Heritage Auctions has unveiled a remarkable collection of autographed photographs in its latest Icons Photography Auction, catering to both photography enthusiasts and sports memorabilia collectors. One of the most eye-catching items up for grabs is a 1948 photo capturing basketball legend George Mikan in action, featuring his signature in blue ink, creating a perfect match to his 1948 Bowman rookie card. This iconic 8×10 Type 1 photo is expected to command a price of over $20,000, making it a highly sought-after piece for sports card aficionados.
The auction delves deeper into the world of signed vintage photos, offering a glimpse into the past with images that resonate with sports fans. A photo from the late 1940s showcasing Cleveland Browns icon Otto Graham, the same image featured on his 1950 Bowman Football rookie card, also boasts his signature, adding a personal touch to the collectible. Another standout piece is an autographed 1949 photo of Jackie Robinson, capturing the historic moment when he received his Silver Bat for winning the National League batting title, a year in which he was also honored as the MVP. The inscription to “Jeff” adds a unique element to this Type I photo, making it a standout item in the auction.
In addition to these remarkable finds, another gem in the collection is a 1957 photo of Jackie Robinson clearing out his locker at Ebbets Field as he bid farewell to baseball upon retirement. This poignant image not only showcases Robinson’s personal belongings but also provides a glimpse into the end of an era for the Dodgers legend. With items like these, the auction offers bidders a chance to own a piece of sports history and experience the legacy of legendary athletes up close.
The auction also includes a photo believed to have been used for Willie Mays’ 1952 Topps card, complete with Mays’ signature from the 1990s. With over 150 vintage images in the catalog, spanning more than a century, the auction caters to a wide range of interests, from baseball to football to golf and beyond. One of the standout pieces is a photo from the 1919 World Series, capturing a historic moment between Black Sox pitcher Eddie Cicotte and Reds’ starter Dutch Reuther as they shake hands before a game at Redland Field in Cincinnati. This rare image, complete with original paper caption and stamps on the back, is expected to spark competitive bidding, starting at $8,000.
Furthermore, the auction features rookie photos of iconic sports figures like Hank Aaron (1954), Jack Nicklaus (1962), and Pete Maravich (1970), alongside various images of baseball legends Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, among other pre-war sports icons. This diverse collection of sports memorabilia encapsulates the rich history of athletics through the lens of photography, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of sporting heritage.
With the auction running until June 13, interested collectors and sports fans have the opportunity to participate in this captivating event and potentially acquire a unique piece of sports history. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate enthusiast, the Heritage Icons Photography Auction presents an unparalleled chance to own a tangible piece of sports nostalgia.