Universal Rarities, LLC

About Us Dear Collector, Welcome to the Universal Rarities Auction Website and the inaugural Autographs, Collectibles and Memorabilia Auction! The concept for Universal Rarities began to form in my mind after I left my position as Director of Odyssey Auctions (now Heritage-Odyssey). I had often romanced the idea of starting my own auction company, but whenever I began to think through the challenge such a venture would entail I often found myself overwhelmed. From my experience in running auctions I knew that such an undertaking would require every bit of time, effort and ingenuity that I had…and then some. The idea always lurked in the back of my mind, and I would often talk about it with friends and colleagues, though I could never push myself to anything past the point of talk. Then one day a strange thing happened: My wife gave birth to my wonderful baby son, Trenton. From that day forward it was as if a rocket booster ignited my psyche; I was determined to take the auction concept to the next level. Just days after my son’s birth, I contacted my soon-to-be partner and long-time business colleague, Tom Riccio, and spoke with him about the auction concept we had talked about so many times before. But, unlike our prior conversations, I was ready to take the plunge. Tom, never one to hesitate at the prospect of opportunity, was on board for the adventure. Just like that, the dream turned into reality, and Universal Rarities was formed. The road to creating this auction wasn’t easy in the least bit. For just about every hurdle we overcame, there seemed to be another obstacle ready to emerge. And for every jubilant achievement there seemed to be a stinging disappointment. But now that we have arrived—and the blood, sweat and tears (and there were tears!) have been shed—we’re thrilled to present you this exceptional auction event. To our consignors who believed in our vision and gave us the opportunity to present such a fabulous auction offering, I sincerely thank you. And to our bidders and those of you who plan to participate in our sale, I thank you in advance for your patronage. Ultimately, it is you, the bidder, who will determine the success of this sale. You have my personal promise that the Universal Rarities staff will provide dedicated and detailed personal service throughout every step of the auction process. Without further delay, please, begin your journey through our auction; you’ll be educated, entertained and fascinated as you turn each page. I know you’ll find something you just can’t live without, and I wish you the best of luck as you join the bidding! Happy Collecting!