A dream come true for baseball fanatics and collectors, Hindman’s Having a Ball Auction in Chicago is set to captivate enthusiasts with its vast selection of autographed baseballs. With over 570 lots available, the auction features an impressive assortment of signed baseballs, including esteemed players like Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Jackie Robinson, and Roberto Clemente, as well as other elusive signatures from baseball Hall of Famers.
James Smith, the Director of Sports Memorabilia at Hindman, expresses his excitement about the collection, remarking that it is one of the most extensive and thrilling assemblies that the auction house has ever presented.
One of the standout pieces in this auction is a baseball signed by the 1934 New York Yankees, notable for being Babe Ruth’s last year with the team. This extraordinary ball bears the autographs of Ruth, his renowned teammate Lou Gehrig, and other Hall of Famers such as Earle Combs and Tony Lazzeri. The ball also comes with authentication letters from PSA and Beckett Authentication Services, cementing its provenance and ensuring its value.
Another unique gem from the auction is a baseball from the deadball era, featuring the signatures of legendary figures such as Cy Young and Kennesaw “Mountain” Landis, the first baseball commissioner. The rarity of this ball is further enhanced by the autographs of Mrs. Christy Mathewson and Mrs. John J. McGraw, making it an extraordinary collector’s item. The ball is accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Beckett Authentication Services.
Among the other highlights of the auction is a high-grade 1955 Brooklyn Dodgers team-signed ball, immortalizing the championship-winning season. Additionally, collectors will find a 1957 Milwaukee Braves World Series championship ball, and a 1972 National League All-Star team ball signed by luminaries such as Roberto Clemente and Hank Aaron. The auction also offers signed team balls from the 1930 and 1932 Philadelphia Athletics, featuring legendary players like Jimmie Foxx and Lefty Grove.
Bidders can participate in the Having a Ball auction through Hindman’s website and Live Auctioneers. The auction is conducted in a timed online format, with the lots closing sequentially beginning at 9 AM CT on November 29. To ensure fair participation, the auction implements a unique system: if a bid is placed in the final minute before a lot’s scheduled closing time, the bidding period is extended by five minutes. This process allows all interested parties an equal chance to engage in the auction. It’s important to note that the extended bidding process only affects individual lots and does not influence the closing times of other items.
This auction at Hindman’s Having a Ball is set to enthrall baseball enthusiasts with its unparalleled collection of autographed baseballs. From the iconic signatures of Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb to the rare gems of the deadball era, collectors will find a treasure trove of historical artifacts, ensuring an exhilarating bidding experience.
