The personal collection of Larry Lucchino, former Red Sox president and CEO, closed at Bonhams Skinner on Wednesday with smashing results.
Headlining the auction of more than 200 lots was the 2004 Red Sox World Series Commissioner's Trophy, Lucchino’s 2004 World Series ring and third base from the clinching game.
The 2004 season is considered one of the most historic in baseball history, with Boston ending an 86-year championship drought while breaking the “Curse of the Bambino." The Red Sox also became the first team to overcome a 3-0 series deficit after defeating the New York Yankees in the ALCS.
The 2004 Commissioner's Trophy sold for $165,600 while the 2004 ring reached $102,100.
The sale of Lucchino's ring tops previous sales for 2004 World Series rings, including the $69,000 paid for Johnny Pesky's ring in 2014 and the $33,460 paid for Jimmy Anderson's ring in 2012.
Lucchino served as Red Sox president and CEO from 2002-2015. Under his leadership, Boston won three World Series titles, tied for the most of any MLB franchise during that period (San Francisco Giants).
Lucchino died in April of congenital heart failure at age 78.
All proceeds from the auction went directly to The Lucchino Family Foundation.
“The iconic objects in Larry Lucchino’s collection reflect not only the rich history of the Red Sox, but also his unmatched personal impact on the franchise. It was truly a privilege to help share these incredible artifacts with fans and collectors alike,” said Robin Starr, General Manager of Bonhams Skinner, in a statement. “Larry’s legacy was also one of generosity and so we are thrilled that proceeds will benefit his foundation.”
Lucchino helped establish the Red Sox Foundation, the team's official charity, which has raised and reinvested more than $120 million into New England communities. Lucchino also chaired the Jimmy Fund for the last eight years, which has helped raise over $167 million for cancer treatment and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Lucchino was a three-time cancer survivor.
In total, the Curse-Breaker collection raised $740,000.
Matt Liberman is a reporter and video producer for cllct.