Key Deal Facts
This iconic original photograph of Willie Mays, taken by world famous photographer Wlliam Jacobellis circa 1951, was used to create Mays’ world famous 1951 Bowman Rookie Card.
Jacobellis was described in the following manner: “Truly, the crystal-clear focus, striking dark-light contrast, and picture-perfect composition are beyond belief and could only be the fine craftsmanship of a legend such as Jacobellis (1920-2001). Charter member of the National Press Photographers Association, Jacobellis enjoyed an illustrious 40-year career with the New York Journal American and the New York Post, plus captured some of the most famous Topps and Bowman card portraits.”
A Willie Mays 1951 Bowman PSA 9 Rookie Card is worth $650,000, according to PSA, sports collectibles leading grading agency. A PSA 9 is worth $85,000, according to PSA.
According to Heritage Auctions, “original photography has been trending up for the last few years, especially images used to create iconic cards.” In February 2021, photographs used to create Jackie Robinson’s 1948 Leaf and 1949 Bowman cards sold for $360,000 and $204,000.
PSA describes Mays’ 1951 Bowman rookie card in the following manner: "His only official rookie card [1951 Bowman] is the one that garners the most attention. Mays’ first Topps issue (1952) is also desirable, but it never surpassed the importance of his true rookie. When you consider the beauty of the artwork…it’s not surprising that the 1951 Bowman set remains one of the most coveted issues of all time.”
Authenticated by PSA/DNA, the leading authenticator and grading agency, as Authentic. Type I. Serial numbered 84143844.
The consignor is retaining $23,250 in equity in the offering.
