Red Auerbach, the iconic coach behind the Boston Celtics’ nine NBA championships in eleven years, has left an enduring legacy within the basketball community. Now, fans and collectors have a unique opportunity to own a piece of history as items from Auerbach’s most successful season, along with other personal memorabilia from his Hall of Fame career, are being auctioned by Heritage Auctions. This collection, consigned by the Auerbach family, features several standout items making their debut in the prestigious Platinum Night event.
The key highlights of the auction are Auerbach’s 1965 NBA championship ring, the pinnacle of his coaching achievements, marking a season where the Celtics boasted a 62-18 record under his guidance. This ring, along with Auerbach’s Coach of the Year Award and his personal league championship trophy from the same season, showcases the success and domination of his coaching career. The anticipation is high for the ring Auerbach received as the general manager of the Celtics’ 1984 championship team, with experts predicting it could fetch upwards of $100,000.
The 1965 championship season was significant not only for the team’s record but also for Auerbach’s groundbreaking decision to start five African-American players, marking a first in NBA history. This historic team solidified its place in basketball history when it was voted one of the NBA’s ten greatest teams of all time in 1996. The 1965 championship ring and trophy, carrying pre-sale estimates of $80,000 and $30,000 respectively, are expected to attract significant interest from collectors and fans alike.
Among the more personal items up for auction is a 1940s Washington Capitols team jacket, believed to have been worn by Auerbach during his early coaching days and later signed by him. This jacket serves as a unique piece of memorabilia, offering a glimpse into Auerbach’s early career. Additionally, the auction includes a collection of Auerbach’s smoking pipes, complete with a stand and humidor, adding a personal touch to the memorabilia offered.
Other noteworthy lots in the auction feature two signed 1960-61 team photos, a 1981 Celtics championship watch, autographed photos of Auerbach with Bill Russell, a 1960s photo of Bob Cousy signed to Auerbach, and various championship rings and jewelry pieces given to his wife and family.
This auction follows a previous sale of Auerbach items in 2011, continuing the opportunity for enthusiasts to own a piece of basketball history. Bidding for these rare and historic items will conclude on Friday, February 25, offering a unique chance for collectors and fans to celebrate the legacy of one of the NBA’s most revered figures. Don’t miss out on the chance to own a cherished piece of Red Auerbach’s Celtics legacy.
