At a recent Goldin Co. auction, sports collectors and enthusiasts displayed their unwavering love for legendary athletes by placing record-breaking bids on coveted sports memorabilia. The highlight of the event was the sale of a 1965 original Type 1 photo of Joe Namath, famously used for his iconic rookie card, which fetched an impressive $197,640. This groundbreaking sale not only set a new record for Type 1 football photos but also shed light on the lasting impact of Namath’s legacy in the world of sports collectibles.
The 1965 photo, which played an integral role in the creation of Namath’s highly sought-after Topps rookie card, holds a special place in the hearts of avid collectors. This particular auction proved just how highly coveted this piece of football history truly is. With its substantial sale price at the November Elite Auction, this photo further solidified its significant value within the realm of sports collectibles.
While the Joe Namath photo stole the show, the Goldin Co. auction also featured numerous other notable items that garnered attention from the attending bidders:
– A 1967 Muhammad Ali/Wilt Chamberlain dual-signed Type 1 photo, capturing the two sports legends during a promotional appearance for the “Wide World of Sports” fight, fetched an impressive $17,080. This piece serves as a testament to the enduring allure of these two larger-than-life figures and their impact on sports history.
– A Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo, another highly sought-after item, also sold for $17,080. This image showcases the basketball icon at the beginning of his illustrious career, capturing the attention of collectors and fans alike.
– A 1994 Tiger Woods Type 1 photo, marking the year he graduated high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner, was also in the spotlight at the auction, eventually selling for $7,595. This piece encapsulates the early achievements and promising future of one of golf’s greatest talents.
Among the other notable Type 1 photos that garnered attention and impressive sale prices were:
– A Michael Jordan 1988 Playoffs Type 1 photo, captured by the New York Times, commemorating the first time Jordan scored back-to-back 50-point games in NBA playoff history. This extraordinary image fetched $6,100, a testament to the enduring popularity of Jordan and his remarkable accomplishments.
– A rare 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” Type 1 photo captured the unforgettable moment when Brett was restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire with his infamously “illegal” bat. This piece, full of historical significance, fetched an impressive $4,574.
– A 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated Shoot Type 1 photo, showcasing Tyson in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym, attracted significant interest and was sold for $3,660. This image captures a different side of the boxing legend during his rise to prominence.
The success of these sales at Goldin Co. highlights the rich history and enduring fascination with sports photography and memorabilia. These items not only serve as collectible treasures but also as cherished pieces that encapsulate defining moments and iconic figures from various sports eras. The record-breaking sale of Joe Namath’s rookie card photo, along with the attention garnered by other notable pieces, showcases the unyielding passion and enduring allure of sports collectibles and their ability to capture the essence of sports history.
