Incredibly, Hunt Auctions' final online auction for 2014 is upon us! Check out some of the Phillies items up for bid in the December catalog...
Lot 589 - Jimmy Rollins Game-Used Helmet
What a cool piece! I don't typically go for the "one-game" stuff, but this helmet which was used during the Phillies Turn-Back-The-Clock promotional game on August 22, 2012. According to that day's box score J-Roll had one right handed at-bat that game (against Aroldis Champman - a pop-out in the 9th), and this helmet presumably was worn at that time. I am surprised to see bids up to $300 already, but then again, you do not see this style gear everyday...
Update: The news of Rollins' trade to the LA Dodgers late yesterday afternoon had little impact on the price of the helmet. It ended up selling for a final bid of $365. Still surprised at this price for a one-game helmet. Speaks to the attraction of nostalgia with these 1990s era uniforms.
Lot 877 - 2008 Phillies Starter Ball
I'm calling this a "starter ball" due to the fact it is missing some key contributors on the 2008 World Championship team, such as Chase Utley and Cole Hamels. It does however contain 17 signatures including Charlie Manuel, Jimmy Rollins, Ryan Howard and Shane Victorino - and some tougher ones like So Taguchi. As tends to happen, the price will jump later tonight, but at a current bid of $61 the ball could turn out to be a cost-efficient addition to your collection.
Update: I predicted a good deal on this ball in my original review - and at a $138 final bid, I think it qualifies. While it will still cost you some money to complete the project, IF Hamels and Utley are still around after this winter you have a great shot at getting them at the Phillies Phestival for "free."
Lot 68 - Connie Mack Stadium Seat
One of the auction's premier lots, this is of personal interest to me. If you remember, I recently won a seat in this style at auction. A recommendation for any collector is to be aware of comparable sales to help keep you grounded on what the current going rate is for your memorabilia. The seat for bid dates back to the stadium's opening and features the classic "ribbon-arm." It looks like it is in great shape, with no issues standing freely. A head-turner in any collection...
Update: This sale made me happy - ending at $800. An appropriate price point for a piece in this condition. I have no plans to sell my seat anytime soon - but, it is great to have a comp like this in case the need ever arises...