In a sign that prices for sports memorabilia may be gaining momentum, a vintage photography collection from a devout New York Giants fan sold at Hunt Auctions’ live public auction for $136,138 in King of Prussia, PA.
Hand assembled from the 1920s to 1960s before the Giants relocated to San Francisco, the 100+ lot collection showcases the frequency of correspondence between star players and fans in a bygone era when professional athletes were much more accessible.
The prized possession of the group, a photograph signed by Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Mel Ott, and Bill Terry sold for $20,700. Other notable pieces include an Eddie Collins signed photograph with related handwritten correspondence ($13,225) and a Ty Cobb autographed photo ($12,650). Both pieces sold for more than three times their pre-sale estimates.
A 1978 Reggie Jackson New York Yankees home jersey attributed to the 1978 World Series realized $41,400 against an estimate of $15,000-$20,000.
The jersey is one of only a scant few authentic surviving examples remaining in its original condition. It has been matched to several photographs of Jackson taken during the 1978 World Series, and as bidding proved, is one of the most important to come to market.
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