Auction December 17, 2025
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NEW YORK, NY -- Doyle's timed online auction of Rare Books, Autographs & Maps on December 17, 2025 offered a wide range of outstanding gift ideas for book lovers of all ages. Among the diverse offerings were printed and manuscript Americana, maps of all regions, early printing, fine bindings and library sets, fine printing and private press, travel and sport, science and technology, books on art and architecture, children’s and illustrated books, and English literature and American literature. Also featured were original autograph manuscripts and letters, illustration art and memorabilia.
Highlighting the sale was an extraordinary assemblage of signed documents and rare photographs relating to Negro League and related African American baseball that soared over its estimate of $600-800 to achieve an outstanding $9,600. Anchored by Percy Wilson’s signed 1923-24 contract with the Baltimore Black Sox--also signed by noted figures George Rossiter and Hall of Famer Pete Hill and bearing the team’s embossed seal--the group offered exceptional primary material relating to early Negro League professionalization. Also included were an earlier 1922 contract with the New Orleans Crescent Stars/Caulfield Ads, and a later signed 1933 Dixie League contract. The photographic material is equally compelling, including rare team images of the Caulfield Ads and an elusive Illinois Central Railroad Employees club, as well as a group of small-format photographs and clippings depicting African American athletes in baseball and football, with contemporary references to Wilson’s on-field performance.
Consignments are currently being accepted for future auctions. We invite you to contact us for complimentary auction estimates. Our Specialists are always available to discuss the sale of a single item or an entire collection.
