 Fleer Three Stooges #49 PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA, impressive example preserved at the heights of the condition scale.
Very Rare 1959 Fleer Three Stooges Checklist Back #63 SGC 88 NM/MT 8 - Highest SGC Grade! There are three special cards in the 1959 Fleer "Three Stooges" edition which are very rarely found with a checklist format reverse. Only card #'s 16, 63 and 64. This very sharp card of #63 Curly, The First Thing a Fighter... has that special checklist back. The card has an overall very fresh appearance with sharp corners and close to precise centering. To date, only two have been graded by SGC, this beauty and a lone "20" making this by far the finest copy recorded to date by that firm.
1959 Fleer Three Stooges SGC-Graded Collection (5). Every card has been graded by SGC. Five hilarious scenes of timeless comedic trio. Include: Graded Cards - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 4 cards w/#'s 9, 24, 29 and 41; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 1 card, #39. SMR value at the NM-MT grade exceeds $500.
1959 Fleer "Three Stooges" Collection (82). N'yuk, N'yuk! Woo, Woo, Woo! Unh, Unh, Unh! Soitenly the most successful comedy of all-time; Moe, Larry and either Curly, Shemp or Joe made a total of 195 Columbia Shorts between 1934 and 1958. The comedic giants made their cardboard debut a year later, when the Frank H. Fleer Corp. under license from Norman Maurer Productions, Inc. produced a 96-card full-color set. The cards were produced in soft pastel colors, which reminds us of the other 1959 Fleer issues, including the Ted Williams and Indian cards. This collection consists of 82 cards, with many different and includes the first three cards of Curly, Moe and Larry. Highlights include: Graded Cards - SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 1 card, #26; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 6 cards w/#'s 5, 18, 28, 42, 84 and 94; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 3 cards w/#'s 3 Larry, 12 and 22; SGC 84 NM 7: 2 cards w/#'s 36 and 73. Ungraded Cards - includes #'s 1 Curly (VG), 2 Moe (VG/EX) and 96 Trying the Squeeze Play (VG/EX). Grades 15% NM to NM/MT, 68% EX to EX/MT, 17% VG to VG/EX.
1959 Nu Cards "Rock & Roll" High Grade Complete Set (64). Offered is a 64-card complete set of "Rock & Roll" cards produced by Nu Cards in 1959. This set showcased many of the greatest stars of the earliest years of that new sound which some said triggered the end of the world-Rock & Roll. Highlights include - #'s 1 Paul Anka (NM), 3 Frankie Avalon (NM/MT), 7 Pat Boone (PSA MINT 9), 11 Johnny Cash (NM), 13 Nat King Cole (NM), 15 Sam Cooke (PSA MINT 9), 17 Jimmy Darren (PSA NM-MT+ 8.5), 18 Booby Darin (NM), 22 Fabian (PSA MINT 9), 25 The Four Lads (PSA MINT 9), 31 Dean Martin (EX/MT), 35 Rickey Nelson (NM), 37 Elvis Presley (PSA NM 7), 42 Frank Sinatra (NM), 45 Keely Smith (PSA NM-MT+ 8.5), 50 Fats Domino (NM), 55 The Kingston Trio (PSA MINT 9), 57 Billy & Lillie (PSA NM-MT+ 8.5) and 62 Ray Charles (EX). Grades 78% NM to NM/MT, 22% EX to EX/MT.
1960 Topps "Funny Valentine" High Grade Complete Set (66). Each card has been graded by either PSA (21 cards) or SGC (45 cards). In school, everyone wanted a valentine from that special someone, even if we couldn't admit that to our friends. These "Funny Valentines" came from the special someone who didn't like you but made you laugh anyway. If the Wally Wood artwork and humor doesn't appeal to you the quality will. This terrific set is but three upgrades away from being a 100% NM-MT assembly. Includes: Graded - PSA Gem MT 10: 2 cards w/#'s 22 and 36; PSA Mint 9: 10 cards w/#'s 2, 19, 25, 26, 32, 45, 57, 61, 63 and 66; SGC 96 Mint 9: 25 cards w/#'s 4, 11, 12, 14, 17, 20, 24, 27, 28, 29, 31, 35, 37, 38, 39, 40, 46, 51, 52, 53, 54, 58, 59, 62 and 64; PSA NM-MT+ 8.5: 5 cards w/#'s 10, 13, 16, 50 and 60; SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5: 9 cards w/#'s 1, 5, 7, 8, 15, 23, 33, 41 and 49; PSA NM-MT 8: 3 cards w/#'s 6, 30 and 43; SGC 88 NM/MT 8: 9 cards w/#'s 3, 9, 18, 21, 34, 42, 4, 47 and 56; SGC 86 NM+ 7.5: 1 card, #65; SGC 84 NM 7: 1 card, #55; PSA EX 5: 1 card, #48.
1961 Leaf "Spook Stories" Complete Set (144). Offered is a 144-card complete set of Leafs' "Spook Stories," consisting of simple black and white monster photos which are matched with funny (well, most are) captions. Images are taken from classic Hollywood horror films which exposed a whole new generation to these characters and the original stars who made them come to life on film. This Leaf product was issued under a variety of wrapper titles including "Spook Theater" and "Son Of Spook Theater." The second series of cards (#'d 73-144) make putting together a complete quite a challenge, especially for condition conscious hobbyists looking for high grade examples. A total of 8 cards, all from the noted high-series, have been graded by PSA. Highlights include: Graded Cards: PSA NM-MT 8: 5 cards w/#'s 76, 89, 103, 104 and 124; PSA NM 7: 3 cards w/#'s 111, 123 and 126. Grades 21% NM to NM/MT, 69% EX to EX/MT, 10% VG to VG/EX.
1962 Topps Civil War News High End Partial Set (50/88) - Including PSA 9s! As visually grabbing as the Mars Attacks series of the same year, the scenes from Civil War News are all the more disturbing as the events and the bloody aftermath are all very real. No creases, no wrinkles, sharp corners throughout. Every card is fresh from ancient dealer vending stock and the lack of handling is undeniable. Every card is as fresh and appealing as the day it was printed. Four cards, #'s 6 "Pulled to Safety," 29 "Bridge of Doom," 42 "The Battle Continues" and 85 "Attacked From Behind" have been graded Mint 9 by PSA. Overall, the cards grade 25% NM to Mint, 75% EX to EX/MT (exclusively due to centering) with one lesser.
1962 Topps Civil Wars News #10 Art Layout Proof and Final Card. It's been said that "necessity is the mother of invention." Well sometimes needs are fulfilled with just a quick flip. This intriguing pair of 1962 Topps "Civil War News" collectibles shows us the original full-frame, full-bleed, blank back proof of the artwork for card #10 "Destruction At Sea" as originally envisioned by the artist. With the necessary title box, a gruesome scene of pain and suffering would be covered. Well that can't happen. Topps simply "flipped" the scene giving us collectors the final circulated card (SGC 88 NM/MT 8) as we all know and love. Our poor dying soul now fully in view in the opposite corner.
1962 Topps Mars Attacks #11 "Destroy The City PSA NM-MT 8. Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, there are only three recorded entries nicer than this beauty. Great card with slight soiling from the printing press rollers along top edge made a non-issue by precision centering and three mint corners.
1962 Topps Mars Attacks Blank Back Printer Proofs Pair (2). The graphic, multi-colored card we all admire so greatly are produced in stages. Offered is a pair of possibly unique black ink printers proofs. Both hand cut proofs present at the NM-MT level. Includes: Graded - SGC Authentic: 2 cards w/#'s 25 Capturing A Martian and 18 A Soldier Fights Back.
1962 Topps Mars Attacks Complete Set (55). Simultaneously charming in its cartoonish design and horrifying in its depictions of extreme violence, this Kennedy-era set remains one of the collecting hobby's favorite non-sports issues. The fifty-five cards take us through the Martians' attempted conquest of earth, sparing not a drop of blood and gore, and culminates with Earth's eventual counter-attack that leaves our orbital neighbor wishing they'd never stepped into their spaceships. A total of 8 cards have been graded by SGC. Highlights include - #'s 1 Invasion Begins (SGC 80 EX/NM 6), 8 Terror In Times (SGC 84 NM 7), 13 Watching From Mars (SGC 80 EX/NM 6), 31 The Monster Reaches (SGC 86 NM+ 7.5), 36 Destroying A Dog (SGC 70 EX+ 5.5), 39 Army of Giant Insects (SGC 84 NM 7), 40 High Voltage (SGC 86 NM+ 7.5) and 43 Blasting The Bug (SGC 80 EX/NM 6). Ungraded Cards - includes #55 Checklist (FR, marked). Grades 7% NM, 73% EX to EX/MT, 20% VG to VG/EX (two lesser).
1964 Topps Beatles Plaks PSA-Graded Group of (5). This is a truly "fab five" selection of "fab four" collectibles. Designed to be punched out and hooked together plus casual processing (they are usually off center) have made finding high grade examples from this elusive edition a hearty challenge to modern collectors. Includes: Graded - PSA NM-MT 8: 4 cards w/#'s 2, 15, 29 and 46; PSA NM 7: 1 card, #37 Paul McCartney.
1964 Topps Outer Limits Printer Proofs Group of (4). The Outer Limits played on national television for three years starting in 1963. Produced to take away the fans of the The Twilight Zone, the show was more sci-fi than fantasy but always had the last second plot twist. Each hand cut card presents near the Mint level, two have centering issues. . Includes: Graded - SGC Authentic: 4 cards w/#s 3 Transparent Creature, 32 You Are In My Power, 40 The Touch Of Death and 46 Clay Man's Revenge.
1965 Topps Battle Blank Back Printer's Proofs Trio (3). Offered is a very rare trio of Topps Blank back proofs from the "Battle" series from 1965. Includes: SGC Authentic: 3 cars w/#'s 18 Jungle Duel, 40 The Flaming Sea and 45 Train Yard Bombing.
1965 Topps Test "Bewitched" SGC-Encapsulated Pair (2). In a never wavering quest to test market every popular theme possible comes these very rare Topps Test "Bewitched" blank back proofs. This endearing series is still seen in syndication around the world. Each one-color card features the star of the show, Elizabeth Montgomery as Samantha Stephens: suburban mom, home maker and witch. Nothing strange there? Includes: Graded - SGC Authentic: 2 cards w/Casting A Spell (presents NM-MT) and Practicing Witchcraft (presents NM).
Very Rare 1965 Topps Test "Daniel Boone" Blank Back Proof. Fess Parker wasn't ready to retire the 'coon-skin cap he wore while starring as Davy Crockett. In 1964, Parker starred in the television series "Daniel Boone" for 20th Century Fox from 1964 through 1970. A year after its debut, Topps produced an extremely limited number of Black-and-White test cards for a proposed gum card series. It was that same year the television show went "in Living Color" making B&W gum cards obsolete. Very few Daniel Boone cards, if any at all, were actually distributed to the public. The set is so rare a final checklist is still unknown. The offered blank back proof of "Prisoner of the Shawnee" has very sharp corners and a bright white frame. Individual proof cards are possibly unique. Encapsulated Authentic by SGC due to being carefully hand cut, the card presents very close to Mint condition.
1965 Topps Test "Flash Gordon" #17 and 23 PSA NM 7 Pair (2). Both cards have been graded NM 7 by PSA, each is among the finer examples known. Card #17 "Air Battle" is one of two with only two higher; #23 "Final Encounter" has a edge chip on the reverse and is one of two at this the highest grade known with only a "9Q" recorded higher.
1965 Topps "Gomer Pyle" 500-Card Vending Box Pair (2). For five seasons, from 1964-1969, Jim Nabors starred as the lead character in "Gomer Pyle-U.S.M.C. for CBS television as the simple country boy turned marine and his fiery relationship with his Gunnery Sergeant Vince Carter, Played by Frank Sutton. To capitalize on the popularity of the show, Topps produced a 66-card set of Gomer Pyle theme cards in 1965. Presented are two unsearched 500-card vending boxes of those classic cards. Strictly mathematically speaking, there could be 15 complete sets of cards. By all appearances the cards look untouched and the boxes themselves present at the EX-MT level but one does have a partial corner separation. The cards inside generally look "minty" but a small percentage do have visible "ding" or edge abrasion. Cards will generally range from EX to MINT with most being judged due to centering. Vending boxes are sold as is with no returns so bid accordingly.
1966 Topps Batman A Series #4 PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA, one of only four at this elevated grade level. Just the rough factory cut along one edge could be what keeps this precisely centered, flawless beauty from the Gem MT level.
1966 Topps Batman B Series #12 "Renegade Roulette" PSA Mint 9. Blue Bat Logo variety. Graded Mint 9 by PSA, this is one of four known at this elevated grade level. Another fantastic Norm Sunders interpretation of Batman battling his arch-enemy "Joker" on this nearly flawless collectible.
1966 Topps Batman Color Photo Printer's Proofs (10). Encapsulated Authentic by SGC. Presented is a selection of ten blank back printer proofs from the 1966 Topps Batman Color series. These are very rare and possibly unique collectibles. Includes: Card #1 - Black ink; Card #18 - Black ink and Magenta/Yellow inks; Card #22 - Black ink and Magenta/Yellow inks; Card #24 - Black ink; Card #32 - Black ink and Magenta/Yellow inks; Card #35 - Black ink; Card #46 - Black ink.
1966 Topps Batman-Black Bat Blank Back Printer's Proofs Group of (4). Encapsulated Authentic by SGC. From the first and most popular of the '66 Topps Batman series come these "Black bat" printer's proofs. Each sheet cut proof presents minty fresh but each has some light amount of wrinkles. Includes: Graded - SGC Authentic: 4 cards w/#s 21 Narrow Escape, 30 Fighting Back, 34 Deadly Claws and 55 Hidden Loot.
1966 Topps Test Flipper "Bud Rows Home" #1 PSA VG-EX 4 - Only Graded Example. Graded VG-EX 4 by PSA, this is the only graded example to date. Few "4s" will ever present this amazingly well. The Flipper series ranks very high on the list of most difficult 1960's Topps test issues. One slight, barely there surface wrinkle keeps this high-quality stunner from greater technical assessment. Please note there are only 45 total cards graded for this entire test series making this is a rare chance to acquire one of the 1960's true scarcities.
1966 Topps "Lost In Space" #46 PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA, This impressive example of "The Terrible Cold" stands equal with two others as the finest recorded to date.
1966 Topps Test Superman #37 White Background Reverse Proof. Encapsulated Authentic by SGC. Hand cut from a early sheet, this '66 Topps Test Superman card #37 "The Pirates' Decision" never made the final printing pass for the reverse defining this as an extremely rare "White Back" proof version. Presenting close to the Near Mint level this would make an ideal addition to any 1960's Superman collection.
1967 Topps Test "Soupy Sales" Color Blank Back Proof SGC Authentic. To the best of our research, this is the first time a card from this issue is being made available at public auction! Of the hundreds of non-sport lots we offer now and in the past, this rather unassuming depiction of comedic actor Soupy Sales is quite possibly the RAREST non-sport cards we have ever presented. The color version of this title never made it past the earliest stages of production and we estimate "maybe" a dozen different exist. The circulated variety are black and white, the test cards are in undeniable full color. All but a chosen few advanced hobbyists can claim their collection includes an example from this, one of the most difficult of Topps test issues. The politically incorrect image of Soupy smoking away is a true testament to the times as this image certainly wouldn't even be considered today. Today, you can say its existence is almost by accident. These full color examples were more than likely removed from the Topps facility after being pulled from a garbage can. Hand cut, this rarity has a couple flaws in the slight surface scuff and a couple well camouflaged creases which fail to keep visual appeal under the EX-MT level. If you are a Non-Sport fanatic or a collector specializing in one-of-a-kind items, this lot was made for you.
1967 Topps Wacky Packages Non Die-Cut Proof SGC Authentic. Encapsulated Authentic by SGC. If this stunning proof of card #4 from the first "Wacky Packages" series in 1967 were not hand cut the technical grade would minimally be NM-MT simply due to the little spot stain at the top edge. Without that mark, the card is a mint level blazer. Separated from a production sheet which never made it to the die-cutter, this beauty is likely a one-of-a-kind rarity.
1967 Topps Wacky Packs "Weakies" Die-Cut #32 PSA NM-MT 8. Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA, there is only one recorded entry's nicer. Great colors, three mint corners and a baseball theme combine for one impressive collectible. A slight bit of bluntness at one corner stands to keeps this card from equaling the finest known.
1967 Topps Wacky Packs "Skimpy" Die-Cut #42 PSA Mint 9. Graded Mint 9 by PSA, this is one of only three known in this ideal state of preservation. A fantastic copy to add to any advanced non-sport collection.
1967 Topps Test "Who Am I?" (Sen.) Lyndon Johnson Proof SGC Authentic. Another first time offering at public auction. Non-sport hobbyists are well aware of the 1967 Topps "Who Am I?" set. The final set had colorful illustrations hidden under disguises to be scratched off revealing the famous name underneath. What few realize is that there was a pair of extremely rare test proofs made of Lyndon B. Johnson, one as president and this one as a US Senator. For the first time at public auction we are offering the Johnson as Senator proof card. The hand cut rarity presents close to mint with the scratch-off disguise material completely intact. A fine specimen from a very rare Topps test issue.
1968 Topps Land of The Giants #27 PSA NM-MT+ 8.5 - Highest Grade Known. Graded NM-MT+ 8.5 by PSA, the stand alone highest graded example of only three recorded to date. Just the slightest touches to two corner tips keep this beauty from even higher technical glory.
1968 Topps Test "Superman In The Jungle" Blank Back Proofs Pair (2). Offered is a pair of very rare Topps Test proofs from the very rare Topps Test issue Superman In The Jungle. Both hand cut cards have creases but display great color and sharp corners. Includes: Graded - SGC Authentic: 2 cards w/Verdict For A Villain and Useless Attack.
1969 Topps Test "Crazy T.V." PSA-Graded Pair (2). The scarcity of this Topps test edition is well established by the fact only 32 total cards from this series have been graded to date. Both cards are one of two graded and equal the highest grade known thus far. The cards parody two of the most popular Television show of the 1960's. Includes: #'s 16 "Bazana" (PSA NM-MT 8) and 28 "Eye Spy" (PSA NM 7). If celebrities can have "rookie" cards, this is Bill Cosby's first appearance on a trading card.
1969 Topps Test Room 222 Color "Alice Johnson #25 PSA EX 5 - Only Example Graded! Graded EX 5 by PSA, this is the only example graded to date. Another Topps Test edition, Room 222 cards are found in both color and Black and white varieties. A visually beauty for the grade, one barely there wrinkle keeps this rarity from higher technical assessment, and if I may say, it features the adorable Karen Valentine. Not a card to pass on, waiting for another to appear
1970 Topps Test Bobby Sherman SGC-Encapsulated Pair (2). Offered is a very rare duo of Topps Test Bobby Sherman cards from 1970. Although Sherman had an admirable amount of celebrity status he was always in the shadow of David Cassidy. Each depicts a smiling chest-high portrait of the pop singer in one single glorious color recommending consumers to "Moisten Lips Slightly - Kiss Bobby". Neither card appears to have ever been kissed before. The offered pair present near the Mint level with sharp corners and impeccable centering.
1970 Topps Test Hee Haw #5 GAI Gem Mint 9.5. To the Topps marketing dept. no television show, music act or trend was off limits to having a trading card set. In 1970, a 55-card set was produced for "Hee Haw," the popular television show featuring everyone's favorite country bumpkins and town folks. Unfortunately, national circulation was not to be. Only a very small quantity were printed and most never saw public distribution. The extreme lack of examples available to modern hobbyists today certainly seems to bolster that fact. Offered is a close to one-of-a-kind copy of card #5 "These New Dresses" in absolutely immaculate condition. A rare chance to add a largely missing entry to your non-sport collection.
1976 Topps "Happy Days" Printer Proofs Quartet (4). For ten years, the television show Happy Days followed the hi-jinx of Richie Cunningham, Ralph Malph, Potsy Webber and of course-The Fonz! Topps churned out two series of Happy Days trading cards in 1976. The offered lot are artist printers proofs from two of the cards. Each is encapsulated SGC Authentic due to their hand cut status but each presents near the Mint level. Includes: Card #34A Things Go Better With Richie C.! (2) - Magenta/Black and Black ink proofs and #37A Kissing Girls Is a Labor of Love! (2) - Magenta/Black and Black ink proofs.
1977 Topps Charlie Angels Printer's Progressive Proofs (11). Encapsulated Authentic by SGC. Presented is a selection of eight blank back printer proofs from the 1977 Topps Charles Angels productions. These are very rare and possibly unique collectibles. Includes: Card #202 (2) - Black ink, Cyan/Magenta/Yellow/Red and Final card; Card #217 (2) - Cyan/Magenta/Yellow/Red and Final card; Card #219 (2) - Cyan/Magenta/Yellow/Lime and Final card; Card #221 (1) - Black ink; Card #227 (3) - Black, Cyan/Magenta/Yellow/Red and Final card.
1985 Topps Garbage Pail Kids Progressive Proofs Trio (3). The more passionate hobbyist lets his/her mind wonder into the realm of card production and the steps it takes to get to the final product we collectors pull from packs. This unique selection offers just that. Each may very well be the only examples of these proofs to exist for these card numbers. The lot features three items for each card: 1) a magenta/yellow plate film proof; 2) a cyan/black plate film proof; and 3) a fully produced card, each slabbed by "Topps Vault." The cards included are: #'s 17b Loony Lenny, 32b Chilly Millie and 34b Anna Banana. A rare and insightful addition for any non-sport enthusiast.
Session 2
Baseball Collectibles
1919 Babe Ruth & Ty Cobb Signed Baseball. One was a gritty, no-nonsense veteran who would end the season as the American League batting champion for the eleventh and final time in his career. The other was a boisterous newcomer who would earn top honors for Junior League long balls as he converted from pitcher to hard-slugging outfielder. These two greatest figures in pre-war Major League Baseball met upon the field of battle on September 18, 1919 as the Red Sox hosted the Detroit Tigers at Boston's Fenway Park. Though this pair would face off twenty-two times a season between Ruth's 1914 debut and Cobb's 1928 retirement, presented is the only dual-signed baseball we've ever encountered from this iconic pair's playing days.
The stunning OAL (Johnson) ball is a bona fide miracle of autograph collecting, with each diamond legend providing not only his signature but also the exact date of his autograph's application. Ruth's sweet spot offering is in his eminently desirable early format, rating a black fountain pen ink 6/10. Cobb's side panel offering is perhaps a point stronger still, clearly applied with the same writing instrument. The ball itself is evenly shaded to a delectable tobacco hue, with the ball's stamping retaining every bit of its boldness since its brush with greatness nine decades ago. Though the specific details of the Sox' eight to two loss to the visiting Tigers may have been lost to history, this unlikely survivor will assure that the meeting will be remembered forever in one advanced hobbyist's collection. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
The stunning OAL (Johnson) ball is a bona fide miracle of autograph collecting, with each diamond legend providing not only his signature but also the exact date of his autograph's application. Ruth's sweet spot offering is in his eminently desirable early format, rating a black fountain pen ink 6/10. Cobb's side panel offering is perhaps a point stronger still, clearly applied with the same writing instrument. The ball itself is evenly shaded to a delectable tobacco hue, with the ball's stamping retaining every bit of its boldness since its brush with greatness nine decades ago. Though the specific details of the Sox' eight to two loss to the visiting Tigers may have been lost to history, this unlikely survivor will assure that the meeting will be remembered forever in one advanced hobbyist's collection. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1921 Connie Mack Signed Baseball. Major League Baseball's version of Methuselah was just a spritely fifty-nine when he decorated this OAL (Johnson) ball with his 9+/10 black fountain pen signature, establishing this as the earliest Mack "single" we've ever encountered. We put "single" in quotation marks because some heavy scuffing between Mack's signature and his handwritten date of "Sept. 26, 1921" might possibly have been another autograph, though it's more likely an inscription or personalization of some sort. This blemish does little to derail the considerable appeal, however, from a ball dating to the period between the Athletics' first and second great World Championship dynasties. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1926 Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball. The derivation of this ancient sphere from a St. Louis estate, and the presence of the Bambino on a National League ball, suggests strongly that it was one of the Yanks' two Fall Classic contests against the Cardinals that spawned it. Note the black and red stitching, which assures pre-1935 vintage, and the quotation marks around "Babe," which would more likely be attributable to the earlier of the Yanks' two World Series visits in 1926 and 1928. Regardless of the precise birthdate, it's quite an impressive example, with Ruth's black fountain pen offering surviving at an impressive 7.5/10 status on the tobacco colored horsehide. The considerable wear to the ball, which appears to have been suffered prior to the signing--note the scuff under the Babe's surname--likewise leads one to speculate whether this ball actually saw action in one of these historic October contests. An exciting artifact from baseball's Golden Age. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1927 "Babe" Ruth Signed Baseball. Note the quotation marks around Ruth's celebrated nickname--they're important. The Bambino would drop the punctuation around the 1928 season, so its presence here is a major clue in establishing the presented sphere's precise vintage. The appearance of Dutch Ruether's signature on the northern panel strongly supports the assumption that the ball dates to the fabled 1927 season, as the star pitcher's pinstriped service began in late August of 1926 and ended following the 1927 Fall Classic sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Jack Scott, a lifetime National Leaguer, is on the panel below. In the absence of these two hangers-on, the offered orb would easily eclipse the $50,000 mark as a stunning single, as Ruth's sweet spot offering is an unimprovable black fountain pen ink 10/10. Quite possibly the finest Ruth signature we've ever encountered on a baseball. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1927 Al Simmons Single Signed Baseball. Even the devoted baseball historian could be forgiven for the assumption that it was Jimmie Foxx who served as the main offensive engine in Connie Mack's second great Philadelphia Athletics juggernaut, but the numbers tell a different story. Though Foxx averaged a mighty 131 runs batted in for each of the three American League Championship seasons between 1929 and 1931, Simmons drove in an outrageous average of 150 over this same stretch, actually leading the American League in the category during the first World Championship campaign. The presented autograph dates from a couple seasons earlier when the eyes of the baseball world were eighty miles to the east. Simmons' side panel signature appears on an OAL (Johnson) model beneath his own handwritten "Aug 11th/27" notation. Admittedly the signature is somewhat light, perhaps a 4/10, but the tremendous scarcity of Simmons singles, particularly those dating to his active career, compels the cultured collector to forgive such shortcomings. The ball exhibits the manner of surface wear expected from eight decades of storage, but presents nicely nonetheless. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Auction LOA from PSA/DNA.
1927 Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball. The year 1927 saw the mighty Murderer's Row New York Yankees win the World Series behind one of the most-daunting collection of batsmen to ever play for the same team. That same year Babe Ruth slammed 60 home runs, setting a mark that would not be surpassed until 1961. During that fabled year he also penned his signature to the sweet spot of the offered ONL Spalding baseball. That the signature appears on a National League orb indicates that it may have come from the Bronx Bombers' Fall Classic clash with the Pittsburgh Pirates, who the Yankees easily dispatched in a four game sweep. The signature is stunning and clear and exhibits all of the key features of Ruth autographs of this era. Someone, probably the lucky recipient of the orb, wrote in ink above the signature '1927'. There is additional inking on the panel above the signature. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1928 Babe Ruth & Lou Gehrig Signed Baseball. Just three weeks after completing a four-game World Series sweep of the St. Louis Cardinals, the Bustin' Babes and Larrupin' Lous were off barnstorming again, offering baseball fans too far from a Major League park to attend games the chance to see the biggest names in the sport. Though both Ruth and Gehrig were very gracious signers, very few autographs from this traveling baseball circus have survived to the present day, and certainly only a tiny handful that could compete with the offered sphere in terms of quality. The "League Special" ball remains milky-white, and boasts a sweet spot Babe and side panel Lou that each rate a conservative 8/10. The ball's original owner has added the date of "Oct. 30, 1928" to the panel below Ruth's signature, and his own name to the side panel at right. Though neither of these markings should be considered detrimental to the value or appeal of the ball, it can be noted that displaying the ball so that both autographs can be seen will hide the young fan's writing from view almost entirely. A genuine treasure of the highest order. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Auction LOA from PSA/DNA.
Late 1920's Babe Ruth & Lou Gehrig Signed Baseball. "They didn't get along," Tony Lazzeri once said of his fellow Hall of Fame Yankee teammates. "Lou thought Ruth was a big-mouth, and Ruth thought Gehrig was cheap. They were both right." Despite the quiet feud that followed the duo throughout much of their eleven seasons in pinstripes together, no two ballplayers remain linked quite so firmly in baseball's history book. Presented here is a fine specimen pairing the lead assassins of Murderer's Row, with Ruth claiming his standard sweet spot position and Gehrig in his shadow to the north. Ruth's signature mellows from black to blue due to oxidation of the fountain pen ink, but maintains a strength of 7/10 to 8/10 through its form. Gehrig's autograph is equally impressive. The iconic Yankees' appearance upon an Official National League baseball suggests a real possibility that the autographs were obtained at a Fall Classic contest, adding further appeal to a baseball with no lack thereof. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1930 Babe Ruth & Lou Gehrig Signed Baseball. They outpaced even the famed duo of Mantle and Maris in their long ball artistry, and any baseball featuring this immortal pair demands respect. This is a particularly fine example, featuring an 8.5/10 black fountain pen signature from Ruth on the sweet spot and another just half a shade lighter from Gehrig on the panel to the north. It must also be noted that the southern panel holds a third autograph, William "Lena" Styles, which allows us to date the ball to 1931 or before, the close of his short career. The medium is a "Harwood's National League Ball," which convincingly apes the appearance of OAL spheres of the day, adding to the aesthetic appeal. With Styles at the southernmost tip of the ball when Ruth is displayed upright, the ball convincingly displays as a duo, making it all the more interesting to the knowledgeable collector. Full LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1931 Multi-Signed Baseball with Landis & Harridge. Team signed sphere appears to be dedicated to a top contender in the "Boston Park Department League" as the bold stamping indicates, with most of the names familiar only to those related to the players themselves. But two names stand out prominently, and, in a bit of good luck, each appears on the same side panel. Hall of Fame executives Kenesaw Mountain Landis and William Harridge appear in 9/10 black fountain pen ink positioned perfectly for display. It's very rare to find either (much less both) on a baseball, so don't take this opportunity lightly. Al Lang is the other notable name. Ball is shellacked, with light and fairly inconsequential scattered chipping. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Full LOA from PSA/DNA.
1930's Babe Ruth Signed Baseball. Don't ask us to explain this ball--we can't. The assortment of names is bizarre, and the notation apparently pegging the ball's use to a June 22, 1931 meeting between the Reds and Braves would make no sense for Ruth, who would have been in the Yankee dugout at the time. But a little mystery isn't necessary a bad thing, and the brilliantly bold black fountain pen ink sweet spot signature from the Bambino is pure hobby goodness. His 9/10 autograph joins lighter offerings from Red Lucas and a couple others which have become impossible to discern. ONL (Heydler) ball is deeply toned but still presents nicely. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1932 Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball. The appearance of the great Bambino upon an Official National League baseball dating to the presidency of John Heydler assures playing days vintage, as Ford Frick would take over duties as head of the Senior Circuit at the close of the 1934 season. We're then led rather reasonably to the assumption that this magnificent 8.5/10 black fountain pen signature applied to the ball's sweet spot was acquired by a fan attending one of the many World Series in which the game's greatest calling card found himself a participant. The enormous proportions of the autograph--one could call it downright "Ruthian"--suggest late career, hence the "Circa 1932" title which would peg the ball to the period surrounding the Babe's historic "Called Shot" home run at Wrigley Field. Of course all of this is mere supposition, but the elite quality of the presented orb is empirical fact. It's one of the nicest Ruth singles to hit the auction block in recent memory, for the collector who demands nothing but the best. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1932 Babe Ruth & Lou Gehrig Signed Baseball. The top two assassins of the fabled Murderer's Row remain linked upon the OAL (Harridge) ball a full three-quarters of a century after the end of their pinstriped partnership. While more than a decade sharing a Bronx dugout and barnstorming ventures both foreign and domestic have supplied the hobby with a reasonable quantity of dual-signed spheres, few could match the remarkable quality of the presented model. Each has signed in 8/10 black fountain pen ink, Ruth in his customary sweet spot position and Gehrig close enough on the eastern panel to provide for synchronous display. For the experienced hobbyist and for those looking for a worthy cornerstone upon which to build a quality collection, this lot merits serious consideration. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Early 1930's Ki Ki Cuyler Single Signed Baseball. A fatal heart attack in 1950, not long after Cuyler's fifty-first birthday, has ensured that this Hall of Fame right fielder's signature remains in short supply, and that is particularly true in the case of single signed baseballs. Presented is a fabulously scarce example of such, a commodity rather conservatively listed at $5,000 in the Sports Market Report price guide despite the fact that the offerings of Cuyler singles in major auctions in the past decade could be counted upon a single hand. The appeal of this specimen is augmented by its "playing days" status, assured by the Heydler presidential stamping which dates the ONL orb to no later than 1934. The bold black fountain pen side panel inscription provides a simple, "To Teed From 'Ki Ki' Cuyler," rating a solid 8/10. The ball itself is evenly and attractively toned, with no condition issues of any real concern. A rare opportunity to fill that nagging empty space in your collection. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Early 1930's Franklin D. Roosevelt Single Signed Baseball. The Commander in Chief's presence upon an OAL (Harridge) ball almost definitively asserts that the signature was penned during FDR's White House years, as Will Harridge served as president of the American League for only one season prior to Roosevelt's election. While we regret that the story of this particular sphere has been lost to the ages, it's safe to assume that the autograph was acquired at an Opening Day ceremony, or perhaps even at the 1933 World Series, which featured the hometown Washington Senators as a combatant. One will note that the ball features patriotic red and blue stitching, discontinued by the American League after the 1933 season, a fact that further targets the birthdate of this coveted rarity. Just two FDR singles have reached the auction block of major houses in the twenty-first century, providing some sense of just how tough a find this is. The black fountain pen sweet spot signature rates an imperfect yet entirely legible 3/10, though condition issues must be forgiven in light of the enormous scarcity. A special opportunity for the advanced autograph collector. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1930's Baseball Legends Multi-Signed Baseball with Ruth, Gehrig. Upon first glance, it would seem that this godly sphere derives from the 1934 Tour of Japan, and we still aren't entirely convinced that there is no connection. The cast of characters just bears too close of a resemblance to the team that crossed the Pacific: Ruth, Gehrig, Foxx, Gomez, Gehringer. But perhaps it is just that greatness tends to stick together, as other names of superstars that stayed stateside are here as well: Dickey, Cochrane, Manush, Simmons, Cronin, Grove, Lopez, Lyons and Rick Ferrell among them. Fourteen Hall of Famers in all have made their mark on this deeply toned OAL (Harridge) orb, with only three others present that have been locked outside the gates of Cooperstown. The improbability of finding a single baseball with such a baseball pantheon borders on the astronomical, and just a fraction of that theoretical population could match the strong condition of the signatures found here. Only Farrell (1/10), Gehringer (3/10) and Lopez (3/10) cause any amount of eye strain, with the remainder of the Cooperstonians averaging 7/10 in quality. So many great hands have held this remarkable piece--will yours be next? Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Auction LOA from PSA/DNA.
Circa 1935 Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball PSA VG-EX+ 4.5. If you're thinking that this ball looks a heck of a lot nicer than the technical grade, then we're in agreement. The points are lost here on the ONL (Frick) ball itself, whose rather deep toning accounts for a grade of 2, dragging down the score of 7 assessed for the oversized side panel signature. Our catalog imagery should properly indicate that this is no ugly duckling, and we'd even argue that a signature grade of 8 might be more appropriate. In any regard, this is a dream piece for the budget-minded collector as the same signature on a clean, white ball would climb well past the $20,000 mark. Likely signed during Ruth's final season as a player, representing the Boston Braves, or perhaps during his 1938 stint as a Brooklyn Dodgers coach. Full grading LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1936 Honus Wagner Single Signed Baseball. What better home for a Honus Wagner autograph than a "Honus Wagner City League" ball? The greatest shortstop of the Dead Ball Era provided extra endorsement for this ancient orb with the application of his bold side panel inscription, reading "J. Honus Wagner, Pirates 1936" in 9/10 black fountain pen ink. Deep toning only adds to the vintage aesthetic, and a mounting hole on the panel to the north will be essentially invisible upon display. One of the strongest Wagner signatures we've encountered on a baseball. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1940 Roy L. Patterson Single Signed Baseball. Quite possibly the only example in the world today, the presented horsehide sphere was signed by the hand that fired the first pitch in American League history. Patterson was a twenty-four year old rookie for the Chicago White Sox on April 24, 1901, when the Cleveland Blues visited South Side Park to give birth to a challenger to the supremacy of the National League. His 7/10 blue ballpoint side panel signature is notated with the details of his service, "White Sox 1900-1907." Ball is toned and has shed its manufacturer's stamping, but provides a nice vintage patina suitable for this historic figure. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1940 Walter Johnson Single Signed Baseball. In 1917, a Connecticut arms laboratory recorded Johnson's fastball at 134 feet per second, equal to ninety-nine miles per hour, a speed the lanky farmboy was somehow able to generate with a smooth sidearmed motion that baffled and terrified opposing batters. New York Highlanders outfielder Birdie Cree provided his own methodology for handling Johnson's speed: "When you see the arm start forward, swing." Presented is a scarce single from the inaugural class Hall of Famer, penned on the sweet spot of an OAL (Harridge) ball, the ideal medium for a lifetime servant of the Junior Circuit. The black fountain pen signature rates approximately 8/10, and scattered brown toning does nothing to diminish the fine visual appeal. Your winning bid will get you halfway toward completion of a 400 Win Club collection. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1940 Jimmie Foxx Signed Baseball. A proprietary chemical process has convincingly erased all but the Hall of Fame slugger's signature from this OAL (Harridge) ball, providing one smart collector the opportunity to own what appears as one of the finest Foxx single signed baseballs on the face of the earth. Though this was once a multi-signed sphere, the other autographs have simply vanished, leaving the horsehide clean and pale in their wake. Foxx' side panel offering is a stunning 8.5/10. One of the toughest hurdles for collectors of 500 Home Run Club singles. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1940 Honus Wagner Single Signed Baseball. You can have your Cobbs, your Lajoies, your Chases, your Bakers," once said Hall of Fame manager John McGraw, "but I'll take Wagner as my pick of the greatest." Perhaps best remembered as the face on the most valuable baseball card in the world, the legendary Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop remains a particularly tough autograph despite his many years in uniform, first as a player and later as a coach for the team he loved. Here we offer one of the finest singles you'll find from that short supply, offering a 9/10 black ink sweet spot signature in the most desirable "J. Honus Wagner" format. The ball is toned and scuffed from apparent game use, rendering the stamping illegible, but we have been assured by James Spence that this is a legitimate single, so bid accordingly. You'll find few finer. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1940's Joe DiMaggio Single Signed Baseball to Ramfis Trujillo. The son of the Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo, young Ramfis stands as one of the most fascinating figures of the twentieth century, with a history that ranged from political murders to electroshock therapy to romancing Hollywood starlets. As a young boy in the Dominican Republic he experienced one of his first brushes with fame as his father introduced him to the legendary New York Yankee center fielder, who inscribed an OAL (Harridge) ball, "To my little Dominican pal Ramfis Trujillo, Sincerely Joe DiMaggio." The ink has mellowed to a fully legible 4/10, and the ball is attractively and evenly toned. A fascinating artifact linking two iconic figures of the age. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1940's Honus Wagner Signed Baseball. A bold (8.5/10) black fountain pen sweet spot signature from the Old Dutchman provides the appearance of a genuine single, though authenticator Jimmy Spence indicates that he was able to spot faded writing on other panels using his high-tech spectrometer. Lacking one of these gizmos, however, you won't be able to spot Wagner's ghostly compatriots, making Honus the only apparent resident of this toned ONL (Frick) sphere. An essential autograph from one of the most significant figures of the early twentieth century game. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1940's Bill McGowan Single Signed Baseball. A single, you ask? What about all those other autographs? Well we stand by our assertion that this is a rare McGowan solo sphere, as it's clear that the accompanying signatures of Ted Williams, Joe DiMaggio and other diamond notables are all rendered in the hand of this fellow Cooperstown resident. Thankfully the legendary ump doesn't forget to include himself, and his side panel "Best Regards to Ken Pope, Bill McGowan" is essentially unimprovable. The ideal medium of an OAL (Harridge) ball adds to the considerable appeal. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1940 Babe Ruth & Circa 1980 Hank Aaron Signed Baseball. The winning bidder will then be faced with the agonizing choice--do I try to get Barry Bonds on this ball as well? The number two and number three men on the career home run ladder keep this "Babe Ruth Home Run Special" sphere free of pharmaceutical complications, with the Bambino rating an impressive 7.5/10 on the sweet spot and the Hammer a bold 8/10 (point lost due to minor surface abrasions) on the side panel. The ball exhibits mild surface wear from handling and storage, but still presents very nicely. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1946 Ty Cobb & Honus Wagner Signed Baseball with Incredible Provenance! Almost a century has passed since that early October day in 1909 when the two greatest figures of the Dead Ball era finally met on the field of battle, as the Pirates and Tigers found themselves competing for the Championship in the sixth edition of the World Series. And since that day we have seen many great pairings of teammates and rivals--Ruth and Gehrig, DiMaggio and Williams, Mantle and Maris--but Cobb and Wagner was the first, and rarely did a discussion of the brilliance of one fail to elicit some opinion of the other. Forever linked by their respective dominance of the early game, we nonetheless almost never find them sharing space on a signed baseball such as the one we proudly present here.
The baseball comes to us from a gentleman who had the great fortune of meeting the Georgia Peach in person just after the close of the second World War. Having won an essay contest for which the prize was tickets to a Comiskey Park playing of the "All American Boys Baseball Game," twelve-year old Dennis Varvel was thrilled to find that the managers of the East and West teams were Wagner and Cobb respectively. As included newspaper clippings note, one of the event promoters "corralled Cobb and in a few minutes we had a picture of the 'Georgia Peach' gifting Dennis with an autographed baseball, signed by both East and West team managers. Wide-eyed Dennis gapped at the signatures of both Ty Cobb and Honus Wagner and decided right then and there that would be one baseball he'd keep for the rest of his life."
Thankfully for our Heritage collecting family, this final statement did not prove to be entirely accurate, though Mr. Varvel did cherish the baseball for close to six decades before consigning it to our October Signature auction. And so this baseball, which is being passed from Cobb's right hand to Dennis' in the included 8x10" photo (printed in the newspaper clipping as well), is offered here for the first time to the collecting community. On the sweet spot of this "Official American Association" baseball is the blue ink inscription, "J. Honus Wagner, Pirates," while the side panel just above reads, "Ty Cobb, 8/6/46." Each presents as an impressive 6-7/10 in strength. Barely visible to the right of Wagner is the childlike autograph of Dennis Varvel, further verifying the iron-clad provenance of the piece. The ball itself is modestly and evenly toned and shows an absolute minimum of wear, clearly having been cherished from the moment it left Ty Cobb's hand and was placed in that of a wide-eyed kid from Chicago. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Auction LOA from PSA/DNA.
The baseball comes to us from a gentleman who had the great fortune of meeting the Georgia Peach in person just after the close of the second World War. Having won an essay contest for which the prize was tickets to a Comiskey Park playing of the "All American Boys Baseball Game," twelve-year old Dennis Varvel was thrilled to find that the managers of the East and West teams were Wagner and Cobb respectively. As included newspaper clippings note, one of the event promoters "corralled Cobb and in a few minutes we had a picture of the 'Georgia Peach' gifting Dennis with an autographed baseball, signed by both East and West team managers. Wide-eyed Dennis gapped at the signatures of both Ty Cobb and Honus Wagner and decided right then and there that would be one baseball he'd keep for the rest of his life."
Thankfully for our Heritage collecting family, this final statement did not prove to be entirely accurate, though Mr. Varvel did cherish the baseball for close to six decades before consigning it to our October Signature auction. And so this baseball, which is being passed from Cobb's right hand to Dennis' in the included 8x10" photo (printed in the newspaper clipping as well), is offered here for the first time to the collecting community. On the sweet spot of this "Official American Association" baseball is the blue ink inscription, "J. Honus Wagner, Pirates," while the side panel just above reads, "Ty Cobb, 8/6/46." Each presents as an impressive 6-7/10 in strength. Barely visible to the right of Wagner is the childlike autograph of Dennis Varvel, further verifying the iron-clad provenance of the piece. The ball itself is modestly and evenly toned and shows an absolute minimum of wear, clearly having been cherished from the moment it left Ty Cobb's hand and was placed in that of a wide-eyed kid from Chicago. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Auction LOA from PSA/DNA.
Circa 1946 Boston Red Sox Legends Signed Baseball. Almost certainly deriving from an Old Timers event at Fenway, this special sphere combines both legends of old and active players for a compilation of names not often seen outside the gates of Cooperstown. The sweet spot starts the festivities with its biggest bang, pairing perhaps the two greatest outfielders in team history, Ted Williams and Tris Speaker. Among the fourteen others present are Bobby Doerr, Rudy York, Smoky Joe Wood and Dom DiMaggio (3/10). Unless otherwise noted, all listed signatures rate 7/10 or better, with only a few of the non-listed names falling below that mark. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1950's Jackie Robinson Signed Baseball from Segregated League. Fascinating cultural artifact finds the heroic Jackie Robinson, the embodiment of racial progress within our National Pastime, autographing the baseball of a league which represented anything but. The Official Southern Association ball which provides a side panel signature from the Dodgers legend must certainly date from before 1961, the year it finally ceased operation still clinging to the antiquated Jim Crow principles that disallowed participation by non-whites. It must be noted that other signatures once joined Jackie's on this ball, but those have been carefully removed to provide the look of a genuine single. Scattered toning is apparent throughout, and should be evident in our catalog photography. Robinson's autograph is an impressive 9+/10. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1950 Multi-Signed Baseball with Frank Baker, Lefty Grove. Believed to have been sourced from a Maryland exhibition game or baseball dinner, the presented ONL (Giles) ball features a pair of the state's most favorite sons on its sweet spot, Frank "Home Run" Baker and Robert "Lefty" Grove. Twenty-nine autographs are present in total, with other notables including Mickey Cochrane, Rube Marquard, Bill Dickey, Rip Collins and Max Bishop. Autographs range in strength from 6/10 to 9/10, with all readily legible. Ball itself is lightly and evenly toned. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1950 Hall of Famers Signed Baseball with Speaker, Baker, Foxx. Eleven signatures on an OAL (Harridge) ball, and every one of them an iconic prewar Hall of Famer. While we must admit that the Ty Cobb is rendered secretarially, the other ten are the genuine article, and feature Tris Speaker, Frank Baker, Jimmie Foxx, Joe Cronin, Carl Hubbell, Mickey Cochrane, Paul Waner, Charlie Gehringer, Lefty Grove and Ray Schalk. Signature strength is somewhat short of ideal, averaging a readily legible 4/10, but this ball would feature a price tag two or three times the size of this one if it weren't the case. A rare chance to bring these legends into your autograph collection simply and affordably. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1951 Jackie Robinson, Roy Campanella & Don Newcombe Signed Baseball. The three African-American members of the team that came a Bobby Thomson "Shot" away from the National League pennant have made the provided non-official ball one of the most culturally significant to come down the pike in some time. Of course it doesn't hurt that two own a Hall of Fame plaque and the third a Cy Young and National League MVP. First we encounter Jackie's side panel inscription, "To Ray Tripler from Jackie Robinson," applied in 7/10 black fountain pen ink. Two shades darker, on an adjacent panel, we find Campy's "To my 'Pal Ray,' Best Wishes, Roy Campanella." Finally, an abbreviated inscription from Newcombe, in 6/10 ink: "Ray, Aug 12 -51, Don." The ball itself exhibits typical, even toning. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1954 Rogers Hornsby Single Signed Baseball. "Any ballplayer that don't sign autographs for little kids ain't an American," the Hall of Fame second baseman once told a reporter for The Saturday Evening Post. "He's a communist." Here the mighty Rajah proves he's no Red with the application of a blue ink sweet spot signature which he tags with the "1954" year of issue. The signature maintains an impressive 8/10 strength on the provided "Ted Williams Speed Ball" brand sphere. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1954 Casey Stengel Single Signed Baseball. Having just skippered his Yankees squad to its fifth consecutive World Championship the previous October, Stengel was surely assigned hero status by the Bronx fans traveling down south to visit their team in training for the approaching 1954 season. One of these fans accosted the Hall of Fame manager with this OAL (Harridge) ball, claiming for the hobby a rare single. Stengel's sweet spot blue ink offering rates an impressive 9/10, with a notation below reading "1954 St. Pete - FLA." Ball shows apparent game use, likely a foul into the spring training stands. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1950's Jackie Robinson Signed Baseball. Perhaps it was the great humility of this most significant figure in baseball history that always steered him from the sweet spot when applying his autograph to a baseball, but any serious autograph collector will be surprised to see this rare break from tradition. The fact of the matter is that Robinson likely did not choose this positioning as much as he was forced to sign in this one available space on the ball when it was once covered with other autographs. A professional restorationist has eliminated all autographs from the ball but Jackie's, creating an apparent "single" unlike any you're likely to see again. Robinson's signature rates 8/10, and the ball shows a small degree of scuffing and no apparent manufacturer's stamping. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Auction LOA from PSA/DNA.
Circa 1955 Hall of Famers Multi-Signed Baseball with Cobb, Foxx. Almost certainly signed upon the bucolic grounds of Cooperstown, New York's most famous tourist attraction, the presented OAL (Harridge) ball provides thirteen signatures from some of the greatest stars of early twentieth century ball. Philadelphia Athletics fans will love the cast of characters, which includes Cobb, Foxx, Speaker, Cochrane, Baker and Grove, each of whom wore the white elephant on his jersey for at least a brief period of time. Rounding out the names: Cronin, Hubbell, Paul Waner, Crawford, McCarthy, Schalk and Gehringer. All signatures survive at a strength of 8/10 or better. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1950's Hall of Famers Multi-Signed Baseball with Cobb, Speaker, Foxx. Collectors of Philadelphia Athletics artifacts will want to pay particularly close attention to this high-grade orb as it features no fewer than five flawless blue ink signatures of that powerhouse club's Cooperstown representatives: Ty Cobb, Tris Speaker, Jimmie Foxx, Lefty Grove and Mickey Cochrane. Contradicting the A's theme, but not the Hall of Fame part, are equally strong offerings from Dazzy Vance, Ted Lyons, Ray Schalk, Bill Dickey and Paul Waner. Only one mystery name lacks a bronze plaque, crashing one of the most distinguished parties in the collecting hobby. A simply stunning OAL (Harridge) ball for the fastidious collector. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1950's George Sisler Single Signed Baseball. Fifty-one stolen bases and an unearthly .420 batting average made Sisler a landslide winner of the 1922 American League MVP Award, and his durability and consistency made him a Hall of Famer. Here we present a marvelous example of his rare single, applied to the sweet spot of an ONL (Giles) ball. A prior mounting job has left a hole and circular impression on the southern panel, and a few "flat spots" dot the ball's surface, including one over the signature, but the 9/10 quality of the ink is not affected. A solid example of an essential single. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1955 Dwight D. Eisenhower Single Signed Baseball. A fine sportsman in his younger days, Ike's own athletic career was brought to a quick close during his tenure upon the Army football team when his leg was badly broken trying to take down future Hall of Famer Jim Thorpe of the Carlisle Indian School. He played the role of spectator, and quite possibly in the capacity of first-pitch thrower at a Washington Senators season opener, the day he applied his stunningly bold black fountain pen ink signature across the side panel and sweet spot of this OAL (Harridge) ball. The date of "May 1955" penned in the same black ink was likely applied by another hand. Scattered surface wear is apparent throughout, but the panel holding the important Presidential signature remains largely unaffected. Almost certainly the finest Ike single in the hobby today. LOA from PSA/DNA (Graded 5.5: autograph 7, ball 4).
1950's Gil Hodges Single Signed Baseball. Collectors concentrating on the final years of the Brooklyn Dodgers and the first years of the New York Mets will have to battle it out for this one, and battle they should, as Hodges singles don't exactly grow on trees. Hodges' tragic 1972 death as the result of a heart attack while playing golf with Yogi Berra and other Mets coaching staff members robbed the game of a true fan favorite, and collectors of an adequate supply of quality autograph examples such as this. His massive side panel inscription, "To Debbie, Best Wishes, Gil Hodges," is simply beyond reproach, and the ONL (Giles) ball is the most ideal home for the 10/10 ink. Full LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1961 Ty Cobb Single Signed Baseball PSA NM-MT 8. Fewer than four months after the fury of the Dead Ball era graciously inscribed this OAL (Cronin) baseball for a well-wisher, he would pass away at Atlanta's Emory University hospital with a paper bag holding a Luger pistol and one million dollars in negotiable bonds at his bedside. Now, almost a half century after one of the most fascinating lives in baseball history was drawing to its conclusion, we're pleased to present one of the finest Cobb singles in the hobby. The Peach's blue ink "To Barbara Burns From Ty Cobb, 3/22/61" is beyond peachy, rating an outstanding 9/10 according to the authenticators at PSA/DNA, which score the ball itself a 7/10 for the combined grade as listed. Full grading LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1960's Dizzy Dean Single Signed Baseball. Top quality single almost surely derives from Ol Diz' radio days, as he was known to pass these out to fans who visited him at the ballpark broadcasting booth. This "Rawlings Playmaker" ball features a 9/10 side panel signature from the Hall of Fame leader of the famed Gashouse Gang. Many a quality collection is lacking a Dean single, so this presents a fine opportunity to remedy that problem. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1963 Branch Rickey Signed Baseball. Have you ever seen a Branch Rickey single signed baseball? Well, admittedly, this isn't one, but it's about as close as you're going to get. The man whose wisdom and bravery forever changed the game for the better through the signing of Jackie Robinson to a Major League contract is almost never seen on a baseball, and perhaps never on the sweet spot. But here he is, registering at a strength of 5/10 on a non-official ball. Stan Musial, hidden on the northern panel, is all that denies true single status. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
The Finest Jimmie Foxx Single Signed Baseball in the Hobby. No superlative in our vocabulary could accurately characterize the magnificence of the presented sphere, which leads us to the lot title we have chosen without hesitation. Neck-and-neck with Mel Ott for the title of Toughest 500 Home Run Club Single, solo Foxx balls don't exactly grow on trees, and most hobbyists are content to sacrifice quality in order to fill those nagging two spots between Babe Ruth and Ted Williams. One lucky winning bidder won't have to make that compromise, as this ONL (Cronin) ball is a flawless partnership of bold blue ink and blemish-free, creamy horsehide. Unimprovable. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1965 Emmitt Ashford Single Signed Baseball. The first "man in black" who was also a black man. The Jackie Robinson of Major League umpiring, Ashford is remembered today for far more than crossing the officiating color line in 1965, as his flashy style and courteous comportment endeared him to players and fans alike. Many have rallied for his Hall of Fame induction, including the widow of Robinson herself, who wrote, "I have intimate knowledge of the challenges he faced. At that time in America, the need for social change was intense and still to come. Mr. Ashford carried out the role with great skill, determination and courage, thereby creating opportunities for others to follow him." Presented is the only Ashford single we've ever encountered, one that will surely skyrocket in value should the posthumous call to Cooperstown ever come. The side panel black ink signature rates 8.5/10 on an ONL (Giles) ball. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1970 Joe McCarthy Single Signed Baseball. "Sure I'm lucky," Lou Gehrig explained during his heartbreaking 1939 farewell. "Who wouldn't consider it an honor to have known Jacob Ruppert? Also, the builder of baseball's greatest empire, Ed Barrow? To have spent six years with that wonderful little fellow, Miller Huggins? Then to have spent the next nine years with that outstanding leader, that smart student of psychology, the best manager in baseball today, Joe McCarthy?" Having been honored by both the Iron Horse and the Baseball Hall of Fame, McCarthy should be considered an essential single for serious collectors. This one, created shortly before his passing, will serve nicely. It provides a rare unpersonalized 8/10 sweet spot signature on a clean OAL (Cronin) sphere. Full LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1970's Satchel Paige Single Signed Baseball. He's remembered for saying, "Don't look back--somebody might be gaining on you," but there's little danger that many singles will catch up to the signature strength of the provided specimen. Paige applied his wonderfully bold blue ink signature to the sweet spot of a "J. DeBeer and Son" baseball late in his life, creating an essential relic for the autograph collector fussy about condition. Paige's signature rates a 9+/10, and the ball remains clean and white. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1970's Satchel Paige Single Signed Baseball. Fellow Hall of Famer Dizzy Dean once said of Paige, "He's a better pitcher than I ever hope to be," explaining that "My fastball looks like a change of pace alongside that little pistol bullet Satchel shoots up to the plate." Widely considered the greatest pitcher ever developed by the Negro Leagues, Paige applied his 8.5/10 black ink signature to the side panel of the provided ONL (Feeney) ball. Mottled toning adds to the vintage aesthetic, and does not minimize the boldness of Paige's autograph. Full LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1970's Rube Marquard Signed Baseball. Despite living fifty-five years beyond his 1925 retirement from baseball, the Hall of Fame southpaw supplied the hobby with a tragically short supply of single signed baseballs for the devoted collector. This gorgeous specimen utilized a proprietary chemical process to remove signatures formerly joining Marquard's 10/10 side panel black felt tip offering, providing the appearance of a stunning single. An exciting opportunity to fill that nagging gap in your holdings. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1970's Hall of Famers Multi-Signed Baseball. Enormous assortment of baseball icons leaves little room for additions, though one might find space to add one or two more legends to the mix. Twenty-seven blue ink signatures rate 8/10 or better unless otherwise noted: Coveleski, Marquard, Lindstrom, Wynn, Giles, Kelly, Grimes, Spahn, Cronin, Hubbard, Gehringer, Lemon, Feller, Mays (6/10), Roberts, Terry, Lloyd Waner, Dickey, Bell, Conlan, Leonard, Herman, Grandson of Pud Galvin, Judy Johnson, Averill, Kiner, Kuhn. "Special League" ball is clean and white. Clearly a labor of love compiled over many years, and ready to add some serious weight to your personal autograph collection. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1979 Thurman Munson Single Signed Baseball. High-grade sphere is consigned to this auction by Maria herself, who wisely imposed upon the Yankee captain for an autograph shortly before his tragic death in a Canton airplane accident. The non-official ball is one of the boldest and cleanest Munson singles in the hobby, the simple "To Maria, Best Wishes, Thurman Munson" rating a conservative 9/10 in blue ballpoint ink. The heart and soul of the glorious New York Yankees World Championship teams of the late 1970's, Munson is one of the toughest singles of the sixteen retired jersey numbers honored in Monument Park. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1980 Joe DiMaggio & Ken Keltner Signed Baseball. We can assure you that it was DiMaggio who signed the presented OAL (Brown) ball first, and it's not just because he claimed the sweet spot position. Similar to his personal ban on Marilyn Monroe material, the Yankee Clipper outright refused to sign anything related to the man who ended his 1941 hitting streak at fifty-six games. Later, it has been said, Keltner instituted the same embargo against the victim of his flashy fielding at third base, so it's unlikely you'll ever find another dual-signed ball featuring the Yankees and Indians stars together. You definitely won't find one with superior signatures, as each of the autographs rate a genuine 9+/10. The OAL (Brown) ball exhibits some scattered toning, but nothing that distracts the eye in any significant way. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1980's Triple Crown Winners (3) Multi-Signed Baseball. Your mission, should you choose to accept it: get Carl Yastrzemski's signature. That's all that's missing from this Dead Mint OAL (Brown) ball bearing the flawless blue ink signatures of Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle and Frank Robinson who, along with Yaz, are the only men to have claimed the top spot in home runs, runs batted in and batting average in a single season since the close of the Second World War. Surely the Boston Red Sox legend will be pleased to oblige. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1980's Triple Crown Winners (4) Multi-Signed Baseball. With power-hitting so specialized these days, it's hard to imagine any slugger earning top marks for average as well, so there's a good chance you won't ever have to add another signature to this compilation of four. The only men to capture the elusive Triple Crown since Joe Medwick's 1937 campaign have applied their 10/10 blue ink autographs to this OAL (Brown) sphere to mark this elite brotherhood. Some toning of the ball will be evident in the catalog photography, which demonstrates that the signatures are in no way affected. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1980's Ted Williams "Splendid Splinter" Single Signed Baseball. Only slightly more common than World Series appearances for the greatest hitter that ever lived are single signed baseballs inscribed thusly, so if you think you may as well wait until the next one, remember that's probably what Red Sox fans were thinking in 1918. Williams' sweet spot blue ballpoint ink is flawless, as is the OAL (Brown) ball it calls home. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1980's Mickey Mantle "Merry Christmas" Single Signed Baseball. We never end up finding anything quite this cool under the tree on Christmas morning. Even if you deserve coal in your stocking, a bid upon this rare single is well advised. Collectors just can't get enough of the Mantle notation balls, and this is one of the rarer models. Both Mantle's blue ink is a bona fide 10/10, and the OAL (Brown) ball exhibits only the lightest shading, apparent only upon close inspection. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1980's Mickey Mantle "Happy Birthday" Single Signed Baseball. This one would definitely help soften the sting of getting another year older. The mighty Mick provides a simply unimprovable side panel signature beneath a bold birthday greeting upon this OAL (Brown) baseball. Mantle notation balls have been one of the steadiest performers of the past ten years on the auction circuit, and we see no diminishing of that trend. A great gift for someone else, or yourself. Ball is clean and white with no spotting. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1990 Mickey Mantle "No. 7" Single Signed UDA Baseball. Those looking for unquestioned authenticity and guaranteed quality tend to gravitate toward Upper Deck offerings, and the company's reputation holds up admirably here with the presentation of a flawless Mantle single signed in the presence of UDA staffers. The Mick's 10/10 blue ballpoint ink is centered above his personal handwritten "No. 7" notation for added appeal. OAL (Brown) baseball. Included is all UDA packaging and certificate of authenticity. COA from UDA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Early 1990's Mickey Charles Mantle Single Signed Baseball, PSA Mint 9. One of the toughest and most desirable of Mantle autograph variations is this full name model, produced here at the pinnacle of quality. The OAL (Brown) ball has garnered an official grade of Mint 9 by the discerning experts at PSA/DNA, as has the lengthy autograph itself. Clearly one of the very best of its kind. Full grading LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1990 500 Home Run Club Members Single Signed Notation Baseballs Lot of 11. The "Original Eleven," in an unusual format. One collector has done all the work for you, tracking down singles from each of the sluggers typically encountered on 500 Home Run Club lithographs, bats and baseballs, but only accepting those notated with each legend's career total. From low to high, we find: Ernie Banks, Eddie Mathews, Ted Williams, Willie McCovey, Mickey Mantle, Mike Schmidt, Reggie Jackson, Harmon Killebrew, Frank Robinson, Willie Mays and Hank Aaron. All appear on Official American or National League spheres, with 9/10 or better signatures. Killebrew and Robinson exhibit some toning, but the rest (including the very valuable Mantle) remain clean and white. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1990 500 Home Run Club Signed Baseball PSA Mint 9.
With today's top sluggers laboring under a cloud of pharmaceutical suspicion, our affection for the Hall of Fame batsmen who populate this OAL (Brown) ball only continues to grow. All blue ink autographs are uniformly 9/10 or better, and include Williams, Mantle, Mays, Aaron, Schmidt, Killebrew, McCovey, Mathews, Banks, Robinson and Jackson. The baseball itself likewise commands a grade of 9/10 from the highly discerning authenticators at PSA/DNA for the final grade as listed. Full grading LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
With today's top sluggers laboring under a cloud of pharmaceutical suspicion, our affection for the Hall of Fame batsmen who populate this OAL (Brown) ball only continues to grow. All blue ink autographs are uniformly 9/10 or better, and include Williams, Mantle, Mays, Aaron, Schmidt, Killebrew, McCovey, Mathews, Banks, Robinson and Jackson. The baseball itself likewise commands a grade of 9/10 from the highly discerning authenticators at PSA/DNA for the final grade as listed. Full grading LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1883 Harry Wright Signed Scorecard. One of the true pioneers of the early game, Wright took center field duties for the first all-professional team, the 1869 Cincinnati Red Stockings, designed the standard baseball uniform and engineered the box scoring system, a specimen of which is wonderfully represented here. Offered is a single page from Wright's personal scoring book, filled out and signed entirely in the early Hall of Famer's hand as he managed the Providence Grays in a eight to two victory over the powerful Chicago White Stockings. Wright's skilled hand captures the events of this June 12, 1883 game with a military precision, offering an intriguing look into the 19th century game--eight total errors!--with names on the batting line-ups like Radbourne, Kelly and Anson. All pencil writing is as strong as the day it was applied to this 4x6.5" sheet, including that within the box marked scorer, into which Wright has entered his signature. Wright's passing in 1895 makes his one of the most difficult of all Hall of Fame autographs, and the appearance of one on a personal box score pays big dividends. The page itself remains in wonderful condition, with no condition issues worth noting. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1883 Harry Wright Personally Executed Pair of Box Scores, One Signed. A pair of box scores this time, once again from the man whose contributions to our National Pastime earned him a well-deserved bronze plaque at Cooperstown. One of the game's first professional players, Wright had hung up his spikes six seasons earlier and was now managing the Providence Grays of the National League. Recounted here are his team's encounters with the Buffalo Bisons and the Cleveland Blues, each filled out entirely in Wright's hand and the latter signed in the "Scorer" box with a 9/10 pencil "H. Wright." Among the players on the field in these contests: Hall of Famers Radbourne, O'Rourke and Brouthers. Each two-sided 4x6.5" sheet, removed from Wright's scorebook, survives in fine EX-MT+ condition, with no noteworthy condition issues. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1893 Albert Spalding Signed Insurance Documents Lot of 3. Magnificent assortment of autographs appears on three insurance forms autographed by Spalding in an official capacity. Each folded "Firemen's Insurance Company" policy certificate expands to dimensions of 17x22" and is signed in pencil along with brief handwritten notations on the document versos. The certificates, covering furniture owned by an "Alice C. Strong," remain in remarkably fine condition with no tearing, staining or creasing (beyond the original storage folds) to be found. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
This is one of four lots deriving from the estate of Mr. and Mrs. William E. Strong, who had the good fortune of entering into a real estate transaction with one of the most historically significant pioneers of the sport of baseball. As a founding father of the National League, organizer of the first great Baseball World Tour in 1888-89, and creator of a brand of sporting goods which has made Spalding a household name, few figures are owed as large a debt of gratitude for the growth of our American Pastime as the man whose autographs turn the following lots into treasures of history.
This is one of four lots deriving from the estate of Mr. and Mrs. William E. Strong, who had the good fortune of entering into a real estate transaction with one of the most historically significant pioneers of the sport of baseball. As a founding father of the National League, organizer of the first great Baseball World Tour in 1888-89, and creator of a brand of sporting goods which has made Spalding a household name, few figures are owed as large a debt of gratitude for the growth of our American Pastime as the man whose autographs turn the following lots into treasures of history.
1893 Albert Spalding Signed Property Agreement. A lengthy handwritten explication of the terms of this agreement between Spalding and Mr. and Mrs. William E. Strong is beyond our abilities to understand and convey, but it's a beautiful document and quite intriguing even without the consideration of its most attractive attribute, a 9+/10 black fountain pen signature at the close by the pioneering Hall of Famer. The document measures 8.5x27" when fully expanded, and while some minor separation has occured at one of the fold lines, this represents the full extent of the condition issues, and remains well clear of the essential autograph. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
This is one of four lots deriving from the estate of Mr. and Mrs. William E. Strong, who had the good fortune of entering into a real estate transaction with one of the most historically significant pioneers of the sport of baseball. As a founding father of the National League, organizer of the first great Baseball World Tour in 1888-89, and creator of a brand of sporting goods which has made Spalding a household name, few figures are owed as large a debt of gratitude for the growth of our American Pastime as the man whose autographs turn the following lots into treasures of history.
This is one of four lots deriving from the estate of Mr. and Mrs. William E. Strong, who had the good fortune of entering into a real estate transaction with one of the most historically significant pioneers of the sport of baseball. As a founding father of the National League, organizer of the first great Baseball World Tour in 1888-89, and creator of a brand of sporting goods which has made Spalding a household name, few figures are owed as large a debt of gratitude for the growth of our American Pastime as the man whose autographs turn the following lots into treasures of history.
1893 Albert Spalding Signed Lease. The sporting goods magnate and future Hall of Famer enters into a lease with William E. Strong, whose wife is the subject of the insurance forms likewise presented within this auction. The ornately penned script and turn-of-the-century legalese make it difficult for a layman to discern the nature of the agreement, but we do understand the flawless "Albert G. Spalding" signature beside the first orange star at the bottom of the document. The 9x14" document exhibits just the lightest, inconsequential toning and wear at the paper edges, but nothing that minimizes the tremendous visual and historical appeal in the slightest. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
This is one of four lots deriving from the estate of Mr. and Mrs. William E. Strong, who had the good fortune of entering into a real estate transaction with one of the most historically significant pioneers of the sport of baseball. As a founding father of the National League, organizer of the first great Baseball World Tour in 1888-89, and creator of a brand of sporting goods which has made Spalding a household name, few figures are owed as large a debt of gratitude for the growth of our American Pastime as the man whose autographs turn the following lots into treasures of history.
This is one of four lots deriving from the estate of Mr. and Mrs. William E. Strong, who had the good fortune of entering into a real estate transaction with one of the most historically significant pioneers of the sport of baseball. As a founding father of the National League, organizer of the first great Baseball World Tour in 1888-89, and creator of a brand of sporting goods which has made Spalding a household name, few figures are owed as large a debt of gratitude for the growth of our American Pastime as the man whose autographs turn the following lots into treasures of history.
1893 Albert Spalding Signed Inventory of Household Contents. Meticulously detailed inventory lists every piece of furniture within the house being leased by Spalding to the Strongs. Several typed pages list items as large as beds to as small as a soap dish, concluding with signatures from the husband and wife renters and that of Spalding himself, rating a marvelous 9+/10. The lengthy document is likewise free of any flaws worthy of note, with original storage folds and a small cigarette burn on one of the unsigned pages the only minor deviations from perfection. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
This is one of four lots deriving from the estate of Mr. and Mrs. William E. Strong, who had the good fortune of entering into a real estate transaction with one of the most historically significant pioneers of the sport of baseball. As a founding father of the National League, organizer of the first great Baseball World Tour in 1888-89, and creator of a brand of sporting goods which has made Spalding a household name, few figures are owed as large a debt of gratitude for the growth of our American Pastime as the man whose autographs turn the following lots into treasures of history.
This is one of four lots deriving from the estate of Mr. and Mrs. William E. Strong, who had the good fortune of entering into a real estate transaction with one of the most historically significant pioneers of the sport of baseball. As a founding father of the National League, organizer of the first great Baseball World Tour in 1888-89, and creator of a brand of sporting goods which has made Spalding a household name, few figures are owed as large a debt of gratitude for the growth of our American Pastime as the man whose autographs turn the following lots into treasures of history.
Baseball Cards
1909-11 Frank Chance Signed T206 Tobacco Card. Are you looking for a real collecting challenge? Try your hand at autographed tobacco cards. Here we present one of the only examples we've ever encountered, and what a great name to find! The last stop in the game's most famous double-play combination, and the first manager of the team officially known as the New York Yankees (after dropping their "Highlanders" nickname upon the move to the Polo Grounds) has provided a stunning 10/10 black fountain pen autograph upon the face of this card removed from a pack of Sweet Caporal cigarettes. It must be noted that the card is laminated, but this action is certainly largely to thank for the Hall of Fame autograph's unimprovable condition. Encapsulated in a Beckett/JSA slab for protection and unquestioned authenticity.
1920 Babe Ruth Signed Tex Rickard "Headin' Home" Card. Fine example of this first trading card to picture the great Bambino in the pinstripes of a New York Yankees uniform is elevated to the pinnacle of scarcity and desirability by the appearance upon its surface of a period black fountain pen ink signature from the silent movie star. Hobbyists are well aware of the dearth of Ruth autographed cards in the market, and the few that do surface are almost invariably from the Goudey issues of the 1930's. This is certainly the only signed example of this scarce early card we have ever encountered, and it wouldn't be too risky to assert that it is likely the only one of its kind.
The historical relevance of this piece matches its impressive aesthetics. Though "Variety" panned the film, printing, "It couldn't hold the interest of anyone for five seconds if it were not for the presence of the great athlete. He, and he alone, makes it worth five minutes of anybody's time," the film packed them in, particularly in New York City, where famed promoter Tex Rickard filled Madison Square Garden with its first-ever film screening. In a very real way, this film marked the birth of "superstar athlete as marketing icon," a trend that led to the Madison Avenue dominance of Mickey Mantle, Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods. For many theater-goers across the country, their first look at this baseball legend in action came with the viewing of "Headin' Home" in 1920, and the home run blast he delivers at the end of the film that travels five blocks before crashing through a church window worked like gasoline on the fire of the public's fascination. With this film, Babe Ruth officially assumed the iconic status he holds to this day. We expect that the winning bidder of this incredible artifact will understand and appreciate this fact.
Imperfect ink flow accounts for a rating of an entirely legible 6/10 for Ruth's famous nickname, while his surname is rendered with magnificent 9/10 boldness. The card itself presents rather minimal edge and corner wear for its advanced age, and some evidence of foxing on verso, of which the image side is entirely free. Card is encapsulated by PSA/DNA for protection and unquestioned authenticity.
The historical relevance of this piece matches its impressive aesthetics. Though "Variety" panned the film, printing, "It couldn't hold the interest of anyone for five seconds if it were not for the presence of the great athlete. He, and he alone, makes it worth five minutes of anybody's time," the film packed them in, particularly in New York City, where famed promoter Tex Rickard filled Madison Square Garden with its first-ever film screening. In a very real way, this film marked the birth of "superstar athlete as marketing icon," a trend that led to the Madison Avenue dominance of Mickey Mantle, Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods. For many theater-goers across the country, their first look at this baseball legend in action came with the viewing of "Headin' Home" in 1920, and the home run blast he delivers at the end of the film that travels five blocks before crashing through a church window worked like gasoline on the fire of the public's fascination. With this film, Babe Ruth officially assumed the iconic status he holds to this day. We expect that the winning bidder of this incredible artifact will understand and appreciate this fact.
Imperfect ink flow accounts for a rating of an entirely legible 6/10 for Ruth's famous nickname, while his surname is rendered with magnificent 9/10 boldness. The card itself presents rather minimal edge and corner wear for its advanced age, and some evidence of foxing on verso, of which the image side is entirely free. Card is encapsulated by PSA/DNA for protection and unquestioned authenticity.
Baseball Collectibles
1923 Ty Cobb Signed Letter. A baseball historian in search of a project would be the ideal new owner for this somewhat mysterious letter mailed to a Detroit News journalist by that city's superstar outfielder. The typed letter consents to doing some form of story with the journalist, but then explains "I feel that I can do better by waiting until Spring. Then there is another proposition, I must shake this fellow Walsh in some way. He has certainly been after me of late, and I am, in a way, duty bound to get rid of him in a nice way..." The single page on Cobb's elegant letterhead is signed in 9/10 blue fountain pen ink at the close. Original mailing folds, otherwise NRMT. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1923 Chicago White Sox Stock Certificate Signed by Comiskey & Grabiner. Both instrumental figures in the most noteworthy scandal in baseball history, team president Charles Comiskey and his "right hand man," secretary Harry Grabiner have signed off on this beautiful certificate issuing fifty shares to Grabiner himself. Of course Comiskey was the pecunious yet stingy team owner who forced the Eight Men Out to search for other ways to supplement their incomes in October of 1919. And Grabiner was not only the man who personally escorted Shoeless Joe back to Chicago after his trade from Cleveland in 1915, but also the figure to whom Jackson initially confessed his sin following the thrown World Series. Grabiner's signature appears twice here, once as Secretary and the other as the recipient of the stock. These autographs rate 7/10 and 8/10 respectively, while Comiskey's is a solid 9/10. The certificate itself is stamped "Cancelled" across the face and has vertical filing folds that bisect each of the lower signatures, but none of these factors have any noteworthy detrimental effect. Certificate measures 7.5x10" in size, and is matted and framed to final dimensions of 12.5x15". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
1920's Walter Johnson Signed Studio Portrait Photograph. In 1917, a Connecticut arms laboratory recorded Johnson's fastball at 134 feet per second, equal to ninety-nine miles per hour, a speed the lanky farmboy was somehow able to generate with a smooth sidearmed motion that baffled and terrified opposing batters. New York Highlanders outfielder Birdie Cree provided his own methodology for handling Johnson's speed: "When you see the arm start forward, swing." Presented is a magnificent sepia portrait photograph from the "Harris & Ewing" studio in the Big Train's adopted hometown of Washington, DC. He inscribes the photo to a noted early autograph collector, "For Edgar A. Moss, Best Wishes, Walter Johnson." The black fountain pen ink competes somewhat against the dark background, but rates a technical 9/10 in strength. The 5x7" photo and 8x10" cardboard mount that houses it are NRMT-MT. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Full LOA from PSA/DNA.
1926 Babe Ruth Signed Photograph. The Babe works on his short game in this unique photograph snapped just weeks after he committed what historians contend to be the biggest gaffe of his baseball career, inexplicably and unsuccessfully attempting a steal of second base to record the final out of the Series' seventh game. We're tempted to forgive the Babe for this brief indiscretion, however, and instead focus upon the black fountain pen inscription which reads, To my friend Jim Boldt, From 'Babe' Ruth, Nov. 26, 1926." The strength of the ink ranges from 2/10 to 8/10 throughout the course of the writing, with "Babe" a little light but "Ruth" much bolder. The 7.5x9.5" photo is mounted to a cardboard backing, which has served its purpose admirably, warding off any tearing or creasing. A tough early signed photo from the game's greatest name. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
1928 Babe Ruth's Own Book of Baseball, Signed. Marvelous shadow box display provides the viewer with an unimprovable example of the Babe's early signature, complete with the quotation marks that collectors love. It is applied to the opening page of Ruth's first major publication, listed as number 116 of a limited edition of 1,000 copies. It must be noted that the cover of the book has been torn loose, but this has allowed it to be nicely matted and framed to the left of the signed volume, while PSA/DNA's full letter of authenticity balances the display at right. Full dimensions are 15x25". Full LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
Circa 1929 Jimmie Foxx "Athletics" Signed Cut Signature. We'd have to consider this the best Foxx autograph on paper that we've ever encountered. Ideal in every way, from the 10/10 boldness of the black fountain pen ink to the scarce and eminently desirable "Athletics" notation that links the piece to the greatest seasons in Foxx' (and the franchise's) esteemed history, the 2x2.5" cut signature is artfully matted below a fine sepia image of the slugger at work. Complete framed dimensions are 15x19". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
1930 Ty Cobb Signed Check & Matching Register Stub. The Georgia Peach withdrew $300 from his Augusta, Georgia bank two years after his retirement from baseball with the presented check, which was later affixed with glue to the corresponding stub from his register book. All writing, and the authorizing "Tyrus R. Cobb" autograph, is rendered in his 9/10 black fountain pen ink. The bank stamping remains entirely clear of the signature. A missing tip of the lower right corner and a dog-ear of the upper left corner of the register stub account for the entirety of the condition issues. A modern print of an 8x10" photo is included for display. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1932 Hack Wilson Signed Baseball Magazine Photograph. After a weak 1931 season with the Chicago Cubs in which the stocky slugger managed not even a third of the still-standing record of 191 runs batted in the previous season, Wilson was dealt to the Brooklyn Dodgers where he enjoyed a fleeting resurgence before fading again. Alcohol abuse would drive him from the game just two years later, and to his grave in 1948 before his fiftieth birthday, leaving precious few autographs of this unlikely Hall of Famer to the collecting community. There's much to love about this particular example, applied to a Baseball Magazine photograph picturing Wilson with fellow Dodgers outfielders Johnny Frederick and Lefty O'Doul. The former has signed as well, his autograph perhaps a shade lighter than Wilson's 8.5/10 offering. The image exhibits some faint wrinkling that does little to distract. Matted to ultimate dimensions of 11x14". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1932 New York Yankees Hall of Famers Signed Album Page with Gehrig, Ruffing. Impressive display centers around a 3x4" unlined sheet of paper autographed in 10/10 black fountain pen ink by six Yanks: Dusty Cooke, Charles "Red" Ruffing, Bill Dickey, Lou Gehrig, Joe Sewell and Art Jorgens. Custom made engraved plaques recount the pertinent details of the careers of each, and are matted and framed with Baseball Magazine photographs of Dickey, Gehrig and Ruffing. Full framed dimensions are 21x36". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
1934 Babe Ruth Signed Government Postcard. The New York Yankees had just completed a three-game sweep of the Chicago White Sox in the Bronx when the Babe mailed this penny postcard to a young fan in Massachusetts. This scarce and enormously desirable GPC dating to the final season of Ruth's pinstriped service is not only inscribed "Sincerely, Babe Ruth," but fully addressed by him on the verso as well! All ink is an unimprovable 10/10. Some uneven toning is apparently the result of years filed away with other papers. No creasing or tearing. A rare opportunity to fill that gap in your government postcard collection. Full LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1930's Baseball Autograph Albums Signed by 300+ with Ott, Klein, Len Koenecke. Being the son of an executive for a Manhattan radio advertising firm had some serious perks for the original owner of this pair of charming albums, packed to the gills with autographs from the best and brightest of the pre-war diamond. While catalog text couldn't possibly convey the breadth of the collection of signatures, we note the following highlights: Ott, Klein (2), Len Koenecke (beaten to death with a fire extinguisher by an airplane crewmember attempting to subdue him from drunkenly commandeering the cockpit controls in 1935), Griffith, Hornsby, Dean, Ted Williams, Hubbell, Travis Jackson, Gehringer, Ruel, Lobert, Judge and even boxing Hall of Famer Barney Ross. One album is mainly pencil, the other mainly pen, all autographs essentially Mint. Book covers show wear but interior pages remain damage-free. Many Hall of Famers beyond those listed. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1937 Babe Ruth Double Signed Check. Just two years after the Babe retired his thunderous bat he made use of the presented check to withdraw fifty dollars from his Chemical Bank account in uptown Manhattan. All writing is in Ruth's bold black fountain pen ink, as is the "GH Ruth" signature at bottom right. A slight brush of Ruth's hand has caused very minor feathering of the ink here, to no significant detriment. The attractive and expensive framing job provides a window for viewing the back of the check as well, where a second (and flawless) "GH Ruth" autograph resides. Bank stamping remains entirely clear of both Ruth signatures. The museum quality framing expands the dimensions of the fine display to 21x24". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
1939 Cum Posey Signed Homestead High School Diploma. One of the most significant figures in the history of the Negro Leagues, Cumberland Posey rose through the ranks of the Homestead Grays from a player in 1911, to manager by 1916, to owner in the early 1920's. With legends like Josh Gibson, Buck Leonard and Judy Johnson at his disposal, Posey would lead the Grays to nine consecutive pennants between 1937 and 1945 and earn enshrinement in the Baseball Hall of Fame. Here we present a rare example of Posey's essential signature, applied to a diploma for the Homestead High School where he served as an administrator in his time away from the diamond. His black fountain pen autograph is unimprovable, as is the condition of the diploma itself. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1940 Hall of Famers Signed Index Cards with Lajoie, Baker. Beloved by collectors for its unassuming simplicity, the humble 3x5" index card remains for many the preferred medium for sports autographs. Here we present a fine selection of pre-war legends, signed in 9+/10 blue ink unless otherwise noted. Signed on the blank side: Frank Baker, Fred Clarke, Frank Frisch, Ed Walsh. Signed on the lined side: Larry Lajoie, George Sisler, Lefty Grove, Clark Griffith, Paul Waner (9/10 pencil). All index cards are devoid of any condition issues of note. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1940 Babe Ruth Signed Index Card. Prized by the purists of the baseball autograph collecting world, the humble 3x5" index card only really started to gain in popularity in the 1950's, after the great Bambino had already retired to that big batter's box in the sky. Can you recall the last time you found Ruth on an index card? Neither can we! And the condition is simply unimprovable, from the black fountain pen ink to the card itself. It's a piece just begging to be paired with your favorite image of the greatest Yankee of them all for a display that will impress even the most casual of baseball fans. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1942 Jimmie Foxx Signed Photograph. One Fenway fan made good use of his Foxx photo from the popular team issued "Photo Packs" sold in ballpark souvenir stands, presenting it to the superstar slugger for a genuine signature to accompany the facsimile pre-printed model at bottom left. It appears that Foxx began with a black pen, inscribing "To Bill," before switching to blue to finish with "Best Wishes, Jimmie Foxx." All ink registers at an impressive 9+/10, and only an insignificant bend to the tip of the top left corner negates a NRMT rating for the photo itself. 6.5x8.5". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Full LOA from PSA/DNA.
Baseball Cards
Circa 1940 Babe Ruth Signed Card, PSA Mint 9. Gorgeously rendered fountain pen signature is justifiably saluted with a rating of Mint 9 by the graders at PSA/DNA, assuring its future owner that he possesses one of the Babe's best. The 2.5x3.5" blank card exhibits the slightest bit of toning that does nothing to detract from the majesty of this essential autograph. Slabbed for protection and unquestioned authenticity.
Baseball Collectibles
Circa 1940 Babe Ruth Signed Blank Business Card. Simply unimprovable autograph from the great Bambino was handed to the father of a Heritage Sports Collectibles staff member when the seventy-nine year old lifelong Yankees fan visited the NBC studios in Manhattan for a Babe Ruth radio broadcast as a boy. The thrilled youngster quickly glued the card into his autograph book along with his handwritten identification below, joking later about how unnecessary it had been to go to that trouble for the most famous man in the world. If you have a favorite photo of the Babe, this is the perfect companion piece. A superior exemplar does not exist. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1940 Babe Ruth Signed Cut Signature. Bold and beautiful black fountain pen signature from the Babe is about as fine a specimen as you'll encounter and a big one too, measuring three inches from end to end. The autograph is rendered on creamy unlined paper and expertly matted and framed along with a modern print of a George Burke portrait. Full dimensions of the framed piece are 20x24". Full LOA from James Spence Authentication. Full LOA from PSA/DNA. Third party shipping is required.
1941 Babe Ruth Signed World Series Program. We wonder which side the Babe supported in this first of many great Subway Series between the Brooklyn Dodgers and the New York Yankees. After all, it was the Bums that gave the Babe his last Big League job, though one would hope that the Babe's heart was still wrapped in pinstripes. His 9/10 pencil autograph does appear on the Yankee side of the scale upon the cover of this program, and this is the Yankee version of the Fall Classic publication, if that gives any hint. The young collector's pencil autograph joins Ruth's on the cover, and a few marks are made to the interior scoresheet, but otherwise only typical edge, corner and spine wear is to be noted. A fine venue for this all-important autograph. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Auction LOA from PSA/DNA.
1941 Babe Ruth Signed Check to His Wife Claire. Another iconic Yankee, Joltin' Joe DiMaggio, was twenty-one games into his hitting streak of fifty-six when the Babe wrote this twenty dollar check to his wife Claire (effectively a second "Ruth" signature) on his Chemical Bank account. This is the most desirable of Ruth check formats, with the impressive and attractive "Babe Ruth" imprint at left, and Ruth's black fountain pen ink could not be bolder. A brush of the Babe's hand has caused the slightest of feathering to the Babe's signature at lower right, but the signature remains attractive and perfectly formed. We must assume the check is endorsed by Claire on verso, but have chosen not to tamper with the museum quality framing job which includes a facsimile of the Babe's 1927 Income Tax return and a page from a 1959 magazine interview with Claire. Final framed dimensions are 25x29". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
Golf Collectibles
1942 Babe Ruth, Bob Hope & Bing Crosby Signed Golf Scorecard. Three American icons faced off at the Sacramento Municipal Golf Course on March 1, 1942, a celebrity summit likely made possible by the Babe's west coast filming of the celebrated biopic "The Pride of the Yankees" memorializing his Murderer's Row compatriot Lou Gehrig. The fourth member of the quartet was Culbert L. Olson, the Governor of the State of California. We can report that it was Hope who held the lead when the scorer apparently stopped keeping track after the fifteenth. Bing, Bob, and the Babe then graced the scorecard with their 9/10 pencil autographs, creating what is likely the only autographed piece featuring this historic triumvirate. The 4.5x6" card stock relic exhibits the moderate degree of wear one would expect after close to seven decades of existence, but our catalog imagery should properly indicate that the display value is not hindered in the slightest. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Baseball Collectibles
1943 Babe Ruth Signed NBC Radio Contract. His New York Yankees contracts will set you back many tens of thousands of dollars, so unless your last name is Rockefeller, this is going to be a very appealing option for you. It provides one of the finest and most desirable Bambino autographs you are likely to encounter in any format, a stunningly rendered 10/10 black fountain pen "George H. Ruth" applied to second of this two-page document securing the slugger's services at a rate of $300 per broadcast. The pages exhibit original storage folds, and the unsigned first page shows some chipping at the top edge of the paper, but none of these issues affect the 10/10 (according to PSA/DNA full grading LOA) autograph in the slightest. Full Grading LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1942 Joe DiMaggio Signed New York Yankees Contract. An American League Most Valuable Player Award for 1941, a season still fondly remembered almost seven decades later for the Yankee Clipper's famous fifty-six game hitting streak, gave DiMaggio no shortage of bargaining power when it came time to negotiate a salary for 1942. One will note that there are two unsigned contracts here, each denoting a salary of $40,000 for the approaching season, and a third, fully executed model with a $43,750 price tag.
It's important to remember that this contract negotiation had been a particularly rancorous one, and one that was debated in the sports pages of the day. Anticipating financial downturns as a result of the country's entrance into the World War II fray, the Yankees asked DiMaggio to take a pay cut. When DiMaggio refused, the Yankees management publicly attacked their superstar's patriotism. Suddenly one of the most popular players in the game was hearing boos both on the road and at home, clearly a factor in his decision to enlist at the close of the season.
The executed contract is the typical Uniform Player's Contract used throughout the years by Major League Baseball. This one is dated March 12, 1942 and signed by both DiMaggio and Yankee president Ed Barrow, as well as a witness. All autographs are Mint, and the contract has two filing punch holes and original storage folds, otherwise no flaws to note. The contracts for $40,000 are unsigned but otherwise identical. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Though they stood as warring Generals, like U.S. Grant and Robert E. Lee, on opposing sides of baseball's greatest rivalry, Ted Williams once admitted, "DiMaggio was the greatest all-around player I ever saw. His career cannot be summed up in numbers and awards. It might sound corny, but he had a profound and lasting impact on the country." During the 1940's there was no greater baseball hero than the Yankee Clipper, and arguably no more famous celebrity in any field of endeavor. Few figures are quite so assured an enduring position in twentieth century American history and, as such, the documents that follow are as worthy of placement within the Smithsonian Museum in Washington as in the Baseball Hall of Fame at Cooperstown. Recently located in a forgotten archive of legal documents, the contracts presented in the lots that follow make their hobby debut here.
It's important to remember that this contract negotiation had been a particularly rancorous one, and one that was debated in the sports pages of the day. Anticipating financial downturns as a result of the country's entrance into the World War II fray, the Yankees asked DiMaggio to take a pay cut. When DiMaggio refused, the Yankees management publicly attacked their superstar's patriotism. Suddenly one of the most popular players in the game was hearing boos both on the road and at home, clearly a factor in his decision to enlist at the close of the season.
The executed contract is the typical Uniform Player's Contract used throughout the years by Major League Baseball. This one is dated March 12, 1942 and signed by both DiMaggio and Yankee president Ed Barrow, as well as a witness. All autographs are Mint, and the contract has two filing punch holes and original storage folds, otherwise no flaws to note. The contracts for $40,000 are unsigned but otherwise identical. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Though they stood as warring Generals, like U.S. Grant and Robert E. Lee, on opposing sides of baseball's greatest rivalry, Ted Williams once admitted, "DiMaggio was the greatest all-around player I ever saw. His career cannot be summed up in numbers and awards. It might sound corny, but he had a profound and lasting impact on the country." During the 1940's there was no greater baseball hero than the Yankee Clipper, and arguably no more famous celebrity in any field of endeavor. Few figures are quite so assured an enduring position in twentieth century American history and, as such, the documents that follow are as worthy of placement within the Smithsonian Museum in Washington as in the Baseball Hall of Fame at Cooperstown. Recently located in a forgotten archive of legal documents, the contracts presented in the lots that follow make their hobby debut here.
1947 Joe DiMaggio Signed New York Yankees Contract. The second DiMaggio contract in this auction, securing the center fielder's services for his second tour of duty after his return from the war, finds him earning the identical amount to his 1942 contract. DiMaggio's poorest production to date in 1946, the first time he dipped below a .300 average and 100 runs batted in during his career, limited his bargaining power apparently.
The 1947 season would find Joltin' Joe returning to his world-class ways, however, as he raised his average by twenty-five points over the previous season and slugged two home runs in the Subway Series against the Brooklyn Dodgers to help earn yet another World Championship for the Yanks. As such, he would earn his third and final American League MVP Award this year.
This standard Uniform Player's Contract is signed at the close with a full "Joseph DiMaggio" in 9+/10 black fountain pen ink, with Larry MacPhail signing as the club's general manager. Contract exhibits filing punch holes and original storage folds, otherwise no faults to note. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Though they stood as warring Generals, like U.S. Grant and Robert E. Lee, on opposing sides of baseball's greatest rivalry, Ted Williams once admitted, "DiMaggio was the greatest all-around player I ever saw. His career cannot be summed up in numbers and awards. It might sound corny, but he had a profound and lasting impact on the country." During the 1940's there was no greater baseball hero than the Yankee Clipper, and arguably no more famous celebrity in any field of endeavor. Few figures are quite so assured an enduring position in twentieth century American history and, as such, the documents that follow are as worthy of placement within the Smithsonian Museum in Washington as in the Baseball Hall of Fame at Cooperstown. Recently located in a forgotten archive of legal documents, the contracts presented in the lots that follow make their hobby debut here.
The 1947 season would find Joltin' Joe returning to his world-class ways, however, as he raised his average by twenty-five points over the previous season and slugged two home runs in the Subway Series against the Brooklyn Dodgers to help earn yet another World Championship for the Yanks. As such, he would earn his third and final American League MVP Award this year.
This standard Uniform Player's Contract is signed at the close with a full "Joseph DiMaggio" in 9+/10 black fountain pen ink, with Larry MacPhail signing as the club's general manager. Contract exhibits filing punch holes and original storage folds, otherwise no faults to note. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Though they stood as warring Generals, like U.S. Grant and Robert E. Lee, on opposing sides of baseball's greatest rivalry, Ted Williams once admitted, "DiMaggio was the greatest all-around player I ever saw. His career cannot be summed up in numbers and awards. It might sound corny, but he had a profound and lasting impact on the country." During the 1940's there was no greater baseball hero than the Yankee Clipper, and arguably no more famous celebrity in any field of endeavor. Few figures are quite so assured an enduring position in twentieth century American history and, as such, the documents that follow are as worthy of placement within the Smithsonian Museum in Washington as in the Baseball Hall of Fame at Cooperstown. Recently located in a forgotten archive of legal documents, the contracts presented in the lots that follow make their hobby debut here.
1948 Joe DiMaggio Signed New York Yankees Contract. The Yankee Clipper's return to his world-class form in 1947, and his essential contributions to the ballclub's World Championship campaign, resulted in a healthy raise for the 1948 season (though increased vitality of the US economy in the years following the war surely played a role as well). DiMaggio would respond to this pay bump with what was arguably the finest season of his career, one in which he clubbed a League-leading and career-best 155 runs batted in with thirty-nine homers (also tops in the A.L.) to earn runner-up to Lou Boudreau in MVP voting.
The presented contract finds "$65,000" handwritten in the blank for player salary on the first page, with DiMaggio consenting to the terms with his 9+/10 black fountain pen autograph on page three. Just above is a handwritten incentive clause, stating "In the event the New York club draws an official paid attendance of 1,600,000 for the 1948 American League Championship season player is to receive an additional $10,000 making a total of $75,000." It is unclear whether DiMaggio would have earned this bonus, because while the paid attendance cleared 2,300,000, the Yanks were not pennant winners this season. Hall of Fame executive George Weiss has signed as the Yankees' representative.
Short of original storage folds, the contract survives in flawless condition. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Though they stood as warring Generals, like U.S. Grant and Robert E. Lee, on opposing sides of baseball's greatest rivalry, Ted Williams once admitted, "DiMaggio was the greatest all-around player I ever saw. His career cannot be summed up in numbers and awards. It might sound corny, but he had a profound and lasting impact on the country." During the 1940's there was no greater baseball hero than the Yankee Clipper, and arguably no more famous celebrity in any field of endeavor. Few figures are quite so assured an enduring position in twentieth century American history and, as such, the documents that follow are as worthy of placement within the Smithsonian Museum in Washington as in the Baseball Hall of Fame at Cooperstown. Recently located in a forgotten archive of legal documents, the contracts presented in the lots that follow make their hobby debut here.
The presented contract finds "$65,000" handwritten in the blank for player salary on the first page, with DiMaggio consenting to the terms with his 9+/10 black fountain pen autograph on page three. Just above is a handwritten incentive clause, stating "In the event the New York club draws an official paid attendance of 1,600,000 for the 1948 American League Championship season player is to receive an additional $10,000 making a total of $75,000." It is unclear whether DiMaggio would have earned this bonus, because while the paid attendance cleared 2,300,000, the Yanks were not pennant winners this season. Hall of Fame executive George Weiss has signed as the Yankees' representative.
Short of original storage folds, the contract survives in flawless condition. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Though they stood as warring Generals, like U.S. Grant and Robert E. Lee, on opposing sides of baseball's greatest rivalry, Ted Williams once admitted, "DiMaggio was the greatest all-around player I ever saw. His career cannot be summed up in numbers and awards. It might sound corny, but he had a profound and lasting impact on the country." During the 1940's there was no greater baseball hero than the Yankee Clipper, and arguably no more famous celebrity in any field of endeavor. Few figures are quite so assured an enduring position in twentieth century American history and, as such, the documents that follow are as worthy of placement within the Smithsonian Museum in Washington as in the Baseball Hall of Fame at Cooperstown. Recently located in a forgotten archive of legal documents, the contracts presented in the lots that follow make their hobby debut here.
1949 Joe DiMaggio Signed New York Yankees Contract. Historic contract marks the first time in baseball history a player had reached the six-figure mark. The handwritten "$100,000" on the first page of this Uniform Player's Contract was a story that dominated the sports pages throughout the early Spring, as fans wondered if even the great DiMaggio could justify such a paycheck.
Though injuries limited DiMaggio's service to just seventy-six games, his first season playing fewer than 120, he also posted his best batting average (.346) since his historic 1941 campaign. And despite a weak Series against the club's perpetual October opponents, the Brooklyn Dodgers, the Yankees began a five-year World Championship run never duplicated before or since.
Flawless 10/10 black fountain pen ink signatures appear on page three from DiMaggio and fellow Hall of Famer George Weiss, who signs as VP of the ballclub. Original storage folds represent the entirety of condition issues, leaving the contract otherwise NRMT. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Though they stood as warring Generals, like U.S. Grant and Robert E. Lee, on opposing sides of baseball's greatest rivalry, Ted Williams once admitted, "DiMaggio was the greatest all-around player I ever saw. His career cannot be summed up in numbers and awards. It might sound corny, but he had a profound and lasting impact on the country." During the 1940's there was no greater baseball hero than the Yankee Clipper, and arguably no more famous celebrity in any field of endeavor. Few figures are quite so assured an enduring position in twentieth century American history and, as such, the documents that follow are as worthy of placement within the Smithsonian Museum in Washington as in the Baseball Hall of Fame at Cooperstown. Recently located in a forgotten archive of legal documents, the contracts presented in the lots that follow make their hobby debut here.
Though injuries limited DiMaggio's service to just seventy-six games, his first season playing fewer than 120, he also posted his best batting average (.346) since his historic 1941 campaign. And despite a weak Series against the club's perpetual October opponents, the Brooklyn Dodgers, the Yankees began a five-year World Championship run never duplicated before or since.
Flawless 10/10 black fountain pen ink signatures appear on page three from DiMaggio and fellow Hall of Famer George Weiss, who signs as VP of the ballclub. Original storage folds represent the entirety of condition issues, leaving the contract otherwise NRMT. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Though they stood as warring Generals, like U.S. Grant and Robert E. Lee, on opposing sides of baseball's greatest rivalry, Ted Williams once admitted, "DiMaggio was the greatest all-around player I ever saw. His career cannot be summed up in numbers and awards. It might sound corny, but he had a profound and lasting impact on the country." During the 1940's there was no greater baseball hero than the Yankee Clipper, and arguably no more famous celebrity in any field of endeavor. Few figures are quite so assured an enduring position in twentieth century American history and, as such, the documents that follow are as worthy of placement within the Smithsonian Museum in Washington as in the Baseball Hall of Fame at Cooperstown. Recently located in a forgotten archive of legal documents, the contracts presented in the lots that follow make their hobby debut here.
1940's Cy Young Handwritten Letter. If you like your letters with quality content, then this is the lot for you. The man whose name will be forever synonymous with pitching excellence provides his own thoughts on the game's best to the editors of The Sporting News. In response to the question, "Who do you think was the greatest ballplayer of all-time? Why?," Young responds "1) Ty Cob (sic) he could do most anything he tried in his positions. 2 base and short stop Wagner. With out a doubt Babe Ruth as a Hitter in a class by Hisself (sic)." He closes with 10/10 blue ink signature to match the quality of the text above. The page exhibits original mailing folds, and a small clipped image of Young is affixed at the lower right corner, otherwise no condition issues of note. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Full LOA from PSA/DNA.
1946 Ki Ki Cuyler Signed Photograph. Cuyler's early, tragic death by way of cardiac arrest has left the hobby woefully short of autographs, as did the fact that his Hall of Fame induction came posthumously. Here we present a particularly scarce signed photo of the four-time winner of the National League batting title, an image which finds Ki Ki in his managerial uniform as a member of the Southern Association's Atlanta Crackers. In 8/10 black fountain pen ink, he inscribes, "To Betty, Rachael & Pammy, nice girls, nice fans, 'Ki Ki' Cuyler Mgr. 1946." Photo measures 8x10" and exhibits some scattered wrinkling and various other surface defects, but our catalog imagery should properly indicate that these problems detract little from the visual strength. Thrown in with the lot is a photo of two of the women to whom Cuyler signed. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1947 Mel Ott Signed Photograph. The first of three New York Giants Hall of Fame teammates to perish from injuries sustained in automobile accidents (Frank Frisch and Carl Hubbell being the others), Mel Ott did not produce nearly enough autographs in his short life to meet demands. He made the 500 Home Run Club a trio around the time he signed this color image clipped from a sporting magazine late in his career. His blue fountain pen ink signature rates an impressive 9/10, and the visible 3.5x6.5" portion of the photo only reveals minor creasing upon the closest of inspection. A simple framing job completes the 8.5x12" dimensions. Full LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
Baseball Cards
Circa 1948 Napoleon "Larry" Lajoie Signed Trading Card. The man whose name was once literally synonymous with Cleveland Major League baseball applies his 9/10 blue ink signature to his image presented on a card from the 1948 Baseball's Great Hall of Fame set. Mild edge and corner wear is to be expected for a larger card of this issue, but the image area remains clear and unaffected. A tough signed image from one of the greatest figures of the Dead Ball Era. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Baseball Collectibles
1948 Ty Cobb Signed Check Display. Personal check from the Peach's First National Bank of Nevada account in Reno is filled out and signed entirely in the Hall of Famer's hand, paying seventy-one dollars to a "Frank Fallansbee." This is the most desirable format of Cobb checks, with his full "Tyrus R. Cobb" name printed at the left edge, and signed in the same formal style. Black fountain pen ink registers at a strength of 9/10. Check is nicely matted and framed with an image of Cobb at work and a plaque recounting the remarkable statistics that made him the first Cooperstown inductee. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
1948 New York Yankees Team Signed Large Photograph. How's this for complete? Even the bat boys, the clubhouse guys (including the long-serving Pete Sheehy) and voice of the Yankees Mel Allen have joined the fun! Not a single pictured Yank has shirked his signing duties either, bringing the grand total of vintage autographs to thirty-seven. All your favorites are here: DiMaggio, Berra, Rizzuto, Harris, Henrich, Crosetti, Reynolds, Houk, Stirnweiss, Keller and more. George McQuinn is the only secretarial autograph. Signature quality is a consistent 8/10 throughout, and the 12x20" panoramic image exhibits mild wear only at the outermost edges, well clear of the image and signatures. Note the thick black armbands on the left sleeves for the recently departed Babe Ruth, dating the image to the final weeks of the '48 season. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1950 Jackie Robinson & Roy Campanella Signed Autographs. The brave and brilliant African-American pioneers of the Brooklyn Dodgers provide 10/10 autographs here for your collecting pleasure. Robinson's black ink signature appears on a 2x5" slip of unlined paper. Another autograph appears on verso, but has no bearing on Robinson's. Campy has inscribed the reverse of a government postcard, "Best Wishes, Sincerely Roy Campanella." The postmark derives from the Bums' Vero Beach spring training headquarters. Address is filled out in Campy's hand as well. Each piece exhibits tape staining at the corners from scrapbook removal, otherwise NRMT. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1950 Honus Wagner Signed Government Postcard. One young collector must have been thrilled to find this postcard awaiting him in his mailbox after writing to the Hall of Fame shortstop seeking an autograph. Wagner's black fountain pen ink in an unimprovable 10/10, and he adds the year "1950" as a brief notation. Postmark is from Wagner's Carnegie, PA hometown. Postcard exhibits minor mailing wear and toning along top edge, but none of this affects display value in the slightest. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1950 Baseball Autograph Album with Robinson, Campanella, Mantle. There's nothing quite so charming as a child's autograph book, and you tend to find some of the highest quality exemplars in such keepsakes. Such is certainly the case here, as young Bonnie Jones of Fellsmere, Florida apparently made the rounds of her home state's spring training grounds seeking out the game's best and brightest. A few dozen autographs are found within, each rendered in 9/10 or better pencil, and anchored by Jackie Robinson (2), Roy Campanella, Mickey Mantle (desirable rookie era format!), Phil Rizutto, Connie Mack, Pee Wee Reese, Gil Hodges (2), Don Newcombe and more. All listed signatures appear either alone or in small groups on the album's pages, with no signatures on the verso of these pages. Strong "break down" value here. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1950 Ty Cobb Signed Government Postcard. The fearsome Dead Ball legend responds to a young autograph seeker with a perfect signature in his trademark green ink, postmarked from his Menlo Park, California hometown. The card shows appropriate mailing wear, with small bends at the corners, but the autograph remains in simply stellar condition, the perfect piece to frame with your favorite photo of the Hall of Fame's first resident. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1955 Roy Campanella Signed Photograph. A devastating automobile accident on an icy road in January of 1958 brought an end to one of the most noteworthy careers in Brooklyn Dodgers history, leaving the ballclub's sturdy backstop confined to a wheelchair for the remainder of his life. Though he would eventually regain limited use of his arms, Campy was only able to sign autographs after the accident with very limited skill, leaving his scarce pre-1958 examples highly prized by collectors. A fine example is offered here, applied to a 7x9" photo of Campy with Hall of Fame sportswriter Jack Lang, to whom the photo is inscribed. A light brush of Campy's hand to the wet ink of his signature has caused three letters of his surname to feather ever so slightly, but the effect is so minimal as to barely merit a mention. Otherwise the inscription and autograph are 10/10, and the photo is likewise free of any notable condition issues. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1956 Brooklyn Dodgers Team Signed Program. The last spring training for Jackie Robinson, who would retire at the close of this National League Championship season rather than suffer the indignity of a trade to the hated New York Giants. He joins thirteen of his Dodger teammates in 9/10 and better pencil on the cover of a spring training roster issued at the club's Vero Beach headquarters. His fellow signers: Campanella, Reese, Ransom Jackson, Loes, Zimmer, Roebuck, Dick Williams, Newcombe, Craig, Cimoli, Shuba, Lehman, Hughes. The four-page pamphlet exhibits toning and general wear one would expect after a half-century of life, but remains solid and complete with no negative effects to the autographs themselves. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1956 Abbott & Costello Signed "Who's on First" Record Album. The line between Sports and Entertainment collectible is blurred here, as we offer a tremendously scarce slab of vinyl blessed by the hands of the men who made the recording an immortal classic. The famous comedic dialogue about the absurdly named members of a baseball team remains this celebrity duo's most famous work, and this is just the second recording we've ever encountered autographed by both funny men. Bud Abbott and Lou Costello appear on the yellow center area of the record in 9/10 black ink, the label reading, "Abbott and Costello's 'Who's on First?' Presented to National Baseball Hall of Fame Museum, Cooperstown, N.Y., 1956." The record itself appears to be in NRMT condition, and is tastefully displayed in a 13" square frame. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Baseball Cards
1959 Topps Mickey Mantle #10, Signed. One of the more recognizable Mantle bubble gum cards is autographed by the man himself in 10/10 black ink, according to the experts at PSA/DNA who assign the score to the signature. The card itself rates about VG-EX+ due to moderate corner wear. Encapsulated by PSA/DNA for protection and unquestioned authenticity.
1961 Topps Roberto Clemente #388, Signed. This is a collecting discipline we've always liked--the signed trading card. You'll be particularly interested in this one if you share the original recipient's name, as the tragic Hall of Famer inscribes, "To Johnny, Best Wishes, Roberto Clemente." The ink retains a boldness of about 8/10, though it must be noted that a couple strips of clear tape were applied over the top back in the day. The card itself otherwise grades at about an EX level. Encapsulated by Beckett/JSA for protection and unquestioned authenticity.
1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan Rookie #177, Vintage Signed. One smart Canuck proved to the collecting world that his countrymen care about more than just hockey when he presented this Canadian version of Ryan's Topps rookie card to the future Strike Out King for an autograph. It's admittedly a little light, perhaps a 4/10, but it's a rookie era signature, and nicely paired with a card that is impressive in its own right at an EX-MT level. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Baseball Collectibles
Circa 1970 Satchel Paige Signed Vintage Fielder's Glove. Hundreds of times as scarce as a single signed baseball, the provided circa 1940 Rawlings fielder's glove bears one of the boldest autographs from the Negro Leagues' greatest pitcher you'll ever hope to see. Authenticator James Spence has assured our consignor that he's never seen another Paige signed glove, so the odds that you'll get another shot at one are slim to none. The glove itself presents wonderfully, with a broken lace between the index and middle fingers but no other issues of note. Full LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1971 Willie Foster Signed Tax Form. Hall of Fame umpire Jocko Conlan once wrote, "Foster was comparable to Herb Pennock, only faster and had beautiful control." The half brother of Negro League pioneer Rube Foster, Willie was born far too soon to test his skills against Major League hitters, delaying his Hall of Fame induction until 1996, eighteen years after his passing at age seventy-four. Typical of most early Negro League players, autograph examples are few and far between, and vigorously pursued by collectors on the rare occasions that they surface. Such will certainly be the case for this Wilson County, Tennessee tax form which invoices charges assessed to the former Chicago American Giants southpaw. Handwritten in the bottom margin, "Pd in full by W.H. Foster" resonates at a perfect 10/10 boldness. The 7x8.5" form exhibits original storage folds but is otherwise free of flaws. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1970's Mickey Mantle "Best F---in Wishes" Signed Photograph. There are two ways we know this photo was signed in the 1970's. First, the formation of his signature is slightly different that his later variety, and secondly Mantle didn't censor himself anymore as he got older. He was always a wisecracker though, a point made evident by his "To Hank, Best F---in Wishes, Mickey Mantle, Thanks for the Putter!" inscription on this 8x10" Yankee Stadium shot. His blue marker remains as bold as the day it was applied, and the photo itself is likewise free of defects. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1979 Thurman Munson Signed Magazine Photograph. The most beloved and tragic Yankee captain since the great Lou Gehrig, Thurman Munson remains one of the most sought after baseball signatures of the post-war era. Here we present a marvelous 10/10 blue ballpoint ink specimen that adorns a five-inch square image clipped from a game program. Additional writing--most likely a personalization or another autograph--has been effectively obscured beneath Munson's signature. Image exhibits mild edge wear but otherwise presents perfectly. Offerings of authentic Munson signatures have become increasingly infrequent over the passing years, so smart collectors take every opportunity seriously. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1980's-90's Perez-Steele Postcards Complete Signed Set of 108. If it's possible, it's here. The most comprehensive assembly of the artful postcards available in the hobby will take all the leg work out of the equation for one smart collector, as some of these guys are particularly tough in this format. The full list: Aaron, Alston, Anderson, Aparicio, Appling, Ashburn, Averill, Banks, Barlick, Bell, Bench, Berra, Boudreau, Brett, Brock, Bunning, President Bush, Campanella, Carew, Carlton, Cepeda, Chandler, Conlan, Coveleski, Cronin, Dandridge, Dickey, DiMaggio, Doby, Doerr, Drysdale, Feller, Ferrell, Fingers, Ford, Gehringer, Gibson, Gomez (2), Greenberg, Grimes, Herman, Hoyt, Hubbell, Hunter, Irvin, Reggie Jackson, Travis Jackson, Jenkins, Judy Johnson, Kaline, Kell, Kelly, Killebrew, Kiner, Koufax, Lasorda, Leonard, Lemon, Lopez, Lyons, MacPhail, Marichal, Mantle, Mathews, Mays, Mazeroski, McCovey, Mize, Morgan, Musial, Newhouser, Neikro, Paige (7/10 black ink), Palmer, Perez, Perry, Puckett, Reese, Rizzuto, Roberts, Brooks Robinson, Frank Robinson, Roush, Ruffing, Ryan, Stack, Steele/Steele/Perez, Schmidt, Schoendienst, Sewell, Slaughter, Snider, Spahn, Stargell, Sutton, Seaver, Terry, Waner, Weaver, Wilhelm, Billy Williams, Ted Williams, Dave Winfield, Early Wynn, Carl Yastrzemski, Robin Yount. Unless otherwise noted, all appear in 9/10 or better blue (and very rarely black) sharpie. Each is slabbed "Authentic" by PSA/DNA for protection and unquestioned authenticity.
1988 Mickey "Gran-pa" Mantle Signed Golf Program. Now that's a signature variation you don't see every day! The New York Yankees legend inscribed a program for his 1988 charity golf tournament to his son and pregnant daughter-in-law, referencing the impending birth and his own personal problems. In 10/10 blue sharpie, he writes, "To Mickey & Cindy, Dont give up on me. I'll be allright! Have a healthy Baby! Mickey 'Gran-pa' Mantle." The program itself is in fine, undamaged condition. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1989 500 Home Run Club Signed Photographic Print. Costing Major League Baseball tens of thousands of dollars in lost horsehide, the eleven sluggers crashing like a thunderbolt from the sky in this electrifying artistic rendering clubbed a combined 6,287 long balls during their Hall of Fame careers. Present are Jackson, Aaron, Mays, Mathews, Killebrew, Williams, Mantle, McCovey, Robinson, Banks and Schmidt. Each has applied his 10/10 blue sharpie signature to his image upon this colorful 8x10", which has been nicely matted and framed to final dimensions of 12x16". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
Circa 1990 Mickey Mantle Signed First Hit Photographic Montage. Check the American League Golden Anniversary patch on the sleeve and the number "6" on the back of the jersey. Yes sir, that's the rookie Mick cracking the first of 2,415 career hits during his earliest days in pinstripes. We've not only never seen a signed example of this three-photo montage before, we've never seen the montage, period. The brief inscription, "To Dorothy, My Fan, Mickey Mantle," is rendered in 10/10 blue sharpie. The montage measures 11x20" in size and is matted and framed to final dimensions of 18x27". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
Circa 1990 Snider, Mantle, DiMaggio & Mays Signed Large Photograph. The four greatest center fielders during the Golden Age of Big Apple baseball are transported through time and space to the infield of Yankee Stadium, circa 1990 (note the lack of the ornamental facade above the upper deck), to form an autographed piece sure to appeal to Baby Boomers and modern sports fans alike. Each Hall of Fame legend has applied his 10/10 blue sharpie signature to the 16x20" image, which has been attractively matted and framed to final dimensions of 21x25". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
1990's Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle & Ted Williams Signed Photograph. The rookie from Commerce, Oklahoma poses between the two greatest stars in the game in this photo snapped during the historic 1951 season. Years later, each Hall of Famer would sign this 8x10" photo in flawless blue sharpie, creating a keepsake for the ages. Imagine a photo signed by Ruth, Gehrig and Foxx--that's the way this piece will be viewed one day. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 2000 Sandy Koufax Signed Enormous Photograph. Massive (30x40") photo captures the scene in the Los Angeles Dodgers locker room as the Hall of Fame southpaw celebrated his fourth career no-hitter, a perfect game registered against the Chicago Cubs at Dodger Stadium on September 9, 1965. His correspondingly huge blue sharpie signature is Mint, as is the photo itself. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1938 New York Yankees Team Signed Jake Powell Game Used Bat. Speedy back-up outfielder Jake Powell surrendered one of his Hanna Batrite gamers for a greater cause during the great Lou Gehrig's final complete season, passing it to the Iron Horse and eighteen other World Champion Yanks along with a black fountain pen. Admittedly ash and ink don't mix particularly well, with PSA/DNA grading the signatures at 4/10, but we can spot Gehrig, Dickey, Gomez, Ruffing, Gordon, Chandler, Selkirk and Sundra quite easily. A lengthy handle crack ended the service of this thirty-five ounce gamer, but the bat remains solid and well suited for display. Prewar team signed bats are practically nonexistent, so collectors of that theme will surely be paying close attention to this one. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Full grading LOA from PSA/DNA.
Circa 1980 Billy Martin Signed Bat. Perhaps the most fascinating and important figure in New York Yankees history without a plaque at Cooperstown, the scrappy Martin brawled at the Copacabana as a player and with George Steinbrenner as a manager before his sudden and tragic death in 1989. Martin's 9/10 blue sharpie signature resides just below the barrel stamping on this signature model Louisville Slugger M110. You won't find too much signed lumber from Martin so consider this lot seriously if you like to call yourself a Yankee fan. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1990 Ted Williams Signed Bat. What better home for a perfect blue sharpie signature from the Splendid Splinter than a perfect replica of the bat with which he carved his name in the granite of immortality? This signature model Hillerich & Bradsby W166 is identical to those used to earn the title of Greatest Hitter of All Time, except for the addition of the essential Hall of Fame autograph. The price on these bats has been consistently rising, and we don't expect this trend to change anytime soon. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1990's Ted Williams & Carl Yastrzemski Signed "Triple Crown" Bat. Though World Championship glory eluded this pair of Boston Red Sox Hall of Famers, each claimed a prize far more rare, becoming two of just eight players in American League history to take the blue ribbon in home runs, RBI's and batting average in the same season. The details of Williams' 1942 and 1947 campaigns, and Yaz's "Impossible" 1967 are stamped into the dark lumber, which serves as the perfect home for 9/10 silver sharpie signatures from each. You can't call yourself a true BoSox fan if you let this lot pass without a bid. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1990 Mickey Mantle "No. 7" Signed UDA Bat. Considered by many the most desirable of formats for Mantle autographs is the Upper Deck bat, and this is the cream of that popular crop. The Mick takes his 10/10 blue sharpie signature on the barrel a step further, adding a "No. 7" notation for added effect. The signature model Hillerich & Bradsby M110 is an exact replica of the lumber with which he worked his playing days magic, except for the "397/1951" limited edition notation on the barrel. UDA packaging is missing, but the authentication holographic sticker remains affixed and matching UDA COA is likewise present. COA from UDA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1990 Mickey Mantle No. 6 Signed UDA Jersey. The most desirable Mantle jersey on the market. Though this is purported to be one of a limited edition of 1951, we find it hard to believe that the full quantity was created--we just haven't seen nearly enough on the market to justify such a figure. It's worthy of note that this is number 21 of the limited edition, therefore not contradicting our hypothesis. In any regard, the Cooperstown Collection flannel pinstriper is a dead ringer for the first shirt the Mick ever wore, with the American League Golden Anniversary patch on the sleeve and number "6" on the back. Just below that quickly discarded digit is Mantle's 10/10 black sharpie signature, which he underscores with the ultra-scarce "No. 6" notation. Original holographic sticker is affixed, with replacement Upper Deck Letter of Authenticity included. LOA from UDA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1990's Joe DiMaggio Signed "1941" Bat. The most desirable of Joltin' Joe autographed lumber is represented here as number 1764 of a limited edition of 1941, a figure which should bring to mind the historic fifty-six game hitting streak to all but the most casual baseball historian. Exacting in every detail to the signature model Hillerich & Bradsby wielded by the Yankee great during that campaign, this one differs only in the edition stamping and the 10/10 blue sharpie signature that resides just above. That sheen you might notice in the catalog photography is the original shrinkwrap placed over DiMaggio's signature by the good folks at Steiner, who orchestrated the signing and affixed their holographic authenticating sticker near the end of the barrel. COA from Steiner. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1913 Chicago Cubs Team Signed Baseball. Yes, you read the title correctly. If you're a little shocked to find a team signed baseball just short of its centennial bearing signatures averaging a conservative "8" on a scale of ten, you're definitely not alone. A conscientiously applied coating of shellac and many decades of unmolested solitude account for what may be the most well-preserved team ball to predate the first World War ever made available at public auction. Passed down through generations of a single family, and making its hobby debut, the presented artifact is a study in superlatives.
Early Hall of Famers John Evers and Roger Bresnahan anchor a full roster of twenty-six signatures on this boldly stamped ONL (Lynch) sphere. Among these is the spectacularly rare sweet spot signature of Charles W. Murphy, the former sportswriter who puchased the team in 1906 and directed the club to its only two World Championship seasons in 1907 and 1908. Other notables include starting first baseman Vic Saier, shortstop Al Bridwell, third baseman Heine Zimmerman, outfielders Frank Schulte and Mike Mitchell, and pitchers Jimmy Lavender and Ed Reulbach. Though the team had shed much of its legendary figures in the years since its consecutive World Championships, the presented ball features more members of those 1907-08 squads than any we've thus far encountered. As such, this will surely rank among the most important Chicago Cubs artifacts to reach the auction block in 2009. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Early Hall of Famers John Evers and Roger Bresnahan anchor a full roster of twenty-six signatures on this boldly stamped ONL (Lynch) sphere. Among these is the spectacularly rare sweet spot signature of Charles W. Murphy, the former sportswriter who puchased the team in 1906 and directed the club to its only two World Championship seasons in 1907 and 1908. Other notables include starting first baseman Vic Saier, shortstop Al Bridwell, third baseman Heine Zimmerman, outfielders Frank Schulte and Mike Mitchell, and pitchers Jimmy Lavender and Ed Reulbach. Though the team had shed much of its legendary figures in the years since its consecutive World Championships, the presented ball features more members of those 1907-08 squads than any we've thus far encountered. As such, this will surely rank among the most important Chicago Cubs artifacts to reach the auction block in 2009. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1921-22 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. The past and the future of the mighty long ball collide upon this exceedingly rare team sphere dating to either 1921 or 1922, the only two seasons during which Frank "Home Run" Baker and George Herman "Babe" Ruth shared a New York Yankees dugout. Experienced Yankee collectors are well aware that team balls from the first two American League Championship seasons are a profoundly endangered species. In fact, fewer than five team balls from these two years are known to survive to this day, each in major private collections and unlikely to reenter the collecting market anytime soon.
The presented OAL (Johnson) ball exhibits the manner of surface wear one would expect for a baseball rapidly approaching its ninetieth birthday, rendering the signatures of Ruth and Baker a 5/10 and 3/10 respectively. The balance of the signers: Hoyt (8/10), Miller (3/10), McNally (4/10), Meusel (7/10), Mays (7/10), Huggins (1/10), Ward (2/10), Schang (2/10), Shawkey (2/10). The imperfections must be forgiven, however, in light of the extraordinary scarcity of the offering. We do not hesitate to suggest that this offering may be a once in a lifetime opportunity, and serious Yankee collectors are advised to bid with this distinct possibility in mind. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Full LOA from PSA/DNA.
The presented OAL (Johnson) ball exhibits the manner of surface wear one would expect for a baseball rapidly approaching its ninetieth birthday, rendering the signatures of Ruth and Baker a 5/10 and 3/10 respectively. The balance of the signers: Hoyt (8/10), Miller (3/10), McNally (4/10), Meusel (7/10), Mays (7/10), Huggins (1/10), Ward (2/10), Schang (2/10), Shawkey (2/10). The imperfections must be forgiven, however, in light of the extraordinary scarcity of the offering. We do not hesitate to suggest that this offering may be a once in a lifetime opportunity, and serious Yankee collectors are advised to bid with this distinct possibility in mind. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Full LOA from PSA/DNA.
1931 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. Though the Yanks would yet again surrender the American League flag to the Philadelphia Athletics in 1931, Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig continued their dominance of Junior Circuit pitching with forty-six homers each and a combined 347 runs batted in. Each of these pinstriped legends is counted among the twenty signatures applied to this OAL (Barnard) ball, along with fellow Hall of Famers Dickey, Sewell, Ruffing, Lazzeri, Gomez, Pennock and Combs. All listed signatures register at a strength of 4/10 or better thanks in part to a light coating of shellac. Only a couple minor figures dip below this mark, with most others the same or a point better. A solid mid-grade team ball from that magical era in the Bronx when true baseball gods walked the earth. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1931 Tour of Japan Team Signed Baseball. Considerably more scarce than its younger brother of 1934 vintage, the presented model is among the finest you'll encounter from this first Depression-era trip across the Pacific. Appearing upon an "Official Six University League of Tokyo" baseball are seventeen bold black fountain pen ink signatures from the likes of Gehrig, Simmons, Maranville, Cochrane, Grove, Frisch, Kelly, Ruel, O'Doul and more. Only a single (unlisted) autograph dips below 8/10 on our grading scale, and that due to an abrasion to the shellacked surface of the ball. Worth the price of admission for the cast of characters alone, this tough orb has the historic importance to make it a double threat. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1932 Chicago Cubs Team Signed Baseball. Victimized by the Babe's Called Shot in that season's Fall Classic, the 1932 Cubs remain just the second to last team (after the 1945 edition) to raise the National League flag over Wrigley Field. Given how scarce are Championship team spheres for this snake-bitten franchise, collectors with a love for the North Side are well advised to bid now or forever hold their peace. The provided OAL (Harridge) ball, likely signed during that unfortunate run-in with the unstoppable Yanks, is signed by twenty-three including Cuyler (9/10), Hartnett (1/10), Grimes (8/10), Herman (2/10), Gudat, Demaree, Malone and O'Leary. Grimm is the sole clubhouse signature. Quality ranges from 1/10 to 9/10, with most in the 6/10 to 7/10 neighborhood. Full LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1933 New York Yankees & Detroit Tigers Signed Baseball with Ruth, Gehrig. More than three-quarters of a century after a battle between the Big Apple and the Motor City spawned the presented OAL (Harridge) keepsake, collectors will be thrilled to find a heaping helping of iconic autographs coating its hide. Most notable, of course, is the timeless pairing of Ruth and Gehrig, who appear at strengths of 7/10 and 8/10 respectively. Other Hall of Famers: Lazzeri (6/10), Sewell (7/10), Ruffing (4/10 due to surface wear), Pennock (3/10), Gomez (5/10), Harris (6/10), Gehringer (6/10), Greenberg (6/10). That's ten enshrinees in total! Other notables include Schoolboy Rowe, Ben Chapman, Jo Jo White. Note that Sorrell, Rhiel and Ruffing have been deemed enhanced, and Fox clubhouse. Signature quality averages 6/10, with none dipping below 3/10. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1934 Tour of Japan Team Signed Baseball. One of the most appealing team balls we've yet to encounter from this fascinating baseball tour, as the medium is the very model of Japanese baseball used in competition as the greatest legends of the Majors Leagues battled the best of the Land of the Rising Sun. A full cast of sixteen is represented in black fountain pen ink: Ruth (7/10), Mack (6/10), Gehrig (8/10), Foxx (6/10), Gehringer (7/10), Averill (8/10), Gomez (8/10), Berg (3/10), Miller (5/10), Brown (2/10), Whitehill (7/10), Warstler (7/10), Cascarella (3/10), O'Doul (3/10), Hayes (9/10), McNair (6/10). Ball is toned an attractive, tobacco hue. From the standpoint of baseball history and its development as an international sport, the importance of the Japanese tours in the early 1930's cannot be overstated, so true baseball historians are advised to bid accordingly. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1937 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. For the second consecutive season the World Series was confined to one square mile of New York City real estate, and for the second consecutive season it was the mighty Yankees that slew the Giants across the river. Presented is an OAL (Harridge) ball commemorating the sixth World Championship Yankees team, fittingly promoting the legendary Lou Gehrig (8/10) on its sweet spot. Further Hall of Fame talent is supplied through Ruffing (7/10), Combs (4/10), Lazzeri (7/10) and clubhouse versions of Gomez, McCarthy and DiMaggio. The balance of signatures, excepting Monte Pearson, is the genuine article, and averages 6/10. The horsehide exhibits some inconsequential spots of foxing but is otherwise lightly and evenly toned. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1938 Brooklyn Dodgers Team Signed Baseball with Babe Ruth. Still chasing his dream to manage a Big League ballclub, the great Bambino accepted the position of first base coach for the the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1938, though it would not prove to be the stepping stone he had hoped. In the end, Ruth's employment was revealed to be little more than a publicity stunt, a ploy to put fans in the stands to watch the forty-three year old Sultan swat a few batting practice home runs prior to the main event. Here he joins the team for which he wore his last Major League uniform, applying an 8/10 blue ink signature to the sweet spot of an ONL (Frick) orb. Fellow Hall of Famers Cuyler (6/10), Haines (7/10) and Durocher (4/10) join the Babe, as well as fourteen other prewar Bums including Lavagetto, Hassett and Koy. Decades of surface wear has lowered many of the autographs to 5/10 or below but the most notable names have miraculously fared the best, providing an attractive option for the collector wishing to bring some iconic names into his trophy room without an exorbitant price tag. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1939 National League All-Star Team Signed Baseball. The seventh edition of the Midsummer Classic finally made its way to baseball's greatest stage, bringing baseball's best to the Bronx field where Lou Gehrig had delivered his heart-wrenching farewell just one week earlier. Outstanding pitching kept this meeting a low-scoring affair, with the Nationals only managing to plate a single baserunner in a three to one loss. Seventeen members of the reunited squad applied their names to this OAL (Cronin) baseball, likely signed when the game returned to Yankee Stadium in 1960. Present are Medwick, Hartnett, Lombardi, Terry, Herman, Walters, Derringer, Vander Meer and more. Signature quality is a consistent 7/10 to 9/10 throughout. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1939 Brooklyn Dodgers Team Signed Rare Yellow Baseball. Arguably the toughest of all Major League baseballs in the hobby, the yellow ONL (Frick) saw just four games of action before relegation to the dustbin of baseball history, each contest featuring the Brooklyn Dodgers as a combatant. Three of the contests date from the 1939 season (the first in August, 1938), and here we find the autographs of twenty-two members of the 1939 Dodgers, including Durocher, Dressen, Walker, Hollingsworth, Lavagetto, Casey, Camilli and Fitzsimmons. Autograph quality averages 8/10, but we must stress that it's the medium itself that carries the most of the weight here. With specimens appearing on the auction block at an average of once every two years or so, these yellow orbs are pure hobby gold. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1941 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. Twenty-nine signatures from the first Yankees team to vanquish the Brooklyn Dodgers in the World Series. Most notable, of course, is the great Joe DiMaggio, whose incredible fifty-six game hitting streak had been the main topic of conversation for weeks of a New York City summer. Other notables include Ruffing, Rizzuto, Dickey, Combs, Gomez, Crosetti, Henrich, Selkirk, Rolfe, Keller and more. Only McCarthy and Chandler appear in clubhouse format. Signature quality is a consistent 6/10 to 7/10 except for a single panel averaging 4/10 including only Rizzuto from the names listed above. Still a tough and desirable team sphere from one of the most memorable World Championship Yankee incarnations. Full LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1949 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. Despite posting just a single winning season in eight years of Big League managing, Casey Stengel earned the role of skipper of the New York Yankees in 1949 amidst the loud protestations of local sportswriters and fans alike. Come October, however, all Bronx faithful were singing a much different tune, as the Ol' Perfesser led the club to its first of five consecutive World Championship crowns. Here we find twenty-eight signatures from the crew he led to the promised land, applied to an OAL (Harridge) sphere. Notables include DiMaggio (7/10), Mize (7/10), Rizzuto (1/10), Henrich (6/10), Martin (6/10), Reynolds (7/10), Raschi (5/10). All but a couple signatures rate 6/10 or better. Scattered scuffing of the baseball's hide is apparent, but causes little trouble. An imperfect yet entirely respectable specimen. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1951 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. The single season convergence of the careers of rookie Mickey Mantle and departing veteran Joe DiMaggio establishes '51 Yankees team balls as perhaps the most important and coveted of the post-war era. Each pinstriped legend is present and accounted for upon this OAL (Harridge) sphere, with Joltin' Joe appropriately claiming the sweet spot and the Mick still proving his worth on the panel to the north. Twenty-three fellow World Champions join this iconic pairing, most notably Rizzuto, Mize, Dickey, Berra, Henrich, Crosetti, Raschi, Woodling, McDougald, Houk, Lopat and Sain. The signatures remain marvelously bold with scattered surface scuffing their only adversary, occasionally causing slight ink loss to no considerable detriment. An essential artifact for the serious Yankees collector. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1951 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. The center of a five-season era of World Championship dominance in the Bronx is recalled with this spectacularly high-grade OAL (Harridge) sphere boasting twenty-nine bold black ink autographs. The beloved skipper Stengel makes a rare non-secretarial appearance, as does the legendary DiMaggio in his final season. The rookie Mantle is missing, easily explained by the several weeks spent working out the kinks in the minors that tough first year, but fellow Hall of Famers Berra, Dickey, Mize and Rizzuto are present with stars Henrich, McDougald, Martin, Bauer, Crosetti, Sain and more. Not a single autograph dips below 8/10, and the ball remains creamy and clean. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1951 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. The absence of Mantle cannot derail what is otherwise a high-grade sphere dedicated to one of the most celebrated of the twenty-six World Championship teams to call the Bronx home. Mickey, as one will recall, had a spotty first season and spent a fair bit of time with the Kansas City Blues farm club in 1951, logically explaining his failure to appear upon this OAL (Harridge) ball. The great DiMaggio claims his rightful sweet spot, however, and is joined by the likes of Dickey, Berra, Rizzuto, Henrich, Reynolds, Bauer, Silvera, Houk and more. Twenty signatures are here in total, all grading 8/10 or better. The OAL stamping has been worn away, but the ball is otherwise in fine, moderately toned condition. A quality 1951 Yankees ball for the collector unwilling to spend the five figures that a ball including Mantle would require. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1952 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. With the great DiMaggio settling into retirement, the stage was set for a young Mickey Mantle to earn top billing in the Bronx, and this year he would do just that. Despite a nagging knee injury suffered in the second game of the 1951 Series, the twenty-year old Oklahoman earned a third place finish in American League MVP voting and justified his position with Phil Rizzuto upon the sweet spot of the presented OAL (Harridge) ball. Twenty-three share space with this Hall of Fame duo, including Mize, Berra, Martin, McDougald, Sain, Raschi, Reynolds and McDougald. The club would win the fourth of five consecutive World Series this October, further elevating the appeal of this lot. Signature quality averages 7/10, with only one (Bauer) falling more than two points off that pace. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1952 Brooklyn Dodgers Team Signed Baseball. Nightmares of a 1951 repeat haunted Brooklyn fans this season as the Bums saw a ten and a half game lead over the hated Giants melt through September, but the Polo Grounds charge would only manage to shave six games from that difference before the closing bell. Twenty National League Champs survive in magnificent 9/10 and better condition upon the presented ONL (Giles) ball, featuring all of your favorites like Jackie, Campy, Pee Wee, the Duke, Herman, Hodges, Erskine, Black, Roe, Furillo, Branca, Dressen and more. A notation in an unknown hand announces "1952 World Series" on the sweet spot. Certainly one of the finest team balls we've encountered from the beloved Boys of Summer. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1954 American League All-Star Team Signed Baseball. Thirteen pitchers and six home runs in the 1954 Midsummer Classic should properly indicate that this was no low-scoring affair, with the American League putting up three in the bottom of the eighth for a come-from-behind eleven to nine victory. Twenty-nine members of that victorious Junior Circuit crew appear on this OAL (Harridge) ball signed at Cleveland's Municipal Stadium, including Ted Williams, Mantle, Fox, Berra, Doby, Lemon, Trucks, Piersall and Al Rosen, who went deep twice in the contest. The signatures remain impressively bold, though it must be noted that about two-thirds have taken on a pinkish hue as the ink aged, to little detrimental effect. It's still one of the nicer examples you'll find, and the cast of characters is likewise tough to beat. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1955 National League All-Star Team Signed Baseball. Remarkably high-grade sphere is quite possibly the finest surviving representation, with not a single Senior Circuit luminary presenting at a strength below 9/10. A comprehensive roster of twenty-nine appears, including Aaron, Mathews, Schoendienst, Snider, Mays, Roberts, Durocher, Musial, Banks, Hodges, Kluszewski and more. Nine Hall of Famers! ONL (Giles) ball is clean and white. One of the most thrilling All-Star Games ever, as Stan Musial launched a walk-off home run in the bottom of the twelfth to close the show. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1955 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. A seventh American League pennant in a nine-season span served to further establish this dynasty as one of baseball's all-time greatest. Leading the charge is the Ol' Perfesser Casey Stengel on the sweet spot, typically found in clubhouse format on team balls of the era but 100% legit here. Joining the Hall of Fame manager on the non-official sphere is a desirable early style Mantle, Dickey, Ford, Berra, Larsen, Howard, McDougald, Skowron, Carey, Noren and Bauer. Twenty-five blue ink signatures are here in total, none dipping below 8/10 in quality. A couple thin razor slices affect Cerv and Carey on one side panel, but to no significant detriment. A gorgeous specimen. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1955 Brooklyn Dodgers Team Signed Baseball. Direct from the personal collection of Hall of Fame manager Walt Alston comes this team sphere recalling the most beloved of all Brooklyn Bums teams, the squad that finally got the better of the hated Yanks that glorious October of 1955. Twenty-four World Championship signatures are here in total, with authentic autographs from Robinson, Campanella, a tough rookie Koufax, Alston himself, Hodges, Podres, Erskine, Gilliam, Labine and Frank Kellert, whose presence assures 1955 vintage. Four clubhouse signatures, penned in blue ink at a later date, include Snider, Reese, Furillo and Hoak. Autograph quality averages an impressive 7/10, and the ONL (Giles) ball remains very clean with only minor surface wear. Letter of provenance from Alston's nephew is included. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1956 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. It was a season punctuated by a Triple Crown for Mantle, a perfect game for Larsen, and a World Championship for the Bronx. So it's little surprise that collectors tend to clamor for team balls from this Yankee edition, and here we provide a wonderful example. Sharing the sweet spot are two of the club's biggest names, Mantle and Berra, with the adjacent panels populated by the likes of Ford, Slaughter, Rizzuto, Larsen, Martin, Howard, Skowron, Carey, Bauer and McDougald. Twenty-seven signatures are here in total, with autograph quality a consistent 8/10 and no major names falling below that mark. Non-official ball is lightly shellacked. Full LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1959 Washington Senators Old Timers Game Signed Baseball. The best and brightest from the diamond of our nation's capital delighted fans at Griffith Stadium during a gathering of former stars, where one smart fan crammed as many signatures as possible onto his OAL (Harridge) ball. He had to call it quits at thirty-two autographs, which include the likes of Sam Rice, Goose Goslin, Stan Coveleski, Rick Ferrell, Heinie Manush, Moe Berg, Roger Peckinpaugh, Joe Judge, Muddy Ruel, George Case and Chuck Dressen. Signature quality is a rather consistent 8/10 average throughout. Finally something coming out of Washington that will enjoy bipartisan collecting support. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1960 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. Experienced collectors of Yankees team balls are well aware that examples from this era are typically plagued with clubhouse Mantle signatures, and often faux Maris autographs as well. We're happy to report that each of these legendary sluggers, and the rest of the twenty-five total blue ballpoint autographs that coat this OAL (Cronin) horsehide, are the genuine article. Other notables include Berra, who shares the sweet spot with the Mick, Dickey, Ford, Richardson, Howard, Skowron, Boyer, McDougald, Turley and Duren. Not a single signature dips below a strength of 7/10, with most a point or two better. A fine memento of the American League Champs. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1971 Pittsburgh Pirates Team Signed Baseball. Roberto Clemente came through in the clutch at the close of this season, opening a lead that the Pirates would never lose with a solo shot in the fourth inning of Game Seven of the World Series. Surrounding him on this baseball issued by Pittsburgh radio station "KDKA Radio 1020" are twenty-two of his grateful World Championship teammates, notably Stargell, Mazeroski, Ellis, Murtaugh, Sanguillen and Oliver. The ink survives in magnificent condition at an average boldness of 9/10. A special keepsake from Clemente's last World Championship season. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1971 Pittsburgh Pirates Team Signed Baseball. Roberto Clemente came through in the clutch at the close of this season, opening a lead that the Pirates would never lose with a solo shot in the fourth inning of Game Seven of the World Series. Surrounding his 8/10 black ink signature on this ONL (Giles) ball are twenty-five of his grateful World Championship teammates in 9/10 and better blue ink, notably Stargell, Mazeroski, Ellis, Murtaugh, Sanguillen, Virdon and Oliver. A special keepsake from brave Clemente's last World Championship campaign. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1999 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. Launching a solo home run in the bottom of the eighth inning of the fourth and final game of the Yankees' World Series sweep of the 1999 Atlanta Braves, Jim Leyritz laid claim to the last home run of the 1900's. Direct from his personal collection comes a flawless team signed baseball celebrating the twenty-fifth World Championship club to call the Bronx home. A packed roster of thirty-two 10/10 signatures includes everybody: Jeter, Torre, Clemens, Rivera, Williams, Posada, Girardi, Knoblauch, Martinez, El Duke, Pettitte, Brosius, Cone and many more. Dead Mint, with a letter of provenance from Leyritz' wife. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Boxing Collectibles
Circa 1817 Randall vs. Belasco Bronze Frieze. Ancient bronze artifact is a three-dimensional reproduction of a famous etching by Charles Williams of London, published by S.W. Fores. It captures the action of September 30, 1817, a contest in a twenty-four foot ring for fifty Guineas a side. After fifty-four minutes the contest was decided in favor of Randall. Newspapers of the day recounted the bout as "the finest display of Science and bodily activity witnessed for many Years." The two figures stand in bas relief upon this weighty 11x14" bronze panel, which was many decades ago placed within a simple wooden frame extending the dimensions two inches per side. Only the slightest hint of oxidation is apparent, otherwise NRMT.
Circa 1860 John Morrissey Signed Cut Signature. One of the most fascinating figures of the brutal bare-knuckle days of Championship prizefighting, John Morrissey earned pugilistic immortality and a place in the International Boxing Hall of Fame through determination and a granite chin as opposed to mastery of the sweet science. Morrissey's official fight record lists just three bouts in the 1850's, though his unsanctioned contests and street fights were said to number in the hundreds. Victories over Yankee Sullivan in 1853 and John Heenan in 1858 earned Morrissey the "Heavyweight Championship of America." An 1854 loss to Bill Poole was avenged by Morrissey's gang, which murdered Poole in the streets two weeks after the bout. Presented is one of the only known examples of Morrissey's autograph, rendered with gorgeous 19th century penmanship and retaining its original 10/10 black fountain pen ink boldness. The paper that serves as its medium offers both the size and stock of a typical business card, and mild toning of the stock causes no concern. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1888 Jake Kilrain Handwritten Letter with Incredible John L. Sullivan Content. Extraordinary letter penned by the Hall of Fame boxer to his cornerman Johnny Murphy introduces the uninitiated to the world of 19th century trash-talking, as Kilrain takes his most famous opponent to task. "[John L.] Sullivan is crazzy (sic) he had to fight [Hall of Famer Charley] Mitchell but did not want to the paper men who brought him over here made him fight and he is worth nothing as a card until he does fight as the people think he is a bluff." The rant continues in Kilrain's rambling, punctuation-free style, "he is with the worst gang in England and I think he is afraid to fight fair and has the gang to break [it] up." The letter is written on both sides of a 7x9" page folded in a greeting card format, then folded horizontally for mailing. Kilrain signs with a simple "Jake" in the same 9+/10 black fountain pen ink that composes the letter. Wear is centralized at the fold lines but causes little concern, leaving the letter to present wonderfully. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1888 John L. Sullivan Presentational Silk Flag. Rare silk flag was passed down through a New England family from Michael Brown, former Featherweight Champion of New England in the 1920's who was mentored at a young age by John L. Sullivan. According to family history, the flag had been given to Brown by the bare-knuckle Heavyweight Champ himself. While quite rare, these flags have occasionally surfaced within the hobby, and are typically associated with the famous 1888 bout between Sullivan and Charlie Mitchell at Chantilly, France which ended in a draw after thirty-nine brutal rounds. Theories vary as to whether they were available for public purchase, or were made solely for Sullivan to present as gifts. In either circumstance, the family story of the consignor is not undermined.
The flag measures thirty-six inches square and exhibits an expected degree of wear which should be evident in our catalog photography. The various symbols associated with Sullivan's pugilistic career are artfully applied to the silk body of the thirty-nine star American flag, including an eagle soaring above a scroll reading "May he Always be Champion" and his "JLS" initials at bottom right.
Regardless of the exact history of this rare artifact, its connection to the most significant pugilist of the 19th century affords it limitless collecting appeal. While twelve decades of life have had their toll upon the delicate silk, the gorgeous aesthetics, much like a granite-chinned boxer, cannot be undone. Notarized letter of provenance from consignor is included.
The flag measures thirty-six inches square and exhibits an expected degree of wear which should be evident in our catalog photography. The various symbols associated with Sullivan's pugilistic career are artfully applied to the silk body of the thirty-nine star American flag, including an eagle soaring above a scroll reading "May he Always be Champion" and his "JLS" initials at bottom right.
Regardless of the exact history of this rare artifact, its connection to the most significant pugilist of the 19th century affords it limitless collecting appeal. While twelve decades of life have had their toll upon the delicate silk, the gorgeous aesthetics, much like a granite-chinned boxer, cannot be undone. Notarized letter of provenance from consignor is included.
1908 Johnson vs. Burns Fight Program, Postcard & Theater Program. Presented is one of just a tiny handful of known surviving examples of the Jack Johnson vs. Tommy Burns fight program, issued at The Stadium in Sydney, Australia on the day after Christmas, 1908. The century that has passed since its issue, and the fact that any lost examples that might still exist remain half a world away from American collectors, has made this program marking Johnson's assumption of the Heavyweight title a true holy grail piece for advanced hobbyists.
It was a match that almost didn't happen. Johnson was forced to chase Tommy Burns all over the world, taunting him in the press, before the Canadian pugilist consented to meet him in the ring. The fight lasted fourteen rounds before police stepped into the ring to stop the contest. The title was awarded to Johnson on a referee's decision as a technical knockout, and though Johnson had had several chances to finish the fight, he chose instead to hold Burns up so as to prolong the beating. Johnson mocked both Burns and his ringside crew as he went about his dominating performance, further fanning the flames of racial animosity that made him the most hated Champion in boxing history. From this moment until Jess Willard's victory over Johnson in 1915, the white boxing world cried out for a "Great White Hope" to remove him from his position as king of the boxing world, suffering his reign as a personal insult.
The offered program is the finest that has yet surfaced, remaining tightly bound with no loose or missing pages, and no tearing or staining to note. A very minor dog ear to the top right corner accounts for the bulk of condition issues, which should indicate just how remarkably well the program has survived. An EX-MT grade may well be overly conservative.
Accompanying the program is a large (4.5x7.5") postcard featuring an image of the event snapped between the third and fourth rounds with a lengthy caption regarding the results, gate, attendance, etc. EX. Finally, a theater program which serves as a guide to the motion picture of the contest. Four pages. G-VG.
It was a match that almost didn't happen. Johnson was forced to chase Tommy Burns all over the world, taunting him in the press, before the Canadian pugilist consented to meet him in the ring. The fight lasted fourteen rounds before police stepped into the ring to stop the contest. The title was awarded to Johnson on a referee's decision as a technical knockout, and though Johnson had had several chances to finish the fight, he chose instead to hold Burns up so as to prolong the beating. Johnson mocked both Burns and his ringside crew as he went about his dominating performance, further fanning the flames of racial animosity that made him the most hated Champion in boxing history. From this moment until Jess Willard's victory over Johnson in 1915, the white boxing world cried out for a "Great White Hope" to remove him from his position as king of the boxing world, suffering his reign as a personal insult.
The offered program is the finest that has yet surfaced, remaining tightly bound with no loose or missing pages, and no tearing or staining to note. A very minor dog ear to the top right corner accounts for the bulk of condition issues, which should indicate just how remarkably well the program has survived. An EX-MT grade may well be overly conservative.
Accompanying the program is a large (4.5x7.5") postcard featuring an image of the event snapped between the third and fourth rounds with a lengthy caption regarding the results, gate, attendance, etc. EX. Finally, a theater program which serves as a guide to the motion picture of the contest. Four pages. G-VG.
1909 Jim Jeffries Vaudeville Boxing Exhibition Lot. Just over a year before surrendering his Heavyweight Championship belt to Jack Johnson at Reno, Nevada on Independence Day, 1910, Jeffries was touring with a vaudeville act and putting on exhibitions of his boxing prowess in friendly matches with noted heavyweight Sam Berger. Presented are three paper artifacts from that tour. 1) Official Program, Watsonville Opera House. Four-page program lists the Jeffries bout as the grand finale of the performances. VG-EX. 2) Single-page program for the same traveling vaudeville show, once again listing Jeffries as the finale. Folded into quarters, pencil writing, minor tears, VG. 4x12". 3) "J.J. Jeffries Co. Hotel" sign. Usage unknown. Center vertical fold, toning at edges, otherwise EX-MT. 6x9".
1910 Jeffries vs. Johnson Full Ticket. Following Jack Johnson's assumption of the Heavyweight Championship in 1908, the former titleholder Jeffries was wooed out of five years of retirement to reclaim what white America believed was rightfully theirs. On Independence Day, 1910, the overwhelmingly white crowd at Reno, Nevada saw their worst fears realized, as Johnson battered the overmatched Jeffries for fourteen rounds before his corner saved him from an inevitable fifteenth round knockout by throwing in the towel. Presented is one of the rare few unused tickets from this most culturally relevant boxing match of the twentieth century, exhibiting typical corner wear but none of the creasing, staining or tearing typical of century old paper collectibles. A marvelous keepsake with wonderful period graphics that recall a very different time in our nation's racial and athletic history.
1910 Jeffries vs. Johnson Full Ticket. All the historical relevance of the previous lot at a more affordable price. As was quite common a century ago, keepsakes were meticulously cataloged in scrapbooks for enjoyment and preservation, and here we find a full ticket for the fight that saw Jack Johnson assume the Heavyweight title and begin a five-year search for "The Great White Hope" who could displace him. Our catalog imagery will indicate that the front of this unused ticket is equal in appearance to the previous lot, but the back remains firmly glued to a clipped scrapbook page. Mat and frame the ticket with your favorite photos of these Boxing Hall of Famers and nobody will be the wiser.
1910 Johnson vs. Jeffries Post-Fight Souvenir Program. Issued shortly after Johnson stunned the boxing world with his July 1910 assumption of the Heavyweight Championship title, this sixteen-page booklet entitled "Souvenir of the Great Contest" was released, recounting the highlights of what may be the most culturally significant prize fight of the twentieth century. Our favorite page is the one dedicated to a photograph of the knockout, which finds Johnson standing over Jeffries in front of a sea of white-skinned spectators, not a single one of them raising an arm or stirring in any way. The exceedingly rare publication exhibits a degree of storage wear and a vertical crease from a center fold, but remains complete and fully intact. One of the only examples known to survive within the hobby.
1911 T3 Turkey Red Sam Langford Display. Trailing only Joe Louis on Ring Magazine's list of the 100 Greatest Punchers of All Time, Langford was dubbed "The Greatest Boxer Nobody Knows" by ESPN. Langford stood just five foot six, weighed 185 pounds, and is credited with 200 victories in his career, with 130 coming by way of knockout. It has been said that Jack Johnson consistently dodged Langford's attempts to challenge him for the title, as did Jack Dempsey in later years. Presented is an intriguing display, though not one for the easily offended as the antiquated racial stereotypes are in full effect in the included newspaper clippings. Best is the apparently high-grade T3 Turkey Red card, though we must acknowledge that we have not disassembled the display to examine the card's corners and edges. A large (6x11") photo of Langford exhibits a horizontal crease but otherwise presents perfectly. Framed to dimensions of 21x26". Third party shipping is required.
1912 Abe Attell Signed Large Photograph. Best remembered today as Arnold Rothstein's envoy to the Chicago White Sox in the conspiracy to fix the 1919 World Series, Abe "The Little Hebrew" Attell had been one of the fiercest featherweights in boxing history and was an original inductee of the International Boxing Hall of Fame. The presented photo finds Attell facing off against the much larger Harlem Tommy Murphy in their epic twenty-round draw in San Francisco in 1912. The battered and bloody combatants are separated by the referee at center, above whose right shoulder resides a flawless 10/10 black fountain pen inscription: "To My Pal Dick Ahlers From the little Champ Abe Attell." The photograph measures an impressive 11x14" in size, with foxing and creasing ringing the perimeter though to no major detriment. Certainly one of the finest Attell signed photos we've encountered. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1917 Jess Willard & Buffalo Bill Show Pennant. Best remembered today as the man whose controversial victory over Jack Johnson in 1915 granted a nation's antiquated yearnings for a "Great White Hope," Willard capitalized upon that adoration with a vaudeville act done in conjunction with the fabled Wild West Show of William Cody. Here we present a remarkably well preserved relic from that partnership, an orange felt pennant emblazoned with Buffalo Bill's cartoonish likeness and the words "Jess Willard & Buffalo Bill Show." Just the mildest tip wear and missing tassels prevent a NRMT rating, but our catalog imagery should properly convey the fine aesthetics. Length is 13.75".
1927 Dempsey vs. Tunney "Long Count Fight" Program. While stubs from this monumental bout in sports history are fairly readily available in the hobby (due to attendance of 145,000, a record for a boxing match), the same cannot be said of programs issued for the event. Here we present one of those programs, sold to a fan on hand at Chicago's Soldiers' Field to witness Heavyweight Champ Gene Tunney snatch victory from the jaws of defeat due to Jack Dempsey's costly error. A single vertical fold bisects the program, though this is not particularly distracting to the eye, nor is the mild surface wear and general toning typical of publications of this advanced age. A fantastic relic from the Golden Age of Sport.
1930 James J. Corbett Signed Studio Portrait Photograph. The man who delivered the great John L. Sullivan into retirement with his knockout victory in New Orleans in 1892 provides a fan with a flawless fountain pen inscription some thirty-eight years later. The marvelous 7x9" sepia image is inked, "To My friend H.S. Hera with best regards, Jas. J. Corbett, Apl 27/30." The photo itself survives in likewise stunning condition. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Auction LOA from PSA/DNA.
1930's John L. Sullivan Beer Advertising Sign. Though the former bare-knuckle Heavyweight Champion of the World was one of the leading voices for temperance in the later years of his life, having renounced the bottle after a lifetime of close partnership with all manner of alcohol, the Hohenadel brewery made use of his image after his passing to promote its frothy beverages. This 17x23" artifact exhibits the typical weathering one would expect from a tin sign of this vintage but it still presents quite nicely. Original backboard missing.
1946 Mike Jacobs Signed Checks Lot of 25. A protege of iconic boxing promoter Tex Rickard, Jacobs took the reins of the New York City boxing world upon Rickard's 1929 death, but his big break would come in 1935 when he met the management team of then up-and-coming African American heavyweight contender Joe Louis. Here we present twenty-five signed checks from this Branch Rickey of boxing, the man best remembered for his promotion of Louis during a time when informal barriers blocking black boxers from title shots still stood. The posthumous Boxing Hall of Fame inductee's black fountain pen signature appears upon twenty-five checks issued by his promotion company, Twentieth Century Sporting Club, Inc. While most of the payees will be known only to serious boxing historians, we do note a secretarially endorsed check made payable to Ray Robinson. Checks should mild handling wear but all present very well with no troubling flaws. Also here are a couple dozen company checks signed by Jacobs' secretary Sol Strauss. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1946-48 Twentieth Century Sporting Club Checks Signed by Louis, LaMotta, Robinson More. Direct from the archives of the leading fight promoter of the 1930's and 1940's Twentieth Century Sporting Club, Inc., the presented collection of fourteen checks made payable to the top fighters of the day are endorsed by Joe Louis, Ray Robinson, Arthur "Young Mike" Donovan, Jake LaMotta (2), Buddy Baer, Sandy Saddler (2), Willie Pep, Joe Walcott, Rocky Graziano (2) and Marcel Cerdan. A fourteenth check is secretarially signed for Robinson. Signature quality averages 8/10, with a few dipping as low as 6/10 but all clearly legible. Checks themselves range from VG to EX-MT, with typical aging and an occasional fold or stain. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1947-48 Twentieth Century Sporting Club Checks Signed by Joe Louis (3). Trio of checks was issued to Louis by the leading fight promoter in New York City, the first of which is dated December 6, 1947, the day after Louis' fifteen-round decision over Jersey Joe Walcott in their first meeting. The left column notes "Purse," and then various deductions to follow including a sizeable advance which resulted in a final payment of just over six thousand dollars from his seventy-five thousand dollar purse. The Champ was known for his irresponsible spending, and this appears to be an indication of just how quickly the cash ran through his fingers. Louis' signature on verso is hampered somewhat by water damage, rating 6/10 as a result. The other two checks are made out for $1,500 and $3,209 respectively, signed on verso in 9/10 blue ink. Checks feature typical bank stamping and punch coding with mild storage wear but still present very well. Louis checks are exceedingly rare and sought after by collectors, with these issued by the promoter responsible for many of his fights being particularly important. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1955 Marciano vs. Moore On-Site Boxing Poster. It was a bout that only happened because of Archie Moore's relentless campaign for a shot at the Heavyweight Championship, with tactics ranging from a letter writing campaign to countless sportswriters, paid newspaper advertisements imploring Rocky to give him a shot, and even taunting notes sent to Marciano on the golf course asking, "Are you afraid to fight an old man?" And Moore came about as close as any challenger had managed, knocking Rocky to the canvas in the second round with a perfect right, only the second time Marciano had been taken off his feet. But Rocky would show his tremendous resilience as the fight progressed, finishing the challenger in the ninth round for his final belt defense and immortality as the only undefeated Heavyweight Champ. This scarce cardboard poster once hung at the ballpark where the New York Yankees were closing out another American League Championship season. Masterful restoration has returned the 20x27" relic to its former glory, though scattered wrinkling is evident upon close inspection, only adding to the vintage appeal. One of the most impressive and important fight posters from the 1950's to reach the auction block, for the uncompromising collector of pugiliana.
August 1, 1960 Cassius Clay Handwritten Letter. Consigned directly by the addressee of the letters presented below, this spellbinding correspondence archive presents the young Muhammad Ali exactly as we like to remember him-brash, charismatic, confident and hilariously charming. We are afforded a rare insider's access into the future Heavyweight Champ's outlook on the approaching 1960 Olympic Games and his first professional bout on his inexorable journey toward boxing immortality. We have blurred the identity of Clay's friend at his request, but bidders can rest assured that the mailing envelopes are as clear and legible as the letters themselves.
It must be stressed that these letters are the only three ever to surface from Cassius Clay prior to his conversion to Islam and corresponding name change, offering the advanced Ali collector what is almost certainly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share in his ascension to iconic status from a private perspective. As a prism through which the American public viewed race, religion and celebrity during the second half of the twentieth century, Muhammad Ali has assured himself a position in the pantheon in a manner unmatched in the sporting world. These fantastically scarce and special documents stand among his story's most desirable personal text.
"Hello Mel, I hope this letter finds you and your family well, I am here at Fort Dix getting ready for Rome, I am in the best of shape, I hope to soon be home with the world Championship soon, I am still hitting hard, Say look at here, We leave here on the 14 of august, so try to write me before then and send me Connie address will you, and try to get a picture of here, I stil dig her, so find here and let here know that I am still talking about here, get that picture man, 'please' I will send her and you a card from Rome Itly, Stay in training and you can't miss, tell all of the boys that I said hello, don't let me down about Connie, Your Fighting Friend, Cassius Clay, U.S. Champ."
Single page, original mailing folds otherwise EX-MT. Original mailing envelope postmarked "Fort Dix, NJ, Aug. 1 1960." Return address: "Cassius M. Clay [written, not signed], c/o Special Service, U.S. Olympic Boxing Team, Building 5434, Fort Dix, NJ."
Clay's Gold Medal performance in the Light Heavyweight division at the 1960 Rome Olympics is typically considered the opening salvo in one of the most storied careers in American sports. It would be the last great victory of Clay's amateur career, setting the stage for increasingly more lucrative bouts leading up to his historic 1964 first meeting with Sonny Liston, from whom he would claim the Heavyweight Championship belt.
It must be stressed that these letters are the only three ever to surface from Cassius Clay prior to his conversion to Islam and corresponding name change, offering the advanced Ali collector what is almost certainly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share in his ascension to iconic status from a private perspective. As a prism through which the American public viewed race, religion and celebrity during the second half of the twentieth century, Muhammad Ali has assured himself a position in the pantheon in a manner unmatched in the sporting world. These fantastically scarce and special documents stand among his story's most desirable personal text.
"Hello Mel, I hope this letter finds you and your family well, I am here at Fort Dix getting ready for Rome, I am in the best of shape, I hope to soon be home with the world Championship soon, I am still hitting hard, Say look at here, We leave here on the 14 of august, so try to write me before then and send me Connie address will you, and try to get a picture of here, I stil dig her, so find here and let here know that I am still talking about here, get that picture man, 'please' I will send her and you a card from Rome Itly, Stay in training and you can't miss, tell all of the boys that I said hello, don't let me down about Connie, Your Fighting Friend, Cassius Clay, U.S. Champ."
Single page, original mailing folds otherwise EX-MT. Original mailing envelope postmarked "Fort Dix, NJ, Aug. 1 1960." Return address: "Cassius M. Clay [written, not signed], c/o Special Service, U.S. Olympic Boxing Team, Building 5434, Fort Dix, NJ."
Clay's Gold Medal performance in the Light Heavyweight division at the 1960 Rome Olympics is typically considered the opening salvo in one of the most storied careers in American sports. It would be the last great victory of Clay's amateur career, setting the stage for increasingly more lucrative bouts leading up to his historic 1964 first meeting with Sonny Liston, from whom he would claim the Heavyweight Championship belt.
October 25, 1960 Cassius Clay Handwritten Letter. Consigned directly by the addressee of the letters presented below, this spellbinding correspondence archive presents the young Muhammad Ali exactly as we like to remember him-brash, charismatic, confident and hilariously charming. We are afforded a rare insider's access into the future Heavyweight Champ's outlook on the approaching 1960 Olympic Games and his first professional bout on his inexorable journey toward boxing immortality. We have blurred the identity of Clay's friend at his request, but bidders can rest assured that the mailing envelopes are as clear and legible as the letters themselves.
It must be stressed that these letters are the only three ever to surface from Cassius Clay prior to his conversion to Islam and corresponding name change, offering the advanced Ali collector what is almost certainly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share in his ascension to iconic status from a private perspective. As a prism through which the American public viewed race, religion and celebrity during the second half of the twentieth century, Muhammad Ali has assured himself a position in the pantheon in a manner unmatched in the sporting world. These fantastically scarce and special documents stand among his story's most desirable personal text.
"Say my man I will have my first fight, professional that is, and it will be Oct 29 find Mclure and tell him about it, it might be in the paper there in Ohio, tell Connie I said hello, I am still thanking about her and when I get my car I will be there to see you, it will not be long Before I do beause I will have some doe after the fight, Hope to hear from you soon, Cassius Clay."
Single page, affixed to scrapbook page with missing upper left corner (no writing affected) and tape staining at edges. Original mailing envelope postmarked "Oct. 25, 1960, Louisville, KY." Return address: "Oct. 24 - 19-60, Cassius Clay [signed], 3302 Grand Grand, Lousville, KY."
Cassius Clay met Tunney Hunsaker, the police chief of Fayetteville, West Virginia, in his first professional bout. After the October 29th contest in Clay's Louisville hometown ended with a six-round decision in the Gold Medal-winner's favor, Hunsaker related to the press, "Clay was as fast as lightning. I tried every trick I knew to throw him off balance but he was just too good." In Ali's autobiography, he would write that Hunsaker had dealt him one of the hardest body blows he ever took in his career.
It must be stressed that these letters are the only three ever to surface from Cassius Clay prior to his conversion to Islam and corresponding name change, offering the advanced Ali collector what is almost certainly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share in his ascension to iconic status from a private perspective. As a prism through which the American public viewed race, religion and celebrity during the second half of the twentieth century, Muhammad Ali has assured himself a position in the pantheon in a manner unmatched in the sporting world. These fantastically scarce and special documents stand among his story's most desirable personal text.
"Say my man I will have my first fight, professional that is, and it will be Oct 29 find Mclure and tell him about it, it might be in the paper there in Ohio, tell Connie I said hello, I am still thanking about her and when I get my car I will be there to see you, it will not be long Before I do beause I will have some doe after the fight, Hope to hear from you soon, Cassius Clay."
Single page, affixed to scrapbook page with missing upper left corner (no writing affected) and tape staining at edges. Original mailing envelope postmarked "Oct. 25, 1960, Louisville, KY." Return address: "Oct. 24 - 19-60, Cassius Clay [signed], 3302 Grand Grand, Lousville, KY."
Cassius Clay met Tunney Hunsaker, the police chief of Fayetteville, West Virginia, in his first professional bout. After the October 29th contest in Clay's Louisville hometown ended with a six-round decision in the Gold Medal-winner's favor, Hunsaker related to the press, "Clay was as fast as lightning. I tried every trick I knew to throw him off balance but he was just too good." In Ali's autobiography, he would write that Hunsaker had dealt him one of the hardest body blows he ever took in his career.
October 18, 1961 Cassius Clay Handwritten Letter. Consigned directly by the addressee of the letters presented below, this spellbinding correspondence archive presents the young Muhammad Ali exactly as we like to remember him-brash, charismatic, confident and hilariously charming. We are afforded a rare insider's access into the future Heavyweight Champ's outlook on the approaching 1960 Olympic Games and his first professional bout on his inexorable journey toward boxing immortality. We have blurred the identity of Clay's friend at his request, but bidders can rest assured that the mailing envelopes are as clear and legible as the letters themselves.
It must be stressed that these letters are the only three ever to surface from Cassius Clay prior to his conversion to Islam and corresponding name change, offering the advanced Ali collector what is almost certainly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share in his ascension to iconic status from a private perspective. As a prism through which the American public viewed race, religion and celebrity during the second half of the twentieth century, Muhammad Ali has assured himself a position in the pantheon in a manner unmatched in the sporting world. These fantastically scarce and special documents stand among his story's most desirable personal text.
"Say my man, Ain't nothing happening man, all of the little girls won't come, were there are I just don't know, Collage is whats happening man, you are in a place were the girls have to stay, and that way you can see then all every day, man I lost your adress, and I could not get in touch with you, and in the mean while I have been going up side heads, say man I am going back to florida next week to train for a fight I will have in 7 weeks, this one will not be on T.V. but it will be in Lou KY, who it is I don't know yet, but I can't be stoped (smiles) When you get home in December you write me a few lines so that I wont forget, and if nothing aint goind own I will drive down, I am in this weeks sport Illustrated the date on it is Oct. 16, 1961 I have a good write up on my last fight, and I should have a good story in the next ring, Rudolph said hello and keep your cool smile I must go now Hope to see you soon Cassius Clay."
Two pages on front and back of single sheet, original mailing folds otherwise NRMT. Original mailing envelope postmarked "Louisville KY, Oct. 18, 1961." Return address: "Cassius Clay [signed], 3302 Grand, Lou, KY."
The upcoming bout to which Clay refers here is a November 29, 1961 meeting with Willi Besmanoff, a German heavyweight who fought such top contenders as Sonny Liston, Archie Moore and George Chuvalo during his career. Clay stopped Besmanoff in the seventh round by way of technical knockout.
It must be stressed that these letters are the only three ever to surface from Cassius Clay prior to his conversion to Islam and corresponding name change, offering the advanced Ali collector what is almost certainly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share in his ascension to iconic status from a private perspective. As a prism through which the American public viewed race, religion and celebrity during the second half of the twentieth century, Muhammad Ali has assured himself a position in the pantheon in a manner unmatched in the sporting world. These fantastically scarce and special documents stand among his story's most desirable personal text.
"Say my man, Ain't nothing happening man, all of the little girls won't come, were there are I just don't know, Collage is whats happening man, you are in a place were the girls have to stay, and that way you can see then all every day, man I lost your adress, and I could not get in touch with you, and in the mean while I have been going up side heads, say man I am going back to florida next week to train for a fight I will have in 7 weeks, this one will not be on T.V. but it will be in Lou KY, who it is I don't know yet, but I can't be stoped (smiles) When you get home in December you write me a few lines so that I wont forget, and if nothing aint goind own I will drive down, I am in this weeks sport Illustrated the date on it is Oct. 16, 1961 I have a good write up on my last fight, and I should have a good story in the next ring, Rudolph said hello and keep your cool smile I must go now Hope to see you soon Cassius Clay."
Two pages on front and back of single sheet, original mailing folds otherwise NRMT. Original mailing envelope postmarked "Louisville KY, Oct. 18, 1961." Return address: "Cassius Clay [signed], 3302 Grand, Lou, KY."
The upcoming bout to which Clay refers here is a November 29, 1961 meeting with Willi Besmanoff, a German heavyweight who fought such top contenders as Sonny Liston, Archie Moore and George Chuvalo during his career. Clay stopped Besmanoff in the seventh round by way of technical knockout.
1962 Patterson vs. Liston Full Ticket PSA EX 5. A Heavyweight Championship reign that would end at the hands of a brash Cassius Clay in 1964 began at Chicago's Comiskey Park two years earlier, where this ticket went unsold at the box office. Liston's devastating first round knockout of the legendary Floyd Patterson established Liston not only as the new Champ, but also as one of the most feared punchers in the history of the Heavyweight division. This rare ticket survives in fine condition, rating EX 5 by the exacting standards of PSA. An exciting find for the advanced boxing collector.
1963 Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali) Signed Contract. Just three months before he would shock the boxing world with his seventh-round technical knock out of the terrifying Sonny Liston to claim the Heavyweight Championship of the World, young Cassius Clay put pen to paper to assert his acceptance of an invitation to appear on an ABC television broadcast. Presented is the three-page contract, signed on the last is 10/10 blue ink by the future Champ. All three pages are attractively matted and framed with a wonderful color photo from the aforementioned Liston bout. Complete dimensions: 15x43". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
1966 Charles "Sonny" Liston Signed Fight Contract. Scarce in any format, the provided autograph variation from this fascinating figure of the Heavyweight prize ring establishes it as among the most desirable Liston representations in the hobby. The underworld goon turned World Champ was considered to be borderline illiterate and signed only sparingly as a result, but was left no choice but to put pen to paper for this legal document agreeing to a payment of $5,500 for an Anchorage, Alaska exhibition bout on April 2, 1966. The contract presented here was completed the day before the three two-round contests, Liston's first appearance in the ring following his first-round knockout in the Lewiston, Maine rematch with Muhammad Ali less than a year earlier. His blue ink "Charles Sonny Liston" autograph rates a perfect 10/10, and the 8.5x13" page bears a small tear at lower edge well clear of the autographs, otherwise NRMT. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1969 James J. Braddock New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Plaque. Though his middle name was Walter, Jim Braddock fought under the name "James J. Braddock" in deference to earlier Heavyweight Champs Corbett and Jeffries, and that's how the Cinderella Man is honored on this plaque he received upon his induction into the New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame. The bronze and wood artifact features a radiant Garden State at center, above an engraved plaque reading "Inducted Into New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame, June 15, 1969, James J. Braddock." Some general handling wear causes no significant distraction. Measures 11x14".
1969 Cloverlay, Inc. Stock Certificate for Interest in Joe Frazier's Career. After "Smokin' Joe" Frazier claimed the Heavyweight Boxing Gold Medal at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, his trainer Yank Durham helped put together a group of investors in Frazier's professional career that would allow the up-and-coming fighter to train full-time, naming this consortium of local businessmen "Cloverlay." The word "Clover" was picked for luck, and "overlay" for a good bet. But what had seemed lucky for Frazier at first soon became an unexpected thorn in his side, as the antagonistic Muhammad Ali referenced this boardroom of white investors in Frazier as further proof of his "Uncle Tom" status while berating his opponent prior to their historic meetings. Presented is a rare stock certificate from the first "publicly owned" prizefighter, issuing two shares (at a dollar each) to a small investor in Frazier. The 7.5x10.5" certificate exhibits original mailing folds, but is otherwise NRMT.
1970's Muhammad Ali Used Heavy Bag from Deer Lake Training Camp. "Everlast" brand heavy bag was stung like a bee by the Heavyweight Champ as he floated like a butterfly across his Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania training grounds. The eighty-pound bag exhibits tremendous wear from the last decade of Ali's career, when he trained for such notable bouts as the Rumble in the Jungle and the Thrilla in Manila. A notarized letter from the contractor who was hired to clean out everything left behind at Ali's training camp, which included this bag, accompanies the lot.
1973 Muhammad Ali vs. Ken Norton Fight Poster Printing Plates. The very plates used to create the poster directing fans to what would be the Champ's first ring defeat are presented here for the boxing collector who has everything. Each 3.5x9.5" wooden block holds a metallic reverse image plate negative of one of the combatants, both the challenger Norton and the Champ Ali, who would suffer a broken jaw in the famous battle. "Joe Hand Promotions" is written in vintage marker on the back of each. Fine, undamaged condition.
1974 Ali vs. Foreman "Rumble in the Jungle" Program & Ticket Stub. Unquestionably the most coveted post-war boxing publication in the hobby, the on-site Rumble in the Jungle program is also the hobby's scarcest. The story of the bout, taking on mythic proportions, is familiar to even the most casual fight fan. The great Muhammad Ali, unfairly stripped of his Heavyweight crown for failing to comply with Vietnam draft laws, looks to regain it from the frighteningly powerful Foreman, who many boxing experts believe will not only knock Ali out, but might kill him in the process. Ali was no longer the the elusive jungle cat he had once been, they believed, and no man could weather the storm of Foreman. But Ali is as smart as as ever, if not as fleet of foot, and employs a plan that will come to be known as "Rope-a-Dope." Rather than eluding the sledgehammer blows of Foreman, Ali leans back against the ropes and takes on the role of heavy bag, absorbing scores of punches on his arms and shoulders while protecting his head and midsection. The chants of "Ali, bomaye" ("Ali, kill him!") of the African crowd quiet as the fight drags on, as it appears that the ex-Champ will do nothing but receive a beating. But suddenly, in the eighth round, Ali sees his opportunity as pounces on the exhausted Foreman, landing a series of heavy blows that sends the Champ cartwheeling to the canvas. And once again, after seven long years, Ali is King.
One of only a theoretical handful from the event ever to leave the continent of Africa, this sixteen-page French language program remains in simply spectacular condition, with only the lightest touches of wear at the corners and minor surface rubbing to the cover to note. Joining the program is a fantastically scarce ticket stub from the bout, bearing mild corner wear and a single diagonal wrinkle running from bottom edge to the center of the ticket. Technical VG-EX, with superior appearance.
One of only a theoretical handful from the event ever to leave the continent of Africa, this sixteen-page French language program remains in simply spectacular condition, with only the lightest touches of wear at the corners and minor surface rubbing to the cover to note. Joining the program is a fantastically scarce ticket stub from the bout, bearing mild corner wear and a single diagonal wrinkle running from bottom edge to the center of the ticket. Technical VG-EX, with superior appearance.
1978 Fritzie Zivic Testimonial Presentational Trophy. Growing up with five brothers during the Great Depression in a tough immigrant neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Zivic would explain years later, "You either had to fight or stay in the house. We went out." Best remembered for his brutal and ultimately victorious battle with Henry "Hammering Hank" Armstrong to take the world welterweight title in 1940, Zivic was presented this trophy by a buddy just six years before his passing after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease. The wood and brass memento features a pair of boxers facing off atop a polished wood platform measuring 4x8x8", with the height of the boxers expanding that dimension to twelve inches. An engraved plaque reads, "Fritzie Zivic Testimonial, Nov. 5, 1978, From Your Buddy Skippy." Light handling wear but no troubling flaws.
Circa 1980 Muhammad Ali Handwritten Notes for Speech on Race. Perhaps no athlete in American history has been both so controversial and yet so adored as the kid from Louisville who went from Heavyweight Champion of the World to boxing exile and back again. Never one to keep his opinions to himself, Ali made use of the offered seven 5x8" index cards while giving a speech in which he announces, in part, "The black man has been actually worthless when it comes to exercising the rights as human beings in an ever-advancing civilization. So remember, we cannot demand recognition until we have some land that we can call our own." Though moderate water damage will be apparent in the provided catalog photography, it cannot dampen the tremendous historical importance of a speech of this nature written in the hand of one of the post-war era's most significant culture icons. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1981 Muhammad Ali Training Worn Trunks. Any true Ali fan would recognize this white satin with black trim styling from one hundred yards away, the same look the iconic pugilist sported in the Rumble and the Thrilla. The presented pair dates to the early 1980's when the career of the greatest Heavyweight of all was winding to a close. Wear is light but clearly evident, indicative of the generous Champ's habit of giving away his gear to fans with great regularity. Though a letter of provenance from noted collector Raleigh DeGeer Amyx dates the trunks to circa 1970, the black box surrounding the "Everlast" label at the waistband proves this recollection to be faulty, dating the trunks to 1981 at the earliest. The size "L" label inside is proper for Ali trunks. Black ink signature on the front has ghosted yellow ever so slightly but still presents well. Graded MEARS Authentic. LOA from MEARS. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1983 Muhammad Ali Exhibition Worn Robe. Striking full length black satin robe was custom made for the Champ soon after the close of his historic career, most likely for some form of exhibition or promotional appearance. The experts at MEARS come to this conclusion due to the fact that the "Everlast" size "42" tag inside--rather than the typical L, XL or XXL tagging--is more indicative of custom work. Stenciled on the reverse in white serafed lettering is "Muhammad Ali," in a style consistent with previous robes. The robe exhibits heavy wear, consistent with exhibition or promotional use, and the left collar has become frayed, most likely during storage. Some mild toning is apparent at the collar as well. A 10/10 black sharpie signature on the white satin lapel is notated "Dec 4-83," along with a smiley face. LOA from MEARS. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1980's Muhammad Ali "Cassius Clay" Signed Boxing Glove. While it's not too uncommon to see the Champ sign "Muhammad Ali aka Cassius Clay," you'll be hard-pressed to find another piece signed with his birth name alone since he abandoned the name upon his assumption of the Muslim faith. Here we present just such a rarity, an Everlast right glove bearing a bold silver sharpie signature with just the absolute slightest of light rubbing that barely merits a mention. An exciting opportunity for the Ali fan who has it all. Full LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 1990 Muhammad Ali Signed Lobby Card. Original lobby card from the 1970 documentary "a.k.a. Cassius Clay" bears a 10/10 blue sharpie signature from the man whose conversion to Islam and remarkable boxing career form the film's subject. The lobby card measures the standard 11x14" in size, and presents at a NRMT level. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Full LOA from PSA/DNA.
1995 Muhammad Ali Signed Religious Pamphlets Lot of 10. The most charismatic sporting figure since Babe Ruth, the man born Cassius Clay pays tribute to the religion that changed his name and his life. Presented are ten pamphlets published by "The Institute of Islamic Information and Education," each signed by Ali on the cover in 10/10 black ink (one is 10/10 blue ink). Each autograph is dated with a miniature "95," definitively establishing the vintage. Each pamphlet appears in Mint condition. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1998 Muhammad Ali "Cassius Clay" Signed Effanbee Doll. Or should we call it an "action figure?" Exquisitely rendered figure is crafted with astounding detail, almost as if a circa 1966 Champ had been shrunk by an evil scientist and coated with plastic for preservation. Worth a nice chunk of change simply for its Mint in Box status, this specimen ups the ante considerably with a rare "Cassius Clay" blue ballpoint autograph on Greatest's white satin shorts. Educated collectors are well aware that Ali occasionally signed "Muhammad Ali aka Cassius Clay," but very rarely just his birth name alone after his conversion to Islam. The autograph was acquired by internationally known boxing collectibles expert Bob Pace, and includes his certificate of authenticity. Doll measures 18" in height, and autograph rates an impressive 9/10. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Miscellaneous Collectibles
2008 Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan & Tiger Woods Signed UDA Lithograph. The theme here is pretty evident: only the best of the best. The most dominant boxer, basketball player and golfer of his respective era join forces upon this enormous limited edition (36/500) lithograph from your friends at Upper Deck. The artfully crafted work is underscored by enormous black sharpie autographs from Ali, Jordan and Wood, each rendered in front of a UDA staffer with 10/10 boldness. The lithograph measures 25x49", with an elegant framing job expanding those dimensions to 33x57". COA from UDA (BAK33893). Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
Golf Collectibles
1902 Ladies Golf Tournament Runner-Up Ceramic Award Mug by Lenox. Gorgeously crafted vessel from the artisans of the world famous Lenox company treads the line between art and sporting artifact. A wonderful image of a turn-of-the-century female golfer and her caddy is the focus of this 5.5" tall mug, while an engraved silver band at the lip reads, "Runner Up Ladies Championship, AGC 1902." We're uncertain of the identity of the winner or the course where this prize was presented, but it's the fine aesthetics of the piece that really matters here. Lenox maker's mark is found on base. Marvelous NRMT condition with no chip or cracks to be found, and just light tarnishing of the silver rim.
1912 Early Golf Legends Signed Page with Harry Vardon. Very early autographed page features two of the three legends of the links that formed The Great Triumvirate. Most instantly recognizable is Harry Vardon, winner of the 1900 US Open and six episodes of the Open Championship, known by most outside the United Kingdom as the British Open. Joining Vardon in the Triumvirate is James Braid, a five-time Open Championship winner. George Duncan and Ted Ray are the other two signers, each appearing in 9/10 fountain pen ink around handwritten text reading "Glamorgan Golf Club Professional Match, Sept. 12th, 1912." The scores of the contest, with Duncan as the surprising victor, are handwritten below. Page is 3.75x6.25", with light toning and wear at edges not affecting any writing. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1920 USGA National Amateur Championship Contestant's Badge. Perhaps the only surviving example--we've certainly never encountered another--this remarkable badge was proudly sported by an early linksman at the picturesque Engineers Country Club on Long Island's north shore for the most prestigious of amateur golf tournaments. Finishing first and second were World Golf Hall of Famers Chick Evans and Francis Ouimet, allowing us to dare to dream that the pin may have once ridden one of their tweed lapels. The face of the badge announces "Contestant, National Amateur Championship, Sept 6 to 11, 1920," encircling a raised "USGA" logo at center. Pinbacked verso provides "Whitehead & Hoag" makers marking. Marvelous NRMT condition.
1925 USGA National Open Championship Contestant's Badge. The suburbs of Boston became the center of the golfing world in the late Spring of 1925 as the best golfers in the world did battle at the Worcester Country Club. For the second year in a row the title was claimed by a non-American, in this case Willie Macfarlane of Scotland. MacFarlane found himself tied with the great Bobby Jones at the close of seventy-two holes of regulation. After eighteen more holes of playoffs the deadlock remained. Finally, McFarlane edged Jones by a single shot in the second playoff round to claim the prize. Presented is a scarce and magnificently preserved badge worn by one of the golfers in this memorable Open, one of just a tiny handful known to survive to this day. And this is no mere survivor--in no significant way does the rare artifact diverge from its appearance almost eight and a half decades ago. The face of the badge announces "Contestant, National Open Championship, June 3-4 1925," encircling a raised "USGA" logo at center. Pinbacked verso provides "Whitehead & Hoag" makers marking. Even the rarely seen celluloid tag, reading number "40," remains attached, further elevating the desirability of the offering. Marvelous NRMT condition.
1928 USGA National Amateur Championship Contestant's Badge. Offered here is a U.S. Amateur Championship contestant's badge from 1928, the year Bobby Jones was victorious in what would be his fourth championship in this Major event. The youngster from Atlanta, who would be forever remembered as the founder of the Masters, and for his legendary performances, is one of the most collectible personalities of vintage gold memorabilia. The sky's the limit on Bobby Jones memorabilia values, making this 1928 Amateur Championship badge, worn by an unknown player, one that will turn heads. This red, white and gold showpiece has "USGA" at center, with "National Amateur Championship, Sept. 10 to 15, 1928" embedded in a circular design. Its original pinback is still intact on this great piece of golf history.
1931 Bobby Jones Signed Golf Scorecard and Original Snapshots. The treasured keepsakes of a Depression-era golf fan appear on the auction block for the legions of collectors anxious for any and all material related to this Golden Age god of the links. All pieces derive from an exhibition match played at Santa Barbara, California's La Cumbre Golf & Country Club on May 16, 1931, as the verso of the featured scorecard attests. The opposing side of the four and a half inch square card stock relic is fully scored in the fan's pencil, indicating that the legendary linksman was not the victor this day. But wisely the fan still sought out Mr. Jones, acquiring a 9/10 pencil signature as a souvenir. The eastern corner is chipped, but otherwise the scorecard features only light, inconsequential wrinkling to suggest its advanced age. Also here are five 3x4.5" snapshots of Jones in action this date, all displaying wonderfully with no major condition problems. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1934 St. Paul Open Program Signed by Horton Smith, Walter Hagen. Rare program from the Fifth Annual St. Paul Open Golf Tournament is signed by seven of the participants on the front cover. Most notable are two-time Masters winner Horton Smith (9/10) and Walter Hagen (6/10), who won the US Open twice, the British Open four times, and the PGA Championship a remarkable five times. Joining this iconic pair are Harry "Lighthorse" Cooper (6/10), John Revolta (7/10), Ky Laffoon (6/10), Len Mattson (9/10) and George VonElm (7/10). Program has tape repair at lower edge, well clear of the autographs, and is nicely matted with a couple modern prints of vintage photos and an informative caption. Matted dimensions 11.5" square. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Full LOA from PSA/DNA.
1934 First Masters Tournament Official Program. Recently discovered treasure joins approximately a dozen known surviving examples to rank among the most sought after golf publications in the collecting hobby. Links legend Bobby Jones' vision that was born this year would come to be the most prestigious tournament in the sport, the Green Jacket its most coveted prize. Cultured collectors are aware that despite the popularity and intrigue of this annual event, official programs were only offered the first two years of the tournament's existence. The provided specimen survives in remarkably strong condition, with moderate cover wear, including splitting at the spine, the only issues worthy of note. It must be stressed that the covers remain firmly affixed to the staples. The interior pages bear not a crease, tear or stain to mention. With examples of Masters programs surfacing at public auction once every few years, advanced collectors are advised to bid aggressively, as the wait between opportunities for ownership are long indeed.
1942 Bobby Jones Signed Index Card. The greatest name in prewar golf answers an autograph request through the mail for a young fan. Jones' classic "Robt. T Jones Jr." black ink signature registers as a perfect 10/10 over the top of a patriotic war time stamp affixed to a specially embossed blank 3x5" card featuring the text "World Autographs of Cole Savage." The index card is likewise in flawless condition, and even includes the original mailing envelope sent back to the collector in October 1942 from Jacksonville, Florida. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1941 Masters Badge. The most prestigious and exclusive tournament in the sport, The Masters Tournament is the realization of a dream of hometown hero Bobby Jones and investment banker Clifford Roberts, who designed Augusta National with course architect Alister MacKenzie. The annual tournament is properly called "the toughest ticket in sports," but we present four within this auction, the first of which is this 1941 model, issued for the fourth round on April 6th, only months before the beginning of America's involvement in the Second World War. Hall of Famer and 1941 US Open winner Craig Wood would take the Green Jacket this year. The badge survives in fabulous condition, with light wear at the top edge caused by the original attached string.
1942 Masters Badge. A household name here in Heritage Auction Galleries' hometown of Dallas, Texas due to the annual tournament bearing his name in nearby Las Colinas, Byron Nelson was the victor in this last Masters before the Second World War necessitated a three-year hiatus while cattle and turkeys were raised on the Augusta National grounds. The octagonal badge presents magnificently, with the front offering a NRMT appearance and the slightest bit of paper loss on verso causing no concern. Original string attached.
1946 Masters Badge, Third Round. With victory secured in Europe and Japan, and the livestock cleared from the fairways and greens, it was time to get back to the serious business of top level golf. This brown octagonal badge allowed entry for one lucky fan on Saturday April 6th, as 1940 PGA Championship winner Herman Keiser edged closer to his ultimate victory this year. Almost imperceptible dots of paper loss on verso are so minor as to overstate their effect by a mention. Otherwise the badge presents as NRMT, with original string.
1946 Masters Badge, Fourth Round. Issued the day after the badge in the previous lot, this salmon-colored octagonal artifact was on hand to see Keiser claim the Green Jacket, defeating Ben Hogan by a single stroke. The badge is the only example of the four with obvious condition issues, though these are still quite minor--light chipping at the left edge and some shadowing toward the right. Similar chipping is found on verso. Original string is affixed.
1953 Dwight D. Eisenhower Signed Letter to Gene Sarazen. There was perhaps no one more instrumental in bringing the sport of golf to the masses than President Eisenhower, whose love for the game inspired many thousands of Americans to head to the links. As such, this letter sent to golf icon Gene Sarazen carries no shortage of historical weight for the collector/scholar. Ike thanks Sarazen for a gift, writing, in part, "Your generosity keeps me decidedly busy playing around with new golf clubs--and a very pleasant business it is." The brief typed note on White House stationery is signed at the close in 10/10 black fountain pen ink, and the page is perfect but for original mailing folds. Also included is a sterling presentational platter given to Sarazen by Shell petroleum upon his retirement from the "Shell's Wonderful World of Golf" program, in EX-MT condition, 14.5" diameter. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1953 or 1957 Harvie Ward Masters Low Amateur Sterling Trophy Cup. Tremendously scarce offering is the sterling trophy presented to Harvie Ward, Jr. (1925 -2004) for finishing as Low Amateur in either the 1953 or 1957 Masters Tournament. Ward was the low amateur in three Masters Tournaments, 1953, 1955 and 1957. The trophy he received for the 1955 tournament was dated, but the other two were undated, and it is not known which of those achievements the present trophy celebrated. In the 1957 tournament, Ward's total score of 288 placed him fourth overall in the tournament won by Doug Ford. Harvie Ward was a fine player who won two U.S. Amateur titles and is one of a handful of amateurs to contend for a Masters title. Ward played in ten Masters Tournaments from 1948-58, missing the cut only in the '49 contest. He finished in the top 24 four times. Augusta sterling is some of the most sought after in tournament golf and once attained rarely leaves a family; this may be the only Masters trophy ever offered on the open market.
Measures 4" tall; top diameter 5.5", base diameter 3.75. Housed in a 14"x10.75"x7" custom built green morocco clamshell box with gilt lettered morocco spine labels providing title of this presentation and Ward's four rounds of scores; cup fits inside special hollowed section and includes below a presentation slip printed: "For the Autograph Collection of Dr. John Davis Jr." and signed "E. Harvie Ward to Dr. Davis - Masters '85, U.S. Amateur 1955-1956" protected behind plexiglas; also a photograph of Ward Jr. with Arnold Palmer mounted on the front board and a photograph of Ward Jr. with a fellow Augusta National Golf Club member in their respective Green Jackets on the inside box cover.
Measures 4" tall; top diameter 5.5", base diameter 3.75. Housed in a 14"x10.75"x7" custom built green morocco clamshell box with gilt lettered morocco spine labels providing title of this presentation and Ward's four rounds of scores; cup fits inside special hollowed section and includes below a presentation slip printed: "For the Autograph Collection of Dr. John Davis Jr." and signed "E. Harvie Ward to Dr. Davis - Masters '85, U.S. Amateur 1955-1956" protected behind plexiglas; also a photograph of Ward Jr. with Arnold Palmer mounted on the front board and a photograph of Ward Jr. with a fellow Augusta National Golf Club member in their respective Green Jackets on the inside box cover.
1955 Bobby Jones Signed Letter with Accompanying Book Invoice. Certainly one of the most intelligent and well-educated athletes in the American Pantheon, Jones demonstrates his continued love of learning in his later years with the provided lot. A brief typed letter to "Miller's Bookstore" in his Atlanta hometown reads, "I am keeping the two books checked on the enclosed invoice. The others are wrapped and available for your pick-up at my home, No. 3425 Tuxedo Road, N.W." Jones provides his full "Robert T. Jones, Jr." signature at the close in 10/10 black fountain pen ink. The page of Jones' business letterhead exhibits moderate foxing and original mailing folds, otherwise fine. Joining the letter is the invoice in question, with books entitled Why You Say It and Language Meaning & Maturity chosen. The books for return involve the same linguistic subject matter. Some toning to the invoice, otherwise no issues of note. Each piece is simply matted for display. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Full LOA from PSA/DNA.
1955-2000 Golf Legends Signed Sports Illustrated Magazines Lot of 128. Enormous and remarkably comprehensive collection features just about every golf related cover in Sports Illustrated history in autographed format. Tremendous break down value here, with the Tiger Woods issues alone (six signed examples!) worth many thousands. There are nineteen Jack Nicklaus (sixteen by himself), eleven Arnold Palmer (five by himself) and two Ben Hogan issues. Other notables: Sam Snead, Cary Middlecoff, Billy Casper, Gary Player, Julius Boros, Lee Trevino, Tom Watson, Fuzzy Zoeller, Craig Stadler, Hale Irviwn, tom Kite, Greg Norman and many more. A full listing is available by fax upon request. Autographs are 9/10 or better without exception, and magazines themselves likewise average NRMT, with no significant flaws to note. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1957 Bobby Jones Signed Check & Letter Display. Herbert Warren Wind, the esteemed golf journalist for The New Yorker, and later Sports Illustrated, once wrote of Bobby Jones, "In the opinion of many people, of all the great athletes, Jones came the closest to being what we call a great man." In the small gesture recounted by this heartwarming display, we see that Wind was correct in his assessment. A May 7, 1957 typed letter on Jones' personal letterhead makes a sincere apology to a fan who had sent him money in the hopes of receiving a Masters Tournament program in return. Jones laments that the letter had been missed, hidden beneath his writing pad, and goes on to explain that programs were not issued for the tournament. He then writes, "Instead of the 50¢ referred to in your letter, you actually enclosed three quarters. May I add a fourth for the use of this important sum of money? More importantly, I do send you my most abject apology." He signs, "Robert T. Jones, Jr." at the close. Framed just below is the uncashed check for one dollar, folded at center from mailing, signed identically to the letter. In an age in which millionaire athletes buzz past their fans in limousines, this touching display of humility and generosity makes us long all the more those days when chivalry was still alive and well in professional athletics. The gorgeously framed display measures 25x26" in size. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
1960 Bobby Jones Signed Book to Gene Sarazen. Golf nobility doesn't get any nobler than the pair linked by this special artifact sure to set even a common duffer's heart aflutter. A magnificently preserved first edition, complete with dust jacket, of Jones' autobiography Golf Is My Game, was gifted to the man who beat him by a single stroke in the 1922 US Open. The 10/10 blue ballpoint inscription reads, "For Gene Sarazen, A truly good friend as well as a great competitor, Bob Jones." The enormous historical import of this duo, paired with the stunning condition (only a small tear in the dustjacket denies a NRMT-MT rating for the book itself), makes this one of the most appealing golf post-war autographs to reach the auction block in quite some time. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1960's Payne Stewart Used & Signed Putter. A letter of provenance from the consignor states, "Putter was acquired from Payne Stewart by a PGA professional during his last year of school at Southern Methodist University. This PGA professional was a head professional at a Ft. Worth, TX private country club. A showcase was constructed for the putter and it was displayed inside this country club until I personally acquired it in 1985." A fascinating relic from the earliest days of Stewart's evolution into a superstar, the presented relic is the very putter with which he learned the game as a young boy. The wood-shafted club exhibits tremendous use and is signed on the back of the club head in 9/10 black marker. Once among the most recognizable players in professional golf because of his trademark knickers and tam-O'-shanter hat, Stewart tragically lost his life in a 1999 airplane crash, suddenly ending the supply of his collectibles to a market anxious for them, and increasing the value of those already available. As such pieces are secreted away into private collections, offerings such as this will only become more rare. Bid accordingly. Letter of provenance from consignor. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
Circa 1995 The Riviera Country Club Multi-Signed Pin Flag with Tiger Woods. The gorgeous course at Pacific Palisades, California was the site of Tiger Woods' first ever PGA Tour event, played as an amateur in 1992 during his high school sophomore year (he missed the cut). Presented is a Riviera pin flag quite possibly dating to the 1995 PGA Championship on these grounds, signed by a returning Woods and eighteen others including Steve Jones, Wadkins, Price, Azinger, Els, Calcavecchia, Singh, Olazabal, Mize, Couples, Pavin and Stadler. All blue and black sharpie signatures rate 9/10 or better, and the flag itself is free of any flaws. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 2000 Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus & Tiger Woods Signed UDA Large Photograph. Golf royalty doesn't get much more regal, as the game's top three figures of the past half century convene upon the course. Each has supplied his 10/10 silver sharpie signature to this marvelous 16x20" image snapped at the 1996 Masters, affixed with a holographic serialized sticker from Upper Deck for the most ironclad guarantee of authenticity. Photo is artfully matted and framed to final dimensions of 23x28". COA from UDA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1996 US Open Scorecard Signed by Tiger Woods. "I led the US Open at one point," Woods recalled of his first appearance in the tournament at Michigan's Oakland Hills Country Club. "I was tied for the lead. Early in that back nine on Thursday, and collapsed on that coming in. It was all predicated on a ruling that I had on what was it, fourteen? And, I just let that upset me and then played terrible coming in. But the second round, Friday's round is what really turned my sights into possibly turning pro later that summer." Presented here is a relic from the first round of that historic turning point in the career of Tiger Woods.
For the first and second rounds of the US Open, for quite a few years the USGA has paired the defending US Open Champion and reigning British Open Champion with the reigning US Amateur Champion. Hence, Corey Pavin and John Daly (the two Open Champions) were paired with Tiger Woods (twice US Am Champ) in the 1996 US Open's first two rounds. Tiger Woods was the scorekeeper (marker) for Corey Pavin. He carried, marked (in pencil) and attested this exact card--a one of a kind US Open/Tiger Woods collectible. It is a fine example of a summer 1996 Tiger Woods autograph. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
For the first and second rounds of the US Open, for quite a few years the USGA has paired the defending US Open Champion and reigning British Open Champion with the reigning US Amateur Champion. Hence, Corey Pavin and John Daly (the two Open Champions) were paired with Tiger Woods (twice US Am Champ) in the 1996 US Open's first two rounds. Tiger Woods was the scorekeeper (marker) for Corey Pavin. He carried, marked (in pencil) and attested this exact card--a one of a kind US Open/Tiger Woods collectible. It is a fine example of a summer 1996 Tiger Woods autograph. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 2000 World Golf Championships Signed Flag with Tiger Woods. Perfect replica of the pin flag flying at the final hole of this international links competition is signed by six competitors from one of the recent editions. Most noteworthy is a flawless Tiger Woods signature at far left, joined by Olazabel, Ellington and Woosnam. An impressive display piece. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
2003 Masters Flag Signed by Woods, Nicklaus & Palmer. Please note: The LOA is from PSA/DNA, not from James Spence Authentication.
Three of the greatest golfers ever to wear the Green Jacket join forces to create this fine display piece for the hobbyist and sportsman alike. Pristine black sharpie signatures from Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer turn this replica Masters flag into a piece worthy of an honored position in your trophy room. Museum quality matting and framing extends the final dimensions of the display to 23x28". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Three of the greatest golfers ever to wear the Green Jacket join forces to create this fine display piece for the hobbyist and sportsman alike. Pristine black sharpie signatures from Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer turn this replica Masters flag into a piece worthy of an honored position in your trophy room. Museum quality matting and framing extends the final dimensions of the display to 23x28". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
2004 Phil Mickelson Masters Tournament Worn Glove. For years the Boston Red Sox of professional golf, often coming close but never quite going all the way, Lefty was supplied by 2004 with the same joy it gave the baseball fans of Beantown as he dropped an eighteen-foot final hole birdie putt to defeat Ernie Els and take the Green Jacket at the Masters. Offered here is a well-worn Titleist glove from that historic first Major, signed in the palm by the happiest southpaw in the game. Accompanying the glove are three letters from the head of the Golf division at Gaylord Sports Management, the agency representing Mickelson, attesting to the authenticity of the glove. Letters of provenance (3) from Gaylord Management. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
Miscellaneous Collectibles
1887-89 Newsboy Trading Cards Advertising Sign. From a standpoint of pure aesthetics, the Golden Age of the tobacco card could be argued to be the late 1880's and early 1890's, when tobacco purveyors like Allen & Ginter and Duke's Cigarettes were creating miniature works of art informed by the European Pre-Raphaelite art movement of the mid to late nineteenth century. Here we present a glorious advertising sign issued by Newsboy Plug Tobacco to promote the trading cards presented within their product. The sign measures 20x28" in size, constructed of heavy paper with a metal bar at the top for hanging and another at the bottom for weight. A degree of rumpling and light tearing of the poster edges is in evidence, but it should be clear from our catalog imagery that these deficiencies are not particularly distracting to the eye. With just a small handful of similar posters surviving the twelve decades since their creation, bidders are advised to take any opportunity at ownership very seriously.
Circa 1910 Female Tennis Player Leather Tobacco Premium. Artfully rendered rarity is one of the earliest tobacco premiums to picture a female athlete, in this case a comely brunette with a tennis racquet and ball. She commands the central focus of the nineteen-inch square image, with tassels as long as nine inches extending the dimension on each side. Some minor staining, which does little to distract the eye, is all that must be reported in terms of condition. Verso reveals elegantly scripted "Boulder, Colo." text, though we have no theories on why this appears here. The first example we've seen of this attractive artifact, and we won't be surprised if it ends up being the last as well.
Auto Racing Collectibles
1923 Indianapolis 500 Speed Trials Trophy Cup Presented to Tommy Milton. Considered one of the preeminent race car drivers of his age, Milton became the first two-time winner at the Brickyard the year he was presented this trophy by Harry Stutz, the owner and creator of the "H.C.S. Special" automobile with which Milton set his speed record in qualifying. The ornate bronze and silver cup features designs on each of the three sides divided by intricately crafted lion's head handles. An engraved silver plaque reads, "Tommy Milton, H.C.S. 'Special,' Record 108.17 MPH Qualifying." Rotating the cup clockwise, we then encounter an image of the car in question, engraved directly into the cup. Finally, bold lettering announces "First Place, I.M.S., May 30, 1923." Very similar in design to cups on display at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the presented trophy is one of a very few from this era held in private collections. It's a rare and special opportunity for the serious motor sports enthusiast. Some wear at cup interior, but exterior presents as NRMT.
Olympic Collectibles
1932 Los Angeles Summer Olympic Games Archive with Signed Autographs of Thorpe, Didrikson. Sizeable archive of artifacts from the famous Depression-era Games features far too comprehensive a collection to properly recount here, so we advise interested parties to view the lot in Dallas if at all possible. Best is a scrapbook chock full of cut signatures from such household names as Jim Thorpe, Babe Didrikson, Jesse Owens, Johnny Weismuller, Duke Kahanamoku, Buster Crabbe, Helen Hull Jacobs, Helen Wills Moody, Ralph Metcalf and Bill Tilden. A couple hundred autographs are here in total, all as strong as the day they were signed. Also in the collection are over twenty-five ticket stubs to Olympic events, an Adult and Child admission pass in leather wallet, a couple dozen original news wire sheets, the "Official Report" enormous leather bound book (leather spine piece detached but present, otherwise VG), and an attractive bound volume of official programs for the Games. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Horse Racing Collectibles
Circa 1938 Pocket Watch Presented to Jockey George Woolf by Seabiscuit Owner Charles Howard. Historic pocket watch was a gift from Seabiscuit owner Charles Howard to George Woolf, the jockey he tapped to ride his legendary steed after Red Pollard was badly injured in an accident on another Howard horse in early 1938. It was Woolf who piloted Seabiscuit to what was arguably his most famous victory, the November 1, 1938 triumph over the heavily favored War Admiral in the historic "Match of the Century" at Pimlico. The seventeen-jewel white gold-filled watch features a Keystone case and moon hands, missing the bow but otherwise complete and undamaged. Watch appears to function perfectly. The "E. Howard Watch Company" relic is engraved on the interior lid of the case, "To Georgie Woolf from C.S. Howard and Seabiscuit." Certainly one of the most exciting artifacts to surface from the Sport of Kings in recent memory, having appeared recently as part of a Tampa, Florida estate.
1950's-80's Willie Shoemaker Ephemera Lot. One fan of the most dominant jockey of his day has compiled an intriguing assortment of artifacts from Shoe's horseracing career. 1) Official programs from his four Kentucky Derby victories (1955, 1959, 11965, 1986). Average EX-MT. 2) Black and white photograph (5x7") of Shoemaker by official photographer at Santa Anita. NRMT. 3) Off-set lithographic print by Andy Warhol. Image size 9x9". 4) Calumet Farms, Lexington, KY jacket, with "Shoe" embroidered over heart. No apparent tagging, but diminutive in size. NRMT.
Soccer Collectibles
1970 Pele Cleats Worn in Training for World Cup. His was the most important and storied career in the history of the sport of soccer (or "football," if you live in any country other than the United States), but the event widely considered to be the legendary Brazilian's utter masterpiece was his play in the 1970 World Cup in Mexico. After his nation's four to one victory over Italy in the World Cup Final, Italian defender Tarcisio Burgnich, who had been assigned the unenviable task of marking the world's top striker, addressed the press. "I told myself before the game, he's made of skin and bones just like everyone else--but I was wrong."
Presented here is a pair of cleats worn by Pele as he joined the Brazilian team in the city of Guanajuato for high-altitude training in order to prepare for the thinner air of Mexico City. The "Adidas Tornado" shoes exhibit magnificent wear, with each signed twice on the sole by their former owner. Extensive provenance is delivered from the minister of tourism for Guanajuato, to whom Pele gifted the shoes personally. A pair of snapshots of the two gentlemen together are here, as is a photocopy of a 1970 newspaper noting the Brazilian team's stay in the town. A photocopy of the tourism minister's employment credentials and a personal letter of provenance from this man round out the package. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autographs).
Presented here is a pair of cleats worn by Pele as he joined the Brazilian team in the city of Guanajuato for high-altitude training in order to prepare for the thinner air of Mexico City. The "Adidas Tornado" shoes exhibit magnificent wear, with each signed twice on the sole by their former owner. Extensive provenance is delivered from the minister of tourism for Guanajuato, to whom Pele gifted the shoes personally. A pair of snapshots of the two gentlemen together are here, as is a photocopy of a 1970 newspaper noting the Brazilian team's stay in the town. A photocopy of the tourism minister's employment credentials and a personal letter of provenance from this man round out the package. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autographs).
Horse Racing Collectibles
1978 Steve Cauthen Triple Crown Race Worn Helmet & Goggles. Best remembered today as the jockey who became the youngest ever to win the Triple Crown, atop the famous Affirmed in 1978, Cauthen was one of the most successful jockeys of the 1970's Presented here is the helmet and goggles worn on the track by the man they called "Stevie Wonder," exhibiting fine wear from his victories at the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness and the Belmont. The hard-shell helmet is cloaked in black satin, with "Harbor" written in red underneath the visor, a reference to Harbor View Farm, the owner of Affirmed. "Barrera/Cauthen" is factory applied to the inside of the helmet cover (Barrera was the trainer for Affirmed) and a handwritten "Harbor View" is found inside as well. Matching "Kroop" brand goggles, like the helmet, exhibit fine wear but no damage. Included is a photo of Cauthen on the scale before a race, wearing the helmet and goggles we present here.
Auto Racing Collectibles
2005 Robby Gordon Race Worn Helmet from Famous Waltrip Incident. It was the lead story of every sports news broadcast back on September 18, 2005. Locked in a tight race at the Sylvania 300 at the New Hampshire International Speedway, Robby Gordon and Michael Waltrip got tangled up during a caution and Gordon's car was totalled, ending his day. Gordon quickly exited his car, ripping the helmet we present here off his head and hurling it at Waltrip's vehicle as it passed. Still furious as he was interviewed by TNT live on the air, he fumed, "People think Michael is a good guy, but he's not a good guy. The caution came out and he wrecked me; he's just a piece of [expletive]."
Feeling somewhat sheepish after his jets had cooled and a $50,000 fine had been levied against him, Gordon auctioned the helmet for the benefit of the Harrah's Employee Relief Fund, a fund that provides aid to Harrah's employees displaced by Hurricane Katrina. The helmet fetched $51,100, and was purchased by gambling website GoldenPalace.com. Here it makes its second appearance on the auction block, having served its duty to charity and marketing. The "Simpson" helmet is coated with advertising for Red Bull energy drinks and Jim Beam non-energy drinks, with various tubing and communication wires still affixed. Some chipping to the exterior shell is the likely result of the famous skip across the asphalt. Sharpie signatures from both Gordon and Waltrip appear at crown, each 9+/10 in strength. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autographs).
Feeling somewhat sheepish after his jets had cooled and a $50,000 fine had been levied against him, Gordon auctioned the helmet for the benefit of the Harrah's Employee Relief Fund, a fund that provides aid to Harrah's employees displaced by Hurricane Katrina. The helmet fetched $51,100, and was purchased by gambling website GoldenPalace.com. Here it makes its second appearance on the auction block, having served its duty to charity and marketing. The "Simpson" helmet is coated with advertising for Red Bull energy drinks and Jim Beam non-energy drinks, with various tubing and communication wires still affixed. Some chipping to the exterior shell is the likely result of the famous skip across the asphalt. Sharpie signatures from both Gordon and Waltrip appear at crown, each 9+/10 in strength. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autographs).
Baseball Collectibles
1835 Sports of Youth Miniature Book with Page about Baseball. Tiny (2x3") and delicate little volume is crafted from handmade paper with a hand-sewn spine, providing charming little images and brief text about various childhood sporting endeavors. Most notable is the entry on page six, picturing a batsman at the ready and a pitcher about to deliver an underhanded throw. The text reads, "Ah! this is my favorite game. This is an excellent amusement for boys. How eager all the little fellows appear. One of them stands ready to toss the ball, --one to knock it, and two to run after it, if they fail to catch it." The book, printed in Yale University's hometown of New Haven, Connecticut in 1835, exhibits a degree of wear and soiling which should be evident in the catalog imagery, but it still presents very nicely. The remarkably early baseball reference makes this one of the oldest artifacts of our National Pastime in the hobby.
1858 Pioneer Base Ball Club Medal NGC MS 63 BN. One of the earliest baseball artifacts you'll encounter, actually predating the start of the American Civil War. The medal, about the size of a half dollar and perhaps twice as thick, was minted by the "Pioneer Base Ball Club," whose name is imprinted on the obverse with a wonderful image of a period batsman. Verso reads, "Organized Aril 30, 1858, Play Ground on Hamden Park, Springfield, Mass." Given the strong coin clientele here at Heritage, we expect a real battle between 19th century baseball collectors and those whose affections are more numismatic in nature.
1869-70 Cincinnati Red Stockings Schedule & Scoresheet. Monumentally significant four-page pamphlet was issued at some point between the 1869 and 1870 Cincinnati Red Stockings seasons, the first in the history of professional baseball. It was a team composed of ten salaried players, most notably Harry Wright and his brother George, each members of the Baseball Hall of Fame's pioneer wing, and certainly two of the most talented players of their early time. Despite the club's dominance over such competition as the Mutuals and Atlantics of New York and Ivy League giants Harvard and Yale, declining ticket sales forced the dissolution of the club following the 1870 season, and Harry Wright was hired to organize a new ball club in 1871, the Boston Red Stockings, today known as the Atlanta Braves.
Composed of a medium stock sheet of 8.5x11" paper folded at center to form a four-page pamphlet, the ancient document announces "Red Stocking Tours and Games for 1869 and 1870" on the cover, and opens to reveal a center spread with printed results for the 1869 season and the schedule for the games of 1870, with blanks for the scores which have been faithfully filled in with bold pencil writing. Scores of 56 to 13 and 74 to 19 indicate that these were no "pitchers' duels, though, unbelievably, one contest with the Brooklyn Atlantics did end in an eleven inning 7 to 8 loss. The back page is an advertisement for George Ellard's sporting goods emporium, announcing a stock of everything from fireworks to "Baseball Goods."
While a degree of wear should be clearly evident in our catalog imagery, one will also be struck by how relatively inconsequential it is. Aside from the spine fold as issued, there are two horizontal folds equally spaced, garnered from years of storage folded into thirds. Some short points of separation at the intersection of fold lines do not in any way threaten the integrity of the piece. One really could not hope for much better considering the age and the absolute miracle of mere existence. Certainly one of the most exciting artifacts to hit the auction block for collectors and historians with a concentration in the origins of our National Pastime.
Composed of a medium stock sheet of 8.5x11" paper folded at center to form a four-page pamphlet, the ancient document announces "Red Stocking Tours and Games for 1869 and 1870" on the cover, and opens to reveal a center spread with printed results for the 1869 season and the schedule for the games of 1870, with blanks for the scores which have been faithfully filled in with bold pencil writing. Scores of 56 to 13 and 74 to 19 indicate that these were no "pitchers' duels, though, unbelievably, one contest with the Brooklyn Atlantics did end in an eleven inning 7 to 8 loss. The back page is an advertisement for George Ellard's sporting goods emporium, announcing a stock of everything from fireworks to "Baseball Goods."
While a degree of wear should be clearly evident in our catalog imagery, one will also be struck by how relatively inconsequential it is. Aside from the spine fold as issued, there are two horizontal folds equally spaced, garnered from years of storage folded into thirds. Some short points of separation at the intersection of fold lines do not in any way threaten the integrity of the piece. One really could not hope for much better considering the age and the absolute miracle of mere existence. Certainly one of the most exciting artifacts to hit the auction block for collectors and historians with a concentration in the origins of our National Pastime.
1879 Boston Base Ball Association Stock Certificate. Fully executed stock certificate for Harry Wright's Boston Red Caps was issued to Julian B. Hart, a name which would surface along with Dan Brouthers and the gang as one of the leading voices for the Brotherhood/Players League some eleven years later. Here he purchases a single share in this early National League franchise. The original receipt stub is affixed with an ancient pin on the left side. Flipping the certificate over, we find a pair of handwritten transfers of the stock on the verso as the ownership changed hands in the mid and late 1880's. The entire document measures 5.5x16", and exposes some mild water staining and chipping/fold separation at right side, which causes little problem and does not affect legibility in any way. A very interesting and very early artifact from the infancy of professional ball.
1887 Indianapolis Hoosiers Large Team Photograph. Enormous (image size 14x18.5") sepia team studio photograph captures the troubled Indianapolis Hoosiers ballclub at midseason, a fact we are able to determine by the presence of manager Fred Thomas, the second of three skippers tapped by ownership in a failed attempt to right the ship. A last place finish in the National League can do absolutely nothing, however, to dampen the appeal of this exceedingly rare image, one of very few known to picture this short-lived (1887-89) franchise. Most recognizable to baseball historians will be shortstop Jack Glasscock, who was topped only by Hall of Famer Dan Brouthers in the hunt for the 1889 National League batting title, and finished first the next season in front of "Sliding Billy" Hamilton. Early long ball artist Jerry Denny is likewise known to many 19th century baseball aficionados. A very faint area of toning at left accounts for the bulk of noteworthy condition issues, and our catalog imagery should properly indicate just how inconsequential this is. A small imperfection at the photo's lower edge is likewise mentioned for the sake of full disclosure. Each player is elegantly identified at the lower border, as is the "Arthur & Philbric" photography studio in Detroit where the image was snapped. A simple yet tasteful framing and matting job completes the dimensions of 22x27". Third party shipping is required.
Circa 1888 Yum Yum Tobacco Tin Pail. The perfect complement to your collection of N403 tobacco cards is a tin which may well have held one of them. This surprisingly well-preserved relic is soaked in Victoria era charm, with wonderful period graphics to add some character to your trophy room. The bulk of the oxidation appears at the pail's interior, with problems to the exterior typically fairly minor. Measures 6.75" in height, with a diameter of 5.25".
Circa 1895 Cap Anson Studio Portrait Photograph. Baseball's first superstar, Adrian C. Anson received his famous nickname for his role as captain of the Chicago White Stockings, the team he led for twenty-two of his twenty-seven professional seasons. The first member of the 3,000 Hit Club poses near the close of his lengthy baseball career in this stirring hand-colored photographic portrait, measuring 6.5x8.5" in size. A small imperfection over his left shoulder causes no great concern, nor does minor back damage from scrapbook removal. Local Chicago photographer's imprint appears at lower right.
Circa 1898 Young Sports Publication with Ned Hanlon Cover. Victorian-era publication is simply dripping with period charm, featuring a rather foppish young ballplayer and an oversized handlebar mustache on the face of the day's most successful skipper. The 9x14" publication is matted to complete dimensions of 13x18" and conveys a NRMT appearance, though we have not removed it from its mat to examine it fully. Add a nice frame and you'll create perhaps the most elegant display piece in your collection.
1904-12 Female Baseball Player Linen Pillow Case Tobacco Premium. A doe-eyed brunette adds a little sex appeal to an early twentieth century tobacco premium with a popular baseball theme. Clever little visual gags include "A Star Pitcher" and "A Hot Fly," though we can't seem to figure out the one with the chicken or rooster. In any regard, the piece remains untorn and brightly colored, with some damp staining doing little to distract the eye from the impressive aesthetics. The rare premium provides a viewable area of twenty-two inches square, with a nice matting and framing job extending dimensions to twenty-eight inches square. Third party shipping is required.
1904 Pittsburg Pirates Photographic Composite by Carl Horner. Please note, as is apparent in the catalog imagery, that player identifications appear in period ink. As the era's most noteworthy and celebrated baseball photographer, Carl Horner bears the lion's share of responsibility for the manner in which we see the early game in our mind's eye. His simple yet expertly rendered studio portraits of the men populating the Dead Ball game served as the template for much of the tobacco and candy card issues of the day, most notably the image of Honus Wagner that appears upon the most coveted and valuable trading card in the collecting hobby.
That unmistakable image appears here as one of sixteen stirring photo portraits that comprise this fantastic composite celebrating the National League Champions. To nip any confusion in the bud, we'll explain that the text underneath the large image of Hall of Fame player manager Fred Clarke, reading "Pittsburg, National League 1904 Champions," actually refers to the club's 1903 pennant win. At the time, teams were considered "Champions" until another club assumed their reign. This was the club that battled for, and lost, the first World Series title against Cy Young's Boston Red Sox. This historical import is matched only by the stunning aesthetics of the piece, which pairs Horner's magical imagery with delicate interspersed artwork picturing winding flowered vines and the tools of the baseball trade. Handwritten identifiers underline each image. "Photos by Carl Horner, Boston" is announced at lower right.
The enormity of the display, which stretches the tape measure to 17x21", only furthers the tremendous visual appeal. While we are aware that the primary function of this display was for publication in newspapers of the day, we cannot state for certain the purpose of this print, though certainly the original population was tiny and has been whittled away to a scant few in existence today. It is likely that it was produced only for players and VIP's, as was the case withmost oversized imagery of the day due to the significant expense of production. The only point to mention in terms of condition is very minor dampstaining at the outermost edges of the mat, well clear of the composite itself, which remains pristine but for a half inch spot in the blank field over Clarke's left shoulder at center. Original matting and framing extends the final dimensions to 23x27". Third party shipping is required.
That unmistakable image appears here as one of sixteen stirring photo portraits that comprise this fantastic composite celebrating the National League Champions. To nip any confusion in the bud, we'll explain that the text underneath the large image of Hall of Fame player manager Fred Clarke, reading "Pittsburg, National League 1904 Champions," actually refers to the club's 1903 pennant win. At the time, teams were considered "Champions" until another club assumed their reign. This was the club that battled for, and lost, the first World Series title against Cy Young's Boston Red Sox. This historical import is matched only by the stunning aesthetics of the piece, which pairs Horner's magical imagery with delicate interspersed artwork picturing winding flowered vines and the tools of the baseball trade. Handwritten identifiers underline each image. "Photos by Carl Horner, Boston" is announced at lower right.
The enormity of the display, which stretches the tape measure to 17x21", only furthers the tremendous visual appeal. While we are aware that the primary function of this display was for publication in newspapers of the day, we cannot state for certain the purpose of this print, though certainly the original population was tiny and has been whittled away to a scant few in existence today. It is likely that it was produced only for players and VIP's, as was the case withmost oversized imagery of the day due to the significant expense of production. The only point to mention in terms of condition is very minor dampstaining at the outermost edges of the mat, well clear of the composite itself, which remains pristine but for a half inch spot in the blank field over Clarke's left shoulder at center. Original matting and framing extends the final dimensions to 23x27". Third party shipping is required.
1904 Boston Red Sox Photographic Composite by Carl Horner. Please note, as is apparent in the catalog imagery, that player identifications appear in period ink. From the same consignor providing this auction with the previous Horner composite dedicated to the losing team in the first World Series contest comes this equally spectacular specimen dedicated to the victors. In every regard of dimension, design and condition it mirrors that of its National League companion, trading only the personnel and identifiers for those who prefer the company of iconic moundsman Cy Young to that of the turn of the century's most illustrious shortstop Honus Wagner.
The Red Sox had been betting underdogs in this historic first Fall Classic, with the American League seen as an inferior upstart in much the same way the American Football League was considered in the mid-1960's before Joe Namath's Super Bowl III guarantee was fulfilled. Much credit for the Sox' victory was later handed to Nuf Ced McGreevy's "Royal Rooters," whose loud singing and catcalls from the grandstand rattled Honus Wagner to such a degree that he would commit six errors and bat just six for twenty-seven. "I was a joke in that Boston-Pittsburg Series," Wagner would later admit. "What does it profit a man to hammer along and make a few hits when they are not needed only to fall down when it comes to a pinch?"
If there is any difference between the Boston and the Pittsburg model it would be a slightly more prominent degree of dampstaining here, though once again it must be stressed that it also remains 100% clear of the composite itself. It is not even troubling enough that a replacement mat would be advised, though that would be a simple option in order to move the piece that much closer to perfection. As always, we would recommend viewing our online imagery to gain a close-up view of the piece that will hide no defect, though there is very little to hide. These matching composites were displayed at the Cleveland National Sports Collectors Convention this year, where they were among the most talked about and coveted pieces in the Heritage display. They will serve the same function in your private trophy room. Third party shipping is required.
The Red Sox had been betting underdogs in this historic first Fall Classic, with the American League seen as an inferior upstart in much the same way the American Football League was considered in the mid-1960's before Joe Namath's Super Bowl III guarantee was fulfilled. Much credit for the Sox' victory was later handed to Nuf Ced McGreevy's "Royal Rooters," whose loud singing and catcalls from the grandstand rattled Honus Wagner to such a degree that he would commit six errors and bat just six for twenty-seven. "I was a joke in that Boston-Pittsburg Series," Wagner would later admit. "What does it profit a man to hammer along and make a few hits when they are not needed only to fall down when it comes to a pinch?"
If there is any difference between the Boston and the Pittsburg model it would be a slightly more prominent degree of dampstaining here, though once again it must be stressed that it also remains 100% clear of the composite itself. It is not even troubling enough that a replacement mat would be advised, though that would be a simple option in order to move the piece that much closer to perfection. As always, we would recommend viewing our online imagery to gain a close-up view of the piece that will hide no defect, though there is very little to hide. These matching composites were displayed at the Cleveland National Sports Collectors Convention this year, where they were among the most talked about and coveted pieces in the Heritage display. They will serve the same function in your private trophy room. Third party shipping is required.
1905 Cleveland Naps Illustrated Baseball Schedule. Magnificent display piece was issued by local newspaper The Cleveland World to promote the players and game schedule of the 1905 Cleveland American League ballclub known today as the Indians but nicknamed after their player/manager Napoleon Lajoie at this point in history. A degree of wear including substantial horizontal creasing, foxing at edges and paper loss at upper right should be immediately evident from our catalog imagery, but the marvelous aesthetics of the piece still shine through, and those fond of restoration should find that the apparent condition could be improved greatly. Size is 14x21.5".
1908 Piedmont Tobacco Advertising Sign. Copyrighted one year before the debut of the famous T206 tobacco issue, the provided advertising sign was almost certainly still on display when smokers were retrieving Cobb, Mathewson and possibly even Wagner cards from packs of Piedmont cigarettes. A beautiful and extravagantly attired young lady relates to the other great American Pastime, and the sign presents wonderfully with a touch of restoration at lower right corner well clear of the central focus. Measures 16x22".
1908 Nap Rucker No-Hitter Last Out Game Used Baseball. Originally acquired directly from the daughter of this talented Brooklyn Superbas hurler, the presented ONL sphere served to record the final out of Rucker's September 5, 1908 no-hitter against the overmatched Boston Doves (who would come to be known as the Braves from 1912 onward). Three errors on behalf of his fielders denied Rucker the perfecto, as he allowed no walks in his dominating performance either. Notated in his vintage hand are the details: "Sept. 5 - 8 (meaning Sept. 5, 1908), Brooklyn, NY, Struck Out 14, Shut out No hits." All but the first panel challenge the eyes a bit, but nothing can diminish the impressive historical significance. The earliest no-hit ball we've ever encountered in the hobby, and quite possibly the oldest to exist, period.
1908 Greenville Spinners Team Cabinet Photograph with Joe Jackson. The appearance of a spectacularly rare 1908 Greenville Spinners photo featuring a nineteen-year old Joe Jackson in the April 2009 Heritage Signature Auction was considered by many cultured collectors to be the most significant baseball photography find in years, and rightfully so. Surely issued only to team members and possibly a few Greenville VIP's, such photos were never in strong supply even a century ago and survival of an example in a modest farming community like Greenville, particularly in untattered condition, was little short of miraculous. But the remarkable $41,825 result in our April auction has served to shake another example awake from its long slumber, proving that lightning does occasionally strike twice.
Even more exciting is the fact that this image is a slight variation on the April auction example, with the players turned to their right, though still in the same order with the future Black Sock standing fifth from left. We also find no handwritten identifiers at the lower mat, but otherwise the dimensions and general condition remain the same.
It is worthy of note that it was during a 1908 doubleheader pitting the Spinners against the Anderson Electricians that Jackson would earn his famous nickname. After suffering through the first game in a pair of new spikes that raised blisters on his skin, Jackson removed them for the second. In the seventh inning, he laced a long line drive, sliding into third with a triple. As the dust cloud settled, an opposing fan shouted to him, "You shoeless son-of-a-gun!"
Upon a shabby ballfield more dirt than grass, the teenaged Jackson stands with eleven of his Greenville teammates. The young mascot sits at his left toe. The 7.5x9.5" sepia image is rendered with flawless contrast and clarity, and is affixed to a 12x14" cardboard mount. Toning, edge/corner wear and some mild surface abrasions are confined almost entirely to the mount.
Jackson would not finish the season in Greenville, heeding Hall of Fame manager Connie Mack's call to join the Athletics in Philadelphia, where he would struggle to adapt to a life entirely different from the one he had known on the dirt farms and ballfields of the South. Here we see Shoeless Joe as the ultimate "diamond in the rough," a baseball prodigy just weeks from setting out upon a journey with all the trappings of a Shakespearean tragedy. One of the most exceptional and exciting baseball photographs to enter the hobby in recent memory.
Even more exciting is the fact that this image is a slight variation on the April auction example, with the players turned to their right, though still in the same order with the future Black Sock standing fifth from left. We also find no handwritten identifiers at the lower mat, but otherwise the dimensions and general condition remain the same.
It is worthy of note that it was during a 1908 doubleheader pitting the Spinners against the Anderson Electricians that Jackson would earn his famous nickname. After suffering through the first game in a pair of new spikes that raised blisters on his skin, Jackson removed them for the second. In the seventh inning, he laced a long line drive, sliding into third with a triple. As the dust cloud settled, an opposing fan shouted to him, "You shoeless son-of-a-gun!"
Upon a shabby ballfield more dirt than grass, the teenaged Jackson stands with eleven of his Greenville teammates. The young mascot sits at his left toe. The 7.5x9.5" sepia image is rendered with flawless contrast and clarity, and is affixed to a 12x14" cardboard mount. Toning, edge/corner wear and some mild surface abrasions are confined almost entirely to the mount.
Jackson would not finish the season in Greenville, heeding Hall of Fame manager Connie Mack's call to join the Athletics in Philadelphia, where he would struggle to adapt to a life entirely different from the one he had known on the dirt farms and ballfields of the South. Here we see Shoeless Joe as the ultimate "diamond in the rough," a baseball prodigy just weeks from setting out upon a journey with all the trappings of a Shakespearean tragedy. One of the most exceptional and exciting baseball photographs to enter the hobby in recent memory.
1909 World Series Panoramic Photographic Display. The two greatest titans of the Dead Ball era came face to face for the first and only time as Ty Cobb's Detroit Tigers traveled to Forbes Field to visit Honus Wagner's Pittsburgh Pirates for Game One of the sixth World Series on October 8, 1909. Cobb was often quoted to say that Wagner was the one man he couldn't intimidate, and the Bucs would ultimately win this first game as well as the seventh and deciding contest. This fascinating trip back in time provides photographic images of each pennant-winning squad below a spectator's eye view of the game's action from an upper deck vantage point behind home plate, Cobb himself at bat. Originally issued as a supplement to Pittsburgh's Illustrated Weekly, this tremendous (14x39") display piece is one of the few to survive the passing century. Once folded into quarters, the paper stock artifact exhibits three evenly spaced vertical folds though none have suffered separation. A mild water stain is apparent at left, causing only minimal distraction. A small amount of restoration could get this one back to like-new condition, though its entirely presentable as is.
1909 Brooklyn Superbas Imperial Cabinet Photograph. Deriving from the estate of Brooklyn's top ace Nap Rucker, the presented oversized (9.5x18.5" image area) photograph finds the sixth place National League squad posed at Washington Park, four years before the construction of Ebbets Field was completed. That's Rucker standing third from left, in his third of ten seasons on the mound for the club that would one day come to be known as the Dodgers, the entirety of his professional career. Twenty of his teammates join him in this captivating and masterfully rendered photo, each identified by surname in the lowermost portion of the image along with the words "Brooklyn Base Ball Team, 1909 and an attribution to "The Pictorial News Co" across the river in Manhattan.
The condition is nothing short of remarkable, with almost imperceptible damp staining along the lower portion of the cardboard mount the only issue worthy of note. The image area itself remains unchanged from its birth exactly a century ago. A simple wooden frame (not period) completes the dimensions at 15x24". Included in the lot is a book entitled Baseball in Atlanta that pictures an elderly Rucker back in his Georgia hometown. He poses in his trophy room in front of a wall of photos, with the presented cabinet photograph visible directly over his head. An 8x10" photo of Rucker with two Brooklyn teammates, which appears in the book's photo over the dangling shoe, is likewise included within this lot (EX-MT). Third party shipping is required.
The condition is nothing short of remarkable, with almost imperceptible damp staining along the lower portion of the cardboard mount the only issue worthy of note. The image area itself remains unchanged from its birth exactly a century ago. A simple wooden frame (not period) completes the dimensions at 15x24". Included in the lot is a book entitled Baseball in Atlanta that pictures an elderly Rucker back in his Georgia hometown. He poses in his trophy room in front of a wall of photos, with the presented cabinet photograph visible directly over his head. An 8x10" photo of Rucker with two Brooklyn teammates, which appears in the book's photo over the dangling shoe, is likewise included within this lot (EX-MT). Third party shipping is required.
Circa 1910 Allen & Ginter Richmond Straight Cut Tobacco Advertising Sign. The tobacco company responsible for some of the most gorgeous trading cards ever created display their world class aesthetic sensibilities here as well, marketing their wares with the time-tested power of beautiful women. The 12x16" cardboard sign exhibits a degree of wear one would expect for a centenarian advertising sign, though a bit of restoration, including affixing the piece to a heavy cardboard backing for added support, has minimized the negative effects. The most significant injury is a diagonal break passing through the face and torso of the young lady, but our catalog imagery should indicate how well this problem has been cured. A nice addition to any early tobacco card collector's trophy room.
Circa 1910 Mogul Egyptian Cigarettes Advertising Sign. Here's a gentleman who will have some problems getting through airport security. Dressed in flowing robes, clutching jeweled swords and even smoking a cigarette, the cover model implores the tobacco enthusiast to join him for a smoke, and perhaps trade a few of the cards secreted within the Mogul packs. The sign features fine condition to match its marvelous aesthetics, with a couple minor instances of edge wear doing nothing to distract the eye. Measures 10x14".
Circa 1910 Major League Managers Scorecard Fan. Magnificent die-cut rarity served the dual purpose of keeping score and keeping cool, though the former was never utilized. An attractive female baseball fan and an image of a ball and glove command the lower portion of the design where the scorecards are placed, while players and managers from the sixteen Major League clubs are ranged along the upper edges. Notables include Hall of Famers Bresnahan, Clarke (misspelled "Clark" here), Chance, Griffith, Lajoie and Wallace, as well as disgraced Dead Ball legend Hal Chase. Mild to moderate wear brushes the tops of the die-cut figures,and ancient tape keeps Bresnahan's head attached. The body of the fan measures approximately 9x10", which is still affixed with ancient staples but broken at the base of the cardboard. Verso provides an advertisement for "Joyce's Soft Drinks" out of Michigan state.
1912 World Series Program (Boston). Solid mid-grade rarity remains complete and tightly bound, effectively transporting the reader back to Game Five of the 1912 Fall Classic, which saw the hometown Sox take a quick lead over New York Giants hero Christy Mathewson with a pair of triples in the third inning, claiming a two to one win and moving within a single victory of their ultimate World Championship. The center score cards are fully notated in pencil by the fan on hand to witness the game at the brand new Fenway Park. Surface and spine wear is evident, as is moderate toning of the exterior covers, but otherwise the program displays quite nicely.
1913-14 Baseball World Tour Book. Without question the most intriguing and comprehensive visual record of the famous Baseball World Tour, the brainchild of Chicago White Sox owner and Hall of Famer Charles Comiskey, whose team was joined by the New York Giants on a three month jaunt through twenty-seven US cities and thirteen countries from Australia to Egypt to England. The book opens with the complete schedule and game results but quickly changes gears to reveal dozens upon dozens of photos snapped on this historic tour intended to spread the gospel of baseball to the four corners. Legends from John McGraw to Tris Speaker to Jim Thorpe are pictured, with shots from the ballfield to the high seas to early cityscapes of Tokyo and the ruins of Pompeii. The softcover volume remains complete and tightly bound, with wear at the spine and page edges, and some paper loss and writing upon the covers, causing no major concern. A genuinely fascinating publication which must be seen, but more preferably, owned.
1913 World Series Program (New York). Is that supposed to be Connie Mack shaking McGraw's hand? That's just not right! Well, the old man had the last laugh, his Philadelphia Athletics topping the Giants in five games to claim the World Championship. This unscored program was issued at one of the three games played at the Polo Grounds, each of which was won by the visiting team, and presents quite nicely despite a few evident flaws. Most notably, an application of tape holds the spine together, and a deep vertical crease appears from the program having been folded in half. Handwriting on the front cover, various creasing on both, and paper loss on the back are also to be noted, but the interior pages remain fairly problem free.
1913 New York Giants vs. Chicago White Sox Double Panoramic Photograph Display. Those collectors fascinated by the tragically defunct tradition of Major League barnstorming tours are sure to fall hopelessly in love with the presented artifact, a pair of panoramic photos capturing the scene at Oxnard, California's City Athletic Park Grounds on November 11, 1913 when the National League Champion New York Giants and the Chicago White Sox brought their show on the road. As Europe teetered on the brink of World War, the tour visited twenty-seven American cities and thirteen nations from England to Japan, giving countless thousands their first taste of this thoroughly American pastime. This is arguably the finest photographic record of that historic odyssey.
First we encounter an image of all tour participants standing in a row before a packed grandstand of excited onlookers. Captured with razor-sharp clarity are such unforgettable figures as Christy Mathewson, John McGraw, Rube Marquard, Sam Crawford, Bill Klem, Tris Speaker, Chief Meyers, Fred Merkle, Edd Roush and future Black Sox conspirator Buck Weaver. Just below a spectator's eye view is provided from just behind home plate, with Mathewson ducking below a throw from his third baseman attempting to retire a White Sox baserunner at first.
While each 6x43" image exhibits some vertical creasing from having been rolled and then flattened, these cracks in the emulsion do not considerably distract from the impressive aesthetics, leaving the photos to present far better than their technical grades. The simple framing and matting job results in final dimensions of 19x50". Included with the lot are two reference books: James Elfers' The Tour to End All Tours, and Jeffrey Maulhardt's The Day The New York Giants Came to Oxnard. Third party shipping is required.
First we encounter an image of all tour participants standing in a row before a packed grandstand of excited onlookers. Captured with razor-sharp clarity are such unforgettable figures as Christy Mathewson, John McGraw, Rube Marquard, Sam Crawford, Bill Klem, Tris Speaker, Chief Meyers, Fred Merkle, Edd Roush and future Black Sox conspirator Buck Weaver. Just below a spectator's eye view is provided from just behind home plate, with Mathewson ducking below a throw from his third baseman attempting to retire a White Sox baserunner at first.
While each 6x43" image exhibits some vertical creasing from having been rolled and then flattened, these cracks in the emulsion do not considerably distract from the impressive aesthetics, leaving the photos to present far better than their technical grades. The simple framing and matting job results in final dimensions of 19x50". Included with the lot are two reference books: James Elfers' The Tour to End All Tours, and Jeffrey Maulhardt's The Day The New York Giants Came to Oxnard. Third party shipping is required.
1914 Ty Cobb Advertising Sign, Part One. The first of two exceedingly rare display pieces featuring the greatest figure of the Dead Ball Era. This one finds Cobb in his trademark stance, slightly hunched forward, his wide-handed grip holding a bat at the ready. Like the sign in the next lot, it features an 8x10" image affixed to a black cardboard backing, with "See Ty Cobb In Action Here, September 9, 1914, Tigers vs. Black Sox" announcement attached at upper left with an ancient, rusting paper clip. A mild degree of general soiling is evident, as is damp staining at the cardboard mount, but the piece displays very nicely despite these issues. Overall dimensions 11x14". An exciting find for the advanced Cobb collector.
1914 Ty Cobb Advertising Sign, Part Two. This remarkable find is one of only two such pieces we have ever encountered in the collecting hobby, the first of which is presented in the lot that precedes this one. It promotes "Ty Cobb Sporting Goods" with the assistance of its namesake, who makes an appearance during an off day in Chicago. A notice clipped to upper left of the 11x14" sign reads, "See Ty Cobb In Action Here, September 9, 1914, Tigers vs. Black Sox." The central focus of the sign is a sepia 8x10" photograph of Cobb chasing down a fly ball. General soiling of the sign, and some damp staining to the cardboard mount, do little to distract from the great appeal of this stunning Cobb advertising piece.
1918 Baseball Pitched by Walter Johnson, Hit by Ty Cobb. In the blink of an eye, and over nine decades ago, the presented humble sphere made the acquaintance of two of the game's greatest legends. The story was faithfully recounted by a young GI on the eve of shipping out for World War I service as a member of the French Army Ambulance Corps. During the course of a doubleheader between the Detroit Tigers and visiting Washington Senators, the young man retrieved this special ball and cherished it over the decades to follow, notating the ball in block lettering and even sending it off to Tigers shortstop Donie Bush for an autograph. Included with the well-worn OAL ball is a stack of papers, copies of letters sent to and received from the Detroit Tigers, the Baseball Hall of Fame and Donie Bush as he sought to research the precise date of the game (August 4, 1918) he had attended and to get the ball autographed in 1965. Finally, a letter of provenance from the fan himself who received this gift of chance during his final day of freedom before the war.
1920 Cleveland Indians American League Champions Pennant. It was a season of tragedy and joy in Cleveland in 1920. In mid-August, shortstop Ray Chapman was struck by a Carl Mays fastball to the skull and never regained consciousness, dead at age twenty-nine. But six weeks later, still wearing black armbands at their left sleeves in memory of their fallen comrade, the Tribe would vanquish the Brooklyn Dodgers to claim the franchise's first ever World Championship. Presented here is a phenomenally scarce felt pennant sold at League Park during the first World Series in Cleveland, very possibly on hand to see player/manager Tris Speaker and the gang clinch the Classic with a three to nothing victory on their home turf. The glorious aesthetics of the pennant are wonderfully evocative of the age, a detailed Native American at left gazing upon to the words "Cleveland 1920 Champions American League" narrowing to the tip of the orange felt relic. While the pennant does exhibit a degree of wear one would expect for a textile approaching its ninetieth anniversary, our catalog imagery should properly indicate that the beauty remains undiminished. The tassels at left are clipped, as is typical for pennants of this vintage, and a mild degree of chipping to the printing is likewise of little concern. Length is 20".
Circa 1920 Babe Ruth Photograph by Paul Thompson. Perhaps the finest portrait photo we've ever encountered of a young Babe Ruth during his earliest days with the franchise he would come to personify. The remarkable clarity and quality of the 6.5x8.5" image should come as no surprise to educated collectors of vintage baseball photography, as it is the work of esteemed lensman Paul Thompson, whose stamp is found on verso. Even more thrilling is a handwritten pencil notation from Thompson himself, who writes, "A 'Babe' Study, Pleased with his day's performance." Certainly equal in quality to lot 19536 in our October 2006, a Ruth Red Sox photo achieving a price of $17,925, this personal photographer's copy of one of the Babe's most famous portraits should spark a serious battle among the hobby's top photography collectors. Only the very lightest of edge and corner wear, otherwise NRMT-MT.
Circa 1918 Babe Ruth Culver Pictures News Photograph. Note the lack of insignia on the Babe's cap--that look was never sported by the New York Yankees after the 1908 season, but the Boston Red Sox went logo-free until 1930. This exciting news photo from the famed Culver Archives is one of the very few we've ever seen featuring Ruth batting in the uniform of his first Major League club--pitching is the action more commonly encountered. As such, the significance is difficult to overstate. Wear is confined almost completely to the wide white borders, leaving the image area to present as all but flawless. "Culver Pictures" stamping on verso. 6x8".
1922 Babe Ruth Culver Service Photograph. The young Bambino watches one fly at Manhattan's Polo Grounds, the Yankees' home turf until Ruth built his House in 1923. Wear and some tape residue only seldomly ventures into the image area, and causes little concern when it does. Vintage pencil on verso dates the piece. 6x8". A terrific image to pair with one of the Babe Ruth signatures on paper also available within this auction.
1920's Christy Mathewson Personally Owned Portrait of Himself with Wife. Finely rendered portrait of Big Six and his bride finds the former in his World War I military uniform, returned from the front after suffering the training accident that would ultimately bring a premature end to his life. The damage caused to his lungs by the inhalation of chlorine gas while serving as a Captain in the newly established Chemical Service would bring Matty to develop tuberculosis, and lead his doctor to prescribe clean, fresh air as a method of rehabilitation. It is this move that allows us to definitively authenticate the painting, as it comes to us along with its original shipping crate, addressed to "Mrs. Christy Mathewson, Old Military Road, Saranac Lake, New York," where Mathewson would pass away in 1925 at the age of forty-five. Further proof comes in the form of a second affixed shipping label, directing the crate to an address in Lewisburg, PA, where Christy's widow passed away in 1967 at eighty-seven years of age. The oil on canvas work has been carefully preserved over the decades, and exhibits no flaws of note. The original frame shows some weathering, but this only adds to the vintage charm. The wooden shipping case shows expected handling wear, but serves perfectly in its role of provenance establishment. One of the few Christy Mathewson owned articles ever to make it to public auction, and among the best for display.
1922 New York Yankees Large Team Photograph from Yankee Stadium. Enormous (22x38") team shot finds the American League Champions casually posed in their pinstripes during the club's final season in the Polo Grounds before their move across the Harlem River to the greatest baseball palace the world had ever known. That new ballpark in the Bronx is where this magnificent artifact spent the first decades of its life, on display to inspire the next few dozen pennant-winners to follow before its removal during the mid-1970's renovations. The great Babe Ruth, looking young and trim, stands at far right, not far from fellow Hall of Famer Waite Hoyt and Carl Mays, who had killed Ray Chapman with a fastball to the skull two seasons earlier. The hunchbacked bat boy Eddie Bennett, Babe Ruth's personal good luck charm, sits cross-legged in the front row. Condition is remarkably strong, with four holes drilled in the cardboard stock where the image was affixed to a Yankee Stadium wall the only issues of note. Framing job dates to not long after the photo's removal from the Stadium and has likewise survived admirably. Certainly one of the most appealing early Yankee Stadium artifacts to reach the auction block in some time. Third party shipping is required.
1924 World Series Program (Washington). Walter Johnson finally tastes World Championship glory! Official scorecard is a compelling relic from the Senators' only World Series victory, a thrilling seven-game affair which ended with Muddy Ruel's scamper home in the bottom of the final contest's twelfth inning to record the first walk-off win in Fall Classic history. The presented program is unscored, but the original owner has penciled in Johnson and Nehf as the starting pitchers for the Senators and Giants respectively, correct for the first contest on October fourth. The program remains solid and complete with no tearing or staining of note. A vertical center crease is the main condition issue, and likely a pressing could minimize this imperfection significantly. Various other minor bends and creases barely merit mention.
1927 New York Yankees World Championship Replica Ring. Baseball historians will forever argue the merits of Ruth, Cobb, Mays and DiMaggio in any discussion aimed at naming the greatest player of all time, but you'll find few who don't choose the fabled '27 Yankees as history's best ballclub. Featuring the Babe and his sixty homers, Gehrig and his MVP Award, and a supporting cast aptly dubbed "Murderer's Row," the team left only destruction in its wake, cruising to an easy four-game sweep over the powerful Pittsburgh Pirates in the World Series. Presented here is the glimmering prize for that exclamation point at the close of the 1927 season, presented to a front office figure affiliated with Miller Huggins' invincible juggernaut. A single faux diamond rests at center of the face, with "New York Yankees World Champions" ringing the perimeter. Soaring eagles decorate the shanks, each aloft above the year "1927." Interior of band was engraved many years later to our consignor, "To Bernie from the Higgins." Our consignor indicates that "the Higgins" were not the original recipients of the ring, and the identity of that person has been lost to history.
We must note that the ten-karat gold construction of the ring does differentiate it from the fourteen-karat content of those issued at the time, suggesting that this is a later incarnation. Several other ten karat player rings have surfaced in recent years, issued as replacements when the originals were lost or damaged. The size seven ring presents magnificently and will serve well as the focal point of any high-end New York Yankees collection.
We must note that the ten-karat gold construction of the ring does differentiate it from the fourteen-karat content of those issued at the time, suggesting that this is a later incarnation. Several other ten karat player rings have surfaced in recent years, issued as replacements when the originals were lost or damaged. The size seven ring presents magnificently and will serve well as the focal point of any high-end New York Yankees collection.
1928 Lou Gehrig News Photograph. The reigning American League MVP prepares to fire a ball from his first base position at the Yankees' St. Petersburg, Florida spring training grounds. Magnificent action portrait measures 8x10" in size and shows wear along bottom edge, with a crease at left corner. These issues cannot override the tremendous power of the image however, and the bulk of the surface area remains free of flaws. Original paper caption on verso, which is date stamped "Mar 5 - 1928."
1928 Tony Lazzeri "Lucky Strike" Trolley Sign. Highly collectible advertising sign pictures the great New York Yankees Hall of Fame second baseman, an integral part of the Championship equation the year of issue. This is one of a series of similar signs issued by the tobacco purveyors using the star power of eventual Hall of Famers to market their smokes. This example is one of the finest we've encountered, with rather inconsequential edge and corner wear the only apparent issues, leaving the piece to display at a stunning NRMT level from any reasonable viewing distance. A fantastic display piece from the absolute height of dominance for Lazzeri and the rest of Murderer's Row. Measures 11x21".
1928 Waite Hoyt "Lucky Strike" Trolley Sign. Further capitalizing upon the marketing power of the Golden Age's most dominant baseball franchise, the executives at Lucky Strike chose Tony Lazzeri's New York Yankees teammate for a sign of his own. This specimen dedicated to the Hall of Fame pitcher is tremendously scarce--in fact, this is the first example we've ever encountered. It's not without its problems, however. Considerable restoration is apparent throughout, and the sign has been permanently affixed to a cardboard backing to maintain its structural integrity. So while it surely isn't as pretty as the Lazzeri specimen that precedes this lot, the immense scarcity necessitates that we forgive the piece its shortcomings. Measures 11x21".
Circa 1933 Goudey Gum Advertising Sign. "Hey kid, listen to me, mail away for that Napoleon Lajoie card. Trust me on this." A creepy little sprite whispers in the ear of a young boy on this tin advertising sign from "The Goudey Gum Co. Boston - Chicago," which appears here in remarkable NRMT condition with only a few very light and all but imperceptible scratches. Simply displayed in a yellow metal frame at full dimensions of 7.5x15.5".
1933 All-Star Game American League Team News Photograph. Not since the 1911 benefit game for the family of fallen Hall of Fame pitcher Addie Joss had such an outrageous compilation of baseball talent inhabited a single diamond as we find here assembled for the very first All-Star Game. This Comiskey Park shot features team manager Connie Mack surrounded by the likes of Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Jimmie Foxx, Lefty Grove and Bill Dickey, registered in flawless clarity and contrast. Original paper caption affixed to verso of photo, which is date stamped "Jul 11 1933" with "Acme Newspicture" identification. Minor border wear, but otherwise presenting as NRMT. 7x9". An important and truly historic image.
1933 World Series Programs, Washington & New York Versions. A tenth inning home run by slugging sensation Mel Ott was the decider in the fifth and final game of this Depression-era Fall Classic, with the historic game faithfully recorded in pencil in the offered Washington issue. A vertical center fold is the only condition issue of note here, as the program presents remarkably well for its age. The Polo Grounds version features a bit of toning/water staining on the cover and a vertical center fold like its mate. The center score sheet is loose from the staples but present and unscored. Rare to find as a matched pair.
1937 Babe Ruth Sinclair Oil Contest Display. If you're a seven-year old boy, this will certainly be your favorite lot in the auction. Even we have to admit that the carved wooden dinosaurs are pretty nifty, part of a gas station display promoting the famous "Sinclair Babe Ruth Baseball Contest" notorious in the hobby today for its secretarially signed Babe Ruth singles which have broken many a collector's heart. The dinosaurs each measure approximately a foot tall and eighteen inches long, with each having its tail broken off and reaffixed with super glue. The brontosaurus also has a minor leg injury, but none of these issues significantly affect the charming appeal. The stegosaurus features a sticker with the Babe' image. Joining the prehistoric pairing is a large cloth banner (17x82") announcing the prizes of the radio contest, including Nash automobiles, car radios and 500 autographed Spalding baseballs. Banner shows expected wear with staining and some tearing, but still presents nicely. Velcro has been applied to verso for display. Next, we provide an entry blank (8.5x11") for the contest, VG-EX. And finally, one of the prize baseballs itself, an ONL (Frick) model with the quite nicely forged signature of the Bambino (8/10). The most comprehensive collection of Sinclair contest materials on the face of the earth, unlikely to surface at auction ever again.
Late 1930's Robert "Lefty" Grove Game Worn Fielder's Glove & Game Used Baseballs. Thrilling assortment of artifacts from the personal collection of Robert "Lefty" Grove comes to Heritage from the Hall of Fame pitcher's landscaper, who received the material as partial payment for his gardening services. Best is the button-back "Reach" glove, worn on the right hand, which was used by the 300 game winner late in his career. The glove exhibits strong wear but no damage, with even the lacing between the fingers remaining fully intact. Period images find Grove wearing gloves identical in style to the presented model, and a very faint "Bob Grove" is discernible in the palm, apparently applied by hand by the pitcher himself.
Providing a combination of added appeal and further provenance are three baseballs from Grove's collection: 1) Single signed baseball. OAL (Harridge). Signature 9+/10. "T.I." initials on side panel in unknown hand. 2) Career victory #275 game used baseball, dated "May 27 - 1939." Notated on side panel in Grove's 9/10 black ink, and autographed as well. OAL (Harridge) baseball. 3) Career victory #285 game used baseball, dated "Sept. 13 - 1939." Notated on side panel in Grove's 9/10 black ink, and autographed as well. OAL (Harridge) baseball. This is, to the best of our knowledge, the only game used glove from the legendary southpaw held within a private collection, making for a singularly unique opportunity for the advanced collector. Letter of provenance from Grove's landscaper. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
Providing a combination of added appeal and further provenance are three baseballs from Grove's collection: 1) Single signed baseball. OAL (Harridge). Signature 9+/10. "T.I." initials on side panel in unknown hand. 2) Career victory #275 game used baseball, dated "May 27 - 1939." Notated on side panel in Grove's 9/10 black ink, and autographed as well. OAL (Harridge) baseball. 3) Career victory #285 game used baseball, dated "Sept. 13 - 1939." Notated on side panel in Grove's 9/10 black ink, and autographed as well. OAL (Harridge) baseball. This is, to the best of our knowledge, the only game used glove from the legendary southpaw held within a private collection, making for a singularly unique opportunity for the advanced collector. Letter of provenance from Grove's landscaper. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1930's-50's Major League Baseball Pinback Collection of 49. Unique collection of pins explores various decades, stars and commons, individuals and teams, providing no shortage of intrigue. Notables include Ted Williams, Red Ruffing, Lefty Gomez, Whitey Ford, Monte Irvin, Enos Slaughter, Carl Hubbell, Whitey Lockman, Roger Maris, Tommy Henrich, Al Rosen, Jackie Jensen, Gil McDougald, Billy Cox, Frank Shea, Cliff Melton, Carl Erskine, Johnny Podres, Dom DiMaggio, Andy Pafko, Mort Cooper, John Antonelli, Wally Moon, etc. Among the team pins: Yankees, Giants, Cubs, White Sox, Braves, Reds, Cardinals, Pirates and Phillies. Most pins show general wear throughout and oxidation on verso, but still present nicely.
1940's Brooklyn Dodgers Wire Photographs Lot of 29. Straight from the sports desk of Brooklyn newsrooms comes this fascinating assortment of images from the days just before the arrival of a guy named Jackie. You'll find plenty of World War II "Health" patches on the jersey sleeves, and guys like Pee Wee Reese, Joe Medwick, Mickey Owen and Cookie Lavagetto. The focus appears to be on posed group shots and team photos, but there are some individual portraits as well. A large percentage maintain their original paper captions on verso. Size ranges from approximately 7x9" to 8x10", with a great and very rare 5x12" panoramic team shot. Fine break down value for the eBay hobbyist, or enough to fill a wall for the true fan. Strong VG-EX average.
1944 Wrigley Field Panoramic Photograph. As the Second World War was beginning to tilt in favor of the Allies the game went on back at home, with white-shirted fans packing the stands of the venerable old Chicago ballpark for a meeting between the Cubs and the New York Giants. The hometown team would claim both halves of a Sunday doubleheader at this July 9th contest, making this remarkable image all the more desirable for the Cubs enthusiast. The image remains in remarkable NRMT condition, providing a commanding fan's eye view of the action from the right field stands. A simple inch-wide frame expands the total dimensions of the piece to 12x30". Third party shipping is required.
1947 Jackie Robinson's First Major League Game Ticket Stub. Arguably the most important ticket stub, from an historical perspective, of baseball in the twentieth century. The provided artifact allowed one lucky spectator to witness the breaking of the paradoxically entitled "Gentleman's Agreement," which had banned non-whites from Major League Baseball for decades, as Jackie Robinson took to Ebbets Field on Opening Day, 1947. The stub presents wonderfully, with Brooklyn Dodgers president Branch Rickey's facsimile signature at bottom reminding us that the bravery was not just Robinson's alone. Verso exhibits very mild glue staining from scrapbook removal, but there is no paper loss whatsoever.
1947 Baxter (KS) Whiz Kids Panoramic Team Photograph with Mickey Mantle. This very early Mantle baseball photograph indicates that Mickey had earned his reputation for irresponsibility at a young age, as he is the only youngster that apparently forgot to wear his uniform for photo day. As such, he stands with the coaching staff in the back row beneath a handwritten identification (not in Mickey's hand) identifying him by name and his second base position. The sixteen-year old star of the Champion Whiz Kids Ball Team surely owned one of these panoramic photos back in the day, as did his fellow teammates, but these clearly were never made for public consumption and one must assume that the surviving examples could be counted on a single hand. Vertical creases, the result of the photo being rolled then crushed, crack the photographic emulsion but do not threaten the solidity of the piece, leaving it well within the bounds of attractive display. Size is 8x24". A marvelous relic for the Mantle collector who has it all.
1948 Babe Ruth Wristwatch & Baseball Packaging. Released shortly after the sad passing of this baseball icon, this special wristwatch by Exacta counts the hours of Ruth's eternal reign over the baseball world. The child's size sterling silver timepiece offers a great portrait of the Bambino on the face, and presents in fully-functional EX-MT condition. The plastic baseball in which it was packaged is present as well, showing a small degree of wear that rates the piece EX overall. A solid example of this rare and coveted keepsake.
Circa 1952 Mickey Mantle Fan Club Pinback. Earning its reputation as "The King of All Post-War Pins" honestly, the early Mantle Fan Club issue claims fewer than half a dozen survivors, one of which is pictured on the cover of the 2004 definitive hardcover guide on the topic, Paul Muchinsky's Baseball Pinback Buttons (Great Oaks Press). The presented example was recently unearthed in Las Vegas, Nevada and makes its first appearance in the collecting hobby here. Just the second example to reach the auction block since Barry Halper's personal pin realized $12,650 at his famous 1999 sale, this celluloid beauty presents marvelously with light, essentially inconsequential crazing of the glossy surface only apparent at certain angles to the light. Moderate oxidation of verso does not affect the front. Diameter: 1.25". An exceedingly rare artifact of which only the most comprehensive and advanced collections are worthy.
1952 New York Yankees World Championship Presentational Pocket Watch. Rare timepiece was presented only to players and front office workers who contributed to the Yankee cause for this fourth consecutive World Championship season. We believe this one was not a player model, as the initials "J.R." joining the "World Champions" engraving on verso does not appear to coincide with a roster player. "New York Yankees 1952" joins a bat and hat logo at center. "Wittnauer" brand watch features an art deco face and still functions perfectly. Some oxidation is apparent, but the fine historical relevance is unaffected. Diameter 1.4".
Circa 1953 PF Shoes "Big League Baseball Stars on TV" Advertising Sign. Among the most coveted of all 1950's baseball advertising pieces is this marvelous and colorful relic promoting PF Canvas Shoes and its sponsorship of televised Major League Baseball. It's easy to see the reason for its elite status, as six Hall of Famers--Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle, Roy Campanella, Robin Roberts, Warren Spahn and Red Schoendienst--are among those stars providing their smiling faces for the cause. Veteran advertising collectors will recognize the PF Shoes brand, as a few other examples have surfaced in the hobby in recent years, but this is the most colorful, as well as the most star-studded, of that small supply. It must be noted that professional restoration is owed some small degree of thanks for the stunning NRMT appearance of the sign, though we stress that well over 90% of the viewable surface area is completely untouched by these efforts, which simply repaired a rather clean break in the cardboard at upper left and a one-inch chip at lower left. To the best of our knowledge, this is the only example of this particular style ever presented at public auction. Easel back. Dimensions are an impressive 19x24".
1962 New York Mets Opening Day Full Tickets Lot of 2. A franchise is born! Though the 120 losses suffered by this first incarnation of the new National League franchise from New York City would lead manager Casey Stengel to famously exclaim, "Can't anybody here play this game?!," the 1962 squad still holds a special place in the hearts of Mets faithful. The presented tickets were consigned by a gentleman who had been unable to make it to that inaugural Polo Grounds home game, a four to three loss to the Roberto Clemente's Pittsburgh Pirates. The unused tickets for adjacent seats in section 30 bear a single crease just left of center and some typical corner wear, but still present very nicely. Each has been slabbed "Authentic" by PSA/DNA.
1966 Roberto Clemente Original Artwork by Handrille. A distinguished career continues with this painting's offering in a Heritage Signature Auction, and we aren't talking about the subject. The impressive multimedia work on artist's board was originally commissioned by Sports Illustrated and published in the March 7, 1966 issue, a copy of which is included in this lot. Seventeen years later the work resurfaced in the summer of 1983 in a Baseball Hall of Fame exhibit called "The Fine Art of Baseball." Will it turn up in your personal collection next? The stirring study of the tragic Roberto Clemente is masterfully rendered and impressively large (18x29"). Signed in pencil by the artist, "R. Handrille," who also notates at bottom, "Roberto Clemente, Commissioned by Sports Illustrated." An impressive framing job expands the complete dimensions to 26x38".
1971 & 1979 Pittsburgh Pirates World Championship Celebration Banners. From Roberto Clemente to Willie Stargell, the greatest names in 1970's Pittsburgh baseball were greeted on the World Championship celebration parade route by these banners, flown during a decade that twice saw the men in black and gold take the title. The earlier model measures 27x53" and is signed in 10/10 black sharpie by 1971 Series hero Steve Blass, who gave up a single earned run in two complete game victories. The 1979 version measures 44x54". Each is constructed from all-weather canvas and exhibits minor staining from the elements, but nothing that inhibits the fine aesthetics. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1980 BBWAA Rookie of the Year Award Presented to Steve Howe & Game Worn Fielder's Glove. Remembered for his brilliance on the mound and his struggles off of it, Howe lost his battle with addiction on April 28, 2006 when he rolled his pickup truck in Coachella, California with methamphetamine in his blood. The offered lot recalls happier times in the life of the superstar southpaw. First is a presentational clock from the Baseball Writers Association of America, issued in honor of his 1980 Rookie of the Year Award. Clock remains in fine, functional condition and is signed in 10/10 black sharpie by Howe. Also here is a nicely used Easton EXP4FB fielder's glove, autographed in 9/10 gold paint pen. A simple 1994 letter of provenance from Howe is included. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autographs).
1990 Nolan Ryan 300th Victory Game Used Baseball. Just seven weeks after pitching the sixth no-hitter of his remarkable Hall of Fame career, the Major Leagues' career Strike Out King reached yet another milestone of baseball immortality, recording his 300th victory against the visiting Milwaukee Brewers. The presented OAL (Brown) ball saw action at the Texas Rangers' Arlington Stadium during the contest, a fact that Ryan notes on a side panel to the right of his 10/10 sweet spot signature. He writes, "Game Ball, 300th Win, 7/31/90." The ball shows proper wear for Major League game use, with smudges of infield dirt still readily visible. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Auction LOA from PSA/DNA.
1991 Minnesota Twins World Championship Black Bat. We aren't sure why black bats, the prize lumber given to pennant and World Championship winning teams, happen to be so rare for the 1991 Twins squad, but there's no question that you don't see them often. Here's a Mint example for those collectors among our Heritage family anxious to fill that gap, still as glossy as the day it left Louisville. Now you can join the Puckett family, Kent Hrbek and Chili Davis in a small, elite brotherhood of owners.
1996 New York Yankees World Championship Trophy. The longest World Championship drought in Yankees history since Babe Ruth helped bring the first to the Bronx in 1923 ended this season after seventeen joyless Octobers made this eighteenth one the sweetest of all. Presented to a front office worker in the Yankees organization, this striking foot-tall trophy marked the start of one of the greatest dynasties in club history, the first of four the club would claim in a five season stretch. The flags of every Major League team ring baseball and crown figurals, and adapted press passes for the Yanks and defeated National League Champion Atlanta Braves. An engraved band that belts the base reads, "1996 New York Yankees, World Series Champions." A thing of beauty for any true Yankee devotee.
2008 Alex Rodriguez Last Yankee Stadium Home Run Baseball. A notarized letter from our consignor tells the story: "I, Christian Martinez, was at Yankee Stadium for the Yankees vs. White Sox baseball game. In the eighth inning of the game, I was walking through the stands and caught the record-breaking home run ball hit by Alex Rodriguez. This was the last home run that A-Rod hit in Yankee Stadium before it closed. Also, with this home run, A-Rod became the first player to have at least 35 home runs and 100 RBIs in 10 consecutive seasons..." The historic ball shows fine game use with the special Yankee Stadium logo used only during the final season at the old park. Included in the lot is a photograph of Martinez holding the baseball minutes after catching it. Check the video on the MLB website and you can clearly recognize Martinez coming up with the ball after a brief scramble for A-Rod's 533rd career long ball. A singularly unique artifact from the man who many believe will one day be the career Home Run King.
2008 Babe Ruth Mixed Media Original Painting by Grant Smith. Until 1920 the game of baseball had been perceived to be one requiring skill at contact, running, throwing and catching. After the brilliant conversion of Babe Ruth to an outfielder and his sale to the Yankees, the game focused on one thing - the bat of the Babe. His ability to send the leather sphere out of sight became the paradigm of the game we know today. Offered is a framed and matted 29x31" mixed media painting by artist Grant Smith. Images of Ruth's hands and eyes are repeated with a contour line acrylic rendering of the Babe applied on top. A truly unique multi-layered modern rendition of an American icon.
2008 Babe Ruth Original Oil Painting by Grant Smith. With the diamond as his sizable stage, Babe Ruth lured admirers by the millions. Holding a virtual monopoly on the home run, Ruth had it all: adoring fans, endorsement power and perennial team and personal laurels. In this painting entitled "Three Strikes You're Out" by artist Grant Smith we see "The Sultan of Swat" in profile with billboard advertisements in the background displaying a bottle of liquor and a woman. These serve as examples of the temptations many confront. "I swing as hard as I can, and I try to swing right through the ball... The harder you grip the bat, the more you can swing it through the ball, and the farther the ball will go. I swing big, with everything I've got. I hit big or I miss big. I like to live as big as I can." The original oil painting measures 20x24" and is painted with rich layered impasto gestural strokes.
Circa 2008 Mickey Mantle Screenprint on Canvas by Steven Kaufman. Noted pop artist follows in the footsteps of Andy Warhol with colorful studies of iconic Americans. Here we find his take on the New York Yankees legend, an enormous 39" square canvas which captures a joyous Mick holding up a home run baseball for your examination. A fun way to bring some color and culture into your trophy room. Third party shipping is required.
2008 Gary Sheffield 496th Career Home Run, 250,000th in Major League History. Were you a little surprised that such records have actually been kept since the birth of Major League Baseball in 1869? So were we. But we trust Bud Selig's bean counters, and we recall quite well when this story hit ESPN Sportscenter back in September of last year. Probable future Hall of Famer Gary Sheffield's 496th career homer, a grand slam no less, was the lucky quarter-millionth.
The Official Major League baseball that set the mark looks like any other, of course, but the accompanying provenance is as ironclad as one could hope for. Delivered to us from consignor Nikki Gianino, who caught the ball on the fly on her twenty-seventh birthday, is the following:
1) Game ticket for the September 8, 2008 Detroit Tigers home game.
2) A 9/11/08 copy of the Detroit area newspaper The Monroe Evening News sports section featuring an article entitled, "Monroe woman catches historic homer." Ms. Gianino is interviewed, and is pictured holding the baseball.
3) A VHS recording of the home run, clearly showing Ms. Gianino catching the ball.
4) A pair of certificates from the ballclub which read, "The Detroit Tigers Congratulate Nikki Gianino For an Amazing Catch On September 8, 2008," and "The Detroit Tigers Wish Nikki Gianino A Very Happy Birthday on September 8, 2008."
As the pace of home runs has sped up considerable since the days of the 1869 Cincinnati Red Stockings, it's likely we won't have to wait another 139 years until we hit the half million mark, but if we aren't all dead and buried when that day comes, we won't be far off. Better to chase this one instead.
The Official Major League baseball that set the mark looks like any other, of course, but the accompanying provenance is as ironclad as one could hope for. Delivered to us from consignor Nikki Gianino, who caught the ball on the fly on her twenty-seventh birthday, is the following:
1) Game ticket for the September 8, 2008 Detroit Tigers home game.
2) A 9/11/08 copy of the Detroit area newspaper The Monroe Evening News sports section featuring an article entitled, "Monroe woman catches historic homer." Ms. Gianino is interviewed, and is pictured holding the baseball.
3) A VHS recording of the home run, clearly showing Ms. Gianino catching the ball.
4) A pair of certificates from the ballclub which read, "The Detroit Tigers Congratulate Nikki Gianino For an Amazing Catch On September 8, 2008," and "The Detroit Tigers Wish Nikki Gianino A Very Happy Birthday on September 8, 2008."
As the pace of home runs has sped up considerable since the days of the 1869 Cincinnati Red Stockings, it's likely we won't have to wait another 139 years until we hit the half million mark, but if we aren't all dead and buried when that day comes, we won't be far off. Better to chase this one instead.
1890's Baseball Doll. Miraculously preserved doll recalls the game when legends like Honus Wagner and Napoleon Lajoie were just getting started. The body is constructed of wire and cloth, our little friend dressed in a road grey uniform with orange socks and undershirt. The head is a delicate, handpainted construction of paper mache with glued-on glass eyes, providing a whimsical and utterly charming appearance. One of three early dolls presented within this auction.
Circa 1900 Football Player Doll. Spindly little gentleman would probably not recover from a Shawn Merriman tackle, but one can't help but be won over by his charm. Constructed of wire and cloth, the ancient gridiron doll remains in remarkably well-preserved condition, with wear to his leather boots the only signs of a century of life. Unquestionably one of the finest specimens of the theme, deriving from the private collection of one of the hobby's premier vintage sports doll collectors. Height is twelve inches.
Circa 1935 New York Yankees Doll. Rare and delicate doll recalls the earliest days of the American League franchise, with a bold "NY" applied in stickers to the chest and a white cap with blue brim. The body is constructed of cloth with what feels like paper stuffing, complete with a felt glove on his right hand (a southpaw!) and later Yankees buttons applied to the chest by the consignor. The head is constructed of paper mache and is the true miracle of survival as it could be crushed with the slightest degree of pressure but remains simply flawless here, as does the doll body, right down to the leather boots. Height is twelve inches.
1926 World Series Press Pin (New York Yankees). A rare Fall Classic loss for Murderer's Row, which was done in by the late inning heroics of surprise Game Seven closer Grover Cleveland Alexander. Though the pin may stir up some raw emotions for the devout Yankees fan, the pin's condition and gorgeous aesthetics should soften the blow. Clean enamel and an absence of the oxidation typically seen in pins of this era makes this specimen a NRMT winner. Threaded post and original "Dieges & Clust" nut on verso.
1928 World Series (New York Yankees) Press Pin. The Yanks make it eight October wins in a row as they sweep their National League opposition for the second consecutive season. The wearer of this pin got to watch Lou Gehrig take Grover Cleveland Alexander deep in the first inning of Game Two! We must resort to the magnifying glass to hunt down any faults, which come only in the form of a few oxidation pinpricks to the metal face that may well be removable. The enamel remains essentially pristine. Threaded post on verso with Dieges & Clust stamped nut. A stunning NRMT example.
1938 World Series Press Pin (New York Yankees). To be conservative, we'll call this pin NRMT-MT, though the temptation is almost overpowering to diagnose it as straight Mint. There is likely not a finer specimen on earth. Worn by a lucky spectator who watched the Yanks complete a four-game sweep as Lou Gehrig got his last taste of October action. Dieges & Clust stamping on verso, with threaded post and replacement nut present.
1939 World Series (New York Yankees) Press Pin. The Centennial season was one of baseball's most notable, and despite the loss of the services of team captain Lou Gehrig, the Yanks still managed to bring the year's Championship home to the Bronx. Spectacular Dieges & Clust pin offers almost flawless enamel and metal free from oxidation, resulting in a NRMT appearance. Threaded post and nut on verso.
1940's New York Yankees World Series Press Pins Lot of 5. The "Yanks" were winning wars and Championships in the 1940's, and here we present five mementos of the latter, a pin from every pinstriped appearance in the Fall Classic that decade. Condition issues: 1941 converted to charm, very minor enamel wear. 1942 missing nut and bolt on verso. 1943 strong and complete. 1947 very minor enamel wear. 1949 NRMT-MT.
1946 All-Star Game Player's Tie Bar Presented to Ken Keltner. Five years earlier he had made enemies of millions of Joe DiMaggio fans with his world class fielding at the hot corner, ending the Yankee Clipper's incredible hitting streak at fifty-six games. But on July 9, 1946, Keltner would share a dugout with the Bronx legend for the Fenway Park Midsummer Classic best remembered for Ted Williams' home run clout of Rip Sewell's "eephus" pitch. Joe and Ted each got one of these attractive tie bars for their twelve to nothing whooping of the Nationals this day, and here we present Keltner's, surviving to this day in unimprovable Mint condition. A genuine diamond is set in the face above the words "Boston 1946," while "All Star Game, American League" rings the blue enameled perimeter. Engraved on verso is a block lettered "Kenneth Keltner." The first example we've ever encountered.
1950's New York Yankees World Series Press Pins Lot of 8. Eight American League pennants for the Yankees definitely made the 1950's "Happy Days" in the Bronx, and we revisit the glory here with a pin for each of the Octobers. Condition issues: 1950 NRMT. 1951 NRMT. 1952 NRMT on original card. 1953 NRMT. 1955 NRMT but missing nut on verso. 1956 minor wear to enamel. 1957 NRMT. 1958 NRMT but missing nut on verso.
1960's New York Yankees World Series Press Pins Lot of 5. Five straight pennants to start the decade made it seem like the good times would last forever, but the House that Ruth Built would soon turn cold, with a dozen years of lonely Octobers to follow. Recalling those final Fall Classic of the Mantle era are: 1960 NRMT. 1961 some enamel wear, nut removed and turned into pendant. 1962 NRMT. 1963 NRMT. 1964 NRMT.
1970's-2000's New York Yankees World Series Press Pins Lot of 10. The balance of one collector's comprehensive Yankees pin collection leads us from the days of Captain Munson through Captain Jeter. No need for a pin by pin explication of condition here--everything is NRMT-MT. Included are the years 1976, 1977, 1978, 1981, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003.
1946-1989 World Series, All-Star Game & Hall of Fame Induction Press Pins Lot of 12. A dozen highly collectible trinkets cover a half-century of important moments in our National Pastime. From a journalist's lapel to your private collection are the following: 1) 1946 All-Star Game. 2) 1951 World Series (Brooklyn). 3) 1952 World Series (New York Giants phantom). 4) 1961 All-Star Game. 5) 1973 World Series (Oakland). 6) 1975 World Series (Boston). 7) 1986 World Series (New York). 8) 1986 World Series (Boston). 9) 1987 World Series (St. Louis). 10) 1987 World Series (Boston phantom). 11) 1988 World Series (Atlanta). 12) 1989 Hall of Fame Induction. All pins are NRMT or better.
1926 St. Louis Cardinals World Championship Ring. The only team to vanquish the New York Yankees in October during the Ruth/Gehrig years, the St. Louis Cardinals sent Murderer's Row to the gallows in a hard-fought seven-game Series in 1926, the year that scout Charles "Pop" Kelchner was issued this Championship ring for his efforts. Beginning with the 1909 Philadelphia Athletics and finally retiring after forty years with the Cardinals in 1958, Kelchner was instrumental in signings from Chief Bender to Joe Medwick to Stan Musial. His well-worn 1926 ring features a genuine quarter-karat diamond at center of the face, where the words "St. Louis Cardinals World Champions" rings the perimeter. Bird and bats logos are still discernible on each shank despite the heavy wear. "C.S. Kelchner" is engraved inside the band, as is the name of the man to whom he later presented the ring as a gift. Size ten. Includes original box from local St. Louis jeweler.
1950 New York Yankees Championship Ring. The understated elegance of the ring's design seems perfectly fitting for the well-heeled pinstriped crew which had just secured its second of five consecutive World Championships. An .80 point diamond is secured at the center of the ring face, encircled by that common phrase, "New York Yankees, World Champions." Left shank features the team's bat and hat logo and the year "1950," while the right duplicates the design. "Balfour 14k" stamping appears inside band. Size eleven. Awarded to a front office worker at the Bronx ballpark, this ring is identical to those earned by DiMaggio, Mize, Rizzuto and Berra. Rare and eminently desirable.
1953 New York Yankees Championship Ring. That bold number "5" commanding the face of this gorgeous salesman's sample recounts the fifth consecutive World Series victory for the powerful pinstripers since the arrival of Hall of Fame manager Casey Stengel, a Championship run unmatched in Major League Baseball history. Each of the members of that historic squad received a ring just like this one, right down to the rare-for-a-sample fourteen karat gold construction and genuine diamond set into the face. "New York Yankees, World Champions" text rings the perimeter of the face, with "1953" and the team's hat and bat logo appearing on each shank. "Balfour 14k" stamped inside band. One of the most attractive and important Yankee rings in the hobby, sure to impress anyone who has ever spent time in the Bronx. Size ten.
1965 Minnesota Twins American League Championship Ring. Salesman's sample ring recalls the first ever American League Championship for the Minnesota Twins franchise, and the first World Series appearance in team history since the club was called the Washington Senators and Joe Cronin was calling the shots. Elegant in its understated design, the ring provides a faux diamond at center of a blue stone on the face, with "American League Champions" ringing its perimeter. Left shank announces the Twins' superstar slugger "Killebrew" and his number "3" on either side of a miniature team logo. The "TC" logo is framed between "Minnesota" and "1965" on the right shank. Interior band holds inventory coding and the words "Property of Josten's, not for resale." Size 10. Fourteen karat gold plated.
1978 Los Angeles Dodgers National League Championship Ring. A sixteenth National League pennant is commemorated by this impressive ring issued to a groundskeeper at Dodger Stadium. A blue stone at center is adorned with a "Dodgers" logo and a single inset diamond with the look of a baseball lofting skyward. "National League Champions 1978" rings the perimeter of the stone. Left shank features crossed bats behind a baseball with the original owner's (Bill Moolenaar) facsimile signature stamped into the sweet spot. The right shank provides an "LA" logo and the number "3,347,845," making note of the first time in Major League history a team surpassed three million in attendance. "Balfour 14k" stamping inside band, which measures to a size 11.5.
1981 Los Angeles Dodgers World Championship Ring. Glittering prize was presented to the man who kept the grass green and the chalk lines straight at Chavez Ravine while the home team battled to its first World Championship since the retirement of Sandy Koufax. A real diamond is set into the blue stone of the ring face, which is encircled by raised text proudly announcing "Los Angeles Dodgers World Champions." The left shank provides the groundskeeper's surname, "Moolenaar," above a Dodgers logo, while the right pictures the World Series Trophy and the year of glory. "Balfour 10K" stamping appears inside band, which measures to a size 12.5. Identical in design to the rings issued to Garvey, Cey, Valenzuela and Lasorda. Original box included.
1988 Los Angeles Dodgers World Championship Ring. Impressive salesman's sample is a dead ringer (no pun intended) for the prize awarded to the 1988 National League MVP for his crucial contributions to the Dodgers' World Championship cause. Gibson's pinch hit walk-off home run off Dennis Eckersley in the Series' first game still stands as one of the most famous long balls in Major League history, giving instant street cred to this special piece. A faux diamond rests at center of a blue stone at face, encircled by smaller diamonds and the bold lettering "1988 World Champion Dodgers." Left shank features the "LA" logo framed by "Gibson" and "23," with the right shank picturing a miniature World Series trophy beneath "Dodgers" script. Interior band is stamped "Balfour 10k." Size 11.5.
1911 World Series Game One Full Ticket, PSA Authentic. A record-setting crowd of 38,281 attended the first game of the 1911 World Series at the Polo Grounds, just months old following a disastrous blaze which spelled the end of its previous incarnation mid-season. The New York Giants and the Philadelphia Athletics would fire their biggest guns for the opening contest, with Christy Mathewson and Chief Bender battling to a two to one victory for the home team. Here we find a tremendously scarce unused ticket from that battle at Coogan's Bluff, holstered in a PSA slab for unquestioned authenticity. The ticket exhibits typical edge and corner wear and a punch hole near the right edge, but still presents wonderfully. One of just seven full tickets from this Series in a PSA holder, and one of only two from the historic first game.
1957 World Series Game Five Full Ticket, PSA Mint 9. A ten-inning complete game victory by Warren Spahn, and long balls from Hank Aaron and Eddie Mathews make this one a crowd-pleaser, as does the remarkably strong condition. One of just two full tickets to achieve this grade, with none finer.
1957 World Series Game Five Full Ticket, PSA Gem Mint 10. How tough is this ticket? There's just one Gem Mint 10 on the PSA population charts for 1957. That's not just World Series. That's not just full tickets. That's not just baseball. For all sports, full tickets and stubs, there's only one Gem Mint 10, and this is it. A pitcher's duel in which Lew Burdette pitched a shutout to earn one of his three Series victories. (Note that this ticket has been improperly slabbed as Game 4, an error repeated on the population report, but we are resubmitting the ticket to rectify this issue).
1957 World Series Game Three Full Ticket, PSA Mint 9. Mint, unused relic would have afforded one fan a third row bleacher seat to watch both Mickey Mantle and Hank Aaron go deep during a twelve to three New York Yankees victory over the hometown Milwaukee Braves. The highest graded full ticket for this game on the PSA population charts, with no equals.
1958 World Series Game Six Full Ticket, PSA Mint 9. Another Ford vs. Spahn showdown, and another ten-inning thriller. The Yankees would narrowly escape elimination, setting the stage for the completion of their remarkable comeback from a three games to one deficit. Ticket is in flawless, unused condition, residing near the top of the PSA population charts with just a single superior example.
1958 World Series Game Two Full Ticket, PSA Gem MT 10. A pair of home runs by Mickey Mantle, the tenth and eleventh of his eighteen career Fall Classic clouts, makes this ticket a popular one among collectors, and you can rest assured that you won't find a finer example with little chance that another of equal quality will ever be found.
1958 World Series Game One Full Ticket, PSA Mint 9. What a game to miss! One unfortunate fan couldn't get to the ballpark to watch Hall of Fame hurlers Whitey Ford and Warren Spahn face off in a ten-inning nailbiter. The good news? The ticket has survived the past half-century in remarkable Mint condition, resting comfortably at the top of the PSA population charts with none higher.
1951-2001 No-Hitter Full Ticket & Stub Lot of 15. Lovers of big offense look elsewhere, because this lot is dedicated to the men who have made it miserable for the guys holding Louisville Sluggers. Each is slabbed by PSA/DNA, and to follow we will report year/pitcher name/PSA grade. Stubs: 1951/Reynolds/VG 3, 1956/Erskine/VG-EX 4, 1978/Seaver/PR-FR 1 (MK), 1983/Forsch/EX 5. Full tickets: 1978/Forsch/NM 7, 1981/Barker/NM 7, 1990/Ryan/EX-MT 6, 1991/Ryan/NM-MT 8, 1993/Abbott/Mint 9, 1994/Rogers/Authentic, 1995/Martinez/Good 2, 1998/Wells/NM-MT 8, 1999/Jiminez/NM 7, 1999/Cone/NM-MT 8, 2001/Smith/NM 7.
1958-2001 3,000th Hit Full Ticket & Stub Lot of 19. Impressively comprehensive collection of ducats recalls the summitting by many of the game's greatest hitters of the celebrated 3,000 hit plateau. Each is slabbed by PSA/DNA, and to follow we will report year/player name/PSA grade. Stubs: 1958/Musial/PR-FR 1, 1970/Aaron/EX 5, 1970/Mays/VG 3, 1972/Clemente/VG-EX4, 1974/Kaline/EX-MT 6, 1978/Rose/VG-EX 4 (MK), 1979/Brock/EX-MT 6, 1979/Yastrzemski/VG 3. Full tickets: 1978/Rose/VG-EX 4, 1985/Carew/NM-MT 8, 1985/Carew/Gem Mint 10, 1992/Yount/Mint 9, 1992/Brett/EX 5, 1993/Winfield/NM-MT 8, 1995/Murray (signed)/Mint 9, 1996/Molitor/EX-MT 6, 1999/Boggs/Mint 9, 2000/Ripken/Gem Mint 10, 2001/Gwynn/NM-MT 8.
1972 Roberto Clemente's 3,000th Hit & Last Game Ticket Stub, PSA EX 5. Tragedy would strike three months later when the Hall of Famer's airplane went down while on a humanitarian mission to Nicaragua, but we must assume that there is some justice in the universe that this fine man was able to notch his 3,000th career hit before his fatal accident. Little could the fan who used this September 30, 1972 ticket at Three Rivers Stadium have known that this game would be Clemente's last, but nobody at the time could doubt that a historic event was being witnessed when Roberto laced a fourth inning double off the Mets' Jon Matlack to enter the prestigious hitting club. Typical wear is evident but nothing that could be characterized as damage, accounting for the PSA EX 5 grade upon the slab. Equal in quality to the example that sold in Heritage's May 2005 Signature Auction for $4,182.
1952-64 Mickey Mantle World Series Home Run Ticket Stubs Lot of 15. Missing only 1964 World Series Game 3 (home run #16), the presented collection recounts a Major League record unlikely to ever be broken. The Mick's eighteen Fall Classic long balls remain an integral part of his legend, so what better way to honor his memory than with a winning bid here? Each stub is encapsulated by PSA, as follows: 1952 Game 6 (EX 5), 1952 Game 7 (Authentic), 1953 Game 2 (VG 3), 1953 Game 5 (VG 3), 1955 Game 3 (Authentic), 1956 Game 1 (Authentic), 1956 Game 4 (Authentic), 1956 Game 5 (Authentic), 1957 Game 3 (VG 3), 1958 Game 2 (Authentic), 1960 Game 2 (VG 3), 1960 Game 3 (Authentic), 1963 Game 4 (NM 7), 1964 Game 6 (VG 3), 1964 Game 7 (EX-MT 6).
1952-64 Mickey Mantle World Series Home Run Ticket Stubs Display. Rendered with understated artistry and mathematical precision, the presented display pays proper homage to one of the most unassailable records in Major League Baseball history, the eighteen Fall Classic home runs launched from the Louisville Slugger of Mickey Mantle. History begins at lower left and runs clockwise, through four Subway Series including the fifth glorious game of the 1956 World Series in which Don Larsen was perfect, through two consecutive meetings with Hank Aaron and the Milwaukee Braves, to the heartbreak of the 1960 Pirates fiasco, then back to the Dodgers before finishing up with the last two games of the 1964 Series at St. Louis. Each ticket features a flawless tear at the perforations, with only Games Four and Five of the 1956 Series (VG) dipping below EX-MT status. At center of the display is an autographed and notarized fact sheet recounting the Mick's Hall of Fame career. Full framed dimensions are 26x32". Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Third party shipping is required.
1971-2004 500th Home Run Full Ticket & Stub Lot of 8. Baseball immortality was assured during the games for which the presented tickets were issued, gaining eight superstar sluggers membership in the most exclusive of power-hitting brotherhoods. Each ticket is slabbed by PSA for protection and unquestioned authenticity. Stubs: 1971/Robinson//EX 5, 1978/McCovey/VG 3 (MK). Full tickets: 1984/Jackson/Mint 9, 1996/Murray/NM-MT 8, 1999/McGwire/Gem Mint 10, 2001/Bonds/Authentic, 2003/Palmeiro/Mint 9, 2004/Griffey/Mint 9.
1932 Wilcy Moore Game Worn Jersey. Stunningly preserved home white flannel gamer was once the possession of right hander Wilcy Moore, who went nineteen and seven as a rookie for the 1927 Yankees before being traded to the Red Sox in 1931. Midway through the next season, when Moore suited up in this pristine relic, he was traded back to the Yanks, just in time for yet another World Championship. How's that for getting the best of the famous rivalry?
Moore pitched eighty-four innings for the Sox before that 1932 trade, and while a definite degree of wear from that term is evident in the ancient flannel, it remains a miracle of condition. It's likely that another home jersey received the bulk of usage, and that this specimen was used sparingly for a reason. Noted jersey authenticator Lou Lampson points out the word "Sunday" embroidered over the "Moore" surname on the swatch at interior collar. It is an oddity he had encountered in other Red Sox jerseys of the same general era. His supposition is that these shirts were saved for Sunday games so that the ballplayers would be wearing their finest, just like churchgoers, when the crowds at the park were largest.
Just above the embroidered swatch is the local "Horace Partridge Co." manufacturer's label. "Red Sox" is applied to the chest in bold red felt, giving way to Moore's number "19" on verso. The socks logo patch is constructed of red and black felt on left sleeve. Check Marc Okkonen's definitive Baseball Uniforms of the 20th Century and you'll find this is a one-year style, certainly one of the only surviving examples.
Only the most inconsequential freckling of rust on the shoulders, likely the result of oxidation of a hanger, is necessary to note in terms of condition flaws, but we do not hesitate to declare that the overall appearance is NRMT. A majestic and tremendously rare Depression-era gem. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Moore pitched eighty-four innings for the Sox before that 1932 trade, and while a definite degree of wear from that term is evident in the ancient flannel, it remains a miracle of condition. It's likely that another home jersey received the bulk of usage, and that this specimen was used sparingly for a reason. Noted jersey authenticator Lou Lampson points out the word "Sunday" embroidered over the "Moore" surname on the swatch at interior collar. It is an oddity he had encountered in other Red Sox jerseys of the same general era. His supposition is that these shirts were saved for Sunday games so that the ballplayers would be wearing their finest, just like churchgoers, when the crowds at the park were largest.
Just above the embroidered swatch is the local "Horace Partridge Co." manufacturer's label. "Red Sox" is applied to the chest in bold red felt, giving way to Moore's number "19" on verso. The socks logo patch is constructed of red and black felt on left sleeve. Check Marc Okkonen's definitive Baseball Uniforms of the 20th Century and you'll find this is a one-year style, certainly one of the only surviving examples.
Only the most inconsequential freckling of rust on the shoulders, likely the result of oxidation of a hanger, is necessary to note in terms of condition flaws, but we do not hesitate to declare that the overall appearance is NRMT. A majestic and tremendously rare Depression-era gem. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1932 Truett "Rip" Sewell Game Worn Rookie Jersey. A cousin of New York Yankees Hall of Famer Joe Sewell, Rip is best remembered today for his "eephus pitch," a crazy, looping oddity that soared twenty-five feet above the diamond before (hopefully) dropping into the strike zone. Sewell developed the pitch after a hunting accident permanently damaged the big toe on his push-off foot, requiring a revamping of his pitching motion. The presented jersey dates from nine years prior to the shooting, a brief stay at Navin Field which ended when a soaring home run by Athletics superstar Jimmie Foxx suggested to Tigers management that further minor league practice was required.
With Sewell seeing just ten and two-thirds innings of action his rookie season, it's little wonder that his presented flannel exhibits little wear, and it's a blessing as well. This is certainly one of the best-preserved prewar flannels you're likely to encounter, with only a few all but imperceptible pinhead-sized moth holes to deviate from pristine state. "Detroit" is scripted across the chest in deep navy felt, with number "22" applied in the same material to verso. Square "Spalding" tag is located at interior collar, and "Sewell 4 32" is embroidered directly into rear right exterior tail, noting name, set number and year respectively. A very tough three-year style in marvelous condition, from a two-time twenty-game winner, and one of the more colorful aces of his day. LOA from Lou Lampson.
With Sewell seeing just ten and two-thirds innings of action his rookie season, it's little wonder that his presented flannel exhibits little wear, and it's a blessing as well. This is certainly one of the best-preserved prewar flannels you're likely to encounter, with only a few all but imperceptible pinhead-sized moth holes to deviate from pristine state. "Detroit" is scripted across the chest in deep navy felt, with number "22" applied in the same material to verso. Square "Spalding" tag is located at interior collar, and "Sewell 4 32" is embroidered directly into rear right exterior tail, noting name, set number and year respectively. A very tough three-year style in marvelous condition, from a two-time twenty-game winner, and one of the more colorful aces of his day. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1957 St. Louis Cardinals Bat Boy Game Worn Jersey. Once owned and operated by a prominent member of the Bat Boy Hall of Fame, this road grey flannel St. Louis Cardinals jersey remains marvelously preserved a half-century beyond its date of issue. Classic chenille "birds and bat" logo dominates the chest, with "BB" applied in bold red and navy felt on verso. "Rawlings Hall of Fame Flannel [size] 36" labeling appears at lower left exterior tail, with "Bat Boy 57" embroidered directly below. Stan Musial has autographed the chest twice, once lightly, and the second time in 10/10 black sharpie complete with a "HOF 69" notation. And, yes, we were joking about the Bat Boy Hall of Fame. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1961 Bubba Phillips Game Worn Jersey. A top twenty finish in the 1961 American League MVP voting establishes this as Phillips finest season in the Bigs. The sure-handed third baseman posted a career-best seventy-two runs batted in the year he sported this home white pinstriped jersey as a member of the Tribe. "Indians" stands in red and blue tackle twill lettering arching across the jersey front, with Phillips' number "5" and Chief Wahoo patches on the right and left sleeves respectively. Number "5" is repeated on verso. "Wilson [size] 44" label is applied at lower front left tail, just above an embroidered swatch recalling the historic 1961 season. Healthy, consistent wear is evident throughout, and some scattered pinprick holes are so minor as to barely merit a mention. A popular five-year style (1958-62) utilized just before the Indians' first experiment with jersey vests for the 1963 season. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1963 Los Angeles Dodgers Number 39 Game Worn Jersey. Yeah, our hearts skipped a beat too when we saw this shirt for the first time, but no, sadly, it's not Campy's. The Dodgers did not retire Hall of Famer Roy Campanella's number "39" shirt until 1972, leaving this dead ringer for the superstar catcher's late career home flannel to be issued to a mere mortal. "Larkin" is the name embroidered in the felt swatch in the tail, but it appears this gentleman never made the active roster, with the jersey most likely issued instead to rookie pitcher Ken Rowe, who threw twenty-seven innings for the Dodgers that year. The white flannel gamer exhibits considerable wear, most likely due to secondary life in the minors, but the shirt is undamaged and presents very nicely. "Tim McAuliffe" label is found in tail above the "Larkin" swatch, with "'63" year and "46" size tags between. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1964 Bob Gibson Game Worn Jersey. Before Dusty Baker faced Bob Gibson for the first time, teammate Hank Aaron warned him, "Don't dig in against him, he'll knock you down. He'd knock down his own grandmother if she dared to challenge him. Don't stare at him, don't smile at him, don't talk to him. He doesn't like it. If you happen to hit a home run, don't run too slow, don't run too fast. If you happen to want to celebrate, get in the tunnel first. And if he hits you, don't charge the mound, because he's a Gold Glove boxer." The most intimidating pitcher of his era, Gibson was likewise one of the most effective, claiming a pair of Cy Young Awards to match a pair of World Championship rings during his Hall of Fame career.
Presented is a home white flannel dating to the year of Gibson's first World Championship, one for which he was awarded the World Series MVP for notching two of the four wins needed to dispose of the mighty Yankees. While it's possible that this jersey saw action during that fabled October, there's no doubt but that the shirt saw season-long wear leading up to the Fall Classic. Despite the strong wear, the jersey has no damage or significant flaws, save the removal of the name on back, an outline of which is still quite discernible when held up to the light. This was a common practice for Cardinals jerseys, as most were used in spring training the following season. As such, the absence of "Gibson" on verso should not be seen as particularly problematic.
All other identifiers are present and unaltered, including the chenille birds and bat logo on the chest and the number "45" affixed to front and verso in red and navy felt. The proper "Rawlings [size] 42" label remains affixed at lower left front exterior tail, while interior tail holds washing instructions label with "Set 1 1964" flap tag at right. A 9+/10 black sharpie signature from Gibson completes the package. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
Presented is a home white flannel dating to the year of Gibson's first World Championship, one for which he was awarded the World Series MVP for notching two of the four wins needed to dispose of the mighty Yankees. While it's possible that this jersey saw action during that fabled October, there's no doubt but that the shirt saw season-long wear leading up to the Fall Classic. Despite the strong wear, the jersey has no damage or significant flaws, save the removal of the name on back, an outline of which is still quite discernible when held up to the light. This was a common practice for Cardinals jerseys, as most were used in spring training the following season. As such, the absence of "Gibson" on verso should not be seen as particularly problematic.
All other identifiers are present and unaltered, including the chenille birds and bat logo on the chest and the number "45" affixed to front and verso in red and navy felt. The proper "Rawlings [size] 42" label remains affixed at lower left front exterior tail, while interior tail holds washing instructions label with "Set 1 1964" flap tag at right. A 9+/10 black sharpie signature from Gibson completes the package. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1964 Eddie Mathews Game Worn Jersey. "I've only known three or four perfect swings in my time," Ty Cobb once said when asked his opinion of the young Milwaukee Braves outfielder. "This lad has one of them." It's certainly high praise coming from one of only two members of the 4,000 Hit Club, but Cobb's and Mathews' approach at the plate couldn't have been more different. Whereas Cobb subscribed to the Wee Willie Keeler theory of "hit 'em where they ain't," Mathews was always a dead pull hitter who deposited twenty-two percent of his base hits into the outfield seats compared to under three percent for Cobb.
The presented home white flannel dates from Mathews' thirteenth consecutive season of twenty-plus long balls, edging him ever closer to immortality within the 500 Home Run Club. The unmistakable design provides "Braves 41" in red and navy tackle twill on the chest, with number "41" repeated on verso. While the nameplate has been removed, the outline of "Mathews" is clearly visible when held up to the light. The chenille screaming Brave patch remains affixed to left sleeve. Interior collar holds white felt swatch, which has been embroidered "Mathews 64-Set-2." Lower front left tail features "Wilson [size] 42" label.
Moderate use is evident, leading MEARS to assign a final grade of A9, with a point lost only for the removed nameplate. The jersey otherwise remains in stellar condition. The letter also notes that the jersey had been on display at the "World Series Wisconsin" exhibit from July 2007 through January 2008. LOA from MEARS. LOA from Lou Lampson.
The presented home white flannel dates from Mathews' thirteenth consecutive season of twenty-plus long balls, edging him ever closer to immortality within the 500 Home Run Club. The unmistakable design provides "Braves 41" in red and navy tackle twill on the chest, with number "41" repeated on verso. While the nameplate has been removed, the outline of "Mathews" is clearly visible when held up to the light. The chenille screaming Brave patch remains affixed to left sleeve. Interior collar holds white felt swatch, which has been embroidered "Mathews 64-Set-2." Lower front left tail features "Wilson [size] 42" label.
Moderate use is evident, leading MEARS to assign a final grade of A9, with a point lost only for the removed nameplate. The jersey otherwise remains in stellar condition. The letter also notes that the jersey had been on display at the "World Series Wisconsin" exhibit from July 2007 through January 2008. LOA from MEARS. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1966 Don Drysdale Game Worn Jersey. "I hate all hitters," the Hall of Fame right hander once explained. "I start a game mad and stay that way until its over." Arguably the most famous "head hunter" in the game's history, Drysdale led the National League in hit batsmen five times, plunking 154 during his fourteen-season career.
Presented is a road grey flannel from the last National League Championship season of Drysdale's Hall of Fame career. It was a season which began in a joint hold-out by Drysdale and fellow ace Sandy Koufax, a sign of the increased bargaining power of top Major League players. Though poor run support would continue to plague Drysdale, he continued to throw fire, striking out 177 and beaning seventeen.
Surviving in 100% original condition, the historic garment features "Los Angeles" script across the chest in royal blue felt and number "53" in red just below. Number "53" is repeated in blue on verso. Lower front left exterior tail holds "Rawlings [size] 46" and dry cleaning instructions label, which sprouts a "Set 1 1966" flap tag at right. An embroidered "Drysdale 66" is at center. Strong wear is evident, with some minor separation at the numbers on front and verso, causing no considerable visual concern. Auction LOA from Lou Lampson.
Presented is a road grey flannel from the last National League Championship season of Drysdale's Hall of Fame career. It was a season which began in a joint hold-out by Drysdale and fellow ace Sandy Koufax, a sign of the increased bargaining power of top Major League players. Though poor run support would continue to plague Drysdale, he continued to throw fire, striking out 177 and beaning seventeen.
Surviving in 100% original condition, the historic garment features "Los Angeles" script across the chest in royal blue felt and number "53" in red just below. Number "53" is repeated in blue on verso. Lower front left exterior tail holds "Rawlings [size] 46" and dry cleaning instructions label, which sprouts a "Set 1 1966" flap tag at right. An embroidered "Drysdale 66" is at center. Strong wear is evident, with some minor separation at the numbers on front and verso, causing no considerable visual concern. Auction LOA from Lou Lampson.
1969 Dick Simpson Game Worn Seattle Pilots Jersey. Eternally popular with jersey collectors for its scarcity--the franchise existed for just a single season--and its gorgeous styling, the presented road blue flannel is one of the nicest we've encountered from the team that would become the Milwaukee Brewers. Like essentially all Pilots jerseys in the hobby today, this one is restored to its former glory, with the "Seattle" and flying baseball on chest, number "16" on verso and genuine Centennial patch on left sleeve all professionally applied to their former positions. Tail holds "Spalding" manufacturer's label and a "40" size tag above washing instructions and "Set 1 1969" flap tag. The embroidered "Staehle 40" swatch in the collar is original, and references a player who never made it to the squad. We must assume that this jersey was issued to Dick Simpson, who was issued number "16" upon his trade to the Pilots from the New York Yankees in mid-May. The jersey exhibits solid wear but no damage of note, leaving it in ideal condition for display. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1969 Tony Conigliaro Game Worn Jersey. A cult hero for Red Sox fans since his 1964 rookie season, Conigliaro suffered one of the most gruesome beanings in baseball history, a pitch that shattered his left cheekbone, dislocated his jaw and caused severe damage to his left retina. After missing the remainder of the 1967, and all of 1968, the gritty outfielder returned to Fenway for the 1969 season, hitting twenty homers with eighty-two runs batted in to earn Comeback Player of the Year honors, an award which has since been named for him personally. Presented is an important jersey from that inspiring reemergence, worn on the road during that famous Summer of Love. The navy and red felt "Boston" remains in place in a shallow arc on the chest, with number "25" applied to verso. Likewise unmoved from its position on the left sleeve is the important MLB centennial patch. Local Brockton, Massachusetts "McAuliffe Uniform Corp." tagging appears in the tail, with "69" and "44" labels just below indicating year and size respectively. Consistent wear is evident throughout. A minor rust stain at lower left causes no real concern. Practically a holy relic for the true Red Sox fan. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1970 Mike Compton Game Worn Jersey. Tough three-year style marks the last occasion of road greys before the transition to powder blue traveling shirts we remember so well from the days of Schmidt and Carlton. This one was issued to back-up catcher Mike Compton, who made forty-seven appearances in Philly that season. Classic chenille logo "P" appears over heart, balanced by Compton's number "7" at right. Digit is repeated on verso. Surname appears on embroidered swatch inside collar, while "1970 Set 1" is embroidered directly into the jersey body at lower left exterior tail. A "Wilson [size] 44" label is positioned directly above. Fine wear suggests secondary use on the minor league level, but jersey presents very well with no damage to note. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1970 Luis Tiant Game Worn Jersey. Tremendously scarce relic dates from the All-Star righty's single season in Minnesota, a brief stop-over between the Indians and Red Sox teams for which he is best remembered. The road grey flannel checks off every box for an ideal gamer, remaining 100% original down to the buttons on the chest and the team logo patch on the left sleeve. "Twins" is spelled across the chest in navy and red tackle twill, with Tiant's number "33" affixed to the rear. A felt swatch applied to the interior collar provides a chainstitched "Tiant," while "Tiant 33, 44 70 Set 2" is embroidered directly into the jersey body at lower front left tail. A simple "Spalding" label resides to the south. The size tag to the right has been lost over the years, but the stitching path where it had been remains. Wear is appropriate for a season of ninety-two and two-thirds innings pitched. A fine black sharpie signature at lower left, with his "El Tiante" nickname included, completes the package. Jersey derives from the famous early 1980's Minnesota find of Twins flannels. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1973 Darrell Evans Game Worn Jersey. Arguably the most popular and beloved of all Atlanta Braves styles, the "feather on sleeve" model is quite often seen as a throwback today, but this is the genuine article. Best remembered as the look Hank Aaron was sporting when he hit number 715 to pass the Babe, the presented example was worn during Evans' best season, one in which he actually topped the Hammer with forty-one long balls. The pullover knit features the patriotic tri-tone "Braves 11" applied in tackle twill to the chest, with number "11" repeated on verso. "Wilson [size] 44" label is affixed at interior collar, and a simple "73" embroidered swatch is present at front left exterior tail. Wear is very strong, almost certainly due to an extra season or two in the minors, though it must be stressed that all identifiers are original and unmoved. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1973 Bob Skinner Game Worn Jersey. Rare style dates from one of just two years in which it was utilized by the southern California franchise. This one was issued to coach Bob Skinner, best remembered today as the left fielder for the World Champion 1960 Pittsburgh Pirates. The heavy yellow knit button-down employs bumblebee styling, with brown trim at neck, sleeves and side seams, and tackle twill of the same color spelling "Padres" across the chest. Skinner's number "4" is similarly applied upon verso. Lower right front exterior tail provides a "Rawlings [size] 44" label, with a "Set 1 #8P 1973" flap tag extending from the right edge. It's interesting to see how the jersey was not particularly colorfast, with a clear delineation between the boldness of the yellow above and below where the shirt tucked into the pants. Wear is quite strong, suggesting possible secondary usage in spring training. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1975 Whitey Ford Game Worn Pants. The Chairman of the Board wore the presented pants during his final season of service to the team he represented for the entirety of his Hall of Fame career. The home white pinstriped garment is one of a selection of Yankees uniform pieces in this auction emanating from the Washington state area, where they had served a second life with the Tacoma farm club after use in the Bronx. An embroidered swatch at the interior waistband attributes the pants to the legendary pitcher-turned-coach, reading "Ford 16 75 Set 1 23." A "Wilson [size] 34" label appears at left. A markered name of the pants' new owner is nearby. Strong wear is certainly from minor league action, though the pants still display very well. Probably your best opportunity to own Ford pinstripes at a price that won't break the bank. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1976 Milwaukee Brewers Game Worn Complete Uniforms Lot of 6. Over the last couple years, collectors have started going after Milwaukee Brewers jerseys at a pretty good pace. Maybe it's because the team is finally producing, or it could also be the fact that many jersey collectors from Wisconsin are starting to realize that the Brew Crew of the late 1970's and early 1980's were some of the better teams in their lifetimes. Whatever the reason, this lot of six complete 1976 game-worn Brewers uniforms will be sure to command sufficient action. Offered here are six jerseys with matching pants from Brewers white home unis of 1976, all with solid game use. Players include: Pete Broberg (jersey - [size] 42 Sand Knit - "Broberg 76 42 strip tag) (pants - [size] 34 Sand Knit - "Broberg 76 34 25" strip tag); Bill Sharp (jersey - [size] 40 Sand Knit - "Sharp 76 40 strip tag) (pants - [size] 32 Sand Knit - "Sharp 76 33 23" strip tag); Bobby Bragan (jersey - [size] 42 Sand Knit - "Bragan 76 42 strip tag) (tackle twill font and numbers are slightly faded) (pants - [size] 38 Sand Knit - "Bragan 76 38 26" strip tag); Bill Travers (jersey - [size] 42 Sand Knit - "Travers 76 42 strip tag) (pants - [size] 32 Sand Knit - "Travers 76 33 28" strip tag); Eduardo Rodriquez (jersey - [size] 42 Sand Knit - "Rodriquez 76 42 strip tag) (pants - [size] 34 Sand Knit - "Rodriquez 76 34 24" strip tag) and Mike Hegan (jersey - [size] 42 Sand Knit - "Hegan 76 42 strip tag) (pants - [size] 32 Sand Knit - "Hegan 76 33 24" strip tag). LOA from Lou Lampson.
1976 Milwaukee Brewers Game Worn Jersey and Pants Lot of 20 Pieces. The 1976 Milwaukee Brewers were not known for dominating play, or post-season prowess. Despite only being able to tally a less-than-impressive 66 wins, the '76 Brew Crew's players were full of personality, potential and a guy by the name of Henry Aaron. The home run king hit his 755th home run with Milwaukee during his final year in the city where it all started for the Hall of Famer. This dealers lot of game-worn jerseys and pants consists of an array of notable Milwaukee Brewers players including jerseys worn by: Bill Champion ([size] 44 Sand Knit) (Champion 76 44); Anderson (coach) size tag missing (Anderson 76 44); Jim Colburn (tackle twill font and numerals are heavily faded) ([size] 42 Sand Knit) (Colburn 76 42); Vada Pinson (tackle twill font and numerals are heavily faded) ([size] 42 Sand Knit) (Pinson 76 42); Edge (coach) (tackle twill font and numerals are heavily faded) ([size] 42 Sand Knit) (Edge 76 42); Bill Castro (tackle twill font and numerals are heavily faded) ([size] 42 Sand Knit) (Castro 76 42); Smith ([size] 46 Sand Knit) (Smith 76 45); Charlie Moore (tackle twill font and numerals are slightly faded) ([size] 42 Sand Knit) (Moore 76 42); Kurt Bevacqua (tackle twill font and numerals are slightly faded) ([size] 40 Sand Knit) (Bevacqua 76 40); Tim Johnson (tackle twill font and numerals are slightly faded) ([size] 40 Sand Knit) (Johnson 76 40) and one black "9" shirt (team-issued, not used). The pants include: Sixto Lezcano ([size] 30 Sand Knit) (Lezcano 76 30 25); McLish (coach) ([size] 38 Sand Knit) (McLish 76 38 26); Jim Slaton ([size] 34 Sand Knit) (Slaton 76 34 25); Sheldon (coach) ([size] 30 Sand Knit) (Sheldon 76 31 25); Tom Murphy ([size] 34 Sand Knit) (Murphy 76 34 26); Ed Sprague ([size] 34 Sand Knit) (Sprague 76 33 24); Harvey Kuenn (Sand Knit) (Kuenn 76 36 25); Mike Hegan ([size] 32 Sand Knit) (Hegan 76 33 24) and fan-favorite Gorman Thomas ([size] 32 Sand Knit) (Thomas 76 33 24) strip tag. These home white jerseys are starting to get more attention in the Brewers collecting community due to the team's current winning ways. A very solid investment lot with nice use. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1976 Robin Roberts Game Worn "1876" Uniform from First Pitch Ceremony. Fantastic replica of the bib-front uniforms worn by the earliest organized ballclubs was sported by Hall of Fame pitcher Robin Roberts as he tossed out the first pitch of the 1976 All-Star Game marking the centennial of the National League. Correct down to the heavy flannel of its construction, the uniform features the long sleeves, high collar and button-laden front of archaic National League fashion, though the "Rawlings [size] 44" label in the tail and "Sleeve 34"" tailoring notation in the tail are clearly anachronistic, as is the "Roberts 36" applied in red felt to verso. Matching pants feature a thick red belt and "Rawlings [size] 38" labeling at interior waistband. Jersey is signed on front in 10/10 black marker, with a few insignificant spots of foxing all that bears mention in terms of condition. A rare Hall of Famer game worn "throwback" uniform, for the collector who has everything. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1976 Catfish Hunter Game Worn Uniform. Like the other 1976 Yankees uniform pieces likewise presented within this auction, the offered uniform served a second tour of duty with the minor league Tacoma Yankees after closing out a season in the Bronx. Pinstriped jersey from the Yanks' first taste of October baseball since the departure of Mickey Mantle exhibits fine wear, with the minor league logo taking the position where the classic "NY" had once been (outline still clearly visible), and the number "29" original and unmoved on verso. Embroidered swatch reading "Hunter" appears at interior collar with "76 1" swatch appearing below the "Wilson [size] 46" label at lower left exterior tail.
Markered attributions to the pants' new owners are found in the waistband, but there remains the original embroidered swatch announcing the first owner. It reads, "Hunter 29 76 2 23," these figures indicating jersey number, year, uniform set number and inseam respectively. A "Wilson [size] 34" label is anchored at left. A scarce relic from the Hall of Famer's eighth and final All-Star season, and the ballclub's first American League pennant in a dozen years. Strong wear with a team repair at left knee, but the pants remain undamaged and perfect for display. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Markered attributions to the pants' new owners are found in the waistband, but there remains the original embroidered swatch announcing the first owner. It reads, "Hunter 29 76 2 23," these figures indicating jersey number, year, uniform set number and inseam respectively. A "Wilson [size] 34" label is anchored at left. A scarce relic from the Hall of Famer's eighth and final All-Star season, and the ballclub's first American League pennant in a dozen years. Strong wear with a team repair at left knee, but the pants remain undamaged and perfect for display. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1976 Yogi Berra Game Worn Jersey. The "TY" on the chest is the insignia of the Tacoma Yankees farm club, the Pacific Coast League affiliate where Bronx fashion was recycled for secondary use. Here we find the shirt worn by the beloved Berra during his first season in pinstripes since retiring as a player in 1963. The outline of the original "NY" logo is clearly visible beneath the new one, and the Hall of Fame catcher's number "8" remains unmoved on verso. The same is true of the embroidered "Berra" swatch affixed at interior collar, further attributing the shirt to the newly minted Yankees coach and future team manager. Another swatch at the tail is embroidered "76 Set 1," just below the "Wilson [size] 44" manufacturer's tagging. Wear is strong, indicative of a second life in the minors, but there is no damage and the jersey displays marvelously. It would be a simple process to restore the jersey to its former appearance with the application of an original logo, but we'll leave that decision up to the winning bidder. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1977 Ozzie Smith Minor League Game Worn Jersey. "This Was The Beginning! What Memories! Good Luck! Ozzie Smith," reads the 10/10 blue sharpie inscription on the upper right shoulder of this humble pullover knit gamer, issued to the twenty-two year old Wizard as a member of the Walla Walla (WA) Padres of the Northwest League. A year later, on April 7, 1978, Smith would make his debut as shortstop for the Major League San Diego club, and the rest, as they say, is history. The provided gamer from the infancy of Smith's professional career convincingly mimics the styling of the Big League club, with "Padres" applied in brown and yellow script to the chest along with a number "32" in the same tackle twill. "Smith 32" is announced from the rear. Dual "Sand-Knit" tagging in the tail regards San Diego Padres exclusivity and "Size 40." A "76" year swatch to the left suggests that the jersey was held over from the previous season, as Smith was a fourth round pick by the Padres in the 1977 draft. Heavy wear is evident throughout but the shirt still presents wonderfully. A stupendously rare pre-Major League Hall of Fame jersey for the collector who has everything. Included is a signed letter from Raymond Peralta, former Padres equipment manager, attesting to the authenticity of the jersey. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1978 Eddie Mathews Old Timer's Game Worn Jersey. Home white pinstriped mesh pullover was issued to the Hall of Fame Braves slugger either for use in an Old Timer's game or in his capacity as a roving minor league instructor. His retired number "41" appears at left chest and on verso, and authenticator Lou Lampson notes that the numerals have been changed and that the font bears a very close resemblance, but differs slightly, from the standard font of the time. Lampson believes these changes were team issued, however. "Braves" rises across the chest. Collar tagging designates "Wilson [size] 44," and a embroidered year swatch of "78" is applied to tail. Wear is strong, though this cannot necessarily be attributed entirely to Mathews. We wouldn't be surprised if the tobacco juice staining the front was his, however. The 10/10 blue sharpie signature on the chest most certainly is. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1979 Dave Winfield Game Worn Jersey. Born on one of the most memorable days in baseball history, that of Bobby Thomson's "Shot Heard 'round the World," Dave Winfield seemed destined for diamond greatness from the beginning. Presented here is a home white San Diego Padres jersey from what is generally considered to be the finest season of his Hall of Fame career, one in which he led the National League in both runs batted in (118) and total bases (333). As memorable as that season is the jersey style itself, a single-season style that ranks among many uniform aficionados' favorites. This one remains in all-original condition with one small exception, as the nameplate is original but has been professionally reaffixed in place. "Padres 31" is applied to the chest in the classic yellow and brown font, with "Winfield 31" taking up the rear. "Wilson [size] 44" label appears beneath a "31 79" embroidered swatch in lower left front exterior tail. Solid, season-long wear is evident throughout. A flawless black sharpie signature on rear numeral completes the package. Jersey derives from the personal collection of San Diego Padres traveling secretary John "Doc" Mattei. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1982-83 Gaylord Perry Game Worn Warm-Up Jacket. Any baseball fan knows that no player is more dependent upon his jacket than the pitcher, who will sport one on all but the warmest days while his team bats in order to keep his arm loose. It becomes particularly important for old men like Perry, who was in the final seasons of his twenty-two year career when he wore this nylon jacket as a member of the Seattle Mariners. The team name with the fantastic trident logo is applied in yellow and white tackle twill to the chest, with tri-color elastic cuffing at collar, sleeves and waist. "Rawlings [size] 46" label inside button path is affixed just above an embroidered "Perry 36" swatch attributing the garment to the 300 game-winner. Minor staining on the jacket front appears to be tobacco juice, and is only apparent upon fairly close inspection. Decent wear throughout. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1989 Yogi Berra Game Worn Jersey. Over four decades in a Major League Baseball uniform would come to a close this season as the game's most quotable figure decided to hang up his spikes after four years as the Houston Astros bench coach. The provided home knit gamer is one of the most recognizable styles of the era, with rainbow shoulders and "Astros" joined by a Lone Star on the chest. Verso features a navy tackle twill "Berra" arching above his standard number "8." Beneath the "Rawlings [size] 44" is an embroidered swatch reading "8 89 44 1," indicating jersey number, year, size and set. Wear is appropriate for coaching use. A 10/10 black sharpie signature on verso completes the package. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1990 Wade Boggs Game Worn Jersey. The Hall of Fame third baseman's 187 hits in 1990 was second only to Rafael Palmeiro in the American League, moving Boggs ever closer to membership in the 3,000 Hit Club. Here we find a road grey knit sported while traveling with the Red Sox, featuring the classic Old English fonted "Boston" across the chest and "Boggs 26" on verso. The black armband on the left sleeve is in memory of fan favorite Tony Conigliaro, who had passed away shortly before the start of spring training this year. "Rawlings [size] 44" label appears at lower front left tail, sprouting a "Set 2 1990" flap tag at right. Wear is quite solid for a superstar gamer. A great piece to get signed the next time Boggs does an autograph show. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1992 Nolan Ryan Game Worn Uniform. Worn during the fireballing Hall of Famer's last full season in the Majors, this home white jersey and pants were certainly on hand for at least a few of that season's 157 strike outs that further elevated his career total beyond the reach of any mere mortal. The jersey exhibits quite decent use for a superstar gamer, with "Rangers 34" applied in red and blue tackle twill to the chest, and "Ryan 34" taking up the rear. The dirt and sweat-stained collar holds a "W.A. Goodman & Sons [size] 44" label from Ryan's preferred uniform manufacturer. The wear on the accompanying pants is lighter, but likewise features the "Goodman" label inside the waistband, as well as an embroidered strip reading "Ryan 34-25 '92 Set 2." As an athlete who holds one of the most significant and unbreakable records in American sports, Ryan should figure prominently into any fine uniform collection. If yours is lacking an example, it's a problem that should be rectified with a winning bid here. LOA from Bob Case. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1994 Michael Jordan Game Worn Baseball Jersey. Did MJ take a leave of absence from the hardcourt to confront a new challenge, or was it a stern suggestion from NBA executives to take a breather due to allegations of gambling about the sport's greatest drawing card? Either way, Jordan proved that he actually couldn't do it all, ending his remarkably unremarkable tour of diamond duty after a single season with the White Sox' farm club in Scottsdale. As such, the supply of baseball gamers from the basketball god is shorter than Spud Webb. Here we present a fine example originally sourced from the White Sox organization. The black knit button down sports number "45" and "Sox" logo in tri-tone tackle twill on the chest, with "Jordan 45" taking up the rear. Team logo and 125th MLB Anniversary patches are applied to left and right sleeves respectively. Lower front left tail holds a "Russell Athletic Diamond Collection [size] 46" label, with "100% polyester" flap tag and "45-46-94" strip tag below. Wear is light but definite. Included is an 8x10" photo of Jordan at bat providing a style match, signed in 10/10 black sharpie by the man himself. An exciting rarity for the Jordan collector who has it all. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (photo autograph).
1995 Ivan Rodriguez Game Worn Jersey. Pudge continued to prove his dominance both at the plate and behind it this year, marking his second of six consecutive seasons claiming both the Gold Glove and Silver Slugger Awards as top catcher in the American League. This home white knit gamer took part in that world class action, exhibiting fine wear from a hot summer in Texas. "Rangers" is spelled in red and blue tackle twill across the chest, with "Rodriguez 7" similarly applied to verso. Left and right sleeve patches announce team affiliation and the Ranger ballpark's hosting of the 1995 All-Star Game respectively. "Russell Athletic Diamond Collection [size] 46" label appears at lower left front exterior tail, with "7-46-95" label just below. "100% Polyester" flap tag rises from the center. Lastly, a 9/10 blue sharpie signature, Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez," is applied to upper right chest. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
2003 Tom Glavine Game Worn Jersey. Black alternate style was worn on the mound by the 300 game-winner and future Hall of Famer, making it a smart buy for those looking to cash in when the call from Cooperstown inevitably comes. "Mets 47" is applied to the chest in classic blue, orange and white, with "Glavine 47" similarly applied to verso. Team logo patch is affixed at left sleeve. Lower left front interior tail holds a Majestic Authentic Collection" label sprouting size "46" and "Set E 2003" flap tags below. Wear is light, but typical of a pitcher's jersey from a team with at least five jersey styles. LOA from Lou Lampson.
The Most Important Babe Ruth Game Used Bat on Earth. Though the most famous Babe Ruth game used bat of all is certainly the specimen he used to launch the first home run at Yankee Stadium on Opening Day, 1923, a relic which commanded $1.2 million at a December 2004 auction, a strong argument could be made that the presented example is the more historically significant. Predating that seven-figure model by five seasons, this remarkable lumber is Ruth's very first Hillerich & Bradsby, born of his first professional contract with the bat manufacturer signed on July 9, 1918.
Upon the young Red Sox superstar's agreement to terms with H&B, he was shipped several bats of varying weights and sizes in order to determine which best suited his powerful swing. This is the model he chose, returning it to the Louisville factory to be duplicated and establishing it as the "parent" of Ruth bats to come. The factory workers stamped Ruth's name into the knob (barely discernible today) as well as the vault mark "R2," signifying this as the template for other Ruth bats in the future. The center brand was likewise applied after Ruth's use.
It is essential to note that Ruth's ownership of this bat prior to its return to Louisville was not brief, as is evidenced by the considerable quality of use on the left side of the bat, proper for the Babe's famous left-handed stance. Like many known Ruth gamers, the area of impact is very tightly centralized, a fact which bears witness to Ruth's amazing hand-eye coordination that made him the most productive hitter of his age. Scattered spike divots are also apparent in the top quality white ash, which has mellowed to a deep and gorgeous patina not unlike fine antique furniture.
As a bat used by the game's greatest figure during the historic 1918 World Championship Red Sox season, the importance of this lot is difficult to overstate. The fact that this precise bat served as the prototype for all Ruth models to follow from July 9, 1918 through 1926 further elevates the offering toward the outer limits of baseball relevance, challenging and surpassing all but a few relics housed within the Baseball Hall of Fame.
The bat remains in stunning, undamaged condition today, its length and weight of thirty-six inches and thirty-nine ounces recalling the baby Babe's personal specs in his years in both Boston and the first half of his Yankees service. A ream of paperwork from leading authenticators John Taube (who calls the bat "arguably the finest and most historically significant bat extant") and Vince Malta is available by fax for serious bidders. Dave Bushing and MEARS likewise chime in, providing a grade of A10*, the asterisk denoting superiority even to the few other A10 graded Ruth bats. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from MEARS.
Upon the young Red Sox superstar's agreement to terms with H&B, he was shipped several bats of varying weights and sizes in order to determine which best suited his powerful swing. This is the model he chose, returning it to the Louisville factory to be duplicated and establishing it as the "parent" of Ruth bats to come. The factory workers stamped Ruth's name into the knob (barely discernible today) as well as the vault mark "R2," signifying this as the template for other Ruth bats in the future. The center brand was likewise applied after Ruth's use.
It is essential to note that Ruth's ownership of this bat prior to its return to Louisville was not brief, as is evidenced by the considerable quality of use on the left side of the bat, proper for the Babe's famous left-handed stance. Like many known Ruth gamers, the area of impact is very tightly centralized, a fact which bears witness to Ruth's amazing hand-eye coordination that made him the most productive hitter of his age. Scattered spike divots are also apparent in the top quality white ash, which has mellowed to a deep and gorgeous patina not unlike fine antique furniture.
As a bat used by the game's greatest figure during the historic 1918 World Championship Red Sox season, the importance of this lot is difficult to overstate. The fact that this precise bat served as the prototype for all Ruth models to follow from July 9, 1918 through 1926 further elevates the offering toward the outer limits of baseball relevance, challenging and surpassing all but a few relics housed within the Baseball Hall of Fame.
The bat remains in stunning, undamaged condition today, its length and weight of thirty-six inches and thirty-nine ounces recalling the baby Babe's personal specs in his years in both Boston and the first half of his Yankees service. A ream of paperwork from leading authenticators John Taube (who calls the bat "arguably the finest and most historically significant bat extant") and Vince Malta is available by fax for serious bidders. Dave Bushing and MEARS likewise chime in, providing a grade of A10*, the asterisk denoting superiority even to the few other A10 graded Ruth bats. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from MEARS.
1928-30 Morris "Moe" Berg Game Used Bat. Casey Stengel once called him "the strangest man ever to play baseball," and everyone else called him the smartest. A graduate of Princeton University and Columbia Law School, Berg spoke seven languages, a point which, when made to Senators outfielder Dave Harris, caused him to quip, "Yeah, I know, and he can't hit in any of them." Best remembered today as a member of the historic 1934 Baseball Tour of Japan, Berg was unquestionably that All-Star caliber team's least talented ballplayer, but arguably the Tour's most important figure. As an undercover spy for the Office of Strategic Services, the predecessor to the CIA, Berg snuck to the roof of a Tokyo hotel during the tour and filmed the city and harbor, providing the US government with crucial information for the approaching Second World War.
Presented is one of just four game used Berg bats known to exist in the hobby today. Dating to his early career as catcher for the Chicago White Sox, the signature model Hillerich & Bradsby shows evidence of heavy use, with a multitude of ball and cleat marks decorating the gorgeously patinaed hickory barrel. Evidence of removed handle tape is clearly visible at the handle. Length of thirty-five inches and weight of thirty-seven ounces are correct for Berg's ordering records, resulting in a grade of PSA/DNA GU 8. LOA from PSA/DNA.
Presented is one of just four game used Berg bats known to exist in the hobby today. Dating to his early career as catcher for the Chicago White Sox, the signature model Hillerich & Bradsby shows evidence of heavy use, with a multitude of ball and cleat marks decorating the gorgeously patinaed hickory barrel. Evidence of removed handle tape is clearly visible at the handle. Length of thirty-five inches and weight of thirty-seven ounces are correct for Berg's ordering records, resulting in a grade of PSA/DNA GU 8. LOA from PSA/DNA.
1948-49 Hank Sauer Game Used Bat. The 1952 Most Valuable Player of the National League instilled this signature model Hillerich & Bradsby H4 with outstanding use in the days surrounding his transition from the Cincinnati Reds to the Chicago Cubs. Each of these years would find him in the top five rankings for long balls, launching thirty-five and thirty one respectively. The barrel is coated with ball and stitch marks, and a repaired handle crack is further witness to the hard-slugging labor endured. Enormous at a length of thirty-six inches and a weight of thirty-nine ounces, the presented lumber has merited a grade of GU 7, making this one of the finest of the very few representations to reach the auction block. LOA from PSA/DNA.
1946 Mel Ott Game Used Bat Signed by Philadelphia Athletics Team. We couldn't hazard a guess as to why the lowly Mack Men chose an Ott gamer as the medium for their autographs, though perhaps they hoped that some of the slugger's batting brilliance might rub off on them in so doing. If this was the goal, however, it was not a success, as the ballclub would finish the season yet again in the American League's basement, fifty-five games off the pennant pace. Of course it is not the signatures that makes this piece special (though we must note that Hall of Famers Mack (secretarial), Simmons and Kell are among them), but instead the former ownership by the hero of the Polo Grounds who would club the 511th and final homer of his career the season this bat saw action.
And it seems to have seen a bunch of it. Bat expert John Taube characterizes the use as "outstanding," noting plentiful ball and stitch marks, swollen grain and an eleven-inch handle crack expertly repaired with three vintage nails. The handle is scored, a key Ott trait that furthers our ability to place the lumber into Mel's talented hands. The signature model Hillerich & Bradsby likewise matches Ott ordering records at thirty-five inches and thirty-four and a half ounces. A thin coating of varnish over the signatures is noted for the sake of full disclosure, as are the mounting holes drilled at each end, though none of these issues causes any noteworthy ill effects to the display value. A bat that is feverishly hunted by both Hall of Fame and 500 Home Run club specialists alike, rarely seen offered at public auction. Graded GU 7. LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autographs).
And it seems to have seen a bunch of it. Bat expert John Taube characterizes the use as "outstanding," noting plentiful ball and stitch marks, swollen grain and an eleven-inch handle crack expertly repaired with three vintage nails. The handle is scored, a key Ott trait that furthers our ability to place the lumber into Mel's talented hands. The signature model Hillerich & Bradsby likewise matches Ott ordering records at thirty-five inches and thirty-four and a half ounces. A thin coating of varnish over the signatures is noted for the sake of full disclosure, as are the mounting holes drilled at each end, though none of these issues causes any noteworthy ill effects to the display value. A bat that is feverishly hunted by both Hall of Fame and 500 Home Run club specialists alike, rarely seen offered at public auction. Graded GU 7. LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autographs).
1951-57 Ted Williams Game Used Bat. Fellow Boston Red Sox Hall of Famer Carl Yastrzemski once noted, "They can talk about Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb and Rogers Hornsby and Lou Gehrig and Joe DiMaggio and Stan Musial and all the rest, but I'm sure not one of them could hold cards and spades to Williams in his sheer knowledge of hitting. He studied hitting the way a broker studies the stock market and could spot at a glance mistakes that others couldn't see in a week." The Splendid Splinter's childhood wish that he would one day be called the greatest hitter that ever lived did indeed come to fruition, a fact which makes any lumber once blessed by his world class hands a genuine treasure of our National Pastime.
The presented signature model Hillerich & Bradsby W166 was Williams' preferred model throughout the first half of the 1950's, the "W" in the model tag referring to his own last name. The length is an even thirty-five inches. The current weight is just under thirty-five ounces, though it's likely it weighed slighly less in Williams' hands as he was known to bake his bats daily in the clubhouse clothes dryer to increase the spring of the ball off the barrel. Ball marks coat the right barrel, with the abuse causing some separation of the wood grain, each typical traits for Williams' left-handed power. Cleat marks pepper the wood as well, and a faded vintage number "9" is barely discernible upon the knob.
The fiercest competitor in Major League Baseball since the retirement of Ty Cobb, Ted Williams is one of the very few figures in the game who would be worthy of a mention in the same breath. With a perfect score of five for adherence to ordering records, and a perfect three for use, the presented bat earns a rating of PSA/DNA GU 8, the highest possible for a bat without first or second hand provenance. A sporting artifact worthy of Cooperstown and the finest of private collections. LOA from PSA/DNA.
The presented signature model Hillerich & Bradsby W166 was Williams' preferred model throughout the first half of the 1950's, the "W" in the model tag referring to his own last name. The length is an even thirty-five inches. The current weight is just under thirty-five ounces, though it's likely it weighed slighly less in Williams' hands as he was known to bake his bats daily in the clubhouse clothes dryer to increase the spring of the ball off the barrel. Ball marks coat the right barrel, with the abuse causing some separation of the wood grain, each typical traits for Williams' left-handed power. Cleat marks pepper the wood as well, and a faded vintage number "9" is barely discernible upon the knob.
The fiercest competitor in Major League Baseball since the retirement of Ty Cobb, Ted Williams is one of the very few figures in the game who would be worthy of a mention in the same breath. With a perfect score of five for adherence to ordering records, and a perfect three for use, the presented bat earns a rating of PSA/DNA GU 8, the highest possible for a bat without first or second hand provenance. A sporting artifact worthy of Cooperstown and the finest of private collections. LOA from PSA/DNA.
1960 Roger Maris Game Used Bat. Richard Hooper still feels guilty about it to this day. Just a teenager when Roger Maris came to his Syracuse hometown for a benefit game after the 1960 World Series to help out his friend, boxing Champ and town resident Carmen Basilio, Hooper was given the opportunity to visit the American League MVP in the dugout. After a brief photo opportunity with Maris, Hooper spotted one of Maris' bats leaning against a dugout wall, and the temptation was too strong to resist.
Presented is the 1960 Roger Maris game used bat Hooper swiped that October day in Syracuse. To be fair, Hooper's conscience got the better of him and wrote to the Yankees offering to return the bat, receiving two letters back from the Bronx. The first, dated October 10, 1961 is apparently from Maris (though secretarially signed), thanking the boy for doing the right thing and instructing him to mail the bat to Yankee Stadium. We expect that this letter was written without Maris' input, however, as a second letter, undated, is from Bill Ackman, the head of Yankees Special Services, who passes on Maris' message that the boy may keep the bat.
It's a Hillerich & Bradsby signature model O16, exhibiting evidence of outstanding use from that glorious and heartbreaking season which ended with Mazeroski's walk-off homer. Ball marks and stitch impressions coat all sides of the barrel, and cleat marks are evident on the left. Blue and red bat rack marks streak the pale ash. The length and weight of thirty-five inches and thirty-two ounces are correct for Maris' ordering records during his AL MVP season.
The outstanding use paired with the remarkable provenance of letters sent on Yankees stationery and photos of Hooper in the Syracuse dugout with Maris qualify this as one of the most attractive Maris bats to reach the hobby in recent memory. As a late-season gamer from an American League MVP and Championship season, the historical importance is difficult to overstate. Graded GU 7. LOA from PSA/DNA.
Presented is the 1960 Roger Maris game used bat Hooper swiped that October day in Syracuse. To be fair, Hooper's conscience got the better of him and wrote to the Yankees offering to return the bat, receiving two letters back from the Bronx. The first, dated October 10, 1961 is apparently from Maris (though secretarially signed), thanking the boy for doing the right thing and instructing him to mail the bat to Yankee Stadium. We expect that this letter was written without Maris' input, however, as a second letter, undated, is from Bill Ackman, the head of Yankees Special Services, who passes on Maris' message that the boy may keep the bat.
It's a Hillerich & Bradsby signature model O16, exhibiting evidence of outstanding use from that glorious and heartbreaking season which ended with Mazeroski's walk-off homer. Ball marks and stitch impressions coat all sides of the barrel, and cleat marks are evident on the left. Blue and red bat rack marks streak the pale ash. The length and weight of thirty-five inches and thirty-two ounces are correct for Maris' ordering records during his AL MVP season.
The outstanding use paired with the remarkable provenance of letters sent on Yankees stationery and photos of Hooper in the Syracuse dugout with Maris qualify this as one of the most attractive Maris bats to reach the hobby in recent memory. As a late-season gamer from an American League MVP and Championship season, the historical importance is difficult to overstate. Graded GU 7. LOA from PSA/DNA.
1961 Mickey Mantle World Series Game Used Bat. Just one week after Roger Maris' fifty-ninth home run of the season helped clinch the New York Yankees' twenty-sixth American League flag, three bats left the Hillerich & Bradsby factory en route to Mickey Mantle's locker at Yankee Stadium. The September 27th, 1961 ordering record was somewhat of an anomaly, and top bat experts John Taube and Vince Malta note that this is the first and only time they had encountered an order for three World Series bats, as opposed to the standard pair. But why would this be?
First, it's important to note that, at thirty-six inches of length, the presented bat is a variation on the standard thirty-five inches of Mantle's other model B220's. But Taube and Malta stress that this is clearly a professional model, made of first grade Northern White Ash, with deep barrel branding consistent with H&B pro standards. A secondary letter from MEARS authentication firm likewise concedes that thirty-six inches was unusual for the model, but notes that Mantle had ordered bats of that length in 1960, and that the deep lace impressions and ball marks on both sides of the barrel was consistent with switch hitter use.
What neither letter notes, but a fact that seems particularly pertinent here, is that Mantle was far from healthy when the 1961 Series arrived, having been sidelined in the final month of the season with a pulled arm muscle and a gruesome hip abscess resulting from a shot intended to cure a viral infection. Understanding that this unfortunate laundry list of ailments might affect his swing in the Series against Cincinnati, it's not much of a stretch to assume that the unprecedented ordering of a third World Series bat of a different length (but the same thirty-three ounce weight) would have been a calculated decision by Mantle.
This seems far more plausible than the notion that the third bat was simply a mistake, and that the factory workers at H&B figured they may as well send it along anyhow. MEARS would appear to agree that the order was a calculated decision, assigning a perfect base grade of 5 for its match to factory records and a perfect 3 for use, resulting in a grade of A8, the best possible without first or second party provenance.
There is no need to spend any significant amount of time to explain why a Mantle bat dating to the 1961 season would carry enormous historical significance. Any collector needing an education on this topic would not deserve to own such a special treasure. When the old ballpark in the Bronx is finally reduced to rubble, this bat will survive as one of its most poignant mementos, recalling a joy and purity of the game that we may have lost forever. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from MEARS.
First, it's important to note that, at thirty-six inches of length, the presented bat is a variation on the standard thirty-five inches of Mantle's other model B220's. But Taube and Malta stress that this is clearly a professional model, made of first grade Northern White Ash, with deep barrel branding consistent with H&B pro standards. A secondary letter from MEARS authentication firm likewise concedes that thirty-six inches was unusual for the model, but notes that Mantle had ordered bats of that length in 1960, and that the deep lace impressions and ball marks on both sides of the barrel was consistent with switch hitter use.
What neither letter notes, but a fact that seems particularly pertinent here, is that Mantle was far from healthy when the 1961 Series arrived, having been sidelined in the final month of the season with a pulled arm muscle and a gruesome hip abscess resulting from a shot intended to cure a viral infection. Understanding that this unfortunate laundry list of ailments might affect his swing in the Series against Cincinnati, it's not much of a stretch to assume that the unprecedented ordering of a third World Series bat of a different length (but the same thirty-three ounce weight) would have been a calculated decision by Mantle.
This seems far more plausible than the notion that the third bat was simply a mistake, and that the factory workers at H&B figured they may as well send it along anyhow. MEARS would appear to agree that the order was a calculated decision, assigning a perfect base grade of 5 for its match to factory records and a perfect 3 for use, resulting in a grade of A8, the best possible without first or second party provenance.
There is no need to spend any significant amount of time to explain why a Mantle bat dating to the 1961 season would carry enormous historical significance. Any collector needing an education on this topic would not deserve to own such a special treasure. When the old ballpark in the Bronx is finally reduced to rubble, this bat will survive as one of its most poignant mementos, recalling a joy and purity of the game that we may have lost forever. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from MEARS.
1965-68 Eddie Mathews Game Used Bat. Could it be the very bat used by this superstar slugger to club the 470th home run of his career? We can only answer "probably." A couple quirks in the provenance make a definite assertion impossible, but we can state with complete assurance that the presented Hillerich & Bradsby signature model S2 was owned and operated by Mathews during the noted labeling period. Solid use is evident in the form of ball marks, stitch impressions and blue bat rack streaks, though the ash lumber remains solid and uncracked. Length and weight of thirty-five inches and thirty-two ounces are correct for Mathews' ordering records, and his number "41" appears in vintage marker at each end.
On the surface, the provenance linking the bat to home run number 470 appears ideal--a letter from Mathews himself attesting to it. However, the letter (rather oddly printed on facsimile Milwaukee Braves letterhead) is dated a full thirty-five years after the fact. It is also worthy of note that the notation of "8/10/65, #470" on the barrel appears to have been applied some time after the "Eddie Mathews 1965" inscription it joins. Bob Gibson's appearance below the trademark is due to his role as the pitcher of the ball that would become the milestone homer. It must also be noted that the authenticators have located evidence of the removal of an inked date on the barrel. These issues lead Heritage to agree with the bat authenticators that it would be impossible at this point to draw any definitive conclusions about the bat's specific long ball history. It nonetheless remains a fine example of an intensely desirable 500 Home Run Club gamer, eliciting a grade of GU 7 from Taube and Malta, and an A8 from Dave Bushing. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from SCD Authentic.
On the surface, the provenance linking the bat to home run number 470 appears ideal--a letter from Mathews himself attesting to it. However, the letter (rather oddly printed on facsimile Milwaukee Braves letterhead) is dated a full thirty-five years after the fact. It is also worthy of note that the notation of "8/10/65, #470" on the barrel appears to have been applied some time after the "Eddie Mathews 1965" inscription it joins. Bob Gibson's appearance below the trademark is due to his role as the pitcher of the ball that would become the milestone homer. It must also be noted that the authenticators have located evidence of the removal of an inked date on the barrel. These issues lead Heritage to agree with the bat authenticators that it would be impossible at this point to draw any definitive conclusions about the bat's specific long ball history. It nonetheless remains a fine example of an intensely desirable 500 Home Run Club gamer, eliciting a grade of GU 7 from Taube and Malta, and an A8 from Dave Bushing. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from SCD Authentic.
1967-68 Reggie Jackson Game Used Bat. A decade before he earned his "Mr. October" moniker, the young slugger was earning his rookie stripes during the transition of the Athletics franchise from Kansas City to Oakland. Presented is one of the early Reggie bats you'll ever encounter, exhibiting outstanding use from the beginning of Jackson's steady ascent to baseball immortality. The punished ash exhibits grain separation and a repaired handle crack, and ball, stitch and cleat marks are visible througout. An impression from a weighted batting donut appears just above the center brand. Number "9" appears in marker on knob. The Hillerich & Bradsby signature model K75 matches Jackson's factory ordering records of thirty-five and a half inches and thirty-three and a half ounces, and loses just a single point for the cracked handle, resulting in a near-perfect rating of GU 9. Signed twice on the barrel in blue and black sharpie, each 9/10 or better. LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1968 Roberto Clemente Game Used Bat. The heavy use on this signature model Hillerich & Bradsby U1 is a bit of a surprise, actually, as the twenty-seven intentional walks issued to this dangerous Pirate in 1968 led the National League, topping even the likes of Hank Aaron and Willie McCovey. It's clear that Roberto got a hold of quite a few pitches despite these free passes though, as the barrel of this massive (thirty-six and three quarter inches, thirty seven ounces) war club is coated with ball marks and stitch impressions throughout. Blue and red bat rack streaks are easily discerned as well, as are traces of pine tar and the impressions of a weighted batting donut. Number "21" is written in both red and black marker on the knob end in the standard Pirates font. It should be noted that only once did Clemente order bats of this extended length, on May 15th, 1968, allowing us to definitively establish its exact vintage. The use and correspondence with official records result in an all but unimprovable grade of PSA/DNA GU 9.5. LOA from PSA/DNA.
1971 Willie Mays All-Star Game Used Bat. Midsummer Classic vintage and a perfect GU 10 rating from the experts at PSA/DNA set the presented example near the top of the heap for Mays lumber. Utilized by the lead-off hitter for the National League at the Briggs Stadium event, this Hillerich & Bradsby hits every note perfectly to create a dream piece for the avid bat collector. Length of thirty-four and three-quarter inches and weight of thirty-two ounces are exact for Mays' ordering records, identical to those shipped to Mays with the "All Star Game, Willie Mays, Detroit-1971" stamping found here at the barrel end. Excellent use is evident, suggesting a life beyond the Motor City, with ball marks and stitch impressions appearing on the left and back barrel, correct for a right-handed hitter like the Say Hey Kid. Green and blue bat rack streaks are evident, as is a light coating of pine tar on the uncracked handle. Mays' number "24" appears in vintage marker on the knob. A flawless 10/10 black sharpie signature on the barrel completes an unimprovable package. LOA from PSA/DNA.
1975-76 Hank Aaron Game Used Bat. With the Babe firmly in his rear view mirror, Aaron was able to put the stress of the chase behind him and enjoy the final seasons of his Hall of Fame career when he took this Adirondack 63A to the plate. Use is light, but this is typical of late-career Aaron bats, as the reigning Home Run King was constantly asked for souvenir lumber and so never used any one bat for too long. Length of thirty-five inches and weight of thirty-four ounces are correct for the Hammer's ordering records, and his immortal number "44" is applied in vintage black marker to knob and barrel end. A flawless 10/10 blue sharpie signature on the barrel completes the package. Graded GU 6. LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1977-79 Rod Carew Game Used Bat. One of the greatest devotees of Wee Willie Keeler's "hit 'em where they ain't" philosophy, Carew earned his entrance into the 3,000 Hit Club by doing just that. Ken Holtzman once said of Carew, "He has an uncanny ability to move the ball around as if the bat were some kind of magic wand." Here we present one of those magic wands for your collecting pleasure, a signature model Hillerich & Bradsby C243 exhibiting heavy use from Carew's most productive seasons. Many ball marks, stitch impressions and cleat marks are visible on both sides of the barrel, as are red, green and blue bat rack streaks. Moderate pine tar on handle, and a vintage markered number "29" on knob. Length of thirty-four and a half inches and weight of thirty-two ounces are correct for Carew's ordering records. Graded GU 8. LOA from PSA/DNA.
1979 Pete Rose All-Star Game Issued Bat. Nine years after Charlie Hustle sounded his own "Shot Heard 'round the World," mowing down American League catcher Ray Fosse at the 1970 edition of the Midsummer Classic, he was issued this Adirondack A69 for his thirteenth of seventeen career All-Star Games. The bat never got in on the action, surviving in glossy, unused condition with only a bat rack streak to indicate it made it close to the field of play. A flawless 10/10 blue sharpie signature from the most controversial player of his era is notated with his ubiquitous "#4256." Length is thirty-five inches. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1985 Pete Rose Career Home Run #159 Game Used Bat, Corked! We were shocked, frankly, shocked to learn that Mr. Hustle might have broken the rules, but the evidence is tough to deny. This Mizuno model PR 4192 is quite clearly altered, with bat authenticator John Taube noting in his detailed letter, "The top barrel has been drilled and refilled. This type of barrel alteration is associated with the player "corking" the bat." But let's face it--if you still love Pete Rose after all the scandals, lies and begrudging admissions, this infraction isn't going to change anything.
Destined to be the best conversation piece in your collection, this late-career gamer exhibits tremendous use, with multitudes of ball marks and checking to the punished grain. Finish on the top and back barrel has been removed, though we can't be certain why. The handle has been taped with six rings and a large spiral on the upper handle, each known Rose traits. Length of thirty-four inches and weight of thirty-two ounces are correct as well. A fading silver sharpie inscription on the upper barrel tells the details: "Home Run Bat '159,' May 20, 1985, Best Wishes, Pete Rose."
This bat was first auctioned in December 2005, when it was purchased by GoldenPalace.com, well known for paying outrageous sums of money for cultural oddities, at a price of $103,000. As such, this is an opportunity to own the most expensive Pete Rose bat (by far!) ever sold at auction. Graded GU 10. LOA from PSA/DNA.
Destined to be the best conversation piece in your collection, this late-career gamer exhibits tremendous use, with multitudes of ball marks and checking to the punished grain. Finish on the top and back barrel has been removed, though we can't be certain why. The handle has been taped with six rings and a large spiral on the upper handle, each known Rose traits. Length of thirty-four inches and weight of thirty-two ounces are correct as well. A fading silver sharpie inscription on the upper barrel tells the details: "Home Run Bat '159,' May 20, 1985, Best Wishes, Pete Rose."
This bat was first auctioned in December 2005, when it was purchased by GoldenPalace.com, well known for paying outrageous sums of money for cultural oddities, at a price of $103,000. As such, this is an opportunity to own the most expensive Pete Rose bat (by far!) ever sold at auction. Graded GU 10. LOA from PSA/DNA.
1985 Cal Ripken, Jr. Game Used Bat. A record of the durable Baltimore Oriole's bat Hillerich & Bradsby orders makes note of a signature model P72, with a length and weight of thirty-four inches and thirty-two ounces, being made on June 6, 1985, placing this fine offering at the center of the Iron Man's third consecutive Silver Slugger season. Excellent use is found in the form of multiple ball marks and stitch impressions, along with scattered spike marks and a light coating of pine tar. Ripken's number "8" is applied in silver marker to the knob end. A silver sharpie signature from the bat's former owner makes the package complete. Graded GU6. LOA from Taube & Malta. LOA from PSA/DNA (autograph). LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1986 Cal Ripken, Jr. Game Used Bat. A fourth consecutive Silver Slugger Award made its way to the Iron Man's mantle at the close of the 1986 season, one in which he proved himself to be the most effective American League shortstop at the plate with no small amount of assistance of the presented Louisville Slugger. The dark wood signature model P72 is absolutely dripping with use. Pounded to the point of grain separation on the barrel, the bat also exposes cleat marks, green bat rack streaks and a heavy coating of pine tar on the handle. Ripken's classic "snowman" number "8" is found in black marker on the knob, along with a handwritten "1/2" indicating the length of thirty-five and one half inches. Weight is thirty-two ounces, matching ordering records perfectly for the 1986 season. A slight handle crack has been professionally repaired. With not a fault to be found, PSA/DNA has deemed the representation a perfect GU 10. LOA from PSA/DNA.
1991-97 Ken Griffey, Jr. Game Used Bat. Educated collectors tend to be smart investors, and armed with the knowledge that Junior will soon ride off into the sunset of retirement, and that his Hall of Fame induction is a foregone conclusion, any purchase of his game used material will almost certainly be a wise one. This early career signature model Louisville Slugger C271 presents solid use from Griffey's days in the Pacific Northwest, exhibiting plentiful ball and cleat marks and blue ink transfers. A 9/10 silver sharpie signature on the barrel nicely completes the package. Length and weight are thirty-three and three-quarter inches and thirty-one ounces respectively. A repaired handle makes it impossible to determine if it had once been taped. Graded GU 7. LOA from PSA/DNA.
1993 Ken Griffey, Jr. Game Used Bat. The magnificent use on this signature model Louisville Slugger C271 is no surprise when you consult the record books and find that Junior clubbed forty-five round-trippers and led the American League in total bases the year he used it. Ball marks and stitch impressions coat the barrel, along with scattered cleat marks and bat rack streaks. The handle is taped to Griffey's preferred specifications, and length of thirty-three and three-quarter inches and weight of thirty-one ounce are both likewise correct for the future Hall of Famer, matching his ordering records for April 6, 1993. Light pine tar. A black sharpie signature on the barrel completes the package. Graded GU 8.5.
1993-97 Barry Bonds Game Used Bat. Personal model Louisville Slugger H238 exhibits moderate use from a period of great productivity for the controversial slugger, one in which Bonds became just the second man in Major League history (after another controversial slugger, Jose Canseco) to enter the 40/40 Club. The bat measures just under thirty-four inches and weighs thirty-three ounces, each matching Bonds' factory ordering records for the period. Several ball and stitch marks are apparent on the barrel and a moderate coat of Mota stick coats the handle, which suffered a small handle crack ending the bat's career. Number "25" appears in marker on the knob. Graded GU 7.5. LOA from PSA/DNA.
1997 Alex Rodriguez Game Used Bat. This is what a gamer is supposed to look like! The Louisville Slugger signature model C271 is simply pounded with use, with numerous ball and stitch marks throughout, and cleat marks visible on right and back barrel. Heavy coat on the upper handle and center brand has trapped infield grass like flies in amber. Handle remains miraculously uncracked. Length is just short of thirty-four inches, and weight is an even twenty-nine ounces, proper for A-Rod ordering records. Rodriguez signs the barrel in 9/10 silver sharpie with a "1997 gamer" notation, pinning its usage to a season in which he earned his first starting role in an All-Star Game. The combination of specifications, use and first-hand provenance results is a perfect GU 10 rating. LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
2000-02 Ken Griffey, Jr. Game Used Bat. Thrilling fans who had adored his father during the days of the Big Red Machine, Junior took his Hall of Fame talents to the city of Cincinnati in 2000, where he would soon after be issued this signature model Louisville Slugger C271. Outstanding use is evident throughout, with multiple ball marks and stitch impressions illustrating the power that had four times established Griffey as the single season Home Run King during his days in Seattle. Length of thirty-four inches and weight of thirty ounces are proper for Junior's ordering records, as are the original tape job and Mota stick apparent at handle. Uncracked. Graded GU 9. LOA from PSA/DNA.
Hockey Collectibles
Circa 1880's Hockey Cabinet Photograph. The modern game of ice hockey didn't originate until students at McGill University organized the first set of rules in the late 1870's, and this piece represents one of the earliest known hockey team photos in existence. Superb in its oversized 13x16" presentation, this absolutely amazing cabinet photo depicts hockey players with classic sticks, the earliest of team-logoed jerseys and tasseled wool caps. The photo remains in solid condition with multiple creases and scratches, but displays an overall appearance that would rival any of the best hockey cabinets from this era. A fantastic piece that is sure to add tons of character to any vintage hockey memorabilia display.
1928 Gold Knife Presented to Jack Adams after Lester Patrick Played in the Stanley Cup Finals. "The Memorable Evening" is quite the understatement for what actually took place on April 7, 1928. After an eye injury to starting goaltender Lorne Chabot, the coach and general manager of the New York Rangers actually inserted himself in a game during the Stanley Cup Finals. The heroic 44-year-old only allowed one goal in propelling his team to an overtime victory. The Rangers would go on to win the Stanley Cup, leaving fans only to wonder what would have happen if he wouldn't laced up the skates that night. Offered here is a rare memento, in the form of a gold pocket knife that was presented to Jack Adams, who was coach and general manager of the Detroit Cougars. This piece features "Jack Adams, The Memorable Evening-April 7, 1928, New York Rangers 2-Montreal Maroons 1, John S. Hammond," on one side. Truly a one-of-a-kind piece from one of the most intriguing instances in NHL history.
1927 Ottawa Senators Team Signed Testimonial Banquet Program. It's very rare to find any memorabilia representing the 1920's NHL teams, and team-signed pieces from the Stanley Cup winners of that era are nearly impossible. Offered here is a museum-worthy testimonial banquet program signed by one of the greatest NHL teams of all time, the 1927 Ottawa Senators. This amazing program, complete with a page of player photos, is signed by twenty-five players, executives and fans of this great squad. Included in this array of vintage signatures is the rare Alec Connell, Frank Nighbor, Cy Denneny, Georges Boucher and Jack Adams. Also included in this compilation of pencil and fountain pen signatures is an autograph from then NHL president Frank Calder. Each signature is very legible and signed with crystal clear flair, averaging 9/10 in quality. Although the binding is no longer intact, the program remains complete, and rates a solid VG, with minor edge wear, various tape marks and light wrinkling throughout. One of only three known 1927 Ottawa Senators banquet programs known to exist. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1934 John Kilpatrick Signed Letter. One of the toughest obstacles for autograph collectors concentrating on Hockey Hall of Famers, Kilpatrick passed away shortly before his 1960 induction after twenty-six years of service in the front office of the New York Rangers. His 9/10 black fountain pen signature is found at the close of a brief typed letter on "Madison Square Garden Corporation" letterhead dating to his first year with the historic NHL franchise. The page exhibits original mailing folds but otherwise no flaws of note. A rare opportunity for the advanced hobbyist. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1938-39 Toronto Maple Leaf Gardens Calendar. Superb condition is exhibited on this gorgeous photo calendar which commemorates the 1938 NHL Champion Toronto Maple Leafs. Notable hockey stars, such as Gordie Drillon, Syl Apps, Turk Broda and their teammates are all pictured on this 18x27.5" display piece, which features all 12 months still intact. This is the first calendar of this style Heritage's hockey expert, Bill Campbell has ever seen. Serious vintage memorabilia collectors understand the scarcity of 1930's hockey calendars, and it would be very tough to find a better example than this one.
1946-47 Kansas City Pla-Mors Team Signed Stick. The genesis of professional hockey in Kansas City, the Pla-Mors joined the American Hockey Association in 1927, and later joined the United States Hockey League in 1945. This game-used stick from the 1946-47 Pla-Mors has been signed by 15 players from the Chicago Blackhawks affiliate, including Emile Francis (5/10), Doug Baldwin (6/10), Reg Hamilton (4/10), Hank Blade (7/10), Ralph Nattrass (6/10), Bill Gadsby (7/10) and others, all signed in black felt-tip marker. The stick, used by an unknown player, is a Northland Professional model, and has its original tape applied. This piece shows solid use, with some minor chipping near the blade. Team-signed hockey items from the 1940's are extremely rare, so this stick is sure to spark some interest among serious collectors. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1950 Terry Sawchuk First NHL Game Program. During his Hall of Fame career, Terry Sawchuk was victorious in 501 games (447 regular season and 54 playoff) , while recording 115 shutouts. The goaltender they call "Uke" was called up January 11, 1950, the same day this official game program was sold to the fans at Boston Garden. Unscored and as vibrant as it was presented on that special day, this 32-page book shows very little wear, with a small amount of wrinkling (barely noticeable) on the front cover. A very tight binding completes this historic treasure.
1953-54 Ron Stewart Game Used Stick Signed by Toronto Maple Leafs Team. Best remembered today as the teammate involved in the bizarre fight/accident that claimed the life of Hall of Fame goalie Terry Sawchuk, Stewart utilized this ancient CCM stick during happier times, his second season in the NHL. The stick shows excellent game use, with a cracked blade held in place by original grip tape, which is also found at the handle. "Stewart" is stamped on the shaft. Having appealed to the game used collectors already, the stick diversifies to attract autograph collectors as well with the presence of Kennedy, Sloan, Morrison, Flaman, Stewart, Armstrong, Horton (traced over) and more. The listed autographs remain quite legible, averaging 6/10 or better, while the rest cause a good bit of eye strain to identify. An intriguing relic from an exciting time in NHL history. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autographs).
1961 York Peanut Butter Series 1 Glasses Lot of 6. In the early 1960's, the York Peanut Butter company used these charming 4.5" tumblers, depicting great illustrations of the eras star hockey players, to promote their product. Originally issued at the start of the 1961 playoffs, this collection of six Series one jars features the Toronto Maple Leafs' Billy Harris, Bob Pulford, "Big M" Mahovlich. The Montreal Canadiens jars include, Jean Beliveau, Dickie Moore and Jacques Plante. These pieces are in MINT condition, and display perfect eye-appeal.
1962 Billy Gilmour Hockey Hall of Fame Crest. One of seven brothers from the famed Gilmour family of hockey, Billy Gilmour and two others played for the Silver Seven of Ottawa. Offered here is a masterful Hall of Fame embroidered crest that was presented to each inductee of the 1962 Hall of Fame class, unless which in this case, Gilmour had passed away three years prior to the ceremony and as a result this piece went to a family member. In as good of condition as it was the day it was presented, this hockey artifact measures at 3x3.5'" and is framed at 7.5x7.5", with small gold plate that reads "H.L. 'Billy' Gilmour Elected August 1962." There aren't too many one-of-a-kind pieces of memorabilia directly tied to Gilmour, who is a true pioneer of the game, so bidding should be fierce on this treasure.
1964-65 Detroit Red Wings Sterling Silver Tiffany Humidor. This very well may be the most attractive piece in this auction. Given to former Red Wings' head coach Jim Skinner is a beautiful sterling silver Tiffany humidor. Elegantly decorated with the Wings' team logo in red and silver, and engraved with the coaches' names and players' facsimile signatures, this box was produced to commemorate the 1964-65 Detroit dynasty team that was crowned NHL Champion that season. Names like Gordie Howe, Norm Ullman, Parker MacDonald and others, are scattered splendidly on this shimmering treasure that is engraved "Tiffany & Co Makers Sterling Silver" on the bottom. Included is its original Tiffany & Co. felt bag, which has preserved this wonderful piece for more than forty years.
Circa 1965 Gordie Howe Game Used Hockey Stick. For as many seasons as Gordie Howe played with the Detroit Red Wings, you would think it would be easier to find a game-used stick by the man they called "Mr. Hockey." However, vintage hockey collectors are quickly learning that legit Howe sticks are drying up, and at a rapid pace. This classic stick, with all-original tape intact, shows nice use, and is still in very nice shape for a mid-1960's piece. "Olympic Sporting Goods Co. Detroit Michigan" is properly stamped on the upper shaft, signifying that it's a Detroit Red Wings-issued stick. There is also a very faint "9" that has been written in marker on the upper shaft that attributes the stick to Howe. Great exemplar from a player who will go unmatched for a really long time.
1960's Bobby Hull Game Used Gunzos Hockey Stick. The man known as "The Golden Jet," Bobby Hull possessed one of the most intimidating slap shots of his day. Not only was Hull's strength feared due to the speed in which the pucks shot off the stick, but the sticks he used featured a curved blade that caused the pucks to veer high and in all directions. There isn't a better example of Hull's prototypical curved blade as displayed on this Northland Custom Pro stick that is offered here. Heavy use is exhibited, with three cracks near the tip of the blade of this stick and slash marks throughout. Hull's original black "Bulldog" tape is also wrapped around the blade, with "B. Hull" stamped at mid-shaft. One of the best Hull gamers we have ever seen, this beauty also features a 10/10 black Sharpie signature on the shaft. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1966 Bobby Orr First NHL Game Program. On the Wednesday evening of October 19, 1966, the Boston Garden faithful was fortunate to experience a special player's first game, and a superstar who would change his franchise's history forever. One of the greatest players ever to lace up a pair of skates, Bobby Orr made his NHL debut the same day this official game program was issued. Orr also got to experience greatness in that first game from his opponents, as the Bruins took on Gordie Howe and the Detroit Red Wings on that special day. A real stunner, this forty-page artifact is in NM condition, with no rips or writing (unscored).
1967 The Trail of the Stanley Cup Book Set Presented to Jim Skinner from the NHL. Without question, the most comprehensive and significant collection of books covering the entire history of the National Hockey League, from 1893-1967, is this set of three hardcover beauties titled "The Trail of the Stanley Cup." To help commemorate the sixtieth anniversary of the league, a limited number of these sets of these books were produced in order to be distributed to league executives, Hall of Fame players and dignitaries. Well over 2,000-pages of detailed NHL information, these were presented to former Red Wings head coach Jim Skinner, as noted on a scroll design, which is located in the first book of this collection. Each book is stamped "386" in NM-MINT condition, with one of the holders exhibiting wear at the top. In addition, two of the books' first pages have Skinners' signature and address hand-written in perfect black ball-point ink. Whether you're a collector or just a person who appreciates the history of the game, this lot is perfect for you.
1970-71 Buffalo Sabres Commemorative Sword. Something tells us that this Stadium Giveaway wouldn't fly in this day and age. Offered here is an actual heavy-duty metal sword given out to the first season ticket holders of the Buffalo Sabres in order to commemorate the 1970-71 inaugural season. Featured is a facsimile signature of coach Punch Imlach and the team logo prominently displayed. This truly amazing piece has been elegantly crafted by "Wilkinson Sword" of London England. Complete with a golden lions-head handle, this 28" Sabre is becoming quite the rarity, and one of the best conversation pieces you will find in the vintage hockey arena.
Circa 1970 Jacques Plante Game Used Goalie Stick. Jacques Plante will forever be recognized as the inventor of the goalie mask and the first goaltender to wear protective head gear in regulation play. We can only imagine how perfect this offered Plante game-used goalie stick would look in a display with one of his "Jason-style" masks and vintage photography of the hockey pioneer. Best known for playing on the Montreal Canadiens team from 1953-63, winning the Stanley Cup six times, including five consecutive wins, Plante put this classic goalie stick to use in the 1970's during his tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs. This stick shows heavy use, with some heavy cracking near the blade, but remains all-original and intact. This Sherbrooke stick has the proper "J Plante" and "Maple Leafs" stamps on the shaft, with Plante's original tape still applied. Solid exemplar of a very hard to find stick.
1970's-90's Deceased Hockey Hall of Famers Signed Index Cards Lot of 16. Fine selection of 3x5" index cards feature 10/10 signatures from some of the greatest names in the history of the sport. Perfect for the collector and dealer alike, the collection breaks down as follows. Blank side: Dutton, Ivan, Jenning, Juckes, Milford, Pickard. Lined side: Butterfield, Campbell, Dilio, Lebel, Mariucci, Pilous, Pollock, Robinson, Turner. Final piece is a 1945-46 Canadian Amateur Hockey Association playing certificate signed by William Hewitt. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1977-78 Montreal Canadiens Miniature Stanley Cup Championship Trophy. With legendary names like Ken Dryden, Guy Lafleur and Guy Lapointe, it is very believable that the 1977-78 Montreal Canadiens were part of a dynasty that won four Stanley Cups spanning from 1976-79. Behind the tutelage of head coach Sammy Bowman, the Canadiens defeated the Boston Bruins in six games, and completed the impressive "Three Peat." Offered here is a player's trophy that was presented to Pierre Mondou of the Montreal Canadiens. Measuring at 13" this elegant Stanley Cup miniature is free of the typical tarnishing that most silver mini Cups exhibit. This cornerstone piece is of NM quality and features the engraved names of all the players, coaches and executives that were responsible for the Canadiens' championship win. Personal trophies from Stanley Cup winners are very tough to come by in a hobby where head-turning display pieces are highly desirable, so don't let this end up in anybody else's collection other than your own.
1977-78 International Series Pewter Sculpture. Offered here is a beautiful pewter sculpture that was presented to a player for participation in the 1977-78 International Series. Depicting a "player in motion," this unique memento stands at about five inches high and exhibits fantastic condition. The bottom of this piece reads "N.H.L. - NHLPA International Series 1977-78 Hoselton Canada."
1978 Bobby Hull WHA Championship Ring. Partially financed by the rest of the WHA's teams, the Winnepeg Jets' signing of Bobby Hull, gave the league legitimacy and solidified its spot as a major competitor to the NHL. Hockey's first million-dollar man, "The Golden Jet" was presented this exact same style ring for the Jets' 1978 WHA Championship. A shimmering ten karat gold salesman's sample, this ring features a faux diamond set in the center, with "Avco Cup 78" on one shank, and "Hull Winnipeg Jets" on the other. "WHA Champions" is set around the stone, and "Jostens's 10K" and serial number "B8841-582" is engraved on the ring's inset. Real Hull Championship rings have realized values near $100,000. Here's a chance to own a Hull ring at a fraction of that price.
1980's-1990's Game Used Hockey Stick Lot of 5. Our consignor obtained this great collection of game used, signed hockey sticks as a Washington Capitals season ticket holder at US Air Arena. Included are gamers from Adam Oates - Louisville TPS stick ("Oates" stamped on shaft, 10/10 black sharpie signature above the blade), Kelly Hrudey - Victoriaville stick ("K. Hrudey stamped on shaft, 10/10 black sharpie signature), Dale Hunter - Titan stick ("D. Hunter" stamped on shaft), Rob Langway - Koho ("Langway" stamped on shaft, 9/10 black sharpie signature), Glen Healey - Superpro (8/10 personalization and signature in black sharpie). Nice collection with iron-clad provenance. LOA from Bob Sitnick.
1994 Wayne Gretzky & Friends All-Star Team Signed Photograph. The NHL Hockey lockout of 1994 lasted a grueling 104 games, but superstar Wayne Gretzky's theory was "the show must go on," as the "Great One" organized an All-Star game of sorts, with his crew of high-profile stars of the game. The "Ninety-Nines," as they were called, played in a successful six-game tour of Finland, Sweden and Norway, in an attempt to put a little pressure on the league's front office in hopes of ending the strike. This color 15.5x23.5" poster features ten 9-10/10 silver Sharpie signatures, including Gretzky, his father Walter, Brett Hull, Mark Messier, his father Doug, Grant Fuhr, Paul Coffey, Kirk Muller, Russ Courtnall and Rick Tochett. We cannot stress the importance of this piece enough, especially due to the fact that the ultra-tough Messier signature is included. To have Gretzky and Messier signatures on the same piece is rarely seen in the hobby. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Late 1990's Wayne Gretzky Game Used Hockey Stick. During the 1996-97 season, Wayne Gretzky's first year with the New York Rangers, the "Great One" led his team all the way to the Eastern Conference Finals by netting ten goals and racking up ten assists in post season play. Gretzky would never make it to postseason play for the remainder of his career, but the living legend had already assured his place in Rangers fans' hearts. Offered here is a hockey stick Gretzky used during his days in New York. Admittedly, light use is exhibited on this rare artifact, but that is appropriate for a late-year Gretzky gamer. This Hespeler CS Pro stick features all the correct attributes of a Gretzky-model stick. "Gretzky" is stamped in black ink on the shaft above the blade, with "Gretzky" embedded on the upper shaft. "Jack the Gripper" upper-shaft grip tape is applied properly, and black tape is wrapped around the blade. If you're a hockey collector, this is your Babe Ruth bat.
1998 Joe Sakic Game Used Stick Signed by Colorado Avalanche Team. Finally able to rebound from the injury bug that had hampered Joe Sakic in the previous couple years, the 600-goal club member put together a solid 1998-99 campaign. One of The Hockey News' 100 Greatest Hockey Players, and two-time Stanley Cup winner, Sakic used this stick during that 1998-99 season. This Easton T-Flex has been signed (8/10 black and silver Sharpie) by ten members of his Avalanche teammates that year. The stick shows solid use with original tape wrap on the upper shaft and around the blade. "Sakic Custom 95" is embedded properly at mid-shaft, as well. Solid piece from the future Hall of Famer.LOA from Bryan Trottier. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1999-2001 Colorado Avalanche Game Used Hockey Sticks Lot of 4. Offered here is a lot of four game-used hockey sticks from recognizable faces of the Colorado Avalanche. Players include Rob Blake, Valeri Kamenski, Milan Hejduk and Shjon Podein. Blake's Bauer Supreme stick shows light, but evident use and has "R. Blake" stamped on its upper shaft. This beauty has been signed by Blake on the blade with a signature of 9/10 quality. The next piece in this collection is a Sherwood PMPX 9950 stick used by Valeri Kamenski that was used in a playoff game. The stick features a 10/10 black Sharpie signature and shows solid use, with some blade chipping. "Kamensky 13" is stamped on the upper shaft. Another significant stick from this lot is the offered Milan Hejduk Easton Ultra Lite Graphite 100 model that the Colorado Avalanche right winger used in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. A 9/10 silver sharpie signature has been applied to the blade below the Nike Swoosh logo. Medium use is exhibited on this post-season stick. The final piece of this lot is also a stick that was used in the 2001 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Shjon Podein put heavy use on this CCM Tacks stick that features a 9/10 black Sharpie signature on the taped blade. Overall, a very nice lot with three championship sticks and one other from a notable star. LOA from Bryan Trottier. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
2001 Colorado Avalanche Stanley Cup Championship Ring. Historic Stanley Cup Finals saw veteran defenseman Ray Bourque finally claim the NHL Championship which had eluded him for his twenty-one seasons in Boston. Presented is a ring just like the one claimed by the 2004 Hall of Fame inductee, this one once belonging to a member of the front office staff that saw its Avalanche roll over the defending Champion New Jersey Devils in a thrilling seven-game series. A large red stone dominates the face of the ring, with the team logo "A" arranged at center. "Stanley Cup Champions 2001 rings the edges in raised lettering. Former owner's name "Manguso" and his staff position of "KSE" frame a miniature Stanley Cup and the words "It's All About Commitment" on the left shank. Right shank recounts the four playoff series results that earned Colorado the Cup. Ring is crafted from ten karat white gold and measures to a size 9.5.
2001 Patrick Roy Game Used Goalie Stick Signed by Colorado Avalanche Team. Hockey sticks are desirable enough among collectors, but there's something extra special about goalie sticks that take on lives of their own. Offered here is a game-used stick from arguably the best goaltender in history, Patrick Roy. The only player to ever win the Stanley Cup Playoffs MVP award, and he did it a staggering three times, Roy used this huge Koho 500 model stick during the 2001 season in which his Colorado Avalanche won the Stanley Cup. Not only has this stick been stamped "P. Roy" at mid-shaft, but the lower shaft has been stamped "29 Nov 2001," which dates it to that special season. In addition, twenty members (Sakic, Bourque, Forsberg, etc.) of the 2001 World Champion Colorado Avalanche have graced the blade of this piece with black Sharpie signatures spanning at 8-9/10 in quality. This Hall of Fame-caliber piece comes from the personal collection of hockey Hall of Famer Bryan Trottier and is sure to spark some serious bidding, as Roy sticks don't pop up very often at auction. LOA from Bryan Trottier. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autographs).
2001 Peter Forsberg and Joe Sakic Stanley Cup Playoffs Game Used Sticks. The Colorado Avalanche is the only team to ever win the Stanley Cup after a re-location, and the team couldn't have done it without the help of Peter Forsberg and Joe Sakic. Offered is a lot of game-used sticks from each player, both used in the Stanley Cup Playoffs during that special championship season. Both pieces are taped at the top, and the Forsberg stick still has its original tape on the blade. The sticks are Easton Synergy models and they both show evident wear. The players' jersey numbers and last names are stamped on each stick, in addition to a 10/10 signature by the player on each piece. If you were a fan of the Avalanche during that exciting run in 2001 then bidding on this lot is a no-brainer. LOA from Bryan Trottier. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication
2001 Ray Bourque Stanley Cup Playoffs Game Used Hockey Stick. It took 23-year hockey legend Ray Bourque all the way up to his last season in the NHL when he finally won his first Stanley Cup. A suitably fitting end to the career of a player who had pretty much accomplished everything he possibly could have up until that point. This hockey stick has special significance due to the fact that Bourque actually put it to use during that exciting post-season run when the Colorado Avalanche won the 2001 championship. Solid signs of use are exhibited throughout, with nice wear on the upper shaft tape and blade, where chipping is visible below the wrapped black tape. This Sher-wood PMPX 9950 stick features a "Bourque 77" mid-shaft, with a Bourque signature of 10/10 quality on the blade in black Sharpie, completing this Hall-of-Fame-caliber piece. LOA from Bryan Trottier. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
2003 Phil Housley Finland World Championship Game Used Hockey Stick. One of the most prolific American-born players in NHL history, Phil Housley used this hockey stick during the 2003 World Championships in Finland. The now-retired and future Hall of Famer put solid use on this Easton Synergy, with strong wear on the upper shaft, and additional wear throughout. The stick's blade features numerous puck marks, and an 8/10 gold Sharpie signature completes this fine piece. LOA from Bryan Trottier. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
Circa 2005 Eric Staal and Simon Gagne Game Used Stick Lot of 2. Two game-used hockey sticks with tons of investment potential make up this catalog listing. The first piece in this lot is a stick that 2007-08 All-Star MVP Eric Staal used during his young, but successful career. The second overall pick of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft put a nice scattering of puck marks on this Bauer One90 model stick. Staal's original tape wrap still remains at the top shaft and blade. This stick has also been markered "10/5", presumable for the date it was used. The next piece is a stick by the longest tenured Philadelphia Flyer currently on their roster. Simon Gagne, the team's alternate captain and two-time NHL All-Star also put moderate use on this red and silver Bauer One90 model stick. The upper shaft has the original tape wrap present, with "12" written in black Sharpie. "Gagne 12" is also embedded at mid-shaft, similar to the Staal stick. Superb lot from two of hockey's up-and-comers.
Circa 2007 Evgeni Malkin Game Used Hockey Stick. Evgeni Malkin didn't waste any time taking the National Hockey League by storm, as the young Pittsburgh Penguins prospect set a modern-day record as the first player to score at least one goal in each of his first six games. One of those historic goals may have been slapped through the net with the offered hockey stick used by Malkin. This Bauer Vaper model stick features "Malkin" stamped on the upper shaft, with his original tape on the top and around the blade. Light, but definite use is exhibited on this piece decorated in his team's brilliant colors.
Circa 2007 Sidney Crosby Game Used Hockey Stick. Comparable to an Alex Pujols or Derek Jeter game-used bat in baseball, this hockey stick used by Sidney Crosby is considered to be one of the top artifacts in his sport, among collectors. The most hyped-up player to enter the NHL since Wayne Gretzky, Crosby put solid use on this flashy Reebok hockey stick. Styled in the Penguin's classic color scheme, this stick exhibits Crosby's typical tape wrap pattern on the upper shaft and markered "87", with his original black tape on the blade. "Crosby 87" is screened on the upper shaft of this piece that possesses sure-fire investment potential as long as Crosby continues to break records and win championships, and he is showing no signs of slowing down.
1923 Ottawa Senators Player's Jacket. According to Heritage's hockey expert Bill Campbell, this is the first 1923 Ottawa Senators team jacket from the Stanley Cup-winning squad he has ever come across, and the first example ever to hit the hobby. Very significant, as the Senators won the Stanley the same year this piece was team-issued, and probably even more important, this jacket was purchased in Ottawa last year from the son of a former Senators player. This piece shows extremely heavy wear, with a considerable amount of scuffing on the exterior black leather, and heavy soiling on the interior. A beautiful Senators "O" patch adorns the left breast, with the original "Grant-Holden-Gral" tag attached at one side in the collar. Two buttons are missing, with one replacement button at the bottom, and traces of light blue paint on the right sleeve. Serious vintage hockey specialists appreciate the desirability of 1920's Ottawa Senators memorabilia. Here's a chance to own a piece that even the experts have never seen.
Circa 1933-34 Harold "Slim" Halderson Game Worn Jersey. Heritage Auctions is quickly becoming recognized as a venue that has the ability to offer some of hockey's most significant, and rare material. This catalog listing is just another example of a piece that will be sure to create a buzz in the vintage hockey memorabilia world. Offered here is a Tulsa Oilers jersey worn in the early-mid 1930's by Harold "Slim" Halderson. The AHA-defensive, who was anything but "Slim" in nature, played from 1933-1936 with the Oilers, and this piece is accompanied by various newspaper clippings, with one picturing Halderson in this same style Tulsa sweater. In addition to taking the rink with the Oilers, in 1920, Halderson won Gold in the Olympic games with the Winnipeg Falcons. "Slim" also was a member of the 1925 Stanley-Cup-winning Victoria Cougars. This jersey features a large felt team patch across the chest, with its original "Remberg's" tag in the collar. Halderson's number "2" has been affixed on the verso, with multiple noticeable holes exhibited throughout this tough jersey. Great exemplar that is suitable for only the most serious of vintage hockey memorabilia enthusiasts.
1940-41 Bill Carse Game Worn Jersey. After viewing the gorgeous patch prominently displayed on this jersey, and the Chicago Blackhawks' famed "Barber Pole" wool, you sure don't need the experts at Heritage to tell you that this style is regarded as one of the best hockey jerseys ever made, in the eyes of vintage hockey sweater collectors. It's pretty obvious, isn't it? The player that was fortunate enough to wear this beauty, who was also a P.O.W. in the second World War, Bill Carse used this garment during the 1940-41 season. As do all great pieces of memorabilia, this one is also accompanied by a great story. The consignor is the brother of a woman who worked with her mother at a popular steakhouse that just happened to be located on Michigan Avenue near Chicago Stadium, the former home of the Black Hawks. The woman befriended some of the players and she obtained this great collectible in the early 1950's. In addition to the story, our hockey expert Bill Campbell was able to date this sweater by the style of hair on the Blackhawks patch, and the era of the "McNiece's" tag located in the collar. The wear and various scuff marks only add to the quality of this gem, which is in very solid condition. The red and white affixed number will look very familiar to hockey collectors, as the Blackhawks' number "9" was also Bobby Hull's number, who obviously played later than Carse, and is now retired by the franchise. You don't get too many chances to own a "Holy Grail" style jersey, so if this one tickles your fancy, the time is now to get in on the action. LOA from Joe Tomon.
Mid-1950's Detroit Red Wings Red Cardigan Sweater.
Offered is a charming circa 1950's red cardigan sweater that former Red Wings coach, Jim Skinner purchased for his daughter, Karen, during his tenure as head man in the Motor City. One of two Wings cardigan's Heritage obtain from Skinner, this piece is in exceptional condition and measures at 15" from shoulder to shoulder, and 23" from top to bottom, a suitable size for a middle-school-aged child. This piece still exhibits all six original buttons, Red Wings patch on the left, with the "Olympic Detroit" tag in the collar. A gorgeous American and Canadian Flag patch is also applied the left shoulder of the cardigan. Spectacular sweater that is sure to provide visions of the days Detroit greats Gordie Howe and Terry Sawchuk. LOA from Jim Skinner Jr.
Offered is a charming circa 1950's red cardigan sweater that former Red Wings coach, Jim Skinner purchased for his daughter, Karen, during his tenure as head man in the Motor City. One of two Wings cardigan's Heritage obtain from Skinner, this piece is in exceptional condition and measures at 15" from shoulder to shoulder, and 23" from top to bottom, a suitable size for a middle-school-aged child. This piece still exhibits all six original buttons, Red Wings patch on the left, with the "Olympic Detroit" tag in the collar. A gorgeous American and Canadian Flag patch is also applied the left shoulder of the cardigan. Spectacular sweater that is sure to provide visions of the days Detroit greats Gordie Howe and Terry Sawchuk. LOA from Jim Skinner Jr.
Mid-1950's Detroit Red Wings White Cardigan Sweater. They sure don't make sports souvenirs like they used to. This high-quality white and red cardigan sweater was purchased by former Red Wings head coach, Jim Skinner, in the mid-1950's for his daughter, Holly. Obtained from the son of Skinner, this piece remains in nearly the same condition as on the day it was originally purchased. All six buttons still intact, as is the original Red Wings patch on the left breast (bottom is partially separated from use). In addition, an American and Canadian Flag patch is applied to the left shoulder. "Coane [size] 36" tag is in the collar of this sweater that measures 16" from shoulder to shoulder, and 23" from top to bottom. A great relic from one of the greatest eras in Red Wings history. LOA from Jim Skinner Jr.
Circa 1955-59 Alex Kuzma Team Jacket. Offered is a stunning team jacket from the Seattle Americans of the Western Hockey League. Artifacts from this era are becoming more and more desirable among collectors and are extremely hard to acquire. This piece is splendid in its overall appearance. Worn by Alex Kuzma around 1955-59, this jacket from the former teammate of the legendary Guyle Fielder presents a gorgeous team logo patch on the left breast. The tags have been removed from this jacket, but it remains in overall solid condition, with no major defects. A fantastic piece from the all-but-forgotten Seattle team. Our consignor purchased this jacket from Kuzma directly, and has supplied a letter of provenance from the ex-Seattle American. Letter of provenance from Alex Kuzma.
1957-58 Bob Pulford Game Worn Jersey. Assistant captain for the Toronto Leafs' dynasty of the 1960's, Bob Pulford wore this immaculate sweater during the 1957-58 season. We are confident in stating that this is the nicest jersey from this style and era ever offered at auction. The Hall of Famer and superior penalty killer wore this shirt that features the Maple Leafs' classic team logo patch across the chest, below the laced-up collar. Multiple team repairs are scattered throughout, but only in a way that enhances the jersey's overall presentation. Pulford's number "20" is affixed on the back in the correct style, with the Leafs' proper striping througout. This shirt represents the start of the Maple Leafs' dominating prowess of the NHL, and calling it "pristine" would actually be considered an understatement from the most particular of vintage hockey collectors. LOA from Brad Moore of Fairmore Sports.
1960's Milt Schmidt Game Worn Coach's Jacket. This elegant coach's jacket was worn by Bruins' legend Milt Schmidt during the 1960's as head man with the Boston Bruins. Schmidt, whose number "15" was retired from his days as a player, at the Boston Garden, made a real name for himself after his playing days as an architect as a General Manager in the new era of the NHL. The offered Bruins coat is classic in every respect, with the team's terrific felt patch at the left breast. This piece is in extraordinary condition, with very minor interior wear, and "[size] L" flap tag stitched in the lining. Embroidered swatch reading "Milt Schmidt" appears at interior front left pocket. Very unique piece worn by a Hall of Famer, and one of the most influential figures in Bruins history.
1965-67 Andy Bathgate Game Worn Jersey. An amazing mid 1960's gamer, with impeccable provenance, this jersey was worn by one of hockey's top right wingers of his era. One of The Hockey News' 100 Greatest Hockey Players, Andy Bathgate put solid use, with multiple team repairs on this white Durene Detroit Red Wings jersey. This shirt, originally obtained by former Wings head coach Jim Skinner, is one of the most desirable styles of hockey jerseys among vintage game-worn jersey collectors. All-original, and absolutely breathtaking, this piece features the team from the Motor City's classic team logo patch at front, and number "21" on the sleeves and verso. The proper "Olympic Sporting Goods" and "[size] 44" flap tags are also stitched in the collar, of this jersey worn by the 1978 Hall of Fame inductee. LOA from Jim Skinner Jr. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1973-75 Jim Pappin Game Worn Jersey. Jim Pappin was a very consistent goal scorer and key component for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Chicago Blackhawks throughout his lengthy NHL career. During the later part of his career in Chicago, Pappin took the ice with this superb Durene Blackhawks jersey. There is a number change and now has a number "36" affixed to the sleeves and verso, however, there is clear evidence that it once displayed a number "8", and as a result, can be attributed to Pappin. Cross-over neck collar is visible on the front, with the appropriate "Wilson [size] 48" and "Gunzo's" flap tags stitched inside the collar, and a "73" chain-link year tag is stitched on the interior front tail. This fine example shows solid wear with general filth, stains and stick marks present. The interior has started piling due to equipment rubbing against equipment. Double clip garter fight strap is also present on the interior. The Blackhawks' classic chenille logo patch is presented on the chest of the jersey, with tomahawks at each shoulder with the same style of material. A spectacular style that is always popular among serious vintage game-worn hockey collectors. LOA from Peter S. Gianakas.
1975-77 Mike O'Connell Game Worn Jersey. The first ever Chicago native to play for the Chicago Blackhawks wore this gorgeous shirt during his CHL days with the Dallas Blackhawks. Mike O'Connell put together a solid career as a player in the NHL and has since made his way to front office work as the general manager of the Boston Bruins from 2000-06 and currently serves as Director of Pro Development for the Los Angeles Kings. At first glance, this desirable jersey appears the same style as a 1970s Chicago Blackhawks jersey, due to the magnificent chenille logo patch that adorns the chest, but the tomahawks at each shoulder are of the "D" variety, confirming that it is a shirt from the Dallas minor league squad. This jersey has tremendous wear with general filth, stains and stick marks present. Multiple heavy team repairs are present on each sleeve. In addition, there is scathing and fraying of the main crest. A "73" tag has been stitched in the interior hem, noting the jerseys "born-on date." This jersey appears to be in all-original condition and has the proper "Wilson [size] 48" and "Gunzo's" tags in the collar. Garter fight strap is still present and is sewn directly to the interior of the rear number "3". An extremely attractive jersey that is sure to stand out in any memorabilia room. LOA from Peter S. Gianakas.
1975-76 Tom Simpson Game Worn Jersey. If past auction results are any indicator of how thirsty WHA and vintage hockey collectors are for original game-worn jerseys from the defunct league, Heritage has a real quencher by way of this catalog listing. Offered here is a 1975-76 Toronto Toros jersey worn by Tom Simpson. Similar to the cult following that is attached to the obsession basketball collectors endure for ABA memorabilia, vintage hockey hobbyists can't get enough of the very rare pieces from the WHA. This particular stunner showcases the Toros' red, white and blue team logo patch on the center chest of the jersey, with "Toros" decked out in the same color scheme on each sleeve. Number "12" is affixed to the shoulders and verso, with no NOB. "Tricot Sport Maska" tag is affixed to collar, as is the washing instruction tag. WHA collectors know that the white Toros jerseys are by far the toughest to obtain of the Toronto jerseys, and this moderately-used garment is a very solid example. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1975 Chicago Cougars Game Issued Jersey. By far, one of the most successful leagues to challenge its professional competitor, the WHA entertained hockey fans from 1972-1979. The now-defunct league "made it" due to the fact that they took advantage of some major cities lacking an NHL team, and in essence filled that void. That same void can probably be felt by vintage game-worn hockey jersey collectors if their hobby room is missing a sweater from the WHA. Well, here's a perfect chance to clear out a corner of that room for a real solid example from the league that has developed a cult following among collectors. Offered here is a 1975 Chicago Cougars WHA game-worn jersey. This number "25" white mesh stunner features all screened-on identifiers, which kind of defines the innocence of that special league. Cougars' unique team logo appears on the front, with the proper "Champion [size] 46" tag in the collar. Cross over collar style is showcased on the neck, in addition to the original fight strap stitched in the interior rear. A very rare and solid example from the gone, but not forgotten team from the Windy City. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1976-77 Hubert "Pit" Martin Game Worn Jersey. Vintage Chicago Blackhawks Durene jersey are always some of the most attractive, and desirable gamers in our auctions. This 1976-77 gamer worn by Hubert "Pit" Martin is no different. In 1967, Martin was traded to the Blackhawks from the Detroit Red Wings, and would spend 11 seasons in the Windy City. An All-Star in four straight seasons, Martin put heavy use on this cherry-red stunner. This jersey is all-original and shows no evidence that a nameplate was ever attached. The Hawks' famed chenille embroidered patch adorns the front of this jersey with Pit's number "7" on the sleeves and verso. Multiple scattered repairs, stick marks and stains also tell the story on this great piece that will soon be the cornerstone in a lucky hobbyist's collection. LOA from Peter S. Gianakas.
1976-77 Rusty Patenaude/1977-78 Gary MacGregor Game Worn Jersey. Edmonton Oilers jerseys of the 1970s and 80s are some of the most desired styles due to the huge collectibility of Mark Messier and Wayne Gretzky memorabilia. The fact that an Oilers gamer worn by the "Great One," would cost a small fortune suggests that this jersey, used by Gary MacGregor, is the perfect alternative for any collector who simply wants a taste of that vibrant orange, white and blue Oilers fans have grown to love. Showcased on the front of the jersey is the ever-popular team logo patch, with a two-tone "17" on each sleeve and on verso (one of the sleeve's numerals is partially separated from the stitching). Heavy use is exhibited, and it makes perfect sense considering there is evidence of a nameplate change making it inevitable that the shirt was also worn by Rusty Patenaude. The appropriate "Maska" tag is located in the collar, separated from jersey on one side, but still partially intact. Slash marks, multiple team repairs, and other typical hockey use combines to make up the nostalgic character of this great vintage piece of hockey history. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1977-78 Guy Lafleur Game Worn Jersey. The all-time leading scorer for the sport's most noteworthy franchise, the Flower posted 518 goals and 728 assists for the Habs during his fourteen seasons in Montreal, thrice leading the NHL in scoring during his illustrious service to the team. The offered durene treasure dates from the second such campaign, his sixty goals tying Steve Shutt for most goals scored by a Canadien in a single season. A Stanley Cup Championship was the finishing touch upon this spectacular season, simply one of the finest ever registered by a single player in the history of the League. It was no surprise that Lafleur added an Art Ross Trophy, a Hart Memorial Trophy and a Lester B. Pearson Award to his mantle for his efforts.
Presented is one of the most desirable Lafleur gamers ever made available at public auction, showing outstanding wear from the most noteworthy season in a career defined by brilliance. Each sleeve is peppered with numerous team repairs, and another two-inch long tear just past the lower hook of the logo "C" on the chest took three different colors of thread to mend. Another needed only blue thread at the right ribs. LaFleur's famed number "10" is applied to each sleeve and verso in white and blue tackle twill. Proper "Wilson [size] 44" label is present at interior collar, and embroidered "77" year swatch is placed at lower left interior side seam. Fight strap remains affixed at lower rear interior tail.
The regal heritage and brutal game use elevates this stunning relic to the absolute height of desirability, and would instantly establish the winning bidder as one of the elite collectors in the hockey discipline. Bid to win. LOA from Milt Byron.
Presented is one of the most desirable Lafleur gamers ever made available at public auction, showing outstanding wear from the most noteworthy season in a career defined by brilliance. Each sleeve is peppered with numerous team repairs, and another two-inch long tear just past the lower hook of the logo "C" on the chest took three different colors of thread to mend. Another needed only blue thread at the right ribs. LaFleur's famed number "10" is applied to each sleeve and verso in white and blue tackle twill. Proper "Wilson [size] 44" label is present at interior collar, and embroidered "77" year swatch is placed at lower left interior side seam. Fight strap remains affixed at lower rear interior tail.
The regal heritage and brutal game use elevates this stunning relic to the absolute height of desirability, and would instantly establish the winning bidder as one of the elite collectors in the hockey discipline. Bid to win. LOA from Milt Byron.
1978 Yvan Cournoyer Game Worn Jersey. He may have only been 5 foot 7 inches, but Yvan Cournoyer was one of the faster players in the NHL, and thus bore "Road Runner" as his nickname. Offered here is a jersey with plenty of character that the Hall of Famer wore during his second to last season in the league. Awesome team repairs, slash marks and board burns are showcased on this heavy knit beauty, which features the Montreal Canadiens classic team logo patch on the front. Cournoyer's captain "C" and two-colored "12" patches are properly affixed, in addition to "Cournoyer" stitched on the rear nameplate. Its original fight strap is still present, as is the proper "Wilson" size "42" tag in the collar. LOA from Yvan Cournoyer. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1979-80 Dale Tallon Game Worn Jersey. One of hockey's best defensemen throughout the decade of the 1970s, Dale Tallon wore this home white mesh jersey during the 1979-80 season. Tallon, who was a two-time All-Star during his 10-year career made a name for himself after his playing days were over as an analyst for radio and television broadcasts for the Chicago Blackhawks. This is a very nice representation of a late-1970s Penguins shirt, and hails from the seldom-seen first set of 1979-80 Penguins gamers. It features a screened crest and screened-on numerals. In order to mimic the Steelers and Pirates, in 1980 the Penguins switched from the blue and white jerseys to black and golds. The use on this particular jersey is on the lighter side, which is typical for this style, but there are some stick marks, board burns and inner pilling evident. The proper "Stall & Dean" and "[handwritten size] 54" tags are in the collar, with "Tallon" and "4" on the back. This very cool style jersey would be suitable in many vintage hockey collections. LOA from Gamewornauctions.net.
1980 Mark Pavelich Team Issued Suede Coat Worn at "Miracle on Ice" Winter Olympics. In order to secure a sense of team uniformity while away from the rink during the 1980 "Miracle on Ice" Winter Olympics, the Levis company provided a stylish wardrobe for USA Hockey team members, and this stylish suede coat was worn by team leader Mark Pavelich during those historic Games. Featured on this interesting piece is a very significant "USA 1980 Olympic Team" Levis tag in the coat's lining. The coat is in extremely nice condition, with no rips or tears, and comes with rock-solid provenance in the form of a hand-written, signed letter from Pavelich. LOA from Mark Pavelich.
1980 Mark Pavelich Team Issued Denim Suit Worn at "Miracle on Ice" Winter Olympics. The player who tallied the only assist on Mike Eruzione's game-winning goal at the "Miracle on Ice", Mark Pavelich wore this denim suit during those famed Olympic Games. Padded for extra warmth in order to battle the chilly Lake Placid weather, this two-piece set features the "USA 1980" team patch on the pants pocket. This ultra-rare outfit also has a "Levis 1980 Olympic Games [size] M" tag in the trousers. Completed by a [size] "Medium" denim vest, this lot is accompanied by a hand-written, signed letter by Pavelich. LOA from Mark Pavelich.
1980 Mark Pavelich Coat Worn at "Miracle on Ice" Winter Olympics. Collectors of the most famous moment in USA hockey history, take notice of this catalog listing. Offered here is a winter coat worn by 1980 USA Hockey Team leader, Mark Pavelich while at those historic games in Lake Placid, New York. This patriotic red and blue showpiece features a "Powderhorn Mountaineering [size] M" tag in the lining, with "PM" snap buttons on the exterior. The coat remains in very nice condition, with no rips or tears. An interesting, and equally historic piece from a member of the "Miracle on Ice" hockey team.
Early 1980's Bobby Clarke Game Worn Jersey. In very rare instances, a hockey player will possess superior all-around skills on offense, as well as intimidating qualities as a defensive threat. One of hockey's greatest leaders and winner of the Hart Trophy three times during his fifteen-season playing career, Bobby Clarke wore this stunning Philadelphia Flyers jersey during the early 1980's. Clarke, who led Philly to two Stanley Cups victories, played from 1969-84. This late-career exemplar shows moderate use, with the Flyers' classic team logo patch across the chest. Two-color, tackle twill numerals have been affixed to the sleeves and verso, with "Clarke" in the proper font on the rear nameplate. There is a "[size] L" flap tag in the collar of this jersey that is accompanied by rock-solid authentication from Byron's Hockeyland. LOA from Byron's Hockeyland.
1982-83 Mike Gartner Game Worn Jersey. Noted as somewhat of an Ironman during his career, Mike Gartner did not miss a game in eight of his 19 seasons in the NHL. As dependable as a player gets, the consistent right winger played the majority of his career with the Washington Capitals, the team that is the focus of this catalog entry. A member of the Pro Hockey Hall of Fame and 500-goal scorer, Gartner had his jersey retired by the Caps in 2008. Offered here is a spectacular 1982-83 Gartner jersey that is filled with team repairs, black marks, board burns and red, green and yellow paint transfers. There is interior pilling in the sleeves of this shirt that features team logo tackle twill lettering and stars across the front. "Maska" is embroidered in the back hem and Gartner's retired number "11" is located on the sleeves and verso. All attributes of this artifact are original, except for the nameplate, which has been restored. A 10/10 signature has been applied to the lower back of this great keepsake that is as solid as Gartner's play was during his extraordinary career. LOA from MeiGray #115992.
1982-83 Borje Salming Game Worn Jersey. After signing with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1973, Hall of Famer Borje Salming had immediate success and became the team's rookie of the year and rated as one of the best rookies in the NHL. Salming was a pioneer of sorts and was one of the first European-born players to have success in the NHL, and as a result paved the way for other European hockey players. He played 1148 regular games, 81 playoff games and scored 637 assists and 150 goals during his seventeen-season career and wore this superb jersey during the 1982-83 season with Toronto. All-original and simply breathtaking, this jersey features the team logo front and center, with number "21" on each sleeve and verso. "Salming" is stitched on the rear nameplate, with a small portion of the "S" separated from the plate. Solid use, with multiple team repairs are exhibited on what we consider one of the most attractive game-worn jerseys in this auction. LOA from Spivack & Kraut. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1983-84 Marcel Dionne Game Worn Jersey. In any intelligent conversation about who is among hockey's greatest players ever, it would be a travesty if Marcel Dionne's name isn't at least mentioned. "Little Beaver," as was his nickname throughout his career is a member of the exclusive 700-goal club, set an NHL rookie scoring record in 1972 and beat out Wayne Gretzky for the Art Ross Trophy in 1979-80. Offered here is Dionne's Los Angeles Kings jersey from the 1983-84 season, and without question, one of the most attractive vintage hockey jerseys in this auction. Highlighted at front and center is the Kings' classy crown team logo patch, with Dionne's number "16" on each sleeve and verso. Gold tackle twill was used for the lettering in "Dionne" across the rear nameplate. This jersey has solid wear throughout with noticeable black marks and interior pilling. The original fight strap is also present in the interior of this beautiful shirt. An absolutely spectacular jersey from the man who rates thirty-eight by The Hockey News in their 1998 list of 100 Greatest Hockey Players.
1984-85 Marcel Dionne Game Worn Jersey. Ranked number thirty-eight by The Hockey News in their 1998 list of the 100 Greatest Hockey Players, Dionne was the third of six men to reach the 700 goal plateau, and currently ranks fourth in career totals at 731. Presented is a magnificent Los Angeles Kings sweater worn during one of the strongest seasons of his career, one in which he notched 126 points on the strength of forty-six goals and an outrageous eighty assists. The elegant team logo patch appears at center chest, with number "16" applied to each sleeve and verso in two-tone tackle twill. "Dionne" is spelled in purple block lettering across rear nameplate. "CCM" label remains at interior collar, as does fight strap at lower rear interior tail. Wear is simply fantastic, the best we've yet encountered in a Dionne gamer. Turn the jersey inside out and you'll find a dozen little patches of team repairs, tremendous fabric pilling at the elbows and significant oxidation at the fight strap. Perhaps the best wear of any jersey in this auction! A 10/10 black sharpie signature on the upper left chest completes this spectacular package. An absolute treasure for the advanced hockey collector. LOA from MeiGray #111761. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph). LOA from Joe Tomon.
1985-86 Bryan Trottier Game Worn Jersey. The twenty-second overall pick in the 1974 NHL Entry Draft, "Trots" demonstrated his Hall of Fame abilities early, earning the Calder Trophy as the League's rookie of the year in 1975-76. He would represent the New York Islanders for the first fifteen seasons of his career, already a veteran at the time he sported the blue sweater we present here. It shows wonderful wear from the 1985-86 season and the following year's preseason, with a healthy scattering of stick and board marks at the chest, shoulders and sleeves. Number "19" is applied to chest, back and shoulders in white and orange tackle twill, with the Islanders' logo patch and assistant captain's "A" on the chest, and "Trottier" nameplate applied to the verso with velcro. Please note that the original nameplate was removed for post-season practice use, as was typical. The "Maska" manufacturer's label in the collar features a sweat-faded number "19," and beneath it is another label reading "86 04." Fight strap affixed to lower rear tail. A fantastic representation of a jersey suited for the Hockey Hall of Fame and the finest of private collections. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1985-86 Dave Ellett Game Worn Jersey. An absolutely superb style is the story on this jersey worn by two-time All-Star Dave Ellett. Put to use during the 1985-86 season, when Ellett netted fifteen goals with thirty-one assists. This shirt features a unique "Ellett," which has been embroidered in royal blue thread. Number "2" is affixed to each sleeve and verso, with a sweat-curled "CCM" tag in the collar. Completing this terrific showpiece is a two-tassel fight strap, which is applied to the rear interior of the jersey. Evident use is exhibited throughout this red, white and blue beauty. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1986-87 Bill Derlago Game Worn Jersey. Quite the all-around athlete in his early years, Bill Derlago was involved in many sports including golf, tennis, baseball, and of course hockey. Enjoying most of his superior success when on the Toronto Mapleleafs, Derlago was later traded to Winnipeg, and that is what brings us to this catalog listing. A beautiful 1986-87 from the tail end of his career, this Derlago gamer is offered in its original state and glory. The Jets' red, white and blue team logo adorns the front of this jersey with a unique royal blue embroidered "Derlago" affixed to the rear nameplate. The use on this white mesh gamer is on the lighter side, but there is evident wear, with one team repair and multiple black marks. Number "18" is applied to the sleeves and verso, with no tags in the collar. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1987-88 Peter Taglianetti Game Worn Jersey. Without question, Peter Taglianetti is one of the biggest, strongest and most physical defenseman ever to come out of the New England area. You want proof? He racked up the record for penalty minutes at Providence College that still stands. Offered here is a jersey that Taglianetti wore while roughing up his opponents during the 1987-88 season. This Winnipeg Jets shirt shows solid use throughout, with a nice array of team repairs and a scattering of stick marks. This jersey, of course, features the Jets team logo patch across the chest, with the number "32" on the sleeves and verso, and the proper "Goals for Kids" charity patch on the right sleeve. A sweat-faded "Maska" tag also attests to this shirt's nice wear, with the original fight strap still residing in the interior rear. A rear nameplate with "Taglianetti" in blue tackle twill completes this fine catalog listing. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1987-88 Randy Carlyle Game Worn Jersey. The current head coach of the Anaheim Ducks and "Honoured Member" of the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame, Randy Carlyle put nice use on this Winnipeg Jets jersey from the 1987-88 season. Carlyle scored 59 point in 79 games in this red, white and blue beauty. The Jets' classic team logo patch is prominently placed front and center, with the alternate captain's "A" on the right breast. A sweat-faded "Maska" tag is in the collar, with the proper "Goals for Kids" charity patch on the right sleeve. Number "8" has been affixed to the sleeves and verso on this jersey that features a nice array of slash marks, board burns and team repairs. The original fight strap is also still present on this shirt worn by the one-time All-Star. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1988-89 Dave Hunter Game Worn Jersey. Three-time Stanley Cup winner, and one of four Hunter brothers (which also includes fellow NHLers Dale and Mark), Dave Hunter put this gamer to use during his final season in the league. This 1988-89 Jets shirt shows light, but suitable wear considering he only played three games for Winnipeg that season. A fabulous team logo patch adorns the front chest, with the proper "Goals for Kids" charity patch on the right sleeve. Number "12" has been affixed to each sleeve and verso. "Hunter" is applied on the rear nameplate in blue tackle twill, with a sweat-faded "Maska" flap tag in the collar. There are some black marks on the front of this nice example that will display perfectly in any collection. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1991-92 Joe Mullen Game Worn Jersey. This Joe Mullen gamer pretty much has it all. Covered in beautiful decor, such as the NHL seventy-fifth anniversary, Pittsburgh Penguins twenty-fifth anniversary and "1931-1991 Badger" patches, this shirt was also used during the 1991-92 season, the same year the Penguins won the Stanley Cup. Light, but evident use is exhibited on this shirt that features the team logo patch on the across the chest, with "7" affixed to the sleeves and verso. "Maska" and "[size] 50" flap tags are located in the collar, with "Mullen" stitched on the rear nameplate. The original fight strap is also present, completing this piece. Mullen is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame, is a member of the 500-goal club, as well as a member of the 1000-point club, all accolades that act as desirable components in the decision making process of a collector. This piece was originally purchased from Byron's Hockey Land, who obtained it straight from the team. LOA from J&J Distributing/Joseph Tomon.
1991 Mario Lemieux Stanley Cup Playoffs Game Worn Jersey.
Please note that this jersey can be definitively matched to playoff video, in which the large stick mark on the rear numeral is clearly evident. This video will be included with the jersey.
Despite missing a game due to a back injury during the 1991 Stanley Cup Finals, series-MVP Mario Lemieux still managed to perform in "Super Mario" fashion by leading all scorers with twelve points in five games. This jersey would probably be just as suitable in the Hall of Fame, as in the collection of a lucky hobbyist, but your good friends at Heritage have taken care of the hobbyist once again. This cornerstone piece exhibits very visible use, and is quite impressive for a playoffs garment. The "1991 Stanley Cup Finals" patch is prominently affixed at upper right, directly above the Penguins' team logo patch at center. Mario's now retired number "66" is affixed to each sleeve in white and black tackle twill, in addition to a gold and white tackle twill "66" on verso. "Lemieux" is stitched on the rear nameplate and apparent sweat deposits curl the appropriate "Maska" flap tag in collar. Completing this stunner is its original fight strap at the interior. All serious bidders will want to take note of this rare opportunity to own such a masterful piece. LOA from Joe Tomon.
Please note that this jersey can be definitively matched to playoff video, in which the large stick mark on the rear numeral is clearly evident. This video will be included with the jersey.
Despite missing a game due to a back injury during the 1991 Stanley Cup Finals, series-MVP Mario Lemieux still managed to perform in "Super Mario" fashion by leading all scorers with twelve points in five games. This jersey would probably be just as suitable in the Hall of Fame, as in the collection of a lucky hobbyist, but your good friends at Heritage have taken care of the hobbyist once again. This cornerstone piece exhibits very visible use, and is quite impressive for a playoffs garment. The "1991 Stanley Cup Finals" patch is prominently affixed at upper right, directly above the Penguins' team logo patch at center. Mario's now retired number "66" is affixed to each sleeve in white and black tackle twill, in addition to a gold and white tackle twill "66" on verso. "Lemieux" is stitched on the rear nameplate and apparent sweat deposits curl the appropriate "Maska" flap tag in collar. Completing this stunner is its original fight strap at the interior. All serious bidders will want to take note of this rare opportunity to own such a masterful piece. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1995-96 Kevin Todd Game Worn Jersey, Rare "Burger King" Alternate . Heritage Auctions has been very fortunate to carry some of the most unique hockey memorabilia in the hobby world. Not too many of these "Burger King" alternate jerseys have popped up other than in our catalogs, and due to that fact they continue to turn heads among collectors. Offered here is a Kevin Todd Los Angeles Kings gamer that the center wore during the 1995-96 season, the only year "The King" appeared on his team's jerseys. The unique "Burger King" patch appears at upper left chest. Number "12" is applied at each sleeve and verso, where "Todd" is affixed to the rear nameplate. "NHL Centre Ice [size] 54" tags are properly stitched in the collar, and the Kings' "1995-96 Set 1" embroidered swatch is properly placed in the tail hem. Light, but appropriate use is exhibited on this style shirt that only saw the rink seven or eight games. LOA from Joe Tomon.
1995-96 Ray Ferraro Game Worn Jersey, Rare "Burger King" Alternate. As popular as these "Burger King" alternates seemed to be, at least in the hearts of the fans of the Los Angeles Kings, one would think these special jerseys would remain a fixture in the locker room at least for a couple times each year. However, this special style shirt was only used for seven or eight games during the 1995-96 season. Offered here is retired center Ray Ferraro's jersey he wore during his first season in L.A. Although this shirt was worn for a short period of time there's still evident use visible throughout this beauty. The distinctive "Burger King" patch appears at upper left chest, balanced by the alternate captain's letter "A" at right. Number "20" is applied at each sleeve and verso, where "Ferraro" is affixed to the rear nameplate. "NHL Centre Ice [size] 54" flap tags are properly stitched in the collar, and the Kings' "1995-96 Set 1" embroidered swatch is properly placed in the tail hem. Black Sharpie signature on verso rates 10/10. Not only does this "special" alternate jersey make a great conversation piece, its rarity helps it serve as a great investment as well. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph). LOA from Joe Tomon.
1997-98 Ryan Smyth Game Worn Jersey. Sometimes childhood dreams do come true, and Smyth saw his realized as he was chosen sixth overall in the 1994 NHL Entry Draft by the Edmonton Oilers, the team he had supported throughout his youth in Banff, Alberta. Presented is a sweater worn during his fifth of twelve years with the Oilers, exhibiting marvelous wear with extensive, heavy team repairs from a thirty-three point season. Team logo patch is centered on the chest, with number "94" applied in tri-tone tackle twill to each sleeve and verso. "Smyth" is spelled across rear nameplate. "CCM" and size "56" tags reside at interior collar. Interior lower hem holds "Edmonton Oilers Set #1 97/98" label. Fight strap remains affixed at lower rear interior tail. Certainly the strongest wear of any modern jersey presented within this auction. MeiGray #122251.
1999-2000 Jeremy Roenick Game Worn Jersey, Rare "Desert Collection" Alternate. From time to time hockey jerseys and equipment resemble the creativity of fine artwork rather than a piece of sports nostalgia. This unique jersey from the Phoenix Coyotes' "Desert Collection" is no exception. Superstar Center, and one of modern hockey's most recognizable players, Jeremy Roenick wore this shirt during an impressive season while playing out west. The Coyotes wore two sets of Desert Specials in 1999-2000, in a total of 19 games. This "Set 1" beauty features the team's logo patch, which dominates the chest, with two "gecko lizard" patches that have been stitched on each shoulder, balanced by the alternate captain's letter "A" at right. Number "97" is applied at each sleeve and verso, where "Roenick" is spelled across the rear nameplate. The proper "Pro Player Authentique [size] 52" tagging is present at interior collar, and "Official 99/2000-1 Game Worn Jersey" MeiGray embroidered swatch has been applied to the interior lower hem slightly below the interior fight strap. Quite the eye-appealing piece representing one of hockey's best ever. LOA from Phoenix Coyotes/MeiGray #106615
1999-2000 Mike Modano Stanley Cup Finals Game Worn Jersey. The face of the franchise, and the only player to have been on the Stars the team's entire time in Dallas, Mike Modano wore this jersey during the team's 2000 Stanley Cup-winning run. A huge part in the Stars' championship season, Modano scored more than 20 playoff points, the same post season he put evident use on this magnificent shirt that he wore during the Stanley Cup Finals. The 500-goal future Hall of Famer's number "9" has been applied to each sleeve and verso, with the jersey front showcasing the team logo and "2000 Stanley Cup Finals" patch. Iron-clad provenance is also provided directly below the jersey's original fight strap, in the form of a "1999-2000 Collection Set 3 MeiGray" swatch in the rear interior tail. Completing this Hall-of-Fame-caliber piece is the "[size] 58" flap tag in the collar and "Modano" spelled in three-color tackle twill on the rear nameplate. Another impressive artifact from the rink to the winning bidder courtesy of your friends at Heritage Auction Galleries. LOA from Dallas Stars/MeiGray #107014. LOA from The Spirit of the Game/Rich Ellis.
2001-2002 Scott Gomez Game Worn Jersey. Scott Gomez played the majority of his career with the New Jersey Devils, and during that stint was awarded the Calder Trophy as the league's top rookie during the 1999-2000 season, played in the NHL All-Star Game that same year and also racked up two Stanley Cups. Gomez, who also was the first ever Latino drafted by an NHL team, up until this point, has had a solid career. The center's play could also be compared to the solid game use of this offered 2001-02 gamer. Numerous slash marks, numeral puckering and hit marks are all displayed on this beauty. The Devils team logo patch has been displayed splendidly on the front of this shirt, with the proper "23" patches affixed to the sleeves. The number "23" two-toned patch also covers the verso, directly below "Gomez," which has been affixed on the rear nameplate. Completing this great gamer is a small "54" size flap in the collar, in addition to its fight strap and "Official New Jersey Devils 2nd Set 2001-02 Season" stamp screened on the back interior tail. LOA from MeiGray #119669.
2001-02 Luc Robitaille Game Worn Jersey. In 2001-02, the season 19-year pro Luc Robitaille wore this beautiful Red Wings jersey, his quest for the elusive Stanley Cup finally came to an end. Not only did his team win the championship during that magical year, the 2009 Hall of Fame inductee was a key part in the Red Wings' success. Offered here is a spectacular shirt worn by Robitaille from that championship season. Classic Red Wings' team logo patch is prominently displayed across the front chest, with number "20" on the sleeves and verso. An arched single-color "Robitaille" has been properly affixed directly to the back of this piece that also features a "2001-2002 Authentic Game Jersey 2nd Set" swatch in the rear tail, acting as solid provenance for this gamer. Multiple stick marks are visible on this jersey that has the proper "[size] 54" flap tag in the collar. Collectors always seem to focus on Hall of Famers when collecting game-worn jerseys, but when one can obtain a shirt that was used during a championship year, it is always extra special.
2001-02 Ed Belfour Game Worn Jersey. It really is amazing that in the world of professional sports, from time to time, a "special" player will go unnoticed, and as a result will end up undrafted. That is exactly what happened in superstar goalie Ed Belfour's case. One of hockey's all-time most successful goaltenders wore this spectacular jersey during the 2001-02 season while playing with the Dallas Stars. Belfour helped secure the Stanley Cup a few years before he put this jersey to use on the team that is featured across the chest of this beauty, in the form of a magnificent team logo patch. Texas state patches are affixed to each shoulder, with number "20" patches stitched in each sleeve and verso. "Belfour" is properly applied to the rear nameplate, and the all-important MeiGray "2001-2002 Collection Set 1" swatch is affixed to the rear interior tail. Completing this piece, the original fight strap has been attached to the interior rear of this shirt that shows light, but evident use.
2001-02 Joe Sakic Game Worn Jersey. For many years Joe Sakic could pretty much be slotted as one of the most productive forwards in the game. During his 20-year career, Sakic has been part of two Stanley Cup winning teams and has made the NHL All-Star games an impressive 13 times. Due to his longevity and the fact he played for popular teams, Sakic has always had a solid following in the hobby. This game-worn jersey will be sure to attract a lot of attention, due to that fact. Offered here is a Colorado Avalanche jersey worn in 2001-02 by the recently-retired British Columbia native. A huge team logo patch is presented on the front of this brilliantly-colored garment, with Sakic's captain's logo properly placed on the left breast. Number "19" in tackle twill on the sleeves and verso. "Sakic" is properly affixed to an arched rear nameplate. "Official Issue Colorado Avalanche 01/02 Set-III-1" swatch is located at the interior rear tail of this jersey, which shows good use with some pilling and colors running on the fight strap. LOA from Colorado Rockies/MeiGray #114028.
2001 Mats Sundin Hockey Hall of Fame Game Worn Jersey. The first European-born player drafted first overall in NHL history wore this jersey on November 10, 2001, vs. the New Jersey Devils during the Hockey Hall of Fame Game, a suitable contest considering Mats Sundin will find himself in the Hall of Fame some day. Accompanied with rock-solid provenance, this royal blue, silver and white stunner showcases an array of black wear marks and appropriate single-game use. Three magnificent patches have been applied to the front of this shirt, the "Hall of Fame Game," "C" and team logo patches. Number "13" is affixed to each sleeve and verso, with an embroidered "Nov 10, 2001 Game Worn Hockey Hall of Fame Game" provenance swatch affixed to the interior rear hemline. "Sundin" has been appropriately affixed to the back of this jersey, which also has the proper "[size] 58" flap tag in the collar. LOA from Toronto Maple Leafs/MeiGray #113014.
2003 Petr Skora Stanley Cup Finals Game Worn Jersey. For hockey jersey collectors, there aren't too many specimens that turn heads much more than shirts worn during the Stanley Cup Finals, especially jerseys with as much use as this piece worn by 2003 Petr Skora. Numerous hit marks are attractively scattered throughout this Anaheim Mighty Ducks jersey, which features the team's vibrant logo patch on the front, directly below the Stanley Cup Finals patch. "Mighty Ducks" patches are also stitched at the shoulders, above the number "39" patches. An additional large "39" is sewn on the verso in tri-tone tackle twill. Fight strap is still attached to the lower rear interior, which is located above the MeiGray "NHL Game-Worn Jersey 2002-2003 Season" swatch. This rock-solid jersey was worn during Game's 3 and 4 of the 2003 Stanley Cup Finals, as confirmed by the MeiGray Group, and the respected memorabilia company also has included a photo match from the league's championship series for the winning bidder. LOA from MeiGray #A08895.
2003 Brian Rafalski Stanley Cup Finals Game Worn Jersey. In 1999, the Sporting News named Brian Rafalski as the best hockey player in the world not playing in the NHL. Only a few years later the UW-Madison alum was skating for the New Jerseys Devils on hockey's biggest stage, the Stanley Cup Finals. While wearing this jersey during the NHL's championship series, Rafalski put typical one-series light, but evident use on this shirt during Game 3 on May 31, 2003 and Game 4 on June 2, 2003. The Devils' team logo patch covers the front of this shirt, with the attractive "Stanley Cup Finals" patch at the upper left. The proper "52" size flap tag is affixed in the interior collar, with the fight strap at the lower interior rear and MeiGray's "NHL Game-Worn Jersey 2002-2003 Season" swatch slightly below. Number "28" is sewn to each sleeve and verso, where "Rafalski" is spelled across rear nameplate. Very solid jersey from the defenseman who is really starting to come into his own in the league. LOA from MeiGray #AO8968.
2002-03 Sergei Fedorov Stanley Cup Playoffs Game Worn Jersey. The Detroit Red Wings fell short of the Stanley Cup Finals in 2002-03, the same season Sergei Fedorov wore this jersey in the post season. But the superstar center scored 83 points in 80 games that year and won the inaugural Kharlamov Trophy, the award presented to the most valuable Russian hockey player of the year. A stunning playoff shirt, this white Red Wings garment shows evident use and displays the team from the Motor City's logo patch prominently front and center. Number "91" is stitched on each sleeve and verso, in addition to "Fedorov" affixed to the back. Hockeytown Authentics has screened on a "2002-2003 Authentic Game Jersey Playoff Set" swatch is located on the interior rear tail, with "[size] 52" flap tag and Canadian flag flap tag in the collar. There's something about Red Wings jerseys that just looks like they belong in the post season. Here's your chance to own a very desirable playoff shirt, with iron-clad provenance. LOA from Hockeytown Authentics #35379.
2003 Phil Housley World Championships Game Worn Jersey. Straight from the collection of hockey Hall of Famer Bryan Trottier is this 2003 World Championships jersey worn by the second leading scorer among US-born players, Phil Housley. This patriotic shirt from the games played in Finland that year displays a beautiful presence, with the USA team logo, alternate captain's "A" patch, and Nike Swoosh logo across the front. The collar is triple-tagged, with "Nike [size] 56", "IIHF" and "Officially Licensed USA Hockey" swatches properly stitched. Each sleeve is also covered with patches including a "Bauhaus", "6" and star. "Housley" is also applied on the rear nameplate, above the back "6" that features a 10/10 silver Housley signature. Light to no use is visible on this stunning piece. LOA from Bryan Trottier. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
2003-04 Jim McKenzie Game Worn Jersey. A 2002-03 Stanley Cup winner with New Jersey, McKenzie would close out his fifteen-season NHL career the following year with the Nashville Predators, in whose service he wore the presented mustard yellow sweater. Team logo patch dominates the chest, with number "19" applied in navy and white tackle twill to sleeves and verso. "McKenzie" is spelled across rear nameplate. Use is light but definite. Fight strap appears in lower interior rear tail. Size "58" tag inside collar. Dual labels sewn inside tail of sweater note that this is a "2003-2004 Set #2" model, and bears the facsimile signature of Pete Rogers, the Predators' head equipment manager. The authentication label of MeiGray is found nearby. LOA from MeiGray #BO5099.
2002-03 Chris Chelios Stanley Cup Playoffs Game Worn Jersey. It was a grim day for Chicago Blackhawks fans when fan-favorite Chris Chelios made his way to the Motor City, but it made sense for the prolific defenseman. The change he made by playing with the Detroit Red Wings enabled Chelios to continue to compete at his peak level, where he was faced with fewer responsibilities and graced by more skilled teammates. Offered is this white Red Wings jersey Chelios wore during the 2002-03 Stanley Cup Playoffs, as confirmed by Hockeytown Authentics, the memorabilia company housed suitably at Joe Louis Arena. This classic Red Wings example, scattered nicely with various hit marks, features the team logo on front, with number "24" on sleeves and verso, with "[Set] 2" numeral in collar above the "52" size flap tag. "Chelios" is properly arched above the back numeral and the fight strap still remains on rear interior, as does the added "2002-2003 Authentic Game Jersey Playoff Set" swatch screened on the interior rear tail. Chelios has been a fixture of Stanley Cup playoffs games for many years throughout his Hall of Fame career. Here is your chance to own a piece of that post season history. LOA from Hockeytown #35604.
2003-04 Chris Chelios Game Worn Jersey. The long career of Chris Chelios features an almost infinite amount of accolades during his impressive stint as a professional hockey player, but maybe his most notable came in 2006, when he played in his 1,496th NHL game, the most of any American-born player. Once quite the rival of the Detroit Red Wings, the great defenseman bared this cherry-red stunner during the 2003-04 season with that very team. Classic team logo dominates the front of this shirt, with the proper "[Set] 2" numeral on the interior collar, with size "52" flap tag that has been stitched slightly below. Number "24" patches have been affixed on each sleeve and on verso, directly below "Chelios", is placed in an arched layout. This great showpiece shows light, but evident use. Of special note, this jersey also bears a screened-on "2003-2004 Authentic Game Jersey 2nd Set" swatch at the lower rear interior, below the fight strap. Great for any collector of the skaters from the Motor City, or hockey aficionado. LOA from Hockeytown Authentics #35589.
2003-04 Brendan Shanahan Game Worn Jersey. Very visible use is the story on this cherry-red Detroit Red Wings gamer worn by three-time Stanley Cup winner Brendan Shanahan. The 600-goal scorer and leader among active NHL players for goals scored, undoubtly, slapped quite a few in the net while wearing this stunning piece, filled with stick and board marks. "Shanahan" is affixed to the rear of this shirt in the typical Wings' arched style, above the number "14", which is also applied on each sleeve. Hockeytown Authentics' screened-on provenance swatch noting "2003-2004 Authentic Game Jersey 1st Set," is affixed to the rear interior tail below the original fight strap. A very solid example of a gamer from the future Hall of Famer. LOA from Hockeytown Authentics #35381.
2003-2004 Pierre Turgeon Game Worn Jersey. If you have never seen this style jersey before, you're probably not alone. The Dallas Stars wore this style jersey very sparingly, and as a result, these cool alternates don't pop up at auction too often. The 500-goal scorer and recently-retired Turgeon put noticeable wear on this "Texas Longhorn Constellation" shirt, with one large repair under the team logo patch and another on the right sleeve. Turgeon's number "77" is affixed to each sleeve and verso. The proper "[size] 56" flap tag is stitched in the collar, with "Turgeon" in tri-tone tackle twill on the rear nameplate. The original fight strap is still present, in addition to the MeiGray "NHL Game-Worn Jersey 2003-2004 Season" provenance swatch in the hemline. A unique jersey that is sure to be quite the eye catcher in any serious hockey collector's memorabilia room. LOA from MeiGray #BO2873.
2004 Sidney Crosby Game Worn Practice Jersey, Summer Rookie Camp. Think of this catalog entry as comparable to a Michael Jordan UNC jersey, Brett Favre shirt from when he played on Southern Mississippi as a college senior or Alex Rodriguez from his brief stint as a minor leaguer on the Appleton Foxes. Pre-rookie shirts are very intriguing to collectors as they are equally rare. Offered here is a jersey that NHL superstar Sidney Crosby wore during the 2004 Los Angeles Kings Summer Rookie Camp. Noted as a "Practice Jersey," on the provided LA Kings LOA, this piece prominently displays an attractive rookie camp team logo at front, with an "NHL Center Ice" patch at upper right. Solid use is evident on the "[size] 58" and "CCM [markered '87']" flap tags in collar, as well as its original fight strap at interior, with "S. Crosby #87" written in black felt-tip ink. Crosby also applied a 10/10 black Sharpie signature at top left on the front of this stunning pre-rookie garment. LOA from LA Kings. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
2004 Peter Forsberg Promotional Game Worn Jersey. Peter Forsberg has made a career of giving 110 percent on offense as well as defense, and as a result is recognized as one of hockey's greatest two way players. The winner of two Stanley Cups and numerous individual accolades, "Foppa" wore this burgundy jersey on March 23, 2004, in a Colorado Avalanche promotional game during the 2003-2004 NHL regular season. Sporting Colorado's beautiful color scheme, this jersey features the team logo patch across the front, with Forsberg's alternate captain's "A" on the left breast. Number "21" is affixed to the sleeves and verso, in addition to "Forsberg" stitched on an arched rear nameplate. There is evident wear on this garment, with slash marks showcased across the front of the jersey, and to cap off its iron-clad provenance is MeiGray's "NHL Game-Worn Jersey 2003-04 Season" swatch in the rear interior tail. LOA from MeiGray #BO2551.
2005-06 Alexander Ovechkin Rookie Game Worn Jersey. The entire sporting world took notice of hockey phenom Alexander Ovechkin when he used Terrell Owens-esque theatrics while celebrating his 50th career goal by pretending his hockey stick is on fire. Well, his stick wasn't really on fire, but this Ovechkin rookie gamer could be if he keeps up his near-legendary play on the ice. Showcasing the front of this stunning garment is the Capitals enormous team logo patch, with team eagle patches affixed to each shoulder. Number "8" is also applied to each sleeve and verso, in addition to a size "58" flap tag in the collar. "Ovechkin" is proudly displayed in tri-color tackle twill, with the all-important MeiGray "NHL 2004-2005 Season", "2005-2006 Season" and "Cutting Edge Sports" swatches, all affixed to the lower rear interior tail. Completing the rock-solid provenance of this significant showpiece is a direct photomatch of the Capitals superstar while wearing this exact jersey that MeiGray has provided. LOA from MeiGray #C10788.
2005-2006 Martin Havlat Regular Season/Stanley Cup Playoffs Game Worn Jersey. Martin Havlat, who is adoringly known by his fans as "Mach 9" due to his blazing speed, wore this jersey during his time spent with the Ottawa Senators, the same era he wore number "9," as demonstrated by the affixed patches to the shoulders and verso. Confirmed by MeiGray that this shirt was worn during the 2005-06 regular season and Stanley Cup playoffs, this piece showing moderate use with a major team repair presents the Senators brilliant team logo patches on the front and shoulders, with the proper "56" size flap tag in the collar and "Havlat" stitched on the nameplate on verso. Fight strap remains affixed at lower interior, as does MeiGray's "NHL Game-Worn Jersey 2004-2005 Season" swatch and additional "2005-2006 Season" swatch at left. Iron-clad example from Havlat's final year in Canada. LOA from MeiGray #CO7729.
2006 Sergei Samsonov Stanley Cup Finals Game Worn Jersey. Sergei Samsonov only played one season with the Edmonton Oilers, but in that year his team made it all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals, making this a significant piece for any serious collector of the left winger. This white Oilers shirt was worn throughout Game 1 on June 5, 2006, and Game 2 on June 7, 2006, of the league's championship series. Moderate use is displayed on this garment, which showcases the Oilers classic team logo patch on the front, directly below the affixed Stanley Cup Finals patch. Two additional team patches have been stitched on each shoulder, above three-toned "12" patches, along with the proper size "56" tag in the collar. The jersey's verso nameplate has "Samsonov" properly attached above the large tri-color "12" identifier. Fight strap and tail swatches galore are stitched on the lower rear interior, with the MeiGray "NHL Game-Worn Jersey 2004-2005 Season" and "2005-2006 Season" tags as the most notable. Samsonov is no longer playing in Edmonton, however, this jersey will act as a great reminder of the time he helped lead his team to the Finals. LOA from MeiGray #CO3622.
2005-06 Marc-Andre Fleury Game Worn Jersey. Racking up several key breakway saves, while frustrating the offensive mindset of the Pittsburgh Penguins opponents during last year's Stanley Cup Finals, Marc-Andre Fleury experienced the greatest moments of his career as his team won the 2009 Stanley Cup. The goaltender who sometimes goes by the nickname "Flower," wore this stunning Penguins jersey during the 2005-06 season. Medium use is exhibited on this shirts that has some rips from use, in addition to some wear stains. Number "29" has been affixed to each sleeve and verso, in addition to the appropriate team logo patch at front and "FLEURY" across the rear nameplate. The all-important "Cutting Edge Sports Set #1 2005-2006" provenance tag is located in the hemline, and the original fight strap is still present. Awesome piece from one of the game's best goalies. LOA from Pittsburgh Penguins.
2005-06 J.P. Dumont Game Worn Jersey. An impressive forty points this season for the third overall pick in the 1996 NHL Entry Draft, a figure tallied during Dumont's fifth and final season with the Buffalo Sabres. The attractive and rare alternate set red sweater boasts an oversized team logo patch on the chest, and a number "16" patch at upper right, paying tribute to Hall of Fame legend Pal LaFontaine, whose jersey number was retired on March 4, 2006. Dumont's number "17" is applied in tri-colored tackle twill to sleeves and verso, with "Dumont" spelled across rear nameplate. Light but definite use is evident throughout. Fight strap appears in lower interior rear tail. Size "56" tag inside collar. NHL/MeiGray label sewn inside tail improperly denotes use during the 2004-05 season, but a smaller "2005-2006 Season" label to the left is correct. LOA from NHL/MeiGray #C01759.
2006-07 Shea Weber Game Worn Jersey. Early in his career, defenseman Shea Weber had some bad luck with a rash of injuries, however during his short NHL career the Nashville Predator has shown some sparks of stardom. Offered here is an eye-popping gamer Weber wore during the 2006-07 season. Centering the front of this jersey is the team logo patch, with skull team logo patches affixed to each shoulder. Number "6" is stitched on both sleeves and verso, with the proper size "58" tag in the collar. "Weber" is stitched in single-color white letter on the rear nameplate, with the jersey's original fight strap, MeiGray "NHL Game-Worn Jersey 2006-2007 Season" and "Cutting Edge Sports" swatches, all affixed to the lower rear interior. Light, but evident use is demonstrated on this stunning piece. LOA from National Predators/MeiGray #DO3143.
2007 Chris Neil Stanley Cup Finals Game Worn Jersey. During the early part of Chris Neil's NHL career he was known as quite the enforcer. However, those brutal duties have since been lifted off his shoulders, and the right winger entering his eighth year in the league has become a more complete player and a real offensive threat. That said, by looking at this huge size "58" you would think he is probably still pretty intimidating. Worn during Games 3 and 4 of the 2007 Stanley Cup Finals, the offered jersey features the Senators large team logo on the front center portion, directly below the "Stanley Cup 2007" patch. In addition, smaller team logo patches are also affixed on each shoulder above the proper number "25" patches on the sleeves. "Neil" is spelled across the rear nameplate above the huge black and white tackle twill number "25". Completing this moderately-used beauty is its original fight strap and the MeiGray "NHL Game-Worn Jersey 2006-2007" swatch, both affixed at lower rear interior tail. LOA from Ottawa Senators/Mei Gray #DO7956.
2006-2007 Travis Zajac Stanley Cup Playoffs Game Worn Jersey. One of the NHL's top young prospects and a key core to the New Jersey Devils, Travis Zajac wore this jersey during the 2006-07 season and throughout the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Anytime a young player resigns a multi-year contract with his original team that could suggest great investment potential for serious collectors, and in 2009 Zajac did just that. The offered gamer features a Devils 25th anniversary patch, in addition to its large team logo patch completing the front. Number "19" is properly affixed to each sleeve, with its large "19" centered on the verso. "Zajac" properly balances out the back of the jersey, as it is stitched on the rear nameplate in two-color tackle twill lettering. A size "56" flap tag resides inside the collar, with the MeiGray "NHL Game-Worn Jersey 2006-2007 Season" swatch tag stitched in the lower rear interior tail, below the fight strap. Light, but evident use is demonstrated by the garment worn by the up-and-comer. LOA from New Jersey Devils/MeiGray #DO4491.
2006-07 Alexander Ovechkin Game Worn Jersey. Ever since Alexander Ovechkin broke into the NHL scene in 2005 he has been one of the most exciting players to watch, and by far one of the most talented. He has already racked up a Rookie of the Year award and was the first player to win the Art Ross Trophy, Maurice Richard Trophy, Lester B. Pearson Trophy and Hart Memorial Trophy, but that isn't the only reason serious collectors should bid on this spectacular jersey. This 2006-07 Ovechkin gamer showcases a team repair, slash marks, moderate scuffing and an all-important photomatch from MeiGray. Without question, one of the most impressive Ovechkin jerseys we have ever handled, this piece features the Capitals team logo patch on the front, balanced by the alternate captain's letter "A" at right. Capitals team logo patches affixed at the shoulders, and the number "8" patches on the sleeves. The proper large "8" three-toned patch is stitched on the verso, below "Ovechkin" on the rear nameplate. Size "58" flap tag is in the collar, in addition to the fight strap and ever-important MeiGray "NHL Game-Worn Jersey 2006-2007 Season" and "Capital Equipment Manager Doug Shearer" swatch tags have been affixed in the interior back tail. According to hobby experts, there are very few Ovechkin gamers that haven't made their way into private collections. Bid on this example before it is forever entombed into another collector's shrine. LOA from Washington Capitals/MeiGray D10184.
2006-07 Dion Phaneuf Game Worn Jersey. Named the No. 2 prospect in 2005 behind Alexander Ovechkin by the Hockey News, Dion Phaneuf is widely recognized as one of hockey's hardest hitters and a bright spark in the Calgary Flames' future. Now a young veteran and two-time All-Star, Phaneuf wore this jersey during his sophomore season. As eye-appealing as you will find, this shirt features a "retro-style" laced collar, above the Flames team logo patch across the chest. Number "3" is affixed to each sleeve and verso. "CCM [size] 58" flap tag is stitched in the collar, and the original fight strap is present. A couple nice stick marks are present on this impressive artifact from the rink, complete with MeiGray's tag of provenance, which reads "NHL Game-Worn Jersey 2006-07 Season."Great, investment-quality piece from a player who hasn't even came close to reaching his full potential. LOA from Calgary Flames/MeiGray D10493.
2006 Kevin Weekes "Mark Messier Night" Game Worn Jersey. On Tuesday, June 14, 1994, Mark Messier scored the Stanley Cup winning goal at Madison Square Garden and secured his place in New York Rangers' history. There isn't a Ranger fan anywhere that doesn't hold a special place in their heart for Messier, and now one lucky hobbyist can obtain a piece that will help them remember how great the 2007 Hall of Famer actually was when he played. Offered here is a jersey that Rangers back-up goalie Kevin Weekes wore during the first period of "Mark Messier Night." That special game was held on January 12, 2006 at Madison Square Garden, and acted as a ceremony to retire Messier's No. 11. But before they put that special number to rest, the Rangers wore three sets of jerseys that night, and only one set would become available to collectors. This jersey, wore in the first period by Weekes features a commemorative patch with "11 January 12, 2006" embroidered in red, white and blue, with Weekes' number "12" on each sleeve and verso. A "goalie style" laced collar is featured on this classic shirt, with "Rangers" across the front. MeiGray's provenance swatch is located in the hemline, to the right of the "2005-2006 Season" swatch. Mark Messier may be retired, but his legacy will live on with a great collectible like the one in this listing. LOA from MeiGray #CO7367.
2007-08 Jordan Staal Game Worn Jersey. It didn't take Penguins center Jordan Staal very long to make his mark in the NHL. The 20-year-old is the youngest player to score on a penalty shot, to score two shorthanded goals in one game, to score a hat trick and the most shorthanded goals by a rookie in one season. Talk about a player with great investment potential for hobbyists. Offered here is a jersey Staal wore during the 2007-08 season, his second year in the league. This shirt features noticeable puckering on the front team logo and showcases multiple team repairs. The city of Pittsburgh is recognized on one sleeve with a "250" anniversary patch and number "11" is affixed to the sleeves and verso. This size "58" jersey has "Staal" stitched properly on the rear nameplate of this Reebok jersey that also has its original fight strap intact, and located above a "Cutting Edge Sports 2007-2008 Set 3" swatch, which is affixed at the lower rear interior tail. Also provided is a photomatch directly confirming the authenticity of this beauty. LOA from Pittsburgh Penguins.
2007-08 Jason Spezza Game Worn Jersey. The speedy, play-making Jason Spezza wore this Ottawa Senators jersey during the 2007-08 season, the same years he played in his first NHL All-Star game, making this the jersey to own for any fan of the center who has six years under his belt. This shirt, which showcases numerous team repairs features the Senators team logo patch in dominant fashion across the front, the team's multi-colored "O" patch affixed to each shoulder and "19" patches on each sleeve. As appropriate, this great garment has "Spezza" stitched on the rear nameplate and a two-color "19" beneath his name, along with the proper size "56" tag in the collar. MeiGray's prototypical "NHL Game-Worn Jersey 2007-2008 Season" swatch affixed to the lower rear interior tale, which has been placed directly below the fight strap. Very nice use on this jersey from one of Spezza most notable seasons. LOA from Ottawa Senators/MeiGray EO3775.
2007-08 Dany Heatley Game Worn Jersey. A main contributor to one of the highest scoring lines in hockey, the Calder Memorial Trophy winner and NHL All-Star Game fixture put solid use on this Ottawa Senators gamer during the 2007-08 campaign. Significant team repairs are exhibited throughout this fine example, which also features the Senators team logo patch across the chest. Heatley's number "15" is affixed to each sleeve and verso. The powerful left winger's prototypical "[size] 58+" flap tag is stitched in the collar of this monster jersey, as is the MeiGray provenance tag in the hemline. Solid source, with solid use should be enough to turn the heads of serious game-used jersey collectors.
2007-08 Sidney Crosby Game Worn Jersey. Most twenty-one year olds are just graduating college, or just getting used to the workforce. Not Sidney Crosby. After living up to nearly all expectations during his first three years in the NHL, in 2009 Crosby took the hockey world by storm by becoming the youngest captain to win the Stanley Cup. This black Pittsburgh Penguins home jersey was worn by Crosby during the 2007-08 season and features a magnificent team logo on the front, below his captain's "C" that is applied in tri-tone tackle twill. The city of Pittsburgh "250" anniversary patch is affixed on the right shoulder, directly below a nice set of team repairs. Number "87" is stitched in each sleeve and verso. "Crosby" has prominently displayed on the rear nameplate, in addition to its original fight strap and a "Cutting Edge Sports 2007-2008 Set 3" both affixed to the lower rear interior tail. Due to moderate use, multiple team repairs and a photomatch, which will be provided to the winning bidder, this shirt is about as rock solid as it gets. LOA Pittsburgh Penguins. LOA from Joe Tomon.
2008-09 Brian Rafalski Stanley Cup Finals Game Worn Jersey. Another great hockey jersey worn in the 2009 Stanley Cup Finals is the focus of this catalog listing. Brian Rafalski didn't make it to the NHL right out of college. In fact, he was named by the Sporting News in 1999 as the best hockey player in the world not playing in the NHL. Three-time Stanley Cups and two All-Star Game appearances later, Rafalski is a core component of the Red Wings success. Offered here is a 2008-09 Finals jersey that features a team logo patch across the chest of the shirt, in addition to a "Stanley Cup 2009" patch on the right breast. "1" numeral is screened on the neckline, in addition to the "CCM [size] 54" flap tag affixed. Number "28" is applied to each sleeve and verso, and the original fight strap and "2008-2009 Authentic Game Jersey Playoff Set" swatch are both affixed to the interior rear tail. Light use, with multiple team repairs are present on this shirt that was used during the most important time of the season. Photomatch is also included. LOA from Hockeytown Authentics #46140.
2008-09 Kris Draper Stanley Cup Finals Game Worn Jersey. Member of the famous "Grid Line" in Detroit, four-time Stanley Cup winning center Kris Draper put Finals-wear on this Detroit Red Wings jersey used in the league's 2009 championship series. The Wings fell one game shy of another Cup victory, but the historic significance of a jersey used in a Stanley Cup series should not be understated. This classic shirt features the "2009 Stanley Cup" patch, in addition to the Wings' team logo patch on the front, with "33" on each sleeve and verso. "Draper" has been applied in the Red Wing's "arched style," and completing this piece is its original fight strap and "2008-09 Authentic Game Jersey Playoff Set" provenance swatch affixed to the interior rear tail. Of special note, multiple team repairs are evident on each sleeve, with light stick marks throughout. LOA from Hockeytown Authentics #46145.
Circa 2008 Sidney Crosby Game Worn Helmet.
A quick search around the Internet and you will turn up just what we expected. When looking through past results of five random major auction house realized values, including our own, we found no Sidney Crosby game-worn helmets. There has been a number of Crosby game-worn jerseys sold throughout the hobby, all commanding very high prices, but not one Crosby shell. Offered here is a spectacular Reebok helmet worn during professional game play by Crosby. This piece shows use on the lighter side, but exhibits some noticeable wear nonetheless, with a piece of the interior Styrofoam cushion that has been cracked, presumably from contact. The proper placement of the team logos have been affixed to the top, with "87" and an "NHL" decal on the back of the helmet. An Oakley faceguard and Crosby black Sharpie signature (7/10) completes this hobby rarity. In the near future when we do that same Internet search, there will be one result, and the only question will be who the winning bidder is. Will it be you? LOA from Joe Tomon. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
A quick search around the Internet and you will turn up just what we expected. When looking through past results of five random major auction house realized values, including our own, we found no Sidney Crosby game-worn helmets. There has been a number of Crosby game-worn jerseys sold throughout the hobby, all commanding very high prices, but not one Crosby shell. Offered here is a spectacular Reebok helmet worn during professional game play by Crosby. This piece shows use on the lighter side, but exhibits some noticeable wear nonetheless, with a piece of the interior Styrofoam cushion that has been cracked, presumably from contact. The proper placement of the team logos have been affixed to the top, with "87" and an "NHL" decal on the back of the helmet. An Oakley faceguard and Crosby black Sharpie signature (7/10) completes this hobby rarity. In the near future when we do that same Internet search, there will be one result, and the only question will be who the winning bidder is. Will it be you? LOA from Joe Tomon. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
2009 Sergei Gonchar Stanley Cup Playoffs Game Worn Jersey. It almost seems like Sergei Gonchar keeps getting better with age, and if he avoids injury he seems to always produce as a key component to the success of the Pittsburgh Penguins. In fact, after suffering a dislocated shoulder during the first game of the 2008-09 preseason, his entire year looked bleak. But, with 25 games left in the season, Gonchar helped his team secure the fourth seed in the 2009 postseason. However, while wearing the offered jersey, in game four of the Conference Semi-Finals against the Capitals, he suffered a knee injury after receiving a knee-on-knee hit from Alexander Ovechkin. Gonchar ended up returning to the Penguins for the final game of the Stanley Cup Finals, and helped propel his team to a championship victory. This historic shirt features an alternate captain's "A" patch and team logo patch adorn the front of this jersey that exhibits the suitable light use for a post season shirt. "CCM [size] 58" tag is properly stitched to the neckline, with his number "55" affixed to the sleeves and verso. "Gonchar" is applied to the rear nameplate in tri-tone tackle twill. The original fight strap is still present, and Cutting Edge Sports "2008-2009 Playoff Jerseys" provenance patch resides in the hemline. LOA from the Pittsburgh Penguins.
1927-28 Memorial Cup Presentational Pocket Watch from Regina Monarchs with Proclamation. It's often interesting to see what items great players kept from the beginning of their playing careers. Mush March held on to this "Longines" engraved pocket watch his entire lifetime, as it was very important to him due to his Regina Monarchs junior team winning the championship in Canada that special season. This great timepiece reads "Regina Monarchs Dominion Junior Hockey Champions 1927-28 H.C. March Right Wing" in an elegant engraving font. The watch is in overall presentable condition, with moderate scratching on the crystal. In addition, the competition in 1928 for the Memorial Cup was so fierce that when the Monarchs beat the Ottawa Gunners the city of Regina had a huge celebration and gave March and his teammates a proclamation. This breathtaking document measures at 11x16" and is of EX quality. March is a member of the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame in Regina and this pocket watch and proclamation are very important pieces of hockey memorabilia for Canadian Junior team collectors. LOA from Harold March.
1929-30 Chicago Blackhawks Team Signed Mini Hockey Stick. Offered here is another unique piece from the Mush March collection, in the form of a wooden mini hockey stick signed by the 1929-30 Chicago Blackhawks. This 22-inch souvenir is stamped "McNiece & Orchard Ltd. St. Catherine West Montreal, Que." on each side. Signatures that average 8/10 in quality. Bill Campbell, Heritage's hockey expert cannot stress how rare 1920s NHL signed pieces are, and this could very well be the oldest Chicago Blackhawks signed piece left in existence. The very rare Charlie Gardiner autograph is featured on the stick that also includes: Mush March, Earl Miller, Taffy Abel (first American born hockey player), Dick Irvin, Art Somers, Lolo Couture, Bouncer Taylor, Duke Dutkowski, Tommy Cook, Frank Ingram, Johnny Gottselig, Cyclone Wentworth, Ty Arbour, Bobby Burns and Tom Dyer. A rare opportunity for advanced collectors to pick up such a rare signed piece of hockey memorabilia. LOA from Harold Marsh. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1934 Mush March Team Jacket Presented For Winning Stanley Cup. Offered here is Mush March's leather jacket from the glory days of the Chicago Blackhawks. Probably one of the most eye-appealing and historical Blackhawks jackets to ever hit the hobby, it is an extremely significant note that these jackets were presented to each member of the 1934 member of the Stanley Cup-winning Chicago Blackhawks team. This museum-caliber piece is accompanied with an original photo of the boys at the Valparaiso Country Club in Indiana, with Marsh and his teammates sporting this identical jacket style. Still remaining totally intact, this unique treasure has an "Alex Taylor & Company" tag in the collar, missing one button with two that were replaced at some point. A black and white team logo patch is prominently displayed on the left breast, with a Canada and American flag chenille patch stitched on each pocket. In addition, the original "1933-34 World's Championship" patch, which has since been removed from the jacket, is also included. This patch can be seen in the provided photo on the right shoulder of one of the players. LOA from Harold March.
1934 Stanley Cup-Winning Second Overtime Goal Puck Scored by Mush March. Here we present the most historical Chicago Blackhawks goal puck ever auctioned off publicly. The Blackhawks were already in the NHL for eight seasons but to no avail, no Stanley Cup Championships. In 1931, the Hawks were defeated in five games by the Montreal Canadiens. In 1934, the team from the Windy City met the Detroit Red Wings in the Stanley Cup. Enormous crowds attended this series, and at the time a record was set for the 18,000-person game two attendance at Chicago Stadium. The Blackhawks were victorious two of the first three games, and the fourth game actually went thirty minutes of overtime until Mush March scored the game-winning goal against Detroit goal tender Wilf Cude. In an intriguing story, especially among game-used collectors, March, realizing the historical significance of this puck dove into the net and retrieved it, holding on to it for his entire life. The game puck is mounted on a classy wood plaque measuring at 6x8", with a gold plaque reading "Winning Puck Stanley Cup 1934 Mush March". Without question, there will be some historical institutions involved in the bidding on this one, as it is most definitely one of the most significant pieces of hockey history. LOA Harold March.
1935-36/1936-37 Mush March Game Worn Art-Deco Style Sweater. Here we present a very rare style Art Deco jersey that was worn for two years by the Chicago Blackhawks during 1935-36 and 1936-37. Mush March's name still appears on an embroidered swatch affixed to the interior hem of the jersey, and the original "Spalding" tag at the neckline is still intact. This style sweater was made famous from the Winter Classic Game held at Wrigley Field on January 1, 2009. Only three known jerseys of this Art Deco style still exist, with the Paul Thompson jersey in a previous Heritage auction selling for an impressive $25,000. Admittedly, the number, which belongs on verso is missing, however, outlines of the numerals are still very visible. Also, the original team crest patch has been removed from the front of the jersey, but that very patch is included in this lot, and can easily be reapplied to bring this sweater back to its original state. Also, there are some visible holes throughout the jersey, but impressive eye-appeal still remains. In addition, a color photo of the 1936-37 Chicago Blackhawks, with Marsh wearing this exact jersey will be included in this lot. LOA from Harold March.
1937 Mush March Game Worn Jersey Used in Howie Morenz Memorial Game. On November 3, 1937, the NHL organized an All-Star game to benefit the family of the late Howie Morenz, one of the most dominant players to ever strap on the skates, and a player who will forever be remembered for breaking his leg during a game and later passing away from complications of the injury. Taking part in this memorable and historic event, were the All-Stars of the two Montreal teams, the Maroons and Canadiens, who wore dark red sweaters, and the NHL All-Stars who graced the same style as the offered 1937 Mush March game-worn white sweater. According to Heritage Auction Galleries' hockey expert Bill Campbell, very few of the white sweaters have surfaced, with only the Eddie Shore number "4" shirt having been auctioned off several years ago. This unbelievable opportunity to obtain Mr. March's number "14" white sweater, is one of those special lots that will be sure to take the entire hockey collectible world by storm. "Howie Morenz" is arched on a felt plate, and "Memorial Game" is applied on the front in a straight felt plate. His number "14" has been affixed to the back in black felt, with a black felt star on the left sleeve. Wear on the jersey, of course, is minimal, as it was used in only one game, but the provenance is impeccable. Without question, bidding will be strong on this Hall-of-Fame-worthy piece from one of hockey's most significant events. LOA from Harold March.
1945 Mervyn "Red" Dutton Signed Letter to Mush March. Another fantastic artifact from the Mush March collection, is this signed letter on NHL stationery from former league president Mervyn "Red" Dutton appointing March as a referee in the NHL. Stationery signed by Dutton is very rare, as he only served as president from 1943 to 1946 after the sudden death of Frank Calder, and then at his recommendation in 1947 Clarence Campbell took over. Dutton, a member of the NHL Hockey Hall of Fame, did it all, player-referee-general manager-league president. Dutton's signature is scribed in fountain pen of 9/10 quality. Typical fold in the letter exist on this piece that is in overall solid condition. Truly an important figure in NHL history and quite a rare autograph on a letter. LOA from Harold March. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1945 Mush March Game Worn Officials Sweater. After playing 17 years in the NHL, Mush March decided to try his hand at officiating in the league as a linesman for 11 year (1945-55). Offered here is his very first NHL linesman's shirt, from 1945. There are numerous photos of Bill Chadwick wearing this same style of pullover shirt. These sweaters are very rare to the hobby and very few are known to remain. This particular example shows solid use, with a moderate amount of holes exhibited toward the upper-back of the sweater and a few other small holes throughout. While the NHL Crest is missing on the front of the shirt, everything else remains intact and original, including number "15" on the verso and the appropriate "Jantzen [size] 42" tag in the collar. It should not be hard to restore the crest to the shirt, as there are numerous photos available to aid in making a replacement patch. LOA from Harold March.
1945 Mush March Game Worn I.I.H.L. Referees Shirt. After his lengthy tenure as a player, Mush March refereed at quite a few levels, including the NHL and amateur hockey. According to Much's son Hal, this I.I.H.L. referee's jersey was used for a local league in Illinois to officiate for teams consisting of teams from cities such as Elgin and Aurora, Illinois, to name a couple. Amateur hockey in Illinois was just starting to flourish in the mid-1940s era, and years later, stars such as Chris Chelios would come out of this program. This heavy referee pullover shirt features a zipper front, with the "I.I.H.L." patch affixed to the left breast and "Gerry Cosby [size] 46" tag stitched in the neckline. A large black and white tackle twill number "1" has been applied to the back of this heavily-used jersey. There is a noticeable hole in the right wrist area and a couple other very small holes throughout, but overall this piece is in solid condition. LOA from Harold March.
1949 Mush March United States Amateur Hockey Association Referee's Jersey. Probably the nicest looking referee's jersey in the entire March collection, and maybe one of the most historical. In 1937, Tom Lochart, in New York started the United States Amateur Hockey League. The first National Youth Hockey High School Championships started in 1949. This referee's jersey of Mush March was used in these high school tournaments in the Chicago area. Years later, of course, Herb Brooks and the 1980 U.S.A. Olympic squad would win the gold medal and the Miracle on Ice. This sweater is a gorgeous cream color and features a red, white and blue "A.H.A., US" patch, which is affixed on the left breast, in addition to the "Gerry Cosby [size] 44" tag in the collar. Admittedly, there are a small number of holes in the fabric, but the fact that the majority of the wear is on the verso, the displayability of this piece is still considered to be very solid. LOA from Harold March.
1951 Mush March Game Worn NHL Linesman Sweater. Mush Marsh put this vibrant orange linesman sweater to use in 1951, and if you're a serious collector of vintage hockey memorabilia, you will know how tough a shirt of this style can be to obtain. Bill Campbell, Heritage's hockey expert, stated this is the very first orange linesman sweater ever to be auctioned off and collectors should take special notice of this catalog entry. This "pull-over" features a zip-up front, stretch-cuffed wrist and waste lines and a fabulous "NHL" patch on the left breast. March's number "15" is displayed prominently on verso, with very few holes exhibited throughout. While viewing this fabulous piece, it's hard not to conjure up visions of big George Hayes refereeing in this same style of orange shirt against the "Rocket." LOA from Harold March.
1955 Mush March NHL Linesman's Game Worn Shirt with Photo Match. This linesman's shirt from 1955 is the last referee's shirt Mush March ever used during an NHL game. It comes with an original 8x10" photo of March wearing this exact shirt shown in 1955 while chatting with an unidentified man. The original "Sand Knit", "Large" and "Dry Clean Only" tags are stitched in the collar, in addition to the original embedded zipper. We cannot stress how rare vintage referee shirts are to the hockey hobby. Mr. March, in this sweater officiated games in Chicago Stadium and Maple Leaf Gardens. Good, even use is exhibited on this shirt that is accompanied with rock-solid provenance. LOA from Harold March.
1956 Face-Off Game Used Puck from Maple Leaf Gardens Twenty-Fifth Anniversary. Mush March, although not the greatest goal scorer of his time was probably the player who scored the most important goals in Blackhawks history. Thus, when all the important events in Maple Leaf Gardens and Chicago Stadium were held, Mush March was always there. The twenty-fifth anniversary of Maple Leaf Gardens was no exception. Mr. March kept this puck all these years, elegantly displayed on a wooden 6x8" plaque with an engraved "Faced Puck Maple Leaf Gardens 25th Anniversary 1956" gold plaque. Without question, this piece would be a perfect fit to go with the first goal puck of the Maple Leafs, also offered in this Heritage Auctions Signature Sale. LOA from Harold March.
Circa 1930's Mush March Service Team Game Worn Sweater and Later Skates. Mush March's son, Harold told Heritage that his father owned a Standard Oil service station in Chicago, which would explain the this catalog listing. This unique jersey was used to play in a commercial men's hockey league sponsored by Mush's service station. To help stay in shape, March and a lot of his hockey friends would play in the non-contact men's league for enjoyment and exercise. This jersey has a "Great Athletic Western Goods Co." tag stitched in the rear interior tail, with gray felt "'Mush' Service March" affixed to the front and "Mush" in the same fabric on verso. Also included in this collection is a pair of "CCM" Tackaberry skates from the 1960s, used by March. These chocolate brown, size seven-and-a-half leather skates show nice use, and also come straight from the Mush March collection. LOA from Harold March.
1979 Wayne Gretzky's First NHL Game Used Puck. By the time he was 18 years of age, Wayne Gretzky had already played in a World Junior tournament, and in the WHA Finals for Edmonton against the Winnipeg Jets during the Spring of 1979, so all that was left was for "The Great One," which he would later be called, to accomplish was to conquer the NHL. In 1979, Mush March was already a Blackhawks legend, and the only man to play on two Chicago Stanley Cup teams, and when on October 10, 1979, the exciting Edmonton Oilers opened up the 1979-80 season at Chicago Stadium, Mush Marsh was asked to drop the puck in the opening faceoff of the game. The rest, of course, is history. The Oilers would win four Stanley Cups in the 1980's and Gretzky would become one of the most prolific pure scorers the NHL has ever seen. This game used puck from Gretzky's first game in the NHL is perhaps the most historic piece of memorabilia to ever show up for Gretzky collectors, especially due to the fact that we are able to pinpoint the exact instance this puck was used. Puck is masterfully showcased on a wooden 6x8" plaque with "Puck Faced Off Opening Game Chicago Stadium October 1979" engraved on its gold plate. Please consider this piece for one of the finest of hockey collections in North America. LOA Harold March.
1990's Mush March Game Worn Old Timers Jerseys Lot of 4. Mush March was the only Chicago Blackhawk to ever play on two Stanley Cup winners with the Blackhawks in 1933-34 and 1937-38. Thus, he always remained a hero to the Blackhawks and their adoring public. Offered here is a collection of four jerseys given to Mush March in the 1990s: a Heroes of Hockey shirt from the 1991 All-Star Game in Chicago, a Blackhawks Alumni jersey used in Old-Timers events , a Blackhawks jersey with his No. 5 and NOB, perhaps used in the closing of Maple Leafs Gardens, and a Blackhawks vintage-style jersey with the "75th Anniversary" patch attached. A good number of the historic original six arenas closed down in the 1990s, including the historic Maple Leaf Gardens and Chicago Stadium. March was in Toronto with Red Horner as the only two living members to have played in the first hockey game at Maple Leaf Gardens. An interesting array of jerseys used when Mush March attended these events. LOA from Harold March.
Basketball Collectibles
1920's-80's Boston Garden Relics Lot Including Seats, Signed Floor Sections. Add this lot to your trophy room and it will be as if the venerable old arena is still standing. Sizeable offering includes a pair of early Garden arena seats in original orange, autographed by Larry Bird and Bill Russell, two men who made history in the building. Each autograph is 10/10 black sharpie. A large (16x40") slab of the basketball court is likewise included. Finally, seven individual shadow boxes (each 12x15x2") feature a 4x8" slab of parquet floor, autographed in 10/10 black sharpie by the following: Auerbach, Bird, Cousy, Cowen, Havlicek, Heinsohn and Russell. Each derives from a limited edition of 100. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Due to the size of this lot, shipping costs will be substantial.
1930's-40's Early Basketball Greats Signed Photographs Lot of 19. While these folks probably wouldn't fare too well against Shaq and LeBron, they were kings of the court back in the day. An interesting assortment of early signed photos is highlighted by a snapshot of George Mikan and his brother, which the Hall of Fame center has inscribed on front and then used to write a brief signed note on verso. Other signers who might ring a bell to basketball historians: Bob Davies, Hank Luisetti, Fuzzy Levane (two, including a hilarious locker room shower shot), Howard Dallman, Harry Boykoff (2), Ralph Beard (of "Rupps' Fabulous Five"), Hank Gehrhardt. Image size is fairly evenly divided between 8x10" and larger snapshots, but signature quality is 8/10 and better across the board. A few photos exhibit some creasing, but nothing particularly bothersome. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1961 NBA All-Star Game Multi-Signed Program Insert. Consigned directly by the fan who was fortunate enough to attend the January 17, 1961 contest at Syracuse War Memorial Arena is this 8x10" display autographed by nineteen of the twenty-two players pictured: Arizin, Chamberlain, Cousy, Gola, Greer, Guerin, Naulls, Russell, Schayes, Dukes, Embry, Hagen, Howell, Hundley, Lovellette, Pettit, Robertson, Shue, West. All signatures are 9/10 or better, and some childhood coloring and writing at the lower edge does little to distract. Also here is the original program for the game (VG-EX), a program for the All-Star Luncheon (VG-EX) and a 1960-61 Syracuse Nationals Factbook (EX). Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Notarized letter from consignor.
1971 John Wooden NCAA Championship Presentational Wristwatch. Recently named the greatest sports coach of all time by The Sporting News, the ninety-eight year old Wooden beat out such legends as Vince Lombardi, Bear Bryant and Don Shula to take top honors. It's tough to argue against this mastermind of the hardcourt, who claimed ten NCAA Basketball Championships over a twelve-year period while leading the likes of Lew Alcindor and Bill Walton at UCLA. Presented here is a relic from the seventh of those titles, a wristwatch which Wooden sent to a buddy with the following engraving on verso: "To Rod Turner, Princeton, My Golf Partner and Close Friend, Coach John R. Wooden, U.C.L.A., June 1971." The Bulova brand watch is emblazoned with "NCAA Basketball Championship 1971" on the face, and keeps perfect time almost forty years after its creation. NRMT condition.
1976 Pete Maravich 10,000th NBA Career Point Game Used Basketball. Originally sourced directly from the Maravich family, this historic pill was swallowed by an NBA hoop during a New Orleans Jazz game on February 26, 1976 to record Pistol Pete's 10,000th career point as a pro. The Official NBA basketball has been attractively decorated to commemorate Maravich's entry into the Five Figure Club, and the ball remains perfectly spherical and only a little light on air. It is worthy of note that this exact ball is pictured on the page dedicated to Maravich (pg. 81) of the book, The NBA at Fifty (a copy of which is included in this lot). Certainly the most appealing Pistol Pete artifact to surface since our April auction, this milestone sphere will serve as the focal point for all but the most spectacular of private baskeball collections.
1977 Pete Maravich Sixty-Eighth Point Game Used Basketball. Perhaps the most famous game of Pistol Pete's professional career came on February 25, 1977 as his New Orleans Jazz faced off against the New York Knicks at the Superdome under the bright television lights of New York City's WOR. With his floppy socks a-flapping, Maravich dazzled with an endless array of jumpers, lay-ups, hooks and bank shots, completely bedeviling the Knicks, including the great Walt Frazier, widely considered one of the best defenders in the game.
Having played before the advent of the three-point line, Maravich was surely robbed of several points he would have enjoyed with that added component, and it's even been said that his sixth foul, an offensive charge on a completed basket with a minute in regulation which ended his night, was a questionable call and the massacre really should have continued.
Presented here is the game ball from that masterful display in the Crescent City, acquired several years ago from Pete's widow Jackie. The "Wilson Official NBA" ball remains perfectly spherical and perfect for display, with the vintage decoration of a single panel announcing "Pete Maravich, 68 Points, Feb. 25, 1977." It's certainly one of the most significant Maravich artifacts to reach the hobby, worthy of the Basketball Hall of Fame and the finest of private collections. LOA from Russek & Imperato.
Having played before the advent of the three-point line, Maravich was surely robbed of several points he would have enjoyed with that added component, and it's even been said that his sixth foul, an offensive charge on a completed basket with a minute in regulation which ended his night, was a questionable call and the massacre really should have continued.
Presented here is the game ball from that masterful display in the Crescent City, acquired several years ago from Pete's widow Jackie. The "Wilson Official NBA" ball remains perfectly spherical and perfect for display, with the vintage decoration of a single panel announcing "Pete Maravich, 68 Points, Feb. 25, 1977." It's certainly one of the most significant Maravich artifacts to reach the hobby, worthy of the Basketball Hall of Fame and the finest of private collections. LOA from Russek & Imperato.
1978-80 Nate "Tiny" Archibald Game Worn Warm-Up Jacket. Stylish short-sleeved jacket was issued to the superstar point guard shortly after his trade from the New York Nets to the Boston Celtics, with whom he would win the first and only NBA Championship of his career during the 1980-81 season. The jacket is classically styled in Celtics' tradition. Made of white cheesecloth, this style and material was first used by the Celtics' at the end of the fleece era in 1968. The style was utilized all through the 1970's and 1980's. It has a six snap button front with white painted metal snaps. The collar and sleeve cuffs each have dual kelly green stripes and three white stripes in stretch ribbed knit format. "Celtics" is spelled across the chest in green and yellow tackle twill, with shamrocks of the same formation on each sleeve. Verso features screened "Archibald" nameplate affixed with six velcro tabs, as was typical of the time. "Medalist Sand-Knit Size 42" label appears at interior collar, above number "7" swatch to match Archibald's jersey number. Solid season-long wear is evident. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1987 Hall of Famers Signed Cachet with Maravich. Just seven months before his tragic, fatal heart attack during a pick-up game in the gym at the First Church of the Nazarene in Pasadena, California, Pistol Pete was honored as one of the youngest inductees into the Basketball Hall of Fame. He signed this first day cover at the Springfield landmark along with the four other basketball luminaries likewise honored that day: Rick Barry, Bobby Wanzer, Walt Frazier and Bob Houbregs. Note the full "Pistol Pete" Maravich signature variation, the most desirable of all, and the standard Bible passage seen with all of the Pistol's later autographs. All signatures rate a flawless 10/10, and the FDC is likewise pristine. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1987 Hall of Famers Signed Basketball with Maravich. A sudden, tragic death at age forty while playing the game he loved has done more than rob the basketball world of one of its more beloved veterans--it has also left a woefully insufficient supply of his autographs for the tremendous demand. Here we present one of the finest you'll ever encounter, a full and rare "Pistol Pete" Maravich signature rendered in 10/10 black sharpie on a basketball signed at his Hall of Fame induction in 1987. He adds his standard Bible verse below his autograph. Not to be overlooked are his fellow inductees, including Walt "Clyde" Frazier, Rick Barry, Robert Wanzer and Bob Houbregs, each of whom rates 9/10 or better. The Official NBA ball is likewise flawless. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication. Auction LOA from PSA/DNA.
1988 Los Angeles Lakers NBA Championship Ring. We aren't quite clear on why a salesman's sample ring would be made with the name of a non-player, but our assumption is that the person lost his genuine ring and had a replacement made, at which point the folks at Josten's decided to run off a sample with the available mold. In any case, it's a gold-plated beauty, with a faux diamond-studded face and a larger stone in Lakers purple, and "World Champion Lakers 1988" ringing the perimeter in raised lettering. Left shank features an enamel NBA logo and the words "Back to Back, 1987, 1988." Right shank provides a Lakers team logo at center of text reading "Miller" and "Lakers 4, Pistons 3." Interior band is stamped by Josten's. Size 11.5.
Michael Jordan Signed Peter Max Lithograph. Limited edition (383/423) lithograph proves that Leroy Neiman isn't the only skilled impressionist to take a crack at the sporting world. Acclaimed artist Peter Max captures Air Jordan's defining moment as he delivers the jump shot that elevated his Chicago Bulls to World Championship status for the sixth time. Adding to the tremendous visual appeal are flawless black sharpie signatures from artist and subject alike, with the latter's authenticity further assured by a holographic authenticating sticker from Jordan's preferred marketing firm, Upper Deck. Dimensions are 26x33", and condition is Mint. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Michael Jordan Signed Peter Max Lithograph with Remarque. The acclaimed pop artist Max, whose bright, vibrant style has garnered him international fame and appearances in permanent collections of many of the world's most prominent museums, takes on the subject of the world's most prominent basketball player. In his inimitable style, Max captures MJ making the jump shot that earned his Chicago Bulls their sixth and final NBA Championship with Jordan at the helm. This very limited edition (90/123) litho on heavy paper stock, entitled "Farewell Shot," is signed in perfect black sharpie by both Jordan and the artist himself, who adds a hand-drawn sketch (remarque) of Jordan in black marker, a little bit of Peter Max original art! Measures 26x33" in dimension. Mint. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 2000 Kobe Bryant Signed Photographs Lot of 25. Now that he's proven he can win the Championship without Shaq, and that he remains in the argument for the title of The Best Player in Basketball Today, we can start to show a little love to Kobe once again. Here we present twenty-five identical 8x10" photos of Bryant taking it to the hoop against Golden State, each autographed in Mint black sharpie in his earlier and considerably more detailed style. Perfect for building your own (somewhat creepy) shrine to this future Hall of Famer, or for selling on eBay, as each has its own PSA cert. COA's (25) from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA (one for entire collection) from James Spence Authentication.
Circa 2008 Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett & Ray Allen Signed Large UDA Photograph. Limited edition (35/200) photo provides the answer to the question, "Why did the Celtics win it all in 2007-08?" The oversized (16x20") photo is signed by this unstoppable trio in 10/10 silver sharpie, the autographs witnessed by Upper Deck personnel for unquestioned authenticity. Photo is framed to 21x25" dimensions. COA from UDA. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1985 Clyde Drexler Game Worn Sneakers. Shortly after his graduation from the University of Houston where Drexler joined Michael Young, Hakeem Olajuwon and Larry Micheaux in the "Phil Slama Jama" fraternity named for its acrobatic, above-the-rim theatrics, he found himself in Portland as a member of the Trailblazers. There he made use of the presented "Kangaroos" sneakers, apparently in February of 1985 if we are to read the "2-85" notation on each sole as a clue. The pair of high-topped sneakers exhibit heavy wear, with each signed on the heel by The Glide himself in 10/10 black sharpie. No apparent size markings. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1997-98 Shaquille O'Neal Game Worn Sneakers. No matter how many times you see a pair of his size twenty-twos, you can't help but be amazed. Absolutely gargantuan high-tops exhibit phenomenal wear from the future Hall of Fame center, suggesting close to a full season's wear during Shaq's second year in Los Angeles, one in which he averaged an impressive 28.3 points per game. The "Reebok" brand sneakers, in Lakers purple and white, are accompanied by a team letter from the head of the franchise's public relations department. Each shoe is signed in 9+/10 black sharpie by O'Neal. Team letter. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1967-68 Clem Haskins Game Worn Rookie Jersey. Home knit Chicago Bulls pullover was owned and operated by the team's first round draft pick for the 1967-68 season, a young standout guard who had been one of the first two players to integrate the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers basketball program four years earlier. Best remembered today as a coach for the University of Minnesota and assistant coach for the 1996 Olympics "Dream Team," Haskins began his professional career with this rare garment, announcing "Bulls 11" in red and black tackle twill on the chest, with the numeral repeated on verso. Lower rear interior tail features "Rawlings [size] 44" and washing instructions labels. Solid wear is evident, directing the authenticators at MEARS to apply an impressive grade of A9. LOA from MEARS. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Circa 1974-75 Pat Riley Game Worn Uniform. The three-time NBA Coach of the Year is known today as "Coach Slick" and "Mr. GQ" for his natty sideline attire, but check his 1974 Topps card and you'll see he looked more like a roadie for the Grateful Dead back in his playing days. The yellow jersey and matching shorts presented here exhibit marvelous vintage wear, with classic "Lakers 12" formed in three-dimensional tackle twill on the chest, and "Riley 12" announced from verso. There is no tagging within the jersey, but this is not at all uncommon for the "Tiernan" manufactured gamers (perhaps 30% of known Lakers jerseys from the era are untagged) and should not be considered a negative. The matching shorts are likewise untagged but for a number "34" swatch sewn just below the rear waistband, a number which would correspond with the jersey number of Stan Love. Whether Riley wore the shorts or not, the aesthetics of the matched pair displayed together is first rate, and though his Hall of Fame induction is based upon his work on the other side of the painted lines, any uniform from a Springfield enshrinee is cause for celebration. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Circa 1984-85 Earvin "Magic" Johnson Game Worn Jersey. One of the most dynamic players of his age, the Hall of Fame point guard they called "Magic" justified his role as the first overall pick in the 1979 NBA draft with three NBA MVP Awards, nine appearances in the NBA Finals and twelve All-Star Games. Here we find a home yellow mesh jersey from the center of his illustrious career, exhibiting light but definite wear. Classic team styling features "Lakers" slanted in purple and white across the upper chest and a three-dimensional number "32" below, with those digits repeated on verso and autographed in 9/10 silver sharpie. "Johnson" arches across the shoulders. "Tiernan" label appears at center of the front hem. An instantly recognizable basketball classic, sure to be the focal point of even the finest of private basketball jersey collections. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1994-95 Shaquille O'Neal Game Worn Jersey. Shaq's second of five seasons leading the NBA in field goals, and his first leading the league in points per game. The presented road blue jersey dates to a period of total dominance for the Orlando Magic superstar, whose number "32" is applied to chest and back in silver and black tackle twill. "Orlando" is screened to the chest, and "O'Neal" is spelled across rear nameplate. Dual "Champion" labels in tail announce "1994-1995 Magic Exclusivity" with "Body Length +3" modifier, and size "54." Light but definite use evident. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1994-95 Jason Kidd Game Worn Rookie Jersey. Later Kidd jerseys from the Suns and Nets are considered quite plentiful, but this is certainly not the case for his early career Mavs jerseys, and it doesn't get any earlier than this. Road blue mesh gamer dates to the Cal Golden Bears star's first season in the NBA, one in which he shared Rookie of the Year honors with Grant Hill after having been chosen second overall in the 1995 Draft. "Dallas 5" is applied to the chest in white and green tackle twill, with "Kidd 5" appearing on verso. Tail tagging: "Designed & Tailored Exclusively for Dallas Mavericks 94-95, Body Length +3" and "Champion [size] 46." Wear is light but definite. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1995-96 Patrick Ewing Game Worn Jersey. You'll never see the double-threes on the home court at Madison Square Garden again, as the Knicks properly honored their first overall pick in the 1985 draft with the digits' retirement in 2003. Here we find a road blue mesh gamer sported on the road during a season that saw Ewing take the court for his tenth of eleven career All-Star Game appearances and make it all the way to the NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals before meeting the unstoppable force of Michael Jordan and the eventual Champion Chicago Bulls. "New York 33" is applied to the chest in orange and white tackle twill, while "Ewing 33" commands the verso. Dual tail tagging announces 1995-96 New York Knicks Exclusivity and a considerable "Body Length +6" tailoring notation, with a "Champion [size] 48" label to the right. Wear is light but evident. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1996-97 Charles Barkley Game Worn Jersey. "The Round Mound of Rebound" is one of just four players in NBA history to record 20,000 points, 10,000 boards and 4,000 assists in his career, stats which assured his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006. Here we present a home white mesh gamer from his first season in Houston. It exhibits light but definite wear, with "Rockets" and the number "4" applied to the chest in glittering tackle twill, and "Barkley 4" appearing on verso. Golden NBA logo at upper left chest denotes the League's fiftieth anniversary. Dual tail tagging announces 1996-97 Houston Rockets Exclusivity and a "Body Length +3" tailoring notation, with a "Champion [size] 50" label to the right. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Football Collectibles
1930's Curly Lambeau Signed Cut Signature. The man whose surname is most commonly found in sentences including the words "frozen tundra" and "Field" supplies one anxious Packers fan with the fix he's been craving. While hugely important in the development of professional football, Lambeau supplied painfully few autographs to the collecting community prior to his passing in 1965, so one can expect bidding for this specimen to be fierce. The blue ink has migrated ever so slightly upon the album page presented here, forming a mild haze around the Hall of Fame autograph. The 3x4" cut signature is nicely matted and framed beneath Lambeau's Goal Line Art card to final dimensions of 8x14". Full LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Early 1930's Early Prototype Design for Heisman Trophy by Frank Eliscu. Charming little statue marks an earlier stage in the evolution of the most recognizable sculpture in the sporting world, the illustrious Heisman Trophy. Our consignor acquired this piece directly from the Roman Bronze Works, the producer of the first Heisman, during the company's liquidation. The ten-inch tall statue is crafted from some form of glazed ceramic which provides a look not unlike oxidized bronze. There are no maker's marks to be found, but a signed letter from Philip Schiavo, former owner of the Roman Bronze Works, attests to the trophy's history. Fine condition, with no chips or repairs. LOA from former owner of Roman Bronze Works.
1957 Jim Brown Rookie of the Year Trophy. Widely considered the greatest running back in the history of the National Football League, former Syracuse Orangemen standout Jimmy Brown was the sixth overall draft pick for the 1957, leaving five teams to curse themselves for the foolishness of allowing the Browns to secure his services. Here we present what is arguably the most significant post-war football award to reach the auction block in recent memory, the trophy presented to Brown as the unanimous choice for 1957 Rookie of the Year. With 942 rushing yards, Brown led all NFL running backs in 1957, the first of eight years he would take that checkered flag during his nine-season career. Nine rushing touchdowns was likewise a League-topping figure for that freshman campaign.
The striking silver-plated treasure Heritage is pleased to present here is a fitting tribute to that remarkable first season. It features a life-size football presented upon a round wooden base affixed with a plaque reading, "1957 Marlboro Award, Jimmy Brown, Rookie of the Year, National Football League, as Selected by The Sporting News." Measuring fifteen inches in height, the trophy offers only the requisite tarnishing to suggest a half-century of life, as no other flaws worthy of mention are to be found.
Lest there be any confusion, let us stress that this is the one and only Rookie of the Year trophy, the official version sanctioned by the National Football League. While any such award would carry tremendous collecting appeal, this example from the man chosen by The Sporting News in 1999 as the greatest football player of all time must be considered the pick of that illustrious litter. Equal in prestige to the majority of artifacts housed today in the Football Hall of Fame, this trophy is destined to serve as the cornerstone of one elite private collection.
The striking silver-plated treasure Heritage is pleased to present here is a fitting tribute to that remarkable first season. It features a life-size football presented upon a round wooden base affixed with a plaque reading, "1957 Marlboro Award, Jimmy Brown, Rookie of the Year, National Football League, as Selected by The Sporting News." Measuring fifteen inches in height, the trophy offers only the requisite tarnishing to suggest a half-century of life, as no other flaws worthy of mention are to be found.
Lest there be any confusion, let us stress that this is the one and only Rookie of the Year trophy, the official version sanctioned by the National Football League. While any such award would carry tremendous collecting appeal, this example from the man chosen by The Sporting News in 1999 as the greatest football player of all time must be considered the pick of that illustrious litter. Equal in prestige to the majority of artifacts housed today in the Football Hall of Fame, this trophy is destined to serve as the cornerstone of one elite private collection.
1957 Jim "Red" Phillips Auburn Letterman's Blanket from National Championship Season. A cornerstone display piece for any serious collectors of the Auburn Tigers is this letterman's blanket that was originally obtained from Jim "Red" Phillips. Phillips, who was named to 11 All-American teams his senior year, in addition to gracing the title of "co-captain" on Auburn's 1957 National Championship team. Blanket measures at approximately 5x5.5' and exhibits a few very minor holes throughout. A beautiful burnt orange letterman's "A" is front and center on this piece, with a chain-link-stitched "James Phillips" nameplate on the bottom-left corner. In addition, its original "Sand Knit tag is stitched on the back." Elegant blanket from the three-time NFL Pro Bowler.
1958 Jim "Red" Phillips College All-Star Game Blanket. Jim "Red" Phillips and his College All-Stars defeated the Detroit Lions by a score of thirty-five to nineteen during the annual game, which took place at Chicago's Soldier Field. The former wide receiver standout at Auburn University and later with the Rams and Vikings in the pros, Phillips was given this blanket for participation in the 1958 All-Star game. This piece measures at 5x5.5' and exhibits solid condition, with a scattering of numerous minor holes, and one larger hole about the size of a half dollar. A magnificent 1958 All-Stars red, white and blue crest patch is stitched in the center of this eye-appealing artifact from the College All-Star Game.
1969 University of Texas Longhorns Team Signed Football. We need to keep this one under armed guard here at our Dallas offices, since the place is crawling with UT alumni who look at this football the way art collectors look at the Mona Lisa. Forty-six bold black ink signatures appear on the four decade-old pigskin, recalling the team which conquered the Fighting Irish at the Cotton Bowl to claim the NCAA Championship. Top stars James Street, Steve Worster (whose 1969 game worn jersey appears in this auction) and coach Darrell Royal are counted among them. One of the finer examples we've seen of this scarce team ball. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1971 Dallas Cowboys Super Bowl Championship Ring. Ten karat white gold Balfour salesman's sample is the model upon which the ring presented to Hall of Fame quarterback Roger Staubach was crafted. The design begins with a Lone Star at the center of the face, bejeweled with faux diamonds and encircled by raised lettering which reads, "Dallas Cowboys World Champions." Left shank provides miniature Lombardi Trophy and NFL logo imagery with the words "1971 Super Bowl VI." Right shank reads "Staubach 12" with a miniature Cowboys helmet at center. Size eleven. A tough relic from the first ever Dallas Cowboys Super Bowl victory.
1981 San Francisco 49'ers Super Bowl XVI Championship Ring. For the first time in Super Bowl history the game was played in a cold-weather city, with the Pontiac Silverdome keeping the cold and snow of Detroit away from the competition. Red hot was San Francisco 49'ers quarterback Joe Montana, who completed fourteen of twenty-two passes for 157 yards and a touchdown, rushing for another, to earn the game's MVP award. Presented is a salesman's sample ring virtually identical to the one which the Hall of Fame quarterback secured with his first of three Super Bowl victories. Faux diamonds stud a football shape on the ring face, with the words "San Francisco World Champions 1981" decorating the perimeter. Golden Gate Bridge and football imagery decorates the left shank with text, "Super Bowl XVI 26-21." On the right shank, "Montana" and "49ers" frame a miniature helmet. Ten karat gold. "LGB 10k" stamped inside band. Size twelve.
Circa 1992 Troy Aikman Game Worn Uniform. Challenging even the immortal Roger Staubach for the title of Most Beloved Cowboys Quarterback, Aikman earned a spot in that contest through the acquisition of three NFL Championships in a four-season span to establish the 1990's Dallas Cowboys among the greatest football dynasties of all time. Their Hall of Fame quarterback wore this jersey and pants around the time of the 'boys first Championship season, instilling each with solid wear. The white mesh jersey suffers scattered bruises and sweat staining at the armpits to bear witness to combat, with number "8" screened on chest, back and shoulders, and "Aikman" screened in three-inch block across rear nameplate. "Russell Athletic [size] 48" label in tail sprouts "100% Nylon" and "4" Extra Body Length" flap tags. Aikman's pants show wear consistent with the jersey's, and his number "8" appears in marker at interior waistband. "Russell Athletic [size] 38" label at interior crotch guard, with "92% Nylon 8% Spandex" flap tag affixed. Pads in pants are game issued, not game worn. Likewise seeing no game action are Aikman's custom "Apex" high top cleats, featuring number "8" in navy blue on each heel. Size 12.5. A pair of unused Cowboys socks complete the ensemble. Consigned to Heritage by a former Cowboys ball boy, with his letter of provenance. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1980's-90's Dallas Cowboys Hall of Famers & Legends Signed Helmet. Over thirty-five flawless blue sharpie signatures from some of the most notable stars in gridiron plaster the shell of this ProLine Dallas Cowboys helmet. Among the legendary names: Aikman, Landry, Schramm, Renfro, Adderley, Lee Roy Jordan, Howley, Walls, Too Tall Jones, Lilly, Dorsett, Perkins, Pearson, Wright, Morton, Herb Scott and more. Not a flaw to be found, and plenty of room to add more! Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1993 Dallas Cowboys Super Bowl XXVIII Championship Ring. The second of three Super Bowl Championships in a four-year period. Dazzling ring was awarded to a staff member working in the service of one of professional football's greatest dynasties, an unstoppable machine featuring Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith and Michael Irvin. The ring announces "Dallas Cowboys" on the face, along the perimeter of a faux diamond-studded football at center. Left shank pictures the logo of Super Bowl XXVIII, a pair of Lombardi Trophies, and the words, "World Champions, Back to Back." Right shank features a miniature Cowboys Stadium, the NFL logo, and the identity of the former owner: "Thornton, Staff." The gold-plated ring measures to a size nine.
1995 Super Bowl XXX Lombardi Trophy Salesman's Sample. A rematch of the classic Bradshaw vs. Staubach Super Bowls of the 1970's, this twenty-seven to seventeen victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers at Tempe, Arizona's Sun Devil Stadium firmly established the 1990's Cowboys as one of the NFL's greatest dynasties with their third title in four years. With three Super Bowl Championships under the leadership of Jerry Jones and Troy Aikman, the 1990's Dallas Cowboys staked their claim to a position within the annals of gridiron history as one of the greatest NFL dynasties. Presented is a replica Lombardi Trophy exact in every detail to those taken home by the victorious team members. It measures sixteen inches tall and weighs in at just over nine pounds.
1953-54 Earl "Jug" Girard Game Worn Helmet. One of the earliest known N.F.L. game worn helmets to be offered at public auction. This representation is vintage Lions, with its 1950's simplicity and its umpteen coats of silver paint. The "MacGregor" made helmet has a combination leather/canvas eight-point suspension, with a leather crown donut on which the model number "6440, [size] 7 1/8" is imprinted. The side and back padding is all leather and silver overspray is in abundance. Over the right ear hole is an oversized "R23" in bold silver paint, identifying Girard's jersey number. The finishing touch to this 1950's gem is the presence of two "MacGregor" cream single bar facemasks bolted together to form a two-bar without vertical stems, the forerunner to Riddell's BD-9 gray two-bar. Girard was a two-way halfback punter from Wisconsin who played ten years in the N.F.L., predominantly with the Lions but also in Green Bay and Pittsburgh. Obtained directly from a former Lions employee. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1970's Tom Landry Game Used Clipboard with Handwritten Plays, Coaching Whistle. Consigned to the auction directly by a former Dallas Cowboys ball boy and locker room attendant, and complete with his letter of provenance, comes this intriguing assortment of mementos straight from the brilliant football brain below the trademark fedora. Included is a clipboard from a Dallas office supply manufacturer (note "Dallas" imprinted into metal below dymo tape "Landry") and three pages of handwritten plays with the Cowboys pencil that wrote them. His coaching whistle with lanyard is here as well. Finally, an attractive 9.5x12" print of a Landry portrait, perfect to frame with the contents of the lot. LOA from former Dallas Cowboys ball boy is included.
1977 Super Bowl XI Game Used Football. On January 9, 1977, the Oakland Raiders won their first Super Bowl, crushing the Minnesota Vikings 32-14 at the Rose Bowl. It was a period of triumph for Al Davis' club. "Just Win, Baby" was the battle cry as the Raiders' dominance would produce two more Super Bowl Championships and six AFC Championship appearances over a ten year span.
On the sidelines as he was for virtually every game the Raiders' played from 1960-1994, was head trainer, George Anderson. Anderson saved a game-used ball from all major Raiders' victories during his tenure with the club, and this one stands head and shoulders above all as a testament to the first Super Bowl win. The ball has the NFL Pete Rozelle stamping, has the score painted on the side panel with the inscription "World Champions", his initials "GA", and Anderson also affixed the official Super Bowl patch given to all Raiders players and field staff. The ball shows ample game wear and comes with photos of the Anderson Raiders' collection when it was purchased back in the late 1990's.
Early Super Bowl game used balls are extremely rare, in the hands of only players who scored significant TD's and escorted the ball to the sidelines, or team officials who worked on the sidelines. Ask any Raider like Ken Stabler, Art Shell, Jim Otto, Ken Hendricks, Freddy B., etc., who was the most valuable Raider over time?, and that answer invariably is the man who got them physically able to play through injuries, and who creatively rigged up umpteen enabling "makeshift bandages and casts," trainer George Anderson.
On the sidelines as he was for virtually every game the Raiders' played from 1960-1994, was head trainer, George Anderson. Anderson saved a game-used ball from all major Raiders' victories during his tenure with the club, and this one stands head and shoulders above all as a testament to the first Super Bowl win. The ball has the NFL Pete Rozelle stamping, has the score painted on the side panel with the inscription "World Champions", his initials "GA", and Anderson also affixed the official Super Bowl patch given to all Raiders players and field staff. The ball shows ample game wear and comes with photos of the Anderson Raiders' collection when it was purchased back in the late 1990's.
Early Super Bowl game used balls are extremely rare, in the hands of only players who scored significant TD's and escorted the ball to the sidelines, or team officials who worked on the sidelines. Ask any Raider like Ken Stabler, Art Shell, Jim Otto, Ken Hendricks, Freddy B., etc., who was the most valuable Raider over time?, and that answer invariably is the man who got them physically able to play through injuries, and who creatively rigged up umpteen enabling "makeshift bandages and casts," trainer George Anderson.
1978 Curley Culp Pro Bowl Game Worn Helmet. "Curly Culp was a tremendous athlete," Hall of Fame quarterback Len Dawson once said. "He had such strength and quickness. I remember [fellow Chiefs teammate] Jack Rudnay used to say that every center in the league should have to go against Curly in order to know what it's like to go against the very best." The star nose tackle participated in six Pro Bowls during his fourteen-year career, and here we present his game worn helmet from the 1978 edition. It's the helmet he wore all year as a member of the Houston Oilers, painted red for the game and affixed with decals denoting his AFC affiliation. Shell is by "Bike," with original green dot full cage mask and interior padding present, and Culp's number "76 decals are applied to sides of center striping on verso. Helmet was sourced directly from Culp's personal collection, and photo of Culp with his collection, including this helmet, will be furnished to the winning bidder. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1980's Tom Landry Game Worn Fedora with Photo Match. Perhaps only Alabama coach Bear Bryant was as famous for his sideline headwear as Hall of Fame Dallas Cowboys coach Tom Landry, who sported this grey fedora during the days of Roger Staubach and Ed "Too Tall" Jones. The size "7 3/8" felt beauty bears the maker's mark of "Churchill Ltd." in the crown, with a golden "Made Especially for Tom Landry" embossed in the headband above the left ear. Just to the right, the iconic coach has signed "Best Wishes, Tom Landry" in 6/10 silver marker. Further establishing provenance beyond any shadow of a doubt is a color photo of Landry on the sidelines in Irving, looking appropriately regal with this hat perched on his head. Condition is flawless. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
Circa 2003 Ray Lewis Game Worn Helmet. A ten-time Pro Bowl selection, and two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Lewis is among the safest bets for future Canton induction of any active player in the League today. It's a fact that should appeal to the investor mentality of any serious collector, who can be all but assured that this Baltimore Ravens helmet will increase in value at that time. The half bull ring mask is classic Lewis, and the bolted high hook-up of the chin strap is also apparent in any game film featuring this terrifying linebacker. Mask is affixed with "2003" dated clips. Both the outside shell, which bears several nice impact scuffs, and the interior Riddell VSR-4 padding, exhibit acceptable wear. Properly fonted number "52" straddles the center line on the back of the helmet, above the custom "Ravens" stopper. A solid representation for the discerning hobbyist. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1938 Dick Schweidler Game Worn Chicago Bears Uniform. Direct from the former halfback with his signed letter of provenance comes this tremendously rare pre-war NFL uniform, worn during Schweidler's rookie season on the field with the likes of coach George Halas and quarterback Bernie Masterson. The long-sleeved white durene jersey features the black and orange sleeve striping that instantly identifies it as a Windy City model, with number "31" applied to front and back in black tackle twill. Ancient "Sand-Knit" label in tail notes local Chicago manufacturing and size "42." Elbows are padded and jersey exhibits what appears to be strong wear with apparent field paint, blood and some unrepaired holes in the shoulder area and rear numerals. It is possible that some of this wear is from decades of storage. The matching pants retain their knee padding and exhibit fine wear but no damage. Tagging at the interior crotch announces "May & Halas Sports Equipment Chicago," and "King Sportswear Company" with "31-Regular-32" size labels. Together the uniform pieces make for a spectacular display that would be a proud addition to one's trophy room. Letter of provenance from Dick Schweidler. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Early 1940's Alex Agase College All-Stars Game Worn Uniform. Paris and Milan have nothing on this uniform when it comes to high fashion. One of the most attractive football uniforms to come down the pike in recent memory was worn by University of Illinois and Purdue standout Agase, who would spend six seasons after the war on the professional gridiron with the Chicago Rockets, Los Angeles Dons, Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Colts. Working from top to bottom, we begin with a silver, blue and red painted leather helmet by "Wilson," complete down to the original chinstrap. Signed in 10/10 black sharpie. The heavy durene blue jersey features white satin number "44" numerals on front and chest and a constellation of red felt stars on each grey shoulder and striped side paneling. Tagging at interior crotchpiece is from "May & Halas" of Chicago, with size "46" flap tag affixed. Nice game wear with no problematic damage. Signed on front and verso in 10/10 black sharpie. Finally, the pants continue the striped side paneling theme, with laced fly. "May & Halas" label joins "Wilson [size] Regular, 36" labeling at interior crotch. Faded "Agase" is markered at interior waistband. Pants are autographed in 10/10 sharpie. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1949-50 Kyle Rote Game Worn Jersey. When Kyle Rote was inserted in the Notre Dame game for Heisman winner Doak Walker, for Southern Methodist in 1949, the team's back-up was transcended to standout status and immediately became recognized as a superior Triple-Threat player. After Walker graduated in 1950, Rote became the team's starter and as a result, he was named as a consensus All-American in his senior year. The first overall pick in the 1951 NFL Draft, Rote wore this fantastic Durene jersey during the 1949-50 seasons with SMU. Made by Sand Knit, the garment is the manufacturer's lightweight, highly-sheened fabric in a bright red hue, which is slightly faded. It has long sleeves with an elliptical-shaped elbow reinforcement area, and the sleeve ends, and round neck collar are a continuation of the Durene material with a reinforced hem, but no added elasticity. The number "44" on verso is zigzag affixed in standard, full-block tackle twill.
During this period, more college and pro teams utilized a twill with more highly-sheened satin; these numeric identifiers do have a "hint of satin." The lower left front tail sports a "Sand Knit" 1940's/early 1950's label with a "[size] 44" flap tag affixed to the right side quadrant edge. It has a "C" and "S" Sporting Goods (Austin, Fort Worth, San Antonio) local distributor designator within this main label. The wear is solid, and it does have two unrepaired holes on the right arm and sleeve, with some holes on the lower right, and three small ones on the left elbow area. Blood stains are present from game action on the right front "4". On the front of the jersey, there is a 12x15" area surrounding the numerals which are slightly lighter than the rest of the jersey, although not particularly noticeable. With high probability, this was due to the positioning within a frame which caused increased exposure to light in comparison to the rest of the jersey. Overall, a solid representation that was sourced along with a Doak Walker jersey of a similar style from a team photographer. LOA from Lou Lampson.
During this period, more college and pro teams utilized a twill with more highly-sheened satin; these numeric identifiers do have a "hint of satin." The lower left front tail sports a "Sand Knit" 1940's/early 1950's label with a "[size] 44" flap tag affixed to the right side quadrant edge. It has a "C" and "S" Sporting Goods (Austin, Fort Worth, San Antonio) local distributor designator within this main label. The wear is solid, and it does have two unrepaired holes on the right arm and sleeve, with some holes on the lower right, and three small ones on the left elbow area. Blood stains are present from game action on the right front "4". On the front of the jersey, there is a 12x15" area surrounding the numerals which are slightly lighter than the rest of the jersey, although not particularly noticeable. With high probability, this was due to the positioning within a frame which caused increased exposure to light in comparison to the rest of the jersey. Overall, a solid representation that was sourced along with a Doak Walker jersey of a similar style from a team photographer. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1955 Will Booth Ohio State Game Worn Jersey & Big 10 Champions Jacket. This Ohio State University 1954-1955 football ensemble is a living visual tribute to the prowess of the OSU football program from the Woody Hayes 1950's-1970's era to the present day. The jersey and jacket were worn by quarterback/blocking back Will Booth, who was a three-year letterman for the Buckeyes squad which captured the Big Ten title in 1954 and 1955 and went ten and zero with a Rose Bowl win on January 1, 1955.
The jersey is a gorgeous long sleeved red durene with the Buckeyes' now famous silver, black and white, eleven-stripe pattern embedded into the fabric. The six-button crotch piece flap remains intact with a "Berry's Sporting Goods (Columbus) Sand Knit" label and a size "44" flap tag. The condition is solid, and the color's vibrant, with numeral puckering and a major front chest repair.
The accompanying jacket was awarded to Booth. The red wool garment features cream leather sleeves with multi striped, stretch ribbed knit collar, sleeve and waist cuffs. A "Harley Davidson Sporting Goods [size] 42" label resides in the collar while a red felt chain link identifier "W Booth" is stitched along the right leather trimmed pocket. A satin oval with double stitched "O/Big Ten Champions 1955" inlaid over an outline of Ohio Stadium boldly decorates the left chest. An outstanding Buckeyes' representation from the beginnings of the Woody Hayes era. LOA from Lou Lampson.
The jersey is a gorgeous long sleeved red durene with the Buckeyes' now famous silver, black and white, eleven-stripe pattern embedded into the fabric. The six-button crotch piece flap remains intact with a "Berry's Sporting Goods (Columbus) Sand Knit" label and a size "44" flap tag. The condition is solid, and the color's vibrant, with numeral puckering and a major front chest repair.
The accompanying jacket was awarded to Booth. The red wool garment features cream leather sleeves with multi striped, stretch ribbed knit collar, sleeve and waist cuffs. A "Harley Davidson Sporting Goods [size] 42" label resides in the collar while a red felt chain link identifier "W Booth" is stitched along the right leather trimmed pocket. A satin oval with double stitched "O/Big Ten Champions 1955" inlaid over an outline of Ohio Stadium boldly decorates the left chest. An outstanding Buckeyes' representation from the beginnings of the Woody Hayes era. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1969 Steve Wooster Game Worn University of Texas Jersey. Battle-scarred veteran of the famous Red River Showdown between the University of Texas Longhorns and the Oklahoma Sooners was sported by the star running back of the former, a player instrumental in claiming an NCAA Football Championship for the Lone Star State later that season. The "tear away" style lives up to its name in a big way here, with considerable rips in the rear and right sleeve of the jersey which ended its service clearly in evidence. Often Longhorns would go through several jerseys within the course of a game, with the vast majority being destroyed afterwards, but our consignor snuck out and snagged this rarity for the enjoyment of future generations of Longhorns fans. The gamer is constructed of orange cotton t-shirt material, with number "30" screened on front and verso and dual white striping at each sleeve. Local Austin manufacturer "Texas Sporting Goods" label appears at interior collar, with size flap tag below too frayed to discern. One of a very few game used artifacts to survive from that glorious National Championship season, sure to enjoy a place of honor in one alumnus' trophy room. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Early 1970's Don Maynard Game Worn Jersey. A favorite target of Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Namath, this was the jersey that Broadway Joe looked for first when fading back to pass. The heavy knit jersey bears all of the trademarks of Maynard's preferred style, with the jersey hemmed above the tag line and the sleeves cropped to the edge of the green insert, as seen in photography from the era. Number "13" appears in green tackle twill on chest and verso, and in white at each sleeve. "Maynard" is spelled across rear name plate. Uniform expert Lou Lampson attests to the "Sand-Knit" manufacturing of the jersey, and the proper sizing of 46-48. Wear is light but definite, and the display is bolstered by the addition of a 10/10 silver sharpie signature from Maynard, who makes note of his 1987 Hall of Fame induction. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
Early 1970's Roger Staubach Game Worn Jersey. There isn't a whole lot that Roger Staubach hasn't achieved in his career. Between winning the Heisman Trophy with Navy in 1963, leading the Dallas Cowboys to their first ever Super Bowl victory, and having his legacy secured when his name was added to Dallas' Ring of Honor, "Roger the Dodger" memorabilia is obviously a large focus of the collecting community. This Staubach gamer from the early part of his career in Dallas is a gorgeous and unique example. This white mesh shirt, with Durene sleeves has the numerals cut in classic Cowboys' style. Staubach's famed number "12" has been stitched in white tackle twill on each sleeve, front and verso. "Staubach" is sewn on the back in white tackle twill, and the traditional "Southland Athletic" label is stitched in the lower-left front tail, which is the silver version representing the early 1970's with a "[size] 48" flap tag. This Hall-of-Fame-caliber jersey shows light quarterback wear, as the Cowboys did not wear their blue jerseys often, solidifying this as a very tough and desirable example for serious Cowboys collectors. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Early 1970's Bob Lilly Game Worn Jersey. The vision of Hall of Famer Bob Lilly chasing down Bob Griese, for an NFL-record 29-yard sack in Super Bowl VI, will surely be flowing through collectors' minds as they take a look at this noteworthy catalog listing. Not only was the Tulane Stadium crowd fortunate to see that famous play, but the fans also got to witness Lilly and Dallas' widely-feared "Doomsday Defense," during that Championship contest. One of the most dominant defensive linemen ever, Lilly used this jersey, which was worn during the early 1970's. A solid representation worn by the Cowboys' first ever draft pick, this white heavy-duty cotton shirt features Lilly's classic "74" on the sleeves, front and verso. "LILLY" is sewn on a rear nameplate in royal blue tackle twill with the correct wider-than-norm spacing. The lower tail area sports the traditional "Southland Athletic" label, which is the silver version that represents the early 1970's and sports a "[size] 52" flap tag. Medium use is exhibited, with team repairs on this solid and unique late-career representation of the NFL's 75th Anniversary Team member. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Circa 1982 Eric Dickerson Game Worn SMU Jersey. Eric Dickerson's great career achievements should have included a Heisman Trophy for the prolific running back, but because he played for SMU and not a more prestigious program like Texas or Oklahoma, and simultaneously played in the "Pony Express" two-back system with the likes of Craig James, he was unable to achieve college football's most coveted honor. He did gain 4,450 yards, breaking Earl Campbell's Southwest Conference's career rushing record, and his forty-eight career touchdowns for the Dallas institution of higher learning tied the famous Doak Walker's mark.
This road jersey features portal fishnet mesh throughout with an '80's style "high stomach cut." Made by "Fab Knit" (Waco, Texas), the jersey features a tail edge label and a collar "size XL/washing instructions" flap tag. The "19" numerals are screened on in proper font, and the nameplate lettering, sewn on in red tackle twill, has been replaced. The overall wear is light, but few defenders got a clean hit on Dickerson, and when they did, the jersey was always flowing from the open stomach cut to the floppy sleeves. Still a solid and tremendously rare collegiate representation from one of the most exciting backs in football history, sure to be a focal point of even the finest of private collections. LOA from Lou Lampson.
This road jersey features portal fishnet mesh throughout with an '80's style "high stomach cut." Made by "Fab Knit" (Waco, Texas), the jersey features a tail edge label and a collar "size XL/washing instructions" flap tag. The "19" numerals are screened on in proper font, and the nameplate lettering, sewn on in red tackle twill, has been replaced. The overall wear is light, but few defenders got a clean hit on Dickerson, and when they did, the jersey was always flowing from the open stomach cut to the floppy sleeves. Still a solid and tremendously rare collegiate representation from one of the most exciting backs in football history, sure to be a focal point of even the finest of private collections. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Circa 1982 Craig James Game Worn SMU Jersey. The lesser known half of "the Pony Express," Craig James, could certainly run in his own right. He set a Holiday Bowl rushing record (225 yards in one of college football's most memorable games) and once scored on a ninety-six yard pass, the longest in SMU history.
This early 1980's road jersey is a portal fishnet variety with the high cut stomach used extensively during the era. The "32" numerals and "SMU" are screened on in 2-color heavy appliqué, a necessity due to the use of portal mesh. The NOB is sewn onto a traditional mesh plate, which is affixed to the upper jersey back. All fonts are correct. The jersey sports a "Fab Knit size XL" inner collar flap tag and a "Fab Knit" generic tail label. The wear is solid with four minor repairs and some numeral scuffing on the verso. A fantastic SMU representation dating from just before the "Death Penalty" choked the life from the Dallas program and ended the glory days of James and Dickerson. LOA from Lou Lampson.
This early 1980's road jersey is a portal fishnet variety with the high cut stomach used extensively during the era. The "32" numerals and "SMU" are screened on in 2-color heavy appliqué, a necessity due to the use of portal mesh. The NOB is sewn onto a traditional mesh plate, which is affixed to the upper jersey back. All fonts are correct. The jersey sports a "Fab Knit size XL" inner collar flap tag and a "Fab Knit" generic tail label. The wear is solid with four minor repairs and some numeral scuffing on the verso. A fantastic SMU representation dating from just before the "Death Penalty" choked the life from the Dallas program and ended the glory days of James and Dickerson. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1993 Dan Marino Game Worn Jersey. A torn Achilles tendon this season would limit the playing time of this beloved Hall of Fame quarterback, but here's a white mesh gamer that got into the action before Marino's season came to an abrupt end. It exhibits solid game use with some staining on front and verso, each of which is decorated with screened orange and aqua number "13" numerals. These digits are repeated on each shoulder, with team logos screened on the sleeves. "Marino" is applied in three-inch block to rear nameplate. Memorial "J.R." patch for Joe Robbie appears at right sleeve. "Wilson [size] 50" label appears at interior collar, above a "93" year swatch. Autographed on rear numeral in 10/10 black sharpie. A tough and desirable gamer from the man who is second only to the indestructible Brett Favre in every major career passing statistic. LOA from Lou Lampson. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
1994 Dan Marino Game Worn Jersey. If you've tired of NFL jerseys with no apparent wear to be found, this is the shirt for you. The presented aqua mesh gamer from the 1994 NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award-winner and nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback is anything but an off-the-rack wallflower, providing fine game use with scuffing, light grass stains and general overall wear. Number "13" is applied to chest, back and shoulders in white and orange tackle twill, the same fabric which spells "Marino" in three-inch block across rear nameplate. The NFL 75th Anniversary patch is applied at upper left chest. "Wilson [size] 50" label remains at interior collar, above an embroidered number "94" year swatch. Unbeatable provenance is delivered in the form of a March 1995 letter, on team letterhead, from Dolphins equipment manager Joe Malinconico. A solid specimen top to bottom from one of the best to ever take a snap under center. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1996 Kordell Stewart Game Worn Jersey. Ten years old when his mother, a heavy smoker, passed away due to terminal lung cancer, Stewart wore the digits on his jersey in remembrance and as a leading anti-smoking advocate. Presented is a second-year black mesh gamer from the season just before Stewart's transition to the quarterback role, exhibiting a nice scattering of scuffing, shoulder dings and small durene shoulder tears. His number "10" is applied to chest, back and shoulders in white tackle twill, with "Stewart" spelled across rear nameplate in three-inch yellow block. "Starter ProLine Authentic Steelers Exclusivity" label appears at lower front left exterior tail, with "48" flap tag denoting size at right. A "96" year swatch is affixed at left. LOA from Lou Lampson.
2002 Tim Couch Game Worn Uniform Ensemble. Tim Couch may not have lived up to the expectations of an overall number one pick, but this quarterback ensemble is about as complete as one could ever hope to come across. The brown mesh/dazzle cloth jersey shows solid quarterback wear, with Couch's trademark high cut, custom hemmed, open sleeves and custom hemmed tail. Number "2" is applied in white tackle twill to chest, shoulders and reverse, where "Couch" is spelled across rear nameplate. "02-50-Q" graces the inner collar while an oversized interlocking "AL" Al Lerner mourning patch decorates the left front shoulder. Couch's 2001 dated pants with a well faded #2 markered into the waistband links the belted trousers to the QB. Couch's Nike Air orange on white grass shoes are covered with dirt and grass remnants. A markered #2 appears on the lower back heel edge. Rounding out and punctuating this rare set is a bright orange Riddell helmet featuring custom front and back bumpers, custom chin strap cover, inflation point cover, four Velcro transmitter swatches, recon shield and solid interior wear. LOA from Lou Lampson.
1973-74 Joe Montana Ringgold High School Memorabilia Collection. The earliest Joe Montana sports collectibles known to exist, presented in one exciting lot. 1) Ringgold Rams football practice jersey. Tremendous wear, but fine, undamaged condition. Certainly the oldest Montana jersey ever to reach the hobby. 2) "Super Bowl of Prep Football Game" used quarterback towel. Notated in unknown hand, "Starting Q.B. Joe Mantana (sic), 'Big 33' Penn - 14 Ohio - 7, 8/10/74." 3) Program for this game at Hershey Stadium. EX-MT. 4) 1973 & 1974 prom photos (3) with future wife Kim. 4) Kim's prom purse. 5) Five personal snapshots of Joe, including one playing basketball, two playing baseball, and two horsing around in the snow. VG-EX. 6) Various high school commencement paperwork including program, invitation. 7) Various newspaper clippings. 8) Photographic wooden die-cut of Joe posing in his high school basketball uniform. 13" tall. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
1973-77 Joe Montana Notre Dame Archive of Autographs, Programs, Etc. Intriguing assortment of keepsakes and collectibles is comprised entirely of artifacts the young Montana felt compelled to save to recall personal gridiron highlights of his collegiate career. 1) High school helmet chinstrap. Fine wear. Notated "Joe 11/9/73," most likely in Kim's hand. 2) 1977 Cotton Bowl National Championship team signed football given to Kim by Joe. Panels are cracking but the 75+ autographs, including Joe's, remain strong. 3) Six (6) Notre Dame Football Guides (1967, 1969, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1978). Average EX-MT. 4) 1978 Notre Dame vs. Purdue program with Joe on cover, EX+. 5) 1977 Programs & Ticket Stubs for games vs. Michigan State & USC. EX average. 6) Joe's Notre Dame student laundry tag. 7) 1977 Notre Dame Football Review & 1978 Notre Dame Spring Football Prospectus. EX-MT average. 8) 1977 Notre Dame National Champ bumper sticker. EX-MT. 9) 1978 Cotton Bowl NCAA Championship ticket stub, VG-EX. 10) Three (3) "Kim Montana for Heiswoman" bumper stickers. EX. 11) Various other odds and ends. LOA from PSA/DNA (autograph). LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
1975 Joe Montana Signed Checks Lot of 3. Three checks drawn on Joe and Kim Montana's Notre Dame bank account are the most interesting from the collection. Two are triple-signed, used by Montana to draw cash from his account, and the third pays eighteen dollars to Notre Dame coach Dan Devine, who endorses the verso. Each is filled out entirely in the superstar quarterback's hand, and signed "Joseph C. Montana," seven such signatures in total. All are in flawless condition, with no folds, tears or other condition problems. One of several lots of checks offered within this auction. We are aware of no other Montana checks ever having surfaced in the hobby prior to this grouping. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
1975-76 Joe Montana Signed Checks/Deposit Slips Lot of 10. Eight checks drawn on Joe and Kim Montana's Notre Dame bank account make payments to Thrifty Mart, the telephone company and the South Bend Medical Foundation. Each is filled out entirely in the superstar quarterback's hand, and signed "Joseph C. Montana" at the close. Two deposit slips for the same account are similarly signed. All are in flawless condition, with no folds, tears or other condition problems. One of several lots of checks offered within this auction. We are aware of no other Montana checks ever having surfaced in the hobby prior to this grouping. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
1975-76 Joe Montana Signed Checks Lot of 10. Ten checks drawn on Joe and Kim Montana's Notre Dame bank account make payments to his apartment complex, Columbia Record & Tape Club, the telephone company and his apartment complex. Each is filled out entirely in the superstar quarterback's hand, and signed "Joseph C. Montana" at the close. All are in flawless condition, with no folds, tears or other condition problems. One of several lots of checks offered within this auction. We are aware of no other Montana checks ever having surfaced in the hobby prior to this grouping. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
1975-76 Joe Montana Signed Checks Lot of 10. Ten checks drawn on Joe and Kim Montana's Notre Dame bank account make payments to his apartment complex, Columbia Record & Tape Club, the telephone company and a florist. Each is filled out entirely in the superstar quarterback's hand, and signed "Joseph C. Montana" at the close. All are in flawless condition, with no folds, tears or other condition problems. One of several lots of checks offered within this auction. We are aware of no other Montana checks ever having surfaced in the hobby prior to this grouping. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
1975-76 Joe Montana Signed Checks Lot of 10. Ten checks drawn on Joe and Kim Montana's Notre Dame bank account make payments to his apartment complex, utilities and an animal hospital. Each is filled out entirely in the superstar quarterback's hand, and signed "Joseph C. Montana" at the close. All are in flawless condition, with no folds, tears or other condition problems. One of several lots of checks offered within this auction. We are aware of no other Montana checks ever having surfaced in the hobby prior to this grouping. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
1976 Joe Montana Signed Apartment Lease Documents (2) & Snapshots. Pair of leasing documents secured an apartment for the young Notre Dame quarterback and his wife at "Williamsburg on the Lake of Mishawaka Apartments." Each is signed by "Joseph C. Montana" and "Kim M. Montana" in 10/10 ink. Documents exhibit storage folds otherwise EX-MT. Also here are four snapshots taken at the apartment, two picturing Montana. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
1976-77 Joe Montana Document Lot with Signed Check, Pet Permit. Large stack of papers from the personal files of Joe's ex-wife includes the following: 1) Joseph C. Montana signed check. 2) Joseph C. Montana signed deposit. 3) Joseph C. Montana signed pet permit, dog tags, photos with Joe and dog and pedigree papers. 4) Kim M. Montana signed checks (40+). 5) Joe and Kim Montana check book with seven checks and deposit slips. 6) Dated deposit slips, Notre Dame payroll stubs. 7) Personal receipts/copies from furniture, automobile, life insurance, audio equipment, sporting goods, etc. (25+). Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
If this lot looks familiar to you, there's a reason for that. The Joe Montana Notre Dame Collection, consigned to Heritage by Montana's first wife Kim, initially appeared in our May 2008 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction. Immediately after the close of the auction, Heritage was contacted by lawyers for the Hall of Fame quarterback challenging the ownership rights of certain contents of the lots, and as a result all sales had to be cancelled. A year and a half later, with all the dust of legal wranglings finally settled, we are able to present the abridged contents of the archive for your collecting enjoyment. Each lot will be accompanied by a letter of provenance from Kim Montana.
Baseball Collectibles
1986 Lenny Dykstra New York Mets World Championship Trophy. Glorious, glittering prize is the very one presented to Nails for his contributions in claiming the second World Championship in franchise history for the New York Mets. Perhaps no Mets player was as "clutch" that October as Dykstra, whose walk-off home run in Game Three of the National League Championship Series is remembered as one of the most important long balls in Shea history. Dykstra twice went deep in the World Series, including a momentum-shifting long ball in the first at-bat at Fenway after the Mets dropped Games One and Two at home. While any Championship trophy recalling that magical Series in which the Mets came a single strike from elimination before the Bambino smiled down upon his Big Apple brethren carries tremendous appeal (unless you're a Red Sox fan), the personally owned trophy of key player Lenny Dykstra stands head and shoulders above any others ever offered at public auction. Height is 12".
1986 Lenny Dykstra New York Mets World Championship Ring. Like the 1986 World Championship trophy likewise listed within this auction, the presented ring represents the spoils of war from one of the most memorable Series in Major League Baseball's long history, owned by one of that Series' most valuable players. A scrappy lead-off hitter with thirty-one stolen bases during the regular season but just eight home runs, Dykstra adopted the role of slugger for the postseason, providing pop at critical moments in crucial games to bring Mets fans their first World Championship since the Amazin' season of 1969. The ten karat gold ring earned by Nails for his gritty performance provides a genuine diamond at the center of a blue stone upon the face, encircled by a perimeter of smaller diamonds and the miraculous words "1986 World Champions." The Mets logo and the words "116 Wins, New York" frame a miniature World Series trophy upon the left shank, while the right announces "Dykstra 4" on either side of a logo celebrating the Silver Anniversary of the Mets franchise. "LGB 10K" stamping appears at interior of the band, which measures to a size 9.5. Included is the large and impressive original wooden presentation box.
1986 NLCS Game Three Walk-Off Home Run Baseball Hit by Lenny Dykstra. If you were a Mets fan back in 1986, this was probably your second most memorable moment of the playoffs after the Mookie/Buckner incident. Down a run in the bottom of the ninth inning and about to drop to a two games to one deficit in the National League Championship Series, the Mets sent Lenny Dykstra to the plate with Wally Backman on first. The home run which would snatch victory from the jaws of defeat would come to be the defining moment of Nails' career, and move the club one step closer toward ultimate World Championship glory.
Presented is the ONL (Feeney) ball that sent Shea Stadium into joyous pandemonium on October 11, 1986, notated in Dykstra's hand as follows: "National League Championship Series 1986, Game Winning Homer Bottom of 9th vs. Houston (D. Smith) Final 6-5 Game 3." The writing is slightly fading in parts but is still easily legible, and the ball shows expected toning and abrasions from its historic game use.
Presented is the ONL (Feeney) ball that sent Shea Stadium into joyous pandemonium on October 11, 1986, notated in Dykstra's hand as follows: "National League Championship Series 1986, Game Winning Homer Bottom of 9th vs. Houston (D. Smith) Final 6-5 Game 3." The writing is slightly fading in parts but is still easily legible, and the ball shows expected toning and abrasions from its historic game use.
1986-87 Lenny Dykstra Home Run Baseballs Lot of 7. A lead-off hitter by trade known more for singles, walks and stolen bases, Nails could occasionally go yard, as this collection of long balls will indicate. Each is notated in Dykstra's hand and exhibits fine game use. Four baseballs are from the World Championship 1986 season, each dating to the National League presidency of Chuck Feeney. The 1987 homers are ONL (Giamatti) models. Dykstra's handwriting is, on occasion, faded and/or scuffed, making some details difficult to discern, but each still presents nicely and loses none of its historical importance.
1988 Wrigley Field First Night Game Home Run Baseball Hit by Lenny Dykstra. One of the great baseball debates of the age found the Wrigley purists on the losing end when the fabled Chicago ballpark surrendered its role as the last in the Majors to use any lights but the Sun. The first night game was scheduled for August 8, 1988, thrilling numerologists (8-8-88), but after Lenny Dykstra clubbed the first post-dark long ball in the Stadium's long history the skies opened up and the game was called on account of rain, wiping Dykstra's historic homer from the books. Unbelievably, Dykstra would repeat the task the following night, thereby recording the first official night game home run at Wrigley. Presented is that baseball, signed by Dykstra and inscribed by him "8-9-88, 1st HR at Night Wrigley, Mike Bileki (sic) Pitcher." ONL (Giamatti) ball exhibits fine game use.
1990 Lenny Dykstra All-Star Game Ring. National League-topping totals in hits and on-base percentage this season earned Dykstra a well-deserved starting center field position on the All-Star team this season, the first Midsummer Classic for the fleet-footed Philly. This impressive relic from the Wrigley Field contest sports a faux diamond in a red stone on the face, surrounded by raised text reading "Baseball All Star 1990." Left shank provides "1990 Chicago Cubs All-Star Game" and MLB logo, while right celebrates Dykstra's National League affiliation. "Balfour Auralite" stamped at interior of band. Size eleven.
1993 Lenny Dykstra Philadelphia Phillies National League Championship Ring. Dykstra's ninth season in the Majors was unquestionably his personal best, as he astoundingly led the National League in both hits and walks, scoring 143 runs for what was likewise tops for the Senior Circuit. Most Valuable Player voting found Nails second only to the superstar slugging machine that is Barry Bonds, but there's no question but that Dykstra's contributions were essential in securing the pennant for the Phillies this season. Presented is the ring awarded to him for his club's National League supremacy, a dazzling interplay of real diamonds, rubies and ten karat yellow gold. "Phillies National League Champions" text lines the perimeter of the ring face, with the victorious results of the 1993 NLCS recounted on the left shank and "Dykstra 4" framing a Phillies Liberty Bell logo on the right. Stamped "LGB 10k" inside band. Size ten.
1994 Lenny Dykstra All-Star Game Ring. The National League scored two in the bottom of the ninth to stave off defeat and one in the bottom of the tenth to walk off with an eight to seven victory in one of the most fiercely contested All-Star Games in the history of the event. This was Lenny Dykstra's prize for election to the victorious squad. The ring from the battle at Three Rivers Stadium provides a faux diamond in a baseball design on the face, surrounded by raised text reading "Baseball All Star 1994." Left shank provides "Pittsburgh Pirates All-Star Game 1994" and MLB logo, while right announces Dykstra's National League affiliation. "Balfour Auralite" stamped at interior of band. Size ten and a half.
1995 Lenny Dykstra All-Star Game Ring. The third and final Midsummer Classic appearance for this popular Big League star, who earned the starting center field and lead-off batting spot for what would prove to be the victorious side. The ring awarded at the Rangers Ballpark at Arlington features a Lone Star design on the blue stone of the face, surrounded by raised text reading "Baseball All Star 1995." Left shank provides "Texas Rangers All-Star Game 1995" and MLB logo, while right announces Dykstra's National League affiliation. "Balfour Auralite" stamped at interior of band. Size ten and a half.
1993-2002 Team Signed Baseballs Lot of 4 from Dykstra Collection. From the Mets and Phillies star's personal collection, we present the following: 1) 1993 Philadelphia Phillies team signed baseball. Twenty-three signatures include Dykstra, Kruk, Pratt, Duncan. Signatures average 8/10 and better. OML ball signed at ten-year reunion. 2) 1994 National League All-Star team signed baseball. Thirty signatures include Dykstra, Bonds, Ozzie Smith, Gwynn, Piazza, Bagwell, Saberhagen. Signatures average 9/10 and better. Official All-Star Game baseball. 3) 1996 National League All-Star team signed baseball. Twenty-six signatures include Dykstra, Ozzie Smith, Gwynn, Glavine, Piazza, Bagwell. Signatures average 9+/10. 4) 2002 New York Mets legends signed baseball. Thirteen signatures include Dykstra, Seaver, Piazza, Kranepool, Hernandez, Koosman. Signed at ceremony for fortieth anniversary of franchise. Signatures average 9/10. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
1993-95 Lenny Dykstra Game Issued, Commemorative & Signed Bats Lot of 4. Lenny's lumber, for your collecting pleasure. Presented is the following: 1) 1993 National League Championship black bat. Awarded to Dykstra as member of pennant-winning squad, NRMT. 2) 1993 Philadelphia Phillies team signed game issued bat. Unused Dykstra bat is signed by about twenty players in 9/10 and better gold sharpie. Includes Dykstra, Duncan, Thigpen. 3) Circa 1993 Lenny Dykstra game issued bat. Unused, unsigned Young Bat Company model. 4) 1995 Lenny Dykstra All-Star Game-issued bat. Bat rack streaks, unused. Rawlings Adirondack model. Auction LOA from James Spence Authentication.
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Mailing Address:
PO Box 619999
Dallas, TX 75261-6199
Street Address:
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75261-4127
(Northwest corner of W. Airport Freeway & Valley View Lane)
All Rights Reserved
1-800-872-6467 / (214) 528-3500 / Fax: (214) 443-842