Red Auerbach, the legendary coach behind the Boston Celtics’ unparalleled nine NBA championships in eleven years, has left an indelible mark on the basketball community. Now, fans and collectors have the extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of basketball history as items from Auerbach’s most successful season, along with other personal memorabilia from his Hall of Fame career, go up for auction by Heritage Auctions. This collection, consigned by the Auerbach family, features several standout items making their eagerly anticipated debut in the prestigious Platinum Night event.
One of the key highlights of the auction is Auerbach’s 1965 NBA championship ring, symbolizing the Celtics’ dominant season with a remarkable 62-18 record under his leadership. This ring, along with Auerbach’s esteemed Coach of the Year Award and his personal league championship trophy from the same season, showcases the pinnacle of his coaching achievements. Additionally, the auction features the ring Auerbach received as the general manager of the Celtics’ 1984 championship team, an item expected to be highly sought-after and potentially fetch upwards of $100,000.
The 1965 championship season holds tremendous significance not only for its exceptional record but also for Auerbach’s pioneering decision to start five African-American players, a historic first in NBA history. This groundbreaking team’s importance was further solidified when it was voted one of the NBA’s ten greatest teams of all time in 1996. The 1965 championship ring and trophy carry pre-sale estimates of $80,000 and $30,000, respectively, while the Coach of the Year award is also projected to attract significant interest from collectors and avid fans alike.
Among the more personal items up for auction is a 1940s Washington Capitols team jacket, believed to have been worn by Auerbach during his early coaching days and later signed by him. Additionally, the auction includes a unique collection of Auerbach’s smoking pipes, complete with a stand and humidor, adding a personal touch to the memorabilia being offered.
Other notable lots in the auction feature two signed 1960-61 team photos, a 1981 Celtics championship watch, autographed photos of Auerbach with Bill Russell, a 1960s photo of Bob Cousy signed to Auerbach, and various championship rings and jewelry pieces given to his wife and family.
This highly anticipated auction follows a previous sale of Auerbach items in 2011, continuing the opportunity for basketball enthusiasts and collectors to acquire a tangible piece of the sport’s history. Bidding for these rare and historic items will conclude on Friday, February 25, offering a unique chance for fans to celebrate the lasting legacy of one of the NBA’s most revered figures. Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to own a part of basketball history and pay homage to the iconic Red Auerbach and his incredible Celtics dynasty.
