Goldin, a leading collectibles marketplace, announces a rare 1920 Type 1 photo of Babe Ruth from his first season with the New York Yankees. Ruth's 1920 photos are among his most valuable because they mark the birth of the Yankee dynasty; the start of Boston's notorious Curse of the Bambino; and the year that Babe became internationally famous. The iconic photo was also published on numerous baseball cards, advertisements and memorabilia items.
Goldin is also presenting the most valuable Type 2 photo ever to reach the auction block: Mickey Mantle's 1951 Bowman rookie card image. A Type 2 photo is produced from the original negative like a Type 1, except Type 2's were printed later. More than approximately 2 years after the picture was first taken, to be exact. The Mantle photo was captured in 1951 but was printed on photo paper from the slightly later 1956-59 period. The estimated value of a Type 1 example is $1 million. This Type 2 has the potential to reach $50,000.
This month, collectors also have the chance to own these other Type 1 original photos:
Type 1 original snapshot photo of André the Giant in 1973 at his Madison Square Garden debut. On March 26 of that year, André the Giant made his first-ever appearance in the world’s most famous arena, going up against his opponent, Buddy Wolfe, where André is photographed right after hoisting Wolfe up on the ropes.
Mickey Mantle on a fishing trip in 1957 that captures a young Mantle enjoying a quiet moment at sea on a famous Florida fishing trip during the Yankees' spring training. In this Type 1 photo by esteemed photographer Ozzie Sweet, collectors can see the baseball icon in a more casual setting, wearing a white shirt and khakis while holding an empty glass Coke bottle.
Card-used Type 1 action shot of Sandy Koufax in the 1963 World Series, published for the 1964 Topps Card #136 "Koufax Strikes Out 15."
Type 1 photographs are capturing the attention of collectors across the hobby. These first-generation prints made from the original negatives have soared in popularity in recent years, becoming increasingly valuable among collectors. Type 1 photos in Goldin’s July Elite Auction will be available for bidding through Saturday, August 3. Goldin has built a reputation as the trusted leader in trading cards, memorabilia and collectibles. Goldin is always actively accepting consignments for future auctions. To inquire about consigning items, email sell@goldin.com.
