A curated selection of Red Auerbach's personal memorabilia, including his 1965 NBA championship ring and other significant items from his tenure with the Boston Celtics, is now available for auction, offering basketball enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of sports history.
Heritage Auctions has unveiled an exclusive collection of memorabilia from the legendary basketball coach Red Auerbach's storied career with the Boston Celtics. Directly consigned by the Auerbach family, this collection includes memorabilia from Auerbach's record-setting seasons and personal items that highlight his profound impact on the sport. The auction, part of the company's esteemed Platinum Night event, provides a rare glimpse into the career of the man who led the Celtics to nine NBA championships in eleven years.
Among the collection's highlights is Auerbach's 1965 NBA championship ring, a symbol of the Celtics' dominant 62-18 season and Auerbach's revolutionary coaching strategies, including his decision to start the first all African-American lineup in NBA history. This historic season culminated in a celebrated victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, further cementing the '65 Celtics as one of the NBA's greatest teams of all time. The ring, along with Auerbach's Coach of the Year Award and the personal championship trophy from that season, showcases the zenith of his coaching career. The 1984 championship ring, from Auerbach's time as general manager, is another marquee item, with expectations of fetching over $100,000.
Also featured in the auction is a 1940s Washington Capitols team jacket, a piece of Auerbach's early coaching wardrobe that was later autographed by him, and a distinctive collection of his smoking pipes, providing a personal touch to the memorabilia collection.
Additional items include autographed team photos from the 1960-61 season, a 1981 Celtics championship watch, and signed photographs of Auerbach with players like Bill Russell and Bob Cousy. The auction also extends to championship rings and jewelry presented to Auerbach's wife and family, highlighting the personal accolades and relationships behind his professional success.
This auction follows a previous offering of Auerbach memorabilia in 2011 and continues to allow collectors the opportunity to connect with basketball history. With bidding set to conclude on Friday, February 25, this auction offers fans and collectors a unique opportunity to celebrate the legacy of one of basketball's most influential figures through these intimate and historic pieces.