Freeman’s/Hindman has set the stage for a remarkable sports memorabilia auction that is sure to dazzle collectors and enthusiasts alike. One of the main attractions of this auction is the complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards, a gem that includes the coveted Michael Jordan rookie card. The cards, still nestled in their original team bags as they were decades ago, are not just a collector’s delight but also a slice of sports history. With an estimated value ranging between $50,000 and $70,000, these cards stand as a testament to Jordan’s enduring allure in the sports collectibles market.
The 1980s era was pivotal for the trading card industry, with the Star Company seizing the NBA’s trading card rights after Topps decided not to renew its contract. Opting for distribution primarily via mail orders and selective outlets, Star inadvertently created scarcity, thereby increasing the rarity of their cards. This makes complete sets like the one up for auction particularly valuable, especially since many collectors had unboxed their cards for safekeeping.
Beyond the basketball memorabilia, the auction boasts an array of exceptional pieces from baseball’s illustrious past. Of particular note are the three autographed baseballs signed by the legendary Babe Ruth, with one featuring Ruth’s bold signature adorning the sweet spot of a mini baseball. These artifacts serve as poignant reminders of Ruth’s enduring legacy and are certain to captivate history buffs and sports fans alike.
In addition to the exquisite Jordan cards and Ruth memorabilia, the auction offers a diverse range of sports collectibles. Among them are other prized Jordan cards from his rookie season, such as the 1984 Gold Medalist No. 195 and the 1985 Rookie of the Year No. 288, alongside a PSA 8 graded 1986-87 Fleer rookie card of Jordan.
Vintage card enthusiasts will find much to admire in the auction, with standout lots including a rare 1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan rookie card graded PSA 8, a near complete set of 1952 Topps baseball cards boasting over 60 high numbers, and multiple Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s. The auction also features unique items like a signed baseball from the 1955 Baseball Hall of Fame induction weekend, a single-signed Jimmie Foxx ball, and a 1959 Ty Cobb signed and inscribed ball, all adding depth to the collection.
For collectors seeking a piece of football history, the auction offers a San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl XXIV Champions ring. Additionally, baseball aficionados can marvel at a 1926 New York Yankees multi-signed baseball featuring autographs from Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, as well as a group of 1920s-30s St. Louis Cardinals contract agreements signed by the esteemed Branch Rickey.
Running through June 13 on Freeman’s/Hindman’s website, this auction not only celebrates the rich tapestry of sports history encapsulated in these collectibles but also grants enthusiasts the chance to own a tangible piece of that legacy. Whether your passion lies in basketball, baseball, or the broader spectrum of American sports, this auction promises a treasure trove of memorabilia waiting to be discovered and cherished.
