Fall Premier Auction 2015
Wed, Nov 18, 2015 09:00PM EST - Sun, Dec 6, 2015 12:00PM EST
Timed Auction
Lot 487
1920MUTOSCOPE MACHINE - FEATURING RARE "BABE RUTH" MOVING-PICTURES REEL
Unsold
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $200 | $25 |
| $500 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $3,000 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $2,000 |
| $30,000 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 | $25,000 |
| $500,000 | $50,000 |
| $1,000,000 | $100,000 |
| $1,500,000 | $150,000 |
ADDENDUM: Please note that the description for this item has been updated as of 11:45am on 12/1/15. The reel inside the machine is a reproduction not an original reel as previously stated.
To understand the impact of the Mutoscope on society in general and sports fans in particular one must consider that during the first third of the 20th Century there were only ten cities in which major league baseball was played. Aside from his rare appearances at barnstorming events attendance at games played in those few cities was the only way to see the legend that was Babe Ruth. Ruth had made a few movies and frequently was featured in the newsreels at the motion picture houses but the most accessible means for a fan to see Ruth in motion was through the "magic" of the Mutoscope. That magic was created by the placement of a giant flip book on a rotating wheel that when set in motion appeared to present a moving picture of the subject. During Ruth's career this was often the type of medium through which millions got their first glance at the Bambino and other subjects "in action." This is a vintage 1920s cast-iron mutoscope machine that has been beautifully refurbished to its former glory. The thin paper display sign in the cast-iron frame is not original but has been recreated in a style that perfectly matches those from the period. Insert a penny turn the crank and behold the marvel of its age. More than most collectibles this is a time machine that can transport one immediately to the past. Measures 15" x 12" x 68" in total.
Please Note: Due to the size and/or weight of this lot the cost of shipping may be substantial.
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