At the recent Goldin Co. auction, collectors and sports enthusiasts witnessed a historic moment as a 1965 Original Type 1 Photo of Joe Namath, famously used for his iconic rookie card, fetched an impressive $197,640. This sale not only set a new record for Type 1 football photos but also highlighted the enduring allure of Namath’s legacy in the world of sports memorabilia.
The 1965 photo, integral to the creation of the Topps Namath rookie card, stands as one of the most sought-after football cards in the collecting world. Its high sale price at the November Elite Auction underscores its significant value in the realm of sports collectibles. Collectors and fans alike recognize the importance and significance of this piece of memorabilia in the history of the sport.
The auction at Goldin Co. featured several other notable items that garnered attention and high bids from passionate collectors:
1. 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 an impressive $17,080. This photo represents a rare moment of collaboration and brings together two iconic figures in their respective sports.
2. A Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo also fetched $17,080. Jordan’s impact and influence on basketball are unparalleled, making anything associated with his early career highly valuable and sought after by collectors.
3. A 1994 Tiger Woods Type 1 photo, marking the year he graduated high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner, went under the hammer for $7,595. This photo captures a significant milestone in Woods’ career and symbolizes his rise to greatness in the world of golf.
Among other remarkable Type 1 photos in the auction, collectors had the chance to bid on:
1. A Michael Jordan 1988 Playoffs Type 1 photo by the New York Times, commemorating the first time Jordan scored back-to-back 50 point games in NBA playoff history. This rare piece of history sold for $6,100, highlighting the impact Jordan had on the game and his ability to deliver phenomenal performances in crucial moments.
2. A rare 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” Type 1 photo, which depicts Brett being restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire with his deemed illegal bat. This iconic and controversial moment in baseball history captivated fans and collectors, resulting in a final bid of $4,574.
3. A 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated Shoot Type 1 photo, capturing Tyson in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym. This photo offers a glimpse into the early days of Tyson’s career and fetched a respectable $3,660.
The sales at Goldin Co. not only showcase the rich history of sports photography but also highlight the enduring fascination and value associated with sports memorabilia. These items encapsulate key moments and figures that have defined various sports eras, continuing to captivate collectors and fans alike. As the demand for sports collectibles continues to grow, these auctions serve as platforms for enthusiasts to own and treasure a piece of sporting history.