In the 1960s, you knew the country was talking about something sports-related when it showed up in the pages of LIFE Magazine. The weekly, photo-oriented chronicle of what was happening in the world was a favorite of millions during its heyday. One of the most popular sports covers ever created centered around the home run chase of 1961.
The RMY Auctions Photo of the Day is a publicity photo for the cover that was being released by LIFE, featuring Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle. While the picture is famous, an original copy from the archives of a newspaper that received it 55+ years ago is a rare find. RMY is offering one such copy—along with the original news release as one of over 1,200 in the December Premier online catalog.
Maris, of course, would go on to break Babe Ruth’s record by belting 61. The “M&M Boys” were on numerous magazine covers in the early 1960s but none were more of a prestigious honor than this iconic LIFE cover.
The magazine’s public relations team offered copies of the photo with the news release that highlighted the upcoming publication of the “M&M Boys” cover and the statistical odds of either player surpassing the Babe’s mark.
The 8×10 photo was taken by acclaimed photographer Philippe Halsman who took a unique angle in posing the two Yankee sluggers in front of a larger image of Ruth that provided a stunning visual. The black and white publicity still remains in virtually perfect condition.
Bidding in the auction continues through Saturday, December 10.
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Photo of the Day: Unique Angle on Maris’ 61st Homer
