Heritage Auctions has recently unveiled a mesmerizing collection of autographed vintage sports photographs in its Icons Photography Auction. Among the treasures up for grabs is an enchanting 1948 photo of basketball luminary George Mikan, perfectly mirroring his iconic 1948 Bowman rookie card. Measuring 8×10, this Type 1 photograph beautifully captures Mikan in action, enhanced by his signature in vibrant blue ink, with an estimated value surpassing $20,000.
The allure of signed vintage photos doesn’t stop there. A snapshot from the late 1940s features Cleveland Browns legend Otto Graham, reminiscent of his 1950 Bowman Football rookie card, complete with his distinctive autograph. Similarly, a signed photo of Jackie Robinson from 1949 immortalizes the moment he received his Silver Bat for clinching the National League batting title in the year he was crowned MVP. This Type I photograph, personalized to “Jeff,” holds significant historical value.
Another poignant image in the auction portrays Robinson in 1957 as he cleaned out his locker at Ebbets Field upon bidding adieu to his baseball career. The composition includes his Dodgers cap, home jersey, fielder’s glove, cleats, and equipment bag, as well as two bats—one belonging to Gil Hodges. Anticipated to command bids in excess of $10,000, this piece encapsulates a poignant moment in sports history.
The lineup also features a photograph believed to be the original image used for Willie Mays’ 1952 Topps card, complete with Mays’ autograph on the front, presumed to have been signed during the 1990s.
The auction catalogue is teeming with over 150 vintage images, some dating back over a century. Noteworthy among these is a snapshot from the 1919 World Series capturing a handshake between the starting pitchers, Black Sox hurler Eddie Cicotte and Reds’ ace Dutch Reuther, before the fateful game at Redland Field in Cincinnati. This historic image, complete with its original paper caption and stamps on the back, is slated to commence bidding at $8,000.
Further highlights include rookie photos of sports legends such as Hank Aaron (1954), Jack Nicklaus (1962), and Pete Maravich (1970), alongside various captivating images of icons like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and other pre-war sports luminaries.
Running until June 13, this auction presents an unparalleled opportunity for collectors and sports enthusiasts to acquire a tangible piece of sporting heritage, immortalized through the lens of vintage photography.
