BREAKING NEWS: An auction of items from Willie Mays’ personal collection has just raised over $6.5 million to benefit his foundation, the Say Hey! Foundation. The two-day auction, held on September 28-29, 2023, saw a total of 944 lots sold, bringing in $6,569,958 (including buyer’s premium), according to Hunt Auctions.
This significant event not only showcases Mays’ legendary career but also underscores the impact of the proceeds, which will provide crucial education, training, and health services for youth, as per Mays’ wishes. “All proceeds from this auction will go to delivering education, training, and health services for youth through the Say Hey! Foundation,” Hunt Auctions confirmed earlier this year.
Among the standout items auctioned were Mays’ prestigious awards from his historic 1954 season. His MVP award fetched $458,250, while the Silver Slugger award sold for $246,750. Additionally, Mays’ World Series ring also commanded a high bid of $458,250.
Fans and collectors were particularly interested in Mays’ home uniform from the 1962 season, which was worn during that year’s All-Star Game and potentially the World Series, selling for $634,500. Further highlights included Mays’ 1965 MVP award, which realized $387,750, and the historic Babe Ruth “Sultan of Swat” award that went for $235,000.
The auction also featured Mays’ luxurious 1977 custom Stutz Blackhawk VI, which sold for $45,237.50. This unique vehicle included a “Built for Willie Mays” placard and signed documentation. Another remarkable item, Mays’ Presidential Medal of Freedom, awarded by President Barack Obama in 2015, garnered a winning bid of $64,625.
Hunt Auctions has announced that there will be another offering from the Mays Collection toward the end of 2025, with expectations of bringing in “an additional seven figures” from that auction.
As fans and collectors celebrate the legacy of one of baseball’s greatest icons, this auction not only highlights Mays’ remarkable achievements but also emphasizes the ongoing commitment to supporting youth through his foundation. Keep an eye on this developing story as more items are set to be auctioned in the future.
Stay tuned for updates on future auctions and the impact of the Say Hey! Foundation.
