In a thrilling convergence of sports history and philanthropy, the Paul McInnis Auction house in North Hampton, New Hampshire, is gearing up for an event that’s bound to draw the eye of collectors and enthusiasts across the nation. The auction block will soon feature the Harry W. O’Brien Collection—an eclectic mix of pre-war baseball memorabilia, which the late O’Brien assembled keenly over the years with his father, Daniel. The cherry on top? All proceeds from this auction are earmarked for the University of New Hampshire Scholarship Fund, fueling future generations’ academic pursuits.
Harry W. O’Brien, a Manchester local, and his father began their collection in a time where baseball cards were tucked away in packs of cigarettes and bubblegum, rather than displayed in temperature-controlled showcases. This auction, rich with historical artifacts, is nothing short of a time capsule from the era before World War II when baseball legends like Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig ruled the diamond.
Diving into the specifics, the auction features an impressive lineup of memorabilia that would make any collector’s mouth water. Imagine getting your hands on 300 T206 cards, which notably include 48 Hall of Famers—legends like Christie Mathewson and Cy Young. The 1911 T201 Mecca Double Folders are there too, offering a full set that any collector would covet. For those enamored with the 1930s, 80 Goudey cards featuring none other than the Sultan of Swat and the Iron Horse are up for grabs. Amid these, you’ll find a variety of Philadelphia Caramels cards and 19 4-in-1 Exhibit cards showcasing Ruth and Gehrig, not to mention the elusive 1930s George C Miller issue cards.
But it’s not all baseball. The auction also casts a wider net, capturing the interest of collectors with different tastes. Got a soft spot for the sweet science? Then the 1910 T218 Mecca boxing cards, featuring the legendary heavyweight Jack Johnson, might jolt your bidding paddle into action. Additionally, the collection extends into the realm of entertainment with a rich assortment of vintage non-sports cards.
The condition of these relics? Impeccable. Many of the items on auction have been professionally graded by SGC and will be presented either individually or in lots, tailored to appeal to a broad swath of collectors. For the comic enthusiasts, the collection boasts high-grade 1940s comics, with covers featuring iconic figures like Superman and Batman—heroes who inspire just as many exciting tales as the sports legends upon the cards they accompany.
Paul McInnis himself has expressed enthusiasm about the unique nature of this auction. The items being sold are not only remarkable due to their rarity but also because of their pristine condition and the stories they enshrine. Adding to the grandeur, this auction offers memorabilia from pivotal moments in sports history such as rare ticket stubs from the inaugural game at Fenway Park back in 1912—an item that alone could send ripples of excitement through the heart of any Red Sox fan.
For those looking to partake in this celebration of history, heritage, and humanitarian aid, the auction offers over 500 lots, assuring that attendees will find something that catches their eye or kindles their nostalgia. Pre-bidding is currently open for those eager to get an early start, but the highlight promises to be the live virtual webcast scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 11:00 AM.
Bringing forth a collection as rich and varied as Harry W. O’Brien’s requires more than just an interest in the sale; it demands a reverence for the game’s history and an appreciation for the power of education. This auction isn’t just about memories encased in cardboard—it’s about building futures through the University of New Hampshire Scholarship Fund, making each bid a swing for the fences in more ways than one. Whether you collect cards, cherish old comics, or simply support the progression through education, this event is where passion meets purpose.
