The Phillies Memorabilia Live Auction by Hunt Auctions took place last night at Citizens Bank Park. For the event, Hunt Auctions, which typically relies on consignments to fill their monthly online sales, partnered directly with the Phillies to offer an impressive selection of game-used equipment, autographs and stadium memorabilia.
I had the opportunity to preview a few of the auction items at the last Philly Show in March, and came away impressed with both the quality and diversity of the overall listing roster. The 211 lots presented a mix of low to midrange options for budgeted collectors, like me, as well as a few extremely rare pieces, like a 1915 World Series Program, or a turnstile from Connie Mack Stadium, for those with bigger pockets. A few of the highlights for me were a 1979 Pete Rose game-used uniform and the rosin bag used during Game Five of the 2009 World Series (note: I neither bid on, nor won either of these lots – just admired them from afar!).
The challenge as a collector at a sale of this size, is to find the pieces that will both fit your budget and hold their value long-term. As we have seen during the past few years, there is a strong market for sports memorabilia even in the worst economic conditions. Several pieces offered in the auction fit this criteria, and had true "bargain-potential"…here are a few good buys (from completed results):
Lot #3 – Phillies Lineup Card related to Jimmy Rollins' 2000th Hit
Pre-auction Estimate: $150-300
Final Bid: $125
Comments: The team sells standard, everyday lineup cards for $99. An additional $25 for a historically significant should be a no-brainer. One thing I always keep in mind is: Can I add future value? Getting this signed by J-Roll at the Phestival in May would easily double the value at resale.
Lot #110 – 1953 Connie Ryan game-used home jersey
Pre-auction Estimate: $2,000-3,000
Final Bid: $1,800
Comments: I know, I know…How can an $1,800 piece of cloth be classified as a "good buy"? But, the market for vintage uniforms is huge and this specific style Phillies jersey is highly desirable for collectors on a national level. The buyer of this jersey could easy recoupe his/her investment at any time.
Lot # 183 – 1993 Phillies Team Signed World Series Ball
Pre-auction Estimate: $300-500
Final Bid: $150
Comments: If you are trying to add a piece that will retain value, then buying a ball signed by one of the most collectible teams in Phillies history is a good bet.
All photos via Hunt Auctions.
