At a recent Goldin Co. auction, a 1965 original Type 1 photo of Joe Namath, famously used for his iconic rookie card, fetched an impressive $197,640. This sale not only set a new record for Type 1 football photos but also spotlighted the enduring allure of Namath’s legacy in sports memorabilia.
The 1965 photo is integral to the creation of the Topps Namath rookie card, which stands as one of the most sought-after football cards in the collecting world. Its high sale price at the November Elite Auction underscores its significant value in the realm of sports collectibles.
Along with the record-breaking Namath photo, the Goldin Co. auction featured several other notable items. A 1967 Muhammad Ali/Wilt Chamberlain dual-signed Type 1 photo, capturing the two sports legends during a promotional appearance for the “Wide World of Sports” fight, sold for $17,080. Additionally, a Michael Jordan 1984-85 rookie year signed Type 1 photo garnered the same price of $17,080.
One of the standout pieces in the auction was a 1994 Tiger Woods Type 1 photo, marking the year he graduated high school and became the youngest U.S. Amateur Championship winner. This photo went for $7,595, further emphasizing the enduring popularity of sports photography and memorabilia.
Among the other remarkable Type 1 photos in the auction was a Michael Jordan 1988 Playoffs photo by the New York Times. This photo commemorated the first time Jordan scored back-to-back 50 point games in NBA playoff history and sold for $6,100. Another noteworthy item was a rare 1983 George Brett “Pine Tar Game” photo, which depicts Brett being restrained from attacking the home-plate umpire with his deemed illegal bat. This photo fetched $4,574 at the auction. Lastly, a 1985 Mike Tyson Sports Illustrated shoot photo, capturing Tyson in trainer Cus D’Amato’s Catskills gym, was auctioned for $3,660.
The sales at Goldin Co. not only highlight the rich history of sports photography but also the enduring fascination with sports memorabilia. These photographs capture iconic moments and renowned figures that have defined various sports eras. Collectors and enthusiasts continue to invest significant sums in these artifacts, showcasing the timeless allure of sports nostalgia.
In conclusion, the $197,640 sale price of Joe Namath’s 1965 rookie card photo at the Goldin Co. auction exemplifies the enduring appeal of Namath’s legacy in sports memorabilia. The auction also featured several other significant sports photographs, further emphasizing the ongoing fascination with sports history and collectibles. These sales highlight the rich heritage of sports photography and the continued interest in preserving these iconic moments and figures for future generations.
