Memory Lane Inc. has announced plans for its first-ever auction devoted exclusively to top quality football cards and memorabilia, closing the day before the Super Bowl. Memory Lane Incorporated will pay homage the long history of pro football with its first-ever Big Game Auction, devoted exclusively to the greats of the gridiron. Memory Lane will kick off the new event in January and wrap it up the day before the AFC and NFC champions square off to decide a winner in Super Bowl XLIV. From now until January 4th, Memory Lane is accepting consignments for the “Big Game Auction” and the company has already lined up two important high grade cards to highlight the sale including what many consider the ultimate piece of pigskin lore. One of the featured items will be an 1888 Goodwin’s Champions (N162) Henry Beecher—the very first football card ever made–graded PSA 8 (near mint-mint). The card represents the pride of Yale, who is pictured holding the oversized ball used prior to the 20th century.
Fast forward some 69 years to the era of crew cuts, cruising… and the Colts. Another high profile card offered in the Big Game Auction is a 1957 Topps Johnny Unitas rookie card graded PSA 9 (mint). Johnny U was just finding his way as a starting quarterback in the NFL, and this card showcases the start of what would be a Hall of Fame career. The card is the foundation of the landmark 1957 Topps set, which also holds the rookie cards of Bart Starr and Paul Hornung. The mint Unitas is one of less than ten christened with the “9” grade.
Dozens of other high grade Hall of Famers and rarities will dot the Big Game auction, which will close February 6th. Bidding will be available online at MemoryLaneInc.com and by phone (877-606-LANE).
