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#WorthPoint #Auctions #Collectibles #BabeRuth #BaseballCards #MickeyMantle #SportsMemorabilia #ArtAuction #DogPortraits #JackieRobinson #BeerCanCollecting #RareFinds #InvestmentGems #HistoricArtifacts #CollectorInsights
Will Seippel, CEO of WorthPoint, recently shared his insights on some of the most notable sales from WorthPoint Industry Partners’ auctions. These sales highlight key trends in the collectibles market and offer valuable lessons for buyers and sellers. Here’s a summary of his thoughts on these standout items, showcasing the diversity and depth of the collectibles industry.
Babe Ruth Dominates the Spotlight
Goldin’s auction was a treasure trove for baseball memorabilia enthusiasts, with Babe Ruth-related items taking center stage. The top lot was a 1916 M101-5 Babe Ruth rookie card, which fetched $244,000 despite being graded a PSA 1.5 due to its creases and wear. This card, depicting Ruth during his early days with the Boston Red Sox, is a rare and iconic piece of baseball history. Its value lies in its scarcity and historical significance, making it a must-have for serious collectors.
The second-highest seller was a 1915 photo postcard featuring the Boston Red Sox team, including a young Babe Ruth. Graded PSA 5, it sold for $207,400. This postcard captures Ruth during his rookie year, offering a glimpse into the early career of the legendary player. With only a few copies in existence, it’s a rare find that has seen its value soar over time.
Mickey Mantle’s Enduring Appeal
The 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card, graded PSA 6, rounded out the notable sales at Goldin’s, selling for $191,540. This card is considered the “Holy Grail” of post-World War II sports cards, and its clean, well-centered condition made it a standout piece. The sale reflects the growing demand for high-quality Mantle cards, with similar examples frequently breaking the $200,000 mark in recent years.
Dog Portraits: A Niche Market with Historical Charm
Freeman’s Hindman auction showcased the enduring appeal of dog portraiture, with four of their top five lots featuring paintings of dogs. The highest-selling piece was a painting of circus dogs by Lilian Cheviot, which fetched $21,760. Other notable works included a Scottish Terrier portrait by Sir Edward Henry Landseer from 1822. These sales highlight the historical significance of dog portraiture, which was a popular way for the British aristocracy to immortalize their pets before the advent of photography.
Jackie Robinson: A Piece of History at a Bargain
At Lion and Unicorn, a Jackie Robinson signed Dodgers vs. Cardinals scorecard from 1947 sold for a surprisingly low $625. While the signature was in pencil, unauthenticated at the time of sale, and the scorecard showed some wear, it remains a valuable piece of history. Robinson’s signature on a scorecard from a pivotal game in baseball’s integration era makes it a worthwhile addition to any collection, especially at such an accessible price.
Beer Can Collecting: A Unique Passion
Morean’s auction featured a rare London Tavern Ale Cone Top can from the 1930s, which sold for $11,970. In excellent condition with minimal wear, this can is a standout in the beer can collecting world. Its rarity and high-grade quality make it a prized find for collectors, demonstrating the niche but passionate market for vintage beer cans.
Key Takeaways
These sales underscore the diversity and depth of the collectibles market, from iconic sports memorabilia to niche items like dog portraits and beer cans. Will Seippel’s insights highlight the importance of understanding the historical significance, rarity, and condition of items when buying and selling. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer, these examples offer valuable lessons in navigating the collectibles market with confidence. WorthPoint’s ability to track and analyze such a vast array of items makes it an invaluable resource for collectors and dealers alike.
