Tucked away within RMY Auctions’ latest offerings is a treasure trove of historical gems: an incredible collection of over 900 photographs that encapsulate pivotal moments during the whirlwind that was the 20th century. The catalog brims with candid clicks and resonating frames of events and individuals who made their mark in sports, news, and entertainment.
A black and white photograph from 1948, showcasing the extraordinary baseball legends Satchel Paige and Bob Feller, is among the many sparkling nuggets in this river of history. Measuring at 7 x 8 ¾”, this image not only symbolizes a moment frozen in time but is noteworthy for becoming the base for Paige’s revered rookie card in 1949, marking his transition from the Negro Leagues to Major League Baseball in style.
Another hard-to-come-by gem is an original Type I photograph of Paige in action for the Kansas City Monarchs. But the trove does not stop here. It includes an impressive, in-depth assortment of sports, news, and entertainment photography from the last century, many of which have managed to successfully elude the public eye until now.
Then there’s the 1910 silver gelatin image of a youthful, 23-year-old Jim Thorpe, crafted by George Grantham Bain, which breathes a touch of historical depth into this extensive collection. The spotlight also shines on lots featuring a 1905 PC782 Rotograph real photo postcard of Jack Chesbro, a baseball superstar of the early 20th century, and a 1934 photograph of Carl Hubbell gracing his 1933-36 Diamond Stars baseball card.
If the charm of vintage baseball isn’t enough, the collection also boasts several frames of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig; sequences that narrate tales of Ruth’s debut season with the Yankees in 1920 and a thrilling encounter from the 1928 World Series.
More recent history narrators find their place in the lot, including a 1972 frame that captures Roberto Clemente achieving his 3000th career hit and a sensational image of Wilt Chamberlain, taken right after he landed his record-breaking 100th point in a single game.
Billboard memories of Michael Jordan’s prime NBA moments are also included in the collection, captured masterfully by lens experts from the Chicago area. The delightful assortment also peppers in some eccentric keepsakes like a photograph of Joe DiMaggio chilling in the Yankees clubhouse and an amusing image of Ted Williams riding high on zebra stripes.
This expansive, richly curated collection provides a panoramic 20th-century trip, captivating collectors of historical memorabilia and photography connoisseurs alike. The voyage through history is already in motion, with the final opportunity for bidding marked for May 11. So, step right up, history buffs and photo enthusiasts – an extraordinary journey awaits you!
