At a recent Goldin Co. auction, a 1965 Original Type 1 Photo of Joe Namath, famously used for his iconic rookie card, fetched an impressive $197,640. This sale not only set a new record for Type 1 football photos but also spotlighted the enduring allure of Namath’s legacy in sports memorabilia.
The 1965 photo, which played a significant role in the creation of the Topps Namath rookie card, stands as one of the most sought-after football cards in the collecting world. Its high sale price at the November Elite Auction underscores its significant value in the realm of sports collectibles.
However, the Namath photo was not the only remarkable item to be sold at the Goldin Co. auction. Other notable sales include a 1967 Muhammad Ali/Wilt Chamberlain dual-signed Type 1 photo, capturing the two sports legends during a promotional appearance for the “Wide World of Sports” fight, which was sold for an impressive $17,080. Similarly, a Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo garnered the same price, further exemplifying the enduring popularity of basketball memorabilia.
Additionally, a 1994 Tiger Woods Type 1 photo, symbolizing the year he graduated high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner, went for a respectable $7,595. These sales demonstrate the continued interest in sports photography and the powerful appeal of capturing significant moments in athletes’ careers.
Among other remarkable Type 1 photos in the auction was a Michael Jordan 1988 Playoffs Type 1 photo by the New York Times. This photo commemorated the first time Jordan scored back-to-back 50 point games in NBA playoff history, resulting in a sale price of $6,100. It showcases the impact that Jordan had on the game and his ability to deliver remarkable performances on the court.
Another standout item was a rare 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” Type 1 photo. This photo captured the intense moment when Brett was restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire after his bat was deemed illegal due to excessive pine tar. The photo, fascinating in its depiction of an iconic and controversial sports moment, fetched $4,574 at the auction.
Lastly, a 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated Shoot Type 1 photo, taken in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym, sold for $3,660. This photo is a testament to Tyson’s early days as a rising star in the boxing world and serves as a reflection of the sport’s rich history.
These sales at Goldin Co. not only highlight the rich history of sports photography but also showcase the enduring fascination with sports memorabilia. Collectors and fans alike value these items as significant relics that capture important moments and figures that have defined various sports eras. The enthusiasm and willingness to pay significant sums for these pieces exemplify the strong connection between sports and nostalgia, allowing fans to relive iconic moments through the tangible artifacts of their favorite athletes.