At a recent Goldin Co. auction, collectors and sports enthusiasts gathered to bid on a range of sports memorabilia, with one item in particular stealing the spotlight. A 1965 original Type 1 photo of football legend Joe Namath, famously used for his iconic rookie card, fetched an impressive $197,640. Not only did this sale set a new record for Type 1 football photos, but it also highlighted the enduring allure of Namath’s legacy in the world of sports collectibles.
The 1965 photo holds immense significance as it played a crucial role in the creation of the highly coveted Topps Namath rookie card. With its scarcity and historical importance, the photo has long been sought after by collectors. Its high sale price at the November Elite Auction at Goldin Co. further solidified its position as one of the most sought-after football cards in the collecting world.
While Namath’s rookie card photo took center stage, the Goldin Co. auction also featured several other notable sports memorabilia items. A dual-signed Type 1 photo of boxing legend Muhammad Ali and basketball icon Wilt Chamberlain, captured during a promotional appearance for the “Wide World of Sports” fight in 1967, was sold for $17,080. Additionally, a Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo garnered the same price, showcasing the enduring popularity of the basketball superstar.
Among the other remarkable Type 1 photos up for auction was a 1994 Tiger Woods photo, marking the year he graduated high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner. This piece of history went under the hammer for $7,595, further highlighting the fascination with capturing significant moments in sports through photography.
The auction also featured a variety of other captivating Type 1 photos, each with its own unique story. 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, sold for $6,100, emphasizing the excitement and energy surrounding his legendary career. Another notable piece was a rare 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” Type 1 photo, capturing the infamous moment Brett was restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire with his deemed illegal bat, which fetched $4,574. Additionally, a 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated Shoot Type 1 photo, showcasing Tyson in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym, was auctioned for $3,660, adding to the collection of captivating sports photography.
The sales at Goldin Co. not only demonstrate the high value placed on sports photography and memorabilia but also highlight the rich history and enduring fascination with these cherished pieces. From iconic athletes like Joe Namath and Muhammad Ali to legendary moments in sports history, these collectibles serve as tangible reminders of the moments and figures that have shaped and defined various sports eras.
