Collecting Across Centuries: Warhol, Washington, and Wizard of Oz Memorabilia

Collectors looking for an eclectic mix of historical memorabilia, pop culture icons, and investment-grade collectibles will find plenty to explore in Kristen Leigh Auctions Limited’s “Signatures of Historical Figures – Auction 2,” taking place March 27, 2026 on Bidsquare.
The sale spans several collecting categories, from presidential relics and vintage sports cards to Hollywood memorabilia and works by leading Pop Art figures. With material ranging from the 18th century through the modern era, the auction reflects how collectors increasingly seek items that connect culture, history, and visual art. Below are several standout lots worth watching.

Featured Auction Highlights

Andy Warhol lithograph, "John Wayne", Printers proof of 15
One of the most notable artworks in the sale is a printer’s proof lithograph by Andy Warhol depicting the legendary Western film star John Wayne.
Warhol’s work frequently explored the intersection of celebrity and mass media, transforming familiar public figures into bold graphic icons. While he is widely known for portraits of Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley, his depictions of classic American archetypes, such as Wayne, capture the mythology of Hollywood and the American West.
Printer’s proofs are especially intriguing to collectors because they exist outside the standard numbered edition. Often produced during the printing process to evaluate color and composition, these proofs can be rarer than the final edition prints themselves. For Pop Art collectors, works tied to both Warhol and an enduring cinematic icon like Wayne carry cross-category appeal.

Kristen Leigh Auctions Limited 
Signatures of Historical figures - Auction 2
March 27, 2026
Lot 275
Estimate: $26,666.67 - $32,000

1954 Topps Ernie Banks #94
Sports memorabilia collectors will recognize the significance of the 1954 Topps rookie card of Ernie Banks. Banks, affectionately nicknamed “Mr. Cub,” remains one of the most beloved figures in baseball history. A two-time National League MVP and Hall of Famer, Banks spent his entire career with the Chicago Cubs and became known for both his power hitting and his enthusiasm for the game.
The 1954 Topps issue is considered Banks’ most important rookie card and is a cornerstone piece for vintage baseball card collectors. Cards from the early Topps era are particularly sought after because they represent the formative years of modern baseball card collecting. Strong examples of Banks’ rookie card have consistently drawn attention from both nostalgic collectors and investors in the sports memorabilia market.

Kristen Leigh Auctions Limited 
Signatures of Historical figures - Auction 2
March 27, 2026
Lot 470
$20,000 - $22,666.67

George Washington Inaugural Button
Among the most historically significant objects in the auction is a George Washington inaugural button, associated with the inauguration of George Washington. These small yet powerful relics date to the nation’s earliest presidential ceremonies in 1789. Produced to commemorate Washington’s inauguration, the buttons were worn by supporters and attendees, serving both as patriotic symbols and early examples of American political memorabilia.
Authentic Washington inaugural buttons are highly prized because they connect collectors directly to the founding era of the United States. Surviving examples are scarce, and their historical importance places them among the most iconic pieces of early American political collecting.

Kristen Leigh Auctions Limited 
Signatures of Historical figures - Auction 2
March 27, 2026
Lot 143
$13,333.33 - $16,000

The Wizard of Oz title lobby card (MGM 1939)
Film memorabilia also plays a role in the auction with a title lobby card from the classic 1939 film The Wizard of Oz, produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.
Lobby cards were displayed in theater lobbies to promote upcoming films and typically feature vivid artwork or key scenes. Because they were produced for temporary promotional use, relatively few survived in excellent condition.
The Wizard of Oz remains one of the most beloved films in cinematic history, celebrated for its groundbreaking use of Technicolor, memorable music, and iconic performances. Original advertising material from the film, particularly title cards, has become increasingly desirable among movie memorabilia collectors.

Kristen Leigh Auctions Limited 
Signatures of Historical figures - Auction 2
March 27, 2026
Lot 1
$5,333.33 - $6,133.33

Collection of 1st Edition Harry Potter books signed by J.K. Rowling
Literary collectors and fans of modern fantasy will also be drawn to a collection of first edition Harry Potter books signed by J. K. Rowling.
Since the publication of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in 1997, Rowling’s series has become one of the most influential and commercially successful literary franchises in history. The books have captivated readers across generations and inspired a global cultural phenomenon that includes films, theme parks, and stage productions.
First edition copies of early Harry Potter titles, particularly those signed by Rowling, have become increasingly collectible in recent years. As the series’ cultural impact continues to grow, signed first editions represent an appealing crossover for collectors interested in literature, pop culture history, and modern publishing milestones.

Kristen Leigh Auctions Limited 
Signatures of Historical figures - Auction 2
March 27, 2026
Lot 179
$8,000 - $10,666.67

Beyond these highlights, the March 27 sale includes a wide array of material appealing to collectors across multiple categories. The catalog features signatures spanning the 19th century to the present day, vintage lobby cards and posters from the pre-1960 era, and works by major artists such as Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
Photography collectors will also find works by influential image-makers including Helmut Newton, Richard Avedon, and Bert Stern, while luxury accessories from brands such as Rolex and Tag Heuer round out the catalog.
With categories ranging from fine art and photography to sports cards, Hollywood memorabilia, literary collectibles, and historical artifacts, the auction illustrates the increasingly interdisciplinary nature of today’s collectibles market.

Collectors interested in exploring the full catalog can browse and bid in Kristen Leigh Auctions Limited’s “Signatures of Historical Figures – Auction 2,” live on Bidsquare.com.