Lot 423

Willie Mays' Mets Travel Suitcase - Fantastic!

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Willie Mays' Mets Travel Suitcase - Fantastic!

Estimate: $600 - $700

Current Bid: $220

(2 Bids)

by University Archives
July 28, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
Live Auction
88 Danbury Road
Suite 2A
Wilton, CT, US 06897

Willie Mays
New York, NY, ca. 1972-1973
Willie Mays' Mets Travel Suitcase - Fantastic!
Relic

Willie Mays' New York Mets travel suitcase, used by the MLB HOFer during his final seasons with the New York Mets, circa 1972-1973. The hard-shell suitcase is finished in the distinctive Mets blue color scheme, with traces of orange visible throughout. The exterior prominently displays "Willie Mays" in applied white block lettering on one side, while the number "24," synonymous with Mays throughout his legendary career, appears on one edge. The suitcase exhibits substantial wear consistent with regular travel use and subsequent long-term storage, including scuffs, scratches, paint loss, and handling marks acquired over decades. The original handle is no longer present. Measures 20" x 26" x 10.5".

Accompanied by a certificate of provenance from the Willie Mays collection. Please note the signature on the official certificate is printed and not live ink.

Willie Mays (1931-2024) is widely regarded as one of the greatest all-around players in baseball history. A 24-time All-Star, two-time National League MVP, and member of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, Mays spent the majority of his storied career with the New York and San Francisco Giants, becoming one of the most iconic figures the game has ever known.

In May 1972, Mays was traded from the San Francisco Giants to the New York Mets, bringing his legendary career full circle by returning to New York, where he had first become a superstar. Though nearing retirement, Mays remained a beloved figure and veteran leader for the Mets during the 1972 and 1973 seasons. His final major league appearance came in the 1973 World Series, marking the conclusion of a remarkable twenty-two-year playing career.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 20" x 26" x 10.5"
  • Medium: Relic

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $299 $20
$300 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $2,999 $200
$3,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 + $5,000