Time-travelers and treasure hunters, gather around! The vault of the late Harry W. O’Brien has been unlocked, and its contents are about to take the stage at the upcoming Paul McInnis Auction in North Hampton, NH. This is no ordinary auction; it’s a golden opportunity to own a piece of sports and comic book history, while supporting future generations through the University of New Hampshire Scholarship Fund.
Harry W. O’Brien, a collector extraordinaire from Manchester, NH, leaves behind a legacy crafted not only through his own endeavors but also through the historical passions of his father, Daniel, whose collections spanned periods of significant American history, including both World Wars. Now, these artifacts are ready to find new homes and continue their stories.
Imagine holding a T206 baseball card from the early 20th century, the edges worn by the eager hands of past enthusiasts who marveled at athletes like Christie Mathewson and Cy Young. Or perhaps envisage owning a complete set of 1911 T201 Mecca Double Folders, treasured not just for their rarity but the legendary figures they depict. These items aren’t just collectibles; they are vibrant echoes of the roaring cheers from stadiums long silent.
The auction will feature more than 300 T206 cards, including 48 featuring Hall of Famers. But the allure doesn’t stop there. For those with a penchant for the 1930s, imagine getting your hands on 80 Goudey cards with images of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig staring back, as if ready to play ball once more on a field of dreams crafted from aged cardstock.
Not to be overlooked, the assortment also includes Philadelphia Caramels cards and 19 4-in-1 Exhibit cards showcasing Ruth and Gehrig. The rarity continues with cards from the 1930s George C Miller issue, ensuring that every collector, whether novice or seasoned, finds something to enhance their trove.
Boxing enthusiasts can square off for 1910 T218 Mecca boxing cards featuring heavyweight champion Jack Johnson, adding a punch to an already knockout lineup. Moreover, lovers of tales and heroes are not left behind, as high-grade 1940s comics featuring Superman and Batman are poised to leap into a collector’s safekeeping, promising action-packed adventures from yellowed pages preserved through time.
For those who relish in the palpable pieces of the past, unique ephemera such as ticket stubs from historical sports events, including the inaugural game at Fenway Park in 1912, will be part of this historic bidding war. This offers not just a piece of memorabilia, but a ticket back to monumental moments in sports history.
Spanning over 500 lots, each item has been carefully assessed and cataloged, many receiving professional grading from SGC, ensuring bidders know the exact quality of the treasures they are vying to claim. Pre-bidding is already underway, turning up the anticipation as each lot awaits its fate when the live virtual webcast kicks off on Saturday, May 4, 2024.
Collectors and historians, mark your calendars. This auction is more than an opportunity to own a piece of history. It’s a chance to invest in the future through the University of New Hampshire Scholarship Fund, making this event not just an auction, but a scholarship in bidding form. Here’s hoping your bids are not only successful but also help pave the way for tomorrow’s learners, leaders, and collectors.
