One of the nicest such examples in the world, according to the billion-dollar chain.
There’s no doubt Costco is the last place one would expect to find a coveted collector’s item, but the billion-dollar bulk goods store is now selling sports memorabilia. An autographed baseball signed by Babe Ruth just went up for $64,000 on the store’s website.
Spalding’s “Home Run Special” baseball, with a stamp of the Sultan of Swat himself, was available in limited quantities in the 1920s and is especially sought-after by baseball fans. Among everyday essentials, such as toilet paper and detergent, Costco is offering it with a letter of authenticity, claiming it’s one of the nicest examples available.
Previously, the Great Bambino’s vintage clothing and gear had been sold for six figures at auction. As a matter of fact, the most expensive piece of sports memorabilia ever sold was the New York Yankees jersey worn by the slugger, which achieved $5.64 million at auction. Costco’s listing is a steal compared to that.
In addition to Babe’s ball, Costco also offers 29 collectibles under the “Sports Memorabilia” section. One of the most expensive items on the site is Ty Cobb’s autographed bat, which is engraved: “With Best Wishes Sincerely-3/14/49.” It costs $160,000 and is among the most expensive items on the site, along with a bonkers engagement ring that costs $365,000.
Sports memorabilia has grown exponentially over the past decade, and Costco’s pivot into that market might prove a wise move. According to the Wall Street Journal, experts attribute this to the wealth of baby boomers, the entrance of millennials into the market, and a growing interest from foreigners. It may be worth adding a few baseball memorabilia items to your cart next time you need dog food or diapers since the market for baseball items is generally strongest.
