Among the offerings are a superb selection of typed letters signed from Bobby Jones, dating from 1945 to 1969. Lot 130, offered with an estimate of $30,000 - $50,000 is comprised of three letters from Jones to LA Times Reporter Jim Murray, discussing the topic of Charles Sifford, a prominent African American golfer, and his omission from play at the Masters. This lot is of great historical significance regarding race and golf and the South, and provides insightful first hand material directly from the co-founder of the Masters Tournament. Plus, Bobby Jones' signatures continue to rise in value.
There are eight more lots of Bobby Jones letters, including letters to other legends of the game like Walter Hagen and Cyril Tolley. If this weren't enough to entice you to view the entire catalog of 192 select lots of golf books & memorabilia Online Catalog of Fine Golf Books & Memorabilia, Including Bobby Jones Letters let me further tempt you...
There are 45 lots of hickory and other vintage golf clubs to choose from, with bidding starting anywhere from $100 to $5,000. These clubs range from a Hugh Phil c.1840 long nosed splice neck play club Lot 36: Hugh Philp long nosed play club with an estimate of $10,000 - $15,000
There will also be one feathery golf ball circa 1830 for sale. These delicate and laborious golf balls seldom survive. This example can be purchased this September, with an estimate of $4,000 - 6,000.
There is also an extensive library to be offered of works on golf course architecture, including this scarce little book on hazards Lot 4: Hazards with an estimate of $6,000 - 9,000.
Plus a nice selection of some of the most sought-after titles on golf from the 19th and 20th centuries. There are also collectibles such as silver flasks, a trophy, a few programs (including one signed by several golfers), booklets, ceramics, and more to choose from. One my favorites is this architectural map of De Soto Heights Golf Course in Gainesville, GA designed and signed by Donald Ross. Offered with an estimate of $2,000 - 3,000. Lot 169: Map of De Soto Golf Course - one of two similar, signed plans to be offered. Also, see Lot 170.
I also love this mug (one of three lots of ceramics) from Doulton Lambeth Lot 10: Doulton Lambeth
If you are in the Chicago area on the weekend of September 17th - 19th, I'd encourage you to attend the 45th Annual Golf Collectors' Society Meeting & Trade Show. There you'll find unusual and unique people (and collectibles!) to buy and share. If you have any questions about the auction hosted by PBA Galleries on Thursday September 17th at 5pm Central Time contact PBA Galleries at (415) 989-2665 or via email pba@pbagalleries.com.
