At a recent Goldin Co. auction, collectors and enthusiasts witnessed the power of sports memorabilia as a 1965 Original Type 1 Photo of Joe Namath fetched an impressive $197,640. This iconic photo, famously used for Namath’s rookie card, not only set a new record for Type 1 football photos but also showcased the everlasting appeal of Namath’s legacy in the world of sports collectibles.
The 1965 photo played a pivotal role in the creation of the highly sought-after Topps Namath rookie card, making it a prized possession for collectors. Its high sale price at the November Elite Auction at Goldin Co. serves as a testament to its significant value in the realm of sports memorabilia.
However, the auction featured more than just the Namath photo. Several other notable items caught the attention of bidders and achieved impressive sales:
– 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, was sold for $17,080.
– A Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo also garnered the same price of $17,080, highlighting Jordan’s enduring popularity in the collecting world.
– A 1994 Tiger Woods Type 1 photo, marking the year he graduated high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner, went for $7,595. This photo showcases the early milestones in Woods’ illustrious career.
Among other remarkable Type 1 photos in the auction, bidders had the opportunity to acquire pieces of sports history, including:
– A Michael Jordan 1988 Playoffs Type 1 photo by the New York Times, which commemorates the first time Jordan scored back-to-back 50 point games in NBA playoff history, sold for $6,100. This photo captures a defining moment in Jordan’s career.
– A rare 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” Type 1 photo, depicting Brett being restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire with his deemed illegal bat, fetched $4,574. This photo immortalizes a controversial incident in baseball history.
– A 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated Shoot Type 1 photo, capturing Tyson in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym, was auctioned for $3,660. This photo showcases Tyson’s training and preparation during his rise in the boxing world.
The sales at Goldin Co. shed light on the rich history and enduring fascination with sports photography and memorabilia. Moments and figures that have defined various sports eras continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike, showcasing the power and significance of sports collectibles in preserving and celebrating the legacy of iconic athletes.
In conclusion, the record-breaking sale of Joe Namath’s 1965 Rookie Card Photo at the Goldin Co. auction serves as a reminder of the ever-present allure of sports memorabilia. From rare photos capturing historic moments to cherished items associated with beloved athletes, sports collectibles continue to find a place in the hearts and collections of enthusiasts around the world.
