Step up to the plate for a grand slam of an event as the Paul McInnis Auctioneer house prepares to host a thrilling auction that combines sports history, philanthropy, and a touch of old-school Americana. This isn’t just any auction; it’s a journey back in time through the world of pre-war baseball, with all proceeds aimed to brighten the future of students at the University of New Hampshire through a dedicated scholarship fund.
Nestled in the quaint town of North Hampton, NH, Paul McInnis Auctioneer is all set to swing into action with the Harry W. O’Brien Collection—an assemblage of memorabilia so rare it could make even the most stoic collector’s heart skip a beat. Harry W. O’Brien, a revered local of Manchester, NH, curated this collection which spans decades of baseball history. The genesis of this treasure trove traces back to his father, Daniel, who initially gathered these gems during his times of service in both World Wars.
Imagine laying your eyes on over 300 T206 cards, including depictions of baseball legends like Christie Mathewson and Cy Young. But the pièce de résistance might just be the complete set of 1911 T201 Mecca Double Folders and the 80 Goudey cards from the intoxicating era of the 1930s—with Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig looking right back at you from history’s glorious pages. And let’s not forget about the Philadelphia Caramels cards, the 19 4-in-1 Exhibit cards, or those elusive cards from the 1930s George C Miller issue—each a story waiting to be told.
Paul McInnis expressed excitement about the auction, pointing out not just the rarity and pristine condition of these items—many of which are making their first-ever trip to the auction block—but also their significant potential to contribute to a noble cause. Adding to the allure are the accompanying 1940s high-grade comics featuring caped crusaders like Superman and Batman, sure to draw interest from comic enthusiasts and collectors alike.
For those with a flair for the unique and historically significant, imagine owning a ticket stub from the inaugural game at Fenway Park in 1912—a relic from a pivotal moment in sports history. With over 500 lots up for grabs, this auction is a veritable treasure trove for aficionados of the game and the epoch that saw the rise of America’s favorite pastime.
The excitement builds as the pre-bidding opens, setting the stage for what promises to be a historic day. Collectors, enthusiasts, and philanthropists are warmly invited to participate in the live virtual webcast scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 11:00 AM on the Paul McInnis website. This event is not just an opportunity to own a piece of history—it’s a chance to make history, aiding the academic journeys of countless students through the funds raised.
As this auction approaches, the spirit of generosity aligns with the passion for collecting, creating a perfect storm where history’s treasures help pave the way for future generations. So, mark your calendars, ready your bids, and prepare to be a part of something truly spectacular. Whether you’re there for the nostalgia, the love of the game, or the joy of giving back, this auction promises something for everyone.
