Michael Zagaris Collection Brings 49ers, Athletics and Rock History to Heritage Auctions

A collection of game-worn jerseys and original photographs from renowned sports and music photographer Michael Zagaris will be offered by Heritage Auctions later this month.

The 27-lot Michael Zagaris Collection will be included in Heritage’s Summer Platinum Night Sports Auction, scheduled for August 21 through August 23.

The collection includes jerseys connected to San Francisco 49ers legends Joe Montana, John Taylor, Ronnie Lott and Dwight Clark.

It also features Type 1 photographs of athletes, coaches and musicians photographed by Zagaris during his career. Among the subjects are Montana, 49ers head coach Bill Walsh, former Oakland Raiders coach John Madden and Raiders quarterback Ken Stabler.

Music collectors will find photographs of The Who and the Rolling Stones among the offerings.

A Type 1 photograph is a first-generation print produced directly from the original negative within approximately two years of the image being taken. Heritage said the early production and connection to the original negative make Type 1 photographs particularly desirable to serious collectors.

Zagaris became the Athletics’ team photographer in 1971 and began working as the 49ers’ team photographer in 1973.

His career has included more than 40 Super Bowls and 12 World Series. He also photographed major music acts including the Rolling Stones, The Who, the Grateful Dead, Tom Petty, The Clash and Blondie.

Zagaris said his goal was to document more than what happened during games. He wanted access to team buses, planes, locker rooms and other behind-the-scenes settings so he could preserve a broader historical record.

“I wanted to be at every game,” Zagaris said. “More than shooting, but also bearing witness, like you’re part of the game.”

Heritage Consignment Director Chris Nerat described Zagaris as one of the most renowned sports and cultural photographers and said his use of lighting, angles and access helped distinguish his work.

The Michael Zagaris Collection will be offered as part of Heritage Auctions’ Summer Platinum Night Sports Auction from August 21 through August 23.