As the United States honors its military veterans on this Veterans Day, it’s instructive to understand that some very real sacrifices were made by athletes to keep the country free. Some paid with their lives; others sacrificed the primes of their athletic careers to serve in the military. Some are household names. Willie Mays, Joe DiMaggio and Jackie Robinson … [Read more...] about Veterans Day: Honoring Athletes Who Served
Bob Feller
1950 Bowman Baseball a Trend Setter
As Americans said their good-riddances to the 1940s, a decade that shredded our hearts and families with war and decimated the National Pastime, sports fans were ready to finally enjoy their games with a full roster of superstars once again. When the first spring of the new decade dawned, the 1950 Bowman baseball set was ready and waiting to greet collectors who had waited all … [Read more...] about 1950 Bowman Baseball a Trend Setter
17-Year-Old Bob Feller’s Career Unfolds in Early Photo
Since few are around who remember it well, Bob Feller’s arrival in the big leagues is now left almost totally to the history books. It seems now almost incomprehensible to fathom. Feller, a high school student , was such a marvel, that he basically skipped the minor leagues and went right to a big league mound. Oh sure, there were a few outings in places like Fargo and New … [Read more...] about 17-Year-Old Bob Feller’s Career Unfolds in Early Photo
Editor’s Blog: Leaf vs Summit, Leaf’s New Golf Product, Harbaugh’s Game Worn Pants, Feller vs Satch
Some news and notes to close out the week: Leaf Trading Cards is suing the Industry Summit, the annual Las Vegas confab of hobby manufacturers, distributors and shop owners as well as ten ‘John Does’ he believes may have conspired to keep him out. It seems after paying nearly $10,000, Leaf owner Brian Gray’s payment was refunded and he was asked to take a “sabbatical”. … [Read more...] about Editor’s Blog: Leaf vs Summit, Leaf’s New Golf Product, Harbaugh’s Game Worn Pants, Feller vs Satch
Rose Still on Signing Circuit
He's 71 now, but Pete Rose is still hustling. The all-time hits leader has a regular autograph gig in Las Vegas but he still travels to card shows and appearances coast-to-coast. Considering what he accomplished on the diamond from the 1960s through most of the 80s, his signature isn't expensive. Part of the reason is that he's been among the most prolific signers since … [Read more...] about Rose Still on Signing Circuit
Bob Feller Memorabilia Will Benefit Hospice Care
Ann Feller has donated 49 pieces of clothing memorabilia to benefit hospice patients and their families to honor the memory of her late husband, Cleveland Indians pitching legend Bob Feller. The items can be viewed and purchased at www.Hospicewr.org/bob-feller. Feller was cared for by Hospice of the Western Reserve, and died in December 2010 at age 92. A professional … [Read more...] about Bob Feller Memorabilia Will Benefit Hospice Care
How Does Death Really Affect The Value of An Autograph?
Some well-known sports personalities sign as many autographs as they can to keep the value low and, they hope, keep the opportunists to a minimum. Others don’t sign many at all to keep the price up so they can make more money in their next private signing deal or card company autograph contract. One factor that neither philosopher can control is how long they have … [Read more...] about How Does Death Really Affect The Value of An Autograph?
Feller Left Indelible Mark on Sports Memorabilia Hobby
Like a Bob Feller fastball, the news snuck up quietly at first. A report on an Iowa TV station. Then, it exploded. By midnight, hundreds of media outlets had reported the news that long-time baseball fans didn't want to hear. Rapid Robert had passed into history. 48 years after his Hall of Fame induction, Bob Feller died of complications from acute myeloid … [Read more...] about Feller Left Indelible Mark on Sports Memorabilia Hobby
Blog: Bob Feller Talks Baseball, Memorabilia
Bob Feller may be 91 but he's still Rapid Robert. Feller still travels around the country doing appearances and autograph shows. The Hall of Famer still runs his museum in Iowa and usually has time to chat with reporters who want to hear about his career, modern players or anything else you ask him about. Feller apparently isn't hurting for money. In an interview with … [Read more...] about Blog: Bob Feller Talks Baseball, Memorabilia
Philly Show Returns
One of the sports memorabilia hobby's longest-running events returns this weekend. The Philadelphia Sports Card and Memorabilia Show, more commonly known as “The Philly Show,” sets up shop in King of Prussia, PA through Sunday. Originally launched in 1975 as one of the first venues for sports cards and collectible buyers and sellers, the show was held three times … [Read more...] about Philly Show Returns