American Greats: Vintage Sports and Hollywood from the Dr. G.B. Espy Collection

On 22 October 22, Christie’s and Hunt Auctions are proud to present American Greats: Vintage Sports and Hollywood from the Dr G.B. Espy Collection, a celebration of sports and entertainment memorabilia. At the heart of the sale is an exceptional Lou Gehrig jersey, worn in his final game as a Yankee before retiring due to ALS.

Painstakingly collected over decades, Dr Espy’s collection represents a slice of American popular culture, filled with artifacts from heroes across eras. Important items from Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson, ‘Shoeless’ Joe Jackson and Ty Cobb sit alongside iconic pieces from the personal collections of Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Clark Gable, Katharine Hepburn and Buddy Holly. Comprised of both live and online auctions, with estimates starting at US$100, this is a unique opportunity to acquire stories that have shaped culture, fame and America’s favorite pastime.

Dr Goodman Basil ‘G. B.’ Espy began his lifetime of collecting early, exploring his mother’s antique store. An avid athlete and sports lover, he initially collected college football memorabilia before expanding to other sports. Beyond building his extensive collection, Dr Espy was a respected physician and humanitarian who traveled the globe on medical missions. An Atlanta native, the collection is rich with material from the Atlanta Braves, University of Georgia, and Georgia Tech.

Highlights from the collection will be on view at the National Sports Collectors Convention in Chicago, IL, beginning 30 July and closing 3 August.