Heritage Auctions has unveiled a fascinating assortment of autographed vintage sports photographs in its latest Icons Photography Auction, attracting the attention of sports enthusiasts and card collectors alike. One of the standout pieces in this auction is a 1948 photo capturing basketball legend George Mikan in action, beautifully complemented by his 1948 Bowman rookie card. This 8×10 Type 1 photo, adorned with Mikan’s signature in blue ink, is poised to command a price tag exceeding $20,000, appealing to collectors seeking a piece of basketball history.
The theme of signed vintage photos continues to captivate bidders with the inclusion of a late 1940s photograph featuring Cleveland Browns icon Otto Graham, reminiscent of his 1950 Bowman Football rookie card, complete with his signature. Similarly, a poignant 1949 photo of Jackie Robinson receiving his Silver Bat for winning the National League batting title, embellished with a heartfelt inscription to “Jeff,” adds a personal touch to the sports memorabilia. Another compelling image from 1957 showcases Robinson clearing out his locker at Ebbets Field upon retiring from baseball, offering a glimpse into a pivotal moment in sports history.
The auction further highlights a photo believed to be the original image used for Willie Mays’ 1952 Topps card, featuring Mays’ signature from the 1990s, blending classic sports photography with the allure of autographed memorabilia.
With over 150 vintage images in the online catalog, the auction transcends eras, offering a diverse selection of sports history. A notable inclusion is a photo from the 1919 World Series, capturing Black Sox pitcher Eddie Cicotte and Reds’ starter Dutch Reuther engaging in a handshake before a game at Redland Field in Cincinnati. This historic image, complete with original paper caption and stamps on the back, is poised to attract bids starting at $8,000, appealing to collectors with a penchant for baseball nostalgia.
The auction also features rookie photos of sports legends such as Hank Aaron (1954), Jack Nicklaus (1962), and Pete Maravich (1970), alongside various images immortalizing the likes of Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and other pre-war sports icons. The convergence of iconic athletes and vintage photography creates a compelling narrative of sports heritage, inviting both collectors and enthusiasts to partake in preserving these moments in sporting history.
Running until June 13, the Icons Photography Auction offers a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of sports history encapsulated in these autographed vintage photos. Whether seeking a prized addition to a sports memorabilia collection or a nostalgic connection to sporting legends, this auction presents a gateway to reliving the glory of bygone eras in athletics.
