15 Iconic Sports Photos You’ll Want Signed and Framed
There are moments in sports that feel like pure magic from the very second they happen. They freeze an athlete’s greatest achievement in time for all to admire. Framed and signed, they become more than just pictures, they become part of your personal collection. Each one brings back the energy and thrill of the game. Whether it is from a championship stage or a historic match, the image will spark memories every time you see it. Take your pick and let the passion of sports live on your wall.
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Jesse Owens’ Salute
The image of Jesse Owens giving a respectful salute at the 1936 Berlin Olympics is one of the most important in sports history. Owens had just won a gold medal, defying Adolf Hitler’s ideology of racial superiority. His performance and composure became a symbol of equality and athletic excellence. This photograph is sought after by collectors worldwide.
If sold today, an original signed print could bring around $40,000. The value reflects both its rarity and its deep historical meaning. Memorabilia from this Olympics remains highly collectible due to the political climate of the time. This image represents courage and dignity under immense pressure.
Ali Standing over Liston
Taken during the May 25, 1965 rematch between Muhammad Ali and Sonny Liston, this photo shows Ali towering over his fallen opponent. The knockout came in the first round, sparking debates about the legitimacy of the punch. The image perfectly captures Ali’s confidence and charisma. It remains one of the most famous boxing photos in history.
A signed original print from the event could be worth about $30,000. Boxing memorabilia collectors place high value on Ali’s career highlights. This moment is remembered as a defining symbol of his dominance in the ring. The image blends sports drama with personality in a single frame.
Hogan vs. Andre
The WrestleMania III showdown between Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant on March 29, 1987 gave wrestling one of its most famous images. Hogan lifted the 520-pound Andre in a body slam, an act that stunned fans worldwide. The match drew a massive live audience and set a wrestling attendance record. The photo captures the exact moment of the slam.
A signed version by both wrestlers could be valued at around $8,000 today. Wrestling fans view it as a defining spectacle of the 1980s. Memorabilia from this event remains popular with both sports and entertainment collectors. The image symbolizes one of wrestling’s most talked-about moments.
Michael Jordan’s Last Shot
This iconic picture shows Michael Jordan hitting the game-winning shot for the Chicago Bulls in Game 6 of the 1998 NBA Finals. The shot over Bryon Russell secured the Bulls’ sixth championship. It was Jordan’s final play for the team before his second retirement. The moment is celebrated as the perfect ending to his Bulls career.
A signed and authenticated print could reach values of about $25,000. It holds significance for basketball fans and collectors of championship memorabilia. The image freezes the tension and poise of the final seconds. It is still used to define Jordan’s legacy as one of the greatest players in history.
The Hand of God
This photo was taken during the 1986 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal between Argentina and England. Diego Maradona scored a goal using his hand, which the referees allowed to stand. Maradona later called it the Hand of God, making it one of football’s most talked-about moments. The image captures Maradona mid-action with the ball heading toward the net.
An original signed photo could be worth about $20,000 today. Its value comes from both its controversy and its importance in football history. Collectors prize it as a rare piece of sports drama. The photograph blends skill, audacity, and history in one frame.
Secretariat Makes History
This photo captures Secretariat’s win at the Belmont Stakes on June 9, 1973. The horse crossed the finish line 31 lengths ahead, securing the Triple Crown. The moment is widely considered one of the greatest performances in horse racing. Fans remember the sheer dominance displayed in that race.
A signed print by jockey Ron Turcotte could sell for about $7,500. Secretariat’s memorabilia is rare and treasured by racing enthusiasts. The image is both a celebration of athletic ability and a piece of racing history. It continues to be a favorite for collectors of sports photography.
Jerry West Becomes the NBA’s Logo
This famous silhouette came from a 1969 photo of Jerry West in action. Photographer Wen Roberts captured West driving to the basket during a game for the Los Angeles Lakers. The image became the basis for the NBA’s official logo. West himself never publicly embraced the association, but it became iconic worldwide.
A signed print of the original action shot could be valued at around $10,000. Basketball historians view it as a symbol of the league’s growth in the late 1960s. The image holds cultural weight far beyond West’s playing career. Its simplicity helped it remain timeless for decades.
Bobby Orr’s Famous Dive
On May 10, 1970, Bobby Orr scored the Stanley Cup-winning goal for the Boston Bruins. The photo shows Orr flying through the air after being tripped right after scoring. It became the defining image of his career and a symbol of NHL glory. The Bruins won their first Cup in 29 years that night.
A signed and authenticated print could fetch around $12,000. Hockey fans view it as one of the sport’s most celebrated images. The photo’s angle and timing make it a true sports classic. It remains one of the most reproduced hockey photographs in history.
Tyson Takes a Bite Out of Holyfield
On June 28, 1997, during a heavyweight rematch, Mike Tyson bit Evander Holyfield’s ear. The shocking act happened in the third round and resulted in Tyson’s disqualification. The photograph shows the exact moment of contact. It became one of the most infamous events in boxing history.
A signed photo by either boxer could bring about $4,000 in today’s market. It is a heavily collected piece of boxing memorabilia. Fans see it as a reminder of Tyson’s unpredictable career. The image blends high-stakes competition with a moment of chaos.
Charlie Hustle Goes Head First
Pete Rose’s headfirst slide is one of baseball’s most memorable action shots. Known for his aggressive play, Rose often slid this way to reach bases. The photo captures his determination and competitive energy. It is a visual representation of his Charlie Hustle nickname.
A signed print could be valued at about $3,500. Rose memorabilia remains popular despite his Hall of Fame ban. The image connects fans to a gritty style of baseball. Collectors appreciate the raw athleticism displayed in the shot.
The Cleveland Summit
In June 1967, top Black athletes gathered in Cleveland to support Muhammad Ali’s refusal to be drafted. Figures like Jim Brown, Bill Russell, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar sat beside Ali in solidarity. The photo became a symbol of athlete activism during the civil rights era. It showed sports stars uniting for a cause beyond the game.
An original print signed by any of the attendees could be worth around $15,000. Collectors value it for its social and historical weight. The image remains a reminder of athletes using their platforms for change. It is one of the most important group photos in sports history.
Smith, the Wizard of Oz
This shot of Ozzie Smith leaping to catch a ball captures his defensive skill for the St. Louis Cardinals. Known as The Wizard of Oz, Smith won 13 Gold Gloves. The image shows his agility and athleticism in midair. It is a visual example of his defensive reputation.
A signed copy could sell for about $2,500. Baseball fans treasure images of players in their signature moves. The photo stands out for its timing and difficulty of play. It remains a fan favorite among Cardinals supporters.
The Basket Catch
Willie Mays’ over-the-shoulder catch during the 1954 World Series is one of baseball’s greatest defensive plays. The photograph shows Mays sprinting toward the fence before making the catch. The play helped the New York Giants secure a key win in the series. It demonstrated both speed and focus under pressure.
A signed original photo could be valued at $18,000. It is considered one of baseball’s most celebrated moments. Collectors prize it for its rarity and historical significance. The image is instantly recognizable even to casual fans.
Usain Bolt Looking Back
At the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Usain Bolt glanced back at his competitors before finishing the 100-meter sprint. The image shows his confidence as he broke the world record. It quickly became one of track and field’s most recognizable photos. Fans remember it as a display of dominance.
A signed print could sell for around $3,000. Track memorabilia from Olympic record-setters is highly desirable. The photo blends speed with personality in a single frame. It continues to be shared widely in sports media.
The Helmet Catch
David Tyree’s helmet catch in Super Bowl XLII stunned football fans. The photo shows Tyree pinning the ball against his helmet while falling backward. The play helped the New York Giants upset the undefeated New England Patriots. It is considered one of the greatest plays in NFL history.
A signed photo could be worth around $2,500. Super Bowl memorabilia often holds strong collector interest. This image represents both skill and clutch timing. It is remembered as the defining moment of the game.
Sports photography has the power to freeze unforgettable moments in time. Each of these images tells a unique story that continues to inspire fans and collectors alike. Whether it is a display of skill, emotion, or historic achievement, these photos hold value far beyond the game. Adding signed and framed pieces to a collection can be both a personal treasure and a smart investment. Let these iconic sports images bring the spirit of competition and history into your space.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.