At a recent Goldin Co. auction, collectors and sports enthusiasts witnessed an impressive sale that emphasized the enduring allure of Joe Namath’s legacy in the world of sports memorabilia. A 1965 Original Type 1 Photo of Namath, famously used for his iconic rookie card, fetched a staggering $197,640, setting a new record for Type 1 football photos.
The 1965 photo holds a special place in the hearts of collectors, as it played an integral role in the creation of the highly sought-after Topps Namath rookie card. This card stands as one of the most coveted football cards in the collecting world, and the high sale price at the November Elite Auction only solidifies its significant value in the realm of sports collectibles.
While Namath’s rookie card photo stole the spotlight, Goldin Co.’s auction also featured several other notable items that captured the attention of bidders and enthusiasts alike. One such item was a 1967 Muhammad Ali/Wilt Chamberlain dual-signed Type 1 photo, capturing the two legendary figures during a promotional appearance for the “Wide World of Sports” fight. This extraordinary piece was sold for $17,080, highlighting the enduring popularity of both Ali and Chamberlain in the world of sports memorabilia.
Another standout item was a Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo, which fetched the same impressive price of $17,080. Jordan’s impact on basketball and his status as a global sports icon make his collectibles highly sought-after, especially those from his early years in the NBA.
The auction also featured a 1994 Tiger Woods Type 1 photo, marking the year he graduated high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner. This momentous piece went for $7,595, showcasing the ongoing fascination with Woods and his achievements in golf.
Among the remarkable Type 1 photos up for auction was a Michael Jordan 1988 Playoffs Type 1 photo by the New York Times. This particular photo commemorates the first time Jordan scored back-to-back 50-point games in NBA playoff history, a significant milestone in his career. This captivating image sold for $6,100, highlighting the allure of Jordan’s excellence on the court.
Another rare gem was a 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” Type 1 photo, depicting Brett being restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire after his bat was deemed illegal due to excessive pine tar. This piece of baseball history fetched $4,574, demonstrating the fascination with unique and iconic moments in the sport.
Lastly, a 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated Shoot Type 1 photo took bidders back to Tyson’s early years as a boxing sensation. Capturing the young Tyson in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym, this photo reflects the determination and talent that propelled him to greatness. The photo was auctioned for $3,660, solidifying Tyson’s lasting impact on the sport.
The sales at Goldin Co. not only shined a spotlight on the rich history of sports photography but also showcased the enduring fascination with moments and figures that have defined various sports eras. From iconic rookies like Namath and Jordan to legendary figures like Ali and Tyson, these collectibles offer fans and collectors a tangible connection to the past, allowing them to own a piece of sports history.
