The legendary coach behind the Boston Celtics’ nine NBA championships in eleven years, Red Auerbach, has left a lasting legacy in the basketball community. Now, fans and collectors can own a piece of history as items from Auerbach’s most successful season, along with other personal memorabilia from his Hall of Fame career, are being auctioned by Heritage Auctions. The Auerbach family has consigned this collection, which will be showcased in the prestigious Platinum Night event.
One of the key highlights of this auction is Auerbach’s 1965 NBA championship ring, symbolizing a season where the Celtics boasted an impressive 62-18 record under his guidance. This ring, along with Auerbach’s Coach of the Year Award and his personal league championship trophy from that same season, represents the pinnacle of his coaching achievements. The auction also features the ring Auerbach received as the general manager of the Celtics’ 1984 championship team, an item expected to fetch a hefty price of upwards of $100,000.
The 1965 championship season stands out not just for its record, but also for Auerbach’s groundbreaking decision to start five African-American players, a first in NBA history. This team’s significance was further solidified when it was voted one of the NBA’s ten greatest teams of all time in 1996. The 1965 championship ring and trophy carry pre-sale estimates of $80,000 and $30,000, respectively, while the Coach of the Year award is also expected to attract significant interest.
Among the more personal items up for auction is a 1940s Washington Capitols team jacket, likely worn by Auerbach during his early coaching days, and later signed by him. Additionally, the auction includes a unique collection of Auerbach’s smoking pipes, complete with a stand and humidor, adding a personal touch to the memorabilia offered.
Other notable items in the auction include two signed 1960-61 team photos, a 1981 Celtics championship watch, autographed photos of Auerbach with Bill Russell, a 1960s photo of Bob Cousy signed to Auerbach, and various championship rings and jewelry pieces given to his wife and family.
This auction follows a previous sale of Auerbach items in 2011, continuing the opportunity for basketball enthusiasts to own a piece of the sport’s history. Bidding for these rare and historic items will conclude on Friday, February 25, offering a unique chance for collectors and fans to celebrate the enduring legacy of one of the NBA’s most revered figures, Red Auerbach.