In a Northeast Ohio attic, an unassuming cigar box nestled among a lifetime of memories held more than just keepsakes; it cradled a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. This dusty repository turned out to be the home of an extraordinary collection of vintage baseball cards, starring none other than the legendary Babe Ruth. When these prized relics were put up for sale during an online auction by Stark County’s Kiko Auctions, they swung for the fences, amassing a staggering $120,000.
The protagonists of this serendipitous saga are siblings who, while sifting through their late parents’ belongings, stumbled upon the cache of sports memorabilia. Although they preferred to remain anonymous, the siblings harbored a suspicion that these cards boasted considerable value. Their intuition paid off splendidly.
The momentous occasion drew the attention of The Canton Repository, which dissected the auction numbers, noting the event ran from May 28 to June 2 and showcased 623 lots, with baseball cards forming the substantial bulk. Among these, over two hundred cards originated from the revered 1933 Goudey Big League Gum set, an iconic collection regarded as a premium find in the card-collecting realm.
For those less acquainted with the intricacies of card collecting, the 1933 Goudey set is noteworthy for pioneering the concept of enhancing pack allure by including a stick of gum, propelling its widespread popularity. Brimming with Hall of Fame luminaries, it represents a coveted addition for any serious collector.
The auction’s success was palpable as bids clamored upwards to $120,699. When considering an additional 10% internet premium and a 6.5% sales tax, the ultimate expenditure crested the $140,000 mark, underscoring the unwavering appeal of the collection.
One particularly diligent buyer, whose divergent interests shone through their user ID, likely seized a substantial portion of the collection. The pièce de résistance of the auction was a 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth card adorned with a distinctive red backdrop, commanding an $8,000 sale price. Altogether, five separate Ruth cards collectively garnered $35,250 before taxes and fees were factored in.
Despite the varied conditions of the cards and the absence of professional grading, a scenario that infuses an element of suspense akin to a night at the poker table, the winning bidders embraced the gamble inherent in vintage card collecting. This risk, though, also heightens the thrill and romance of the endeavor.
Tracing an arc from a forgotten attic in the heart of Buckeye State to the expansive floors of an online auction witnessed by enthusiasts worldwide, these baseball treasures reaffirm that America’s beloved pastime—alongside a wholesome dose of nostalgia—continues to triumph in grand style. Baseball and its artifacts, like these battered but beloved cards, stitch stories not just into the past, but well into the future, ensuring the spirit of the game remains forever in play.
