Rare Historical Photographs Highlight RMY Auctions' Latest Offering

RMY Auctions' May event presents an intriguing collection of photographs that capture pivotal moments in sports and entertainment history. Among the standout items is a significant black and white photograph from 1948, featuring baseball legends Satchel Paige and Bob Feller. This 7 x 8 ¾” image is particularly notable as it was used to produce Paige’s most valuable rookie card by Leaf in 1949, following his landmark transition from the Negro Leagues to Major League Baseball with Cleveland.

This auction also includes a rare Type I original photograph of Paige playing for the Kansas City Monarchs. Overall, the catalog features over 900 items, encompassing a century's worth of sports, news, and entertainment photography, many of which are being seen by the public for the first time. Notably, a 1910 silver gelatin image of a 23-year-old Jim Thorpe, photographed by George Grantham Bain, adds a historical depth to the collection.

Other highlighted lots include a never-before-offered 1905 PC782 Rotograph real photo postcard of Jack Chesbro, an early 20th-century baseball star, and a 1934 photograph of Carl Hubbell, which was used for his 1933-36 Diamond Stars baseball card. Additionally, the auction features several photographs of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, capturing moments like Ruth's first season with the Yankees in 1920 and a dramatic scene from the 1928 World Series.

For collectors of more modern memorabilia, there's a 1972 photo of Roberto Clemente making his 3000th career hit, and a historical capture of Wilt Chamberlain immediately after scoring his record-setting 100th point in a single game. The collection also includes vibrant shots from Michael Jordan's prime NBA years, taken by Chicago area photographers.

Unique and whimsical items, such as a photograph of Joe DiMaggio in the Yankees clubhouse and Ted Williams riding a zebra, add an eclectic flair to the auction. This diverse and rich collection provides a panoramic view of the 20th century, appealing to collectors of historical memorabilia and photography enthusiasts alike. The auction is currently underway, with the final day for bidding set for May 11.

RMY Auctions' May catalog offers an extensive collection of over 900 photographs spanning significant moments in 20th-century sports, news, and entertainment. Highlights include a photo used for Satchel Paige's rookie card and rare images of sports legends, with the auction culminating on May 11.