Auction Watch: Julius Erving Statue Replica

When bidding opened in Wheatland Auction Services, June 2015 Internet auction, one lot immediately stood out: Lot #100 - Julius Erving Replica Bronze Statue.  It drew my attention because of both its uniqueness - and hefty, $1,200 starting bid requirement.  As a regular visitor to the South Philadelphia sports complex, I have seen the original, 13-foot tall version of "Dr. J" many times, but never this miniature. 

In January 1989, the Erving statue was dedicated in front of a small gathering outside the Spectrum.  Sculptor Barney Bright had created the landmark piece depicting Dr, J taking flight with arm extended upward in honor of the Sixer star's retirement in 1987.  At the time, 300, 15.5" bronze replicas of the statue were made available for purchase at a price of $1,876 - with a portion of proceeds going to the Lupus Foundation.   

As reported by Phil Jasner the day after the ceremony, sales failed to meet expectations - with as few as 120 sold as of the unveiling.  In fact, the slow sales were a primary culprit in the near two-year wait to have it officially dedicated.  It seems the Sixers in association with statue-brokers Senter-Vitale Associates were holding out - hoping to sell about 100 more, but eventually caved in.  It is unknown (to me) how many of the remaining inventory was eventually sold/distributed.

While at first glance, the $1,200 opening bid may be surprising - understanding the back story and original retail price for the statue, it seems like a deal.  Wheatland estimates value to range between $2,500-3,500.  It will be an interesting story to follow as we near the auction close on June 14th.

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