A must-see collection of rugby books, programmes and memorabilia from New Zealand and around the world goes up for auction at Webb's, next week.
Over 1,000 items amassed by a life-long rugby fan, Des Johnson (died 1995) are currently on view. Des Johnson was a well-known and liked in the rugby world. He was an avid player in his youth, but later turned to less-injurious refereeing.
His collection features: hundreds of books, most in excellent condition, and many bearing the signatures and inscriptions of authors and players.
Among the sale's highlight is a rare and desirable set of the Rugby Almanac of New Zealand.
Also auctioning are thousands of programmes, including various rare and collectable early 20th century programmes; vintage team photographs; a set of cigarette cards; pins, buttons and badges; ties and caps; and flags and banners.
 Buller Rugby Union Representative Team, 1938 photo, signed |
 Broadcasting with the Kiwis. Inscribed by the author |
 A record of the 1924-25 Tour of the All Black Rugby Football Team |
 Rugby Football in Canterbury ephemera, 1929-1954 |
This is a unique opportunity for aficionados in Auckland for the Rugby World Cup, the collection is on view at Webb's from tomorrow (Friday 23) to Tuesday 27 September.
The collection will then be sold on Wednesday 28 September, from midday. Online bidding is also available via Webb's website.
