In a landmark event for collectors and sports history aficionados, Love of the Game Auctions (LOTG) has launched what stands as its grandest auction ever, with an offering of approximately 1,500 lots. The auction is anchored by a Babe Ruth game model bat from the 1918-1921 period, boasting a PSA GU 7 grade and a history of display at the Ruth Birthplace and Museum in Baltimore. Additionally, the sale features a 1950s bat used by Ted Williams, adding to the allure for collectors.
Al Crisafulli, LOTG's founder and auction director, highlighted the auction's breadth, marking it as a significant occasion with an expansive selection from the 19th century, diverse card types, prewar baseball collections, and premium vintage items spanning all sports categories. Among the unique items are 57 magic lantern slides by photographer Frank W. Smith, capturing the Cleveland Naps and a rare glimpse of Shoeless Joe Jackson, providing a unique snapshot of baseball history.
Card collectors will find treasures dating back to the 19th century and extending to pristine vintage cards. A notable inclusion is the T206 Ty Cobb with the Cobb Tobacco back, a rarity with fewer than two dozen known instances, making its second public appearance since 2009.
Additional highlights of the auction include:
- The only card of Josh Gibson from the 1950-51 Toleteros set, enhanced with a rare prize redemption overprint.
- Individual cards from the #4 ranked 1963 Topps Master Set on the PSA Set Registry, featuring high-grade examples such as Willie Stargell's rookie card, Mickey Mantle, and Pete Rose's rookie card.
- A 1925 Exhibits Champions Babe Ruth card graded PSA 4.
- An original 1920 Type 1 News Service photo of Babe Ruth, capturing his last moments in a Red Sox uniform.
- A rare 1954 Wilson Franks retail advertising display/uncut sheet, framed for presentation.