The 22nd MLB All-Star Live Auction, staged by Hunt Auctions, concluded with a historic sale: a curated set of baseballs autographed by every U.S. president from Theodore Roosevelt to Donald Trump fetched a total of $3 million.
A Century‑Spanning Tribute
The collection, painstakingly assembled over three decades, comprises 21 distinct spheres, each bearing the signature of a different commander‑in‑chief. From ceremonial first‑pitch mementos to scarce exemplars, the lot illustrates how the nation’s highest office has intersected with America’s pastime.
Among the items, several baseballs stand out for their uniqueness: a sphere thrown in a presidential first pitch, a limited‑edition commemorative piece, and a rare early‑20th‑century example that predates the modern era of the sport.
The auction also spotlighted a 1980 Philadelphia Phillies jersey worn by reliever Tug McGraw, which realized $440,625. The garment, part of collector John Romganoli’s trove and later gifted by McGraw after the World Series triumph, added a personal narrative to the sale.
Other marquee pieces included a 1924 Negro League World Series photograph, a Ted Williams jersey, and autographed memorabilia from Babe Ruth, Michael Jordan, Honus Wagner and Ty Cobb, underscoring the breadth of baseball history that collectors prize.
Industry observers note that the transaction reflects a growing appetite for historically resonant artifacts, with presidential memorabilia commanding premium prices in today’s market. The sale reinforces the notion that the intersection of sports and political legacy continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.