Freeman’s/Hindman has set the stage for an electrifying sports memorabilia auction that is sure to make collectors’ hearts race. At the forefront of this event is a complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards, housed in their original team bags, complete with the prized Michael Jordan rookie card. The allure of this set, containing 288 cards, lies in its rarity and the timeless appeal of Michael Jordan in the sports collectibles realm. Valued between $50,000 and $70,000, it encapsulates a piece of sports history that is highly coveted by enthusiasts.
The genesis of these cards dates back to the early 1980s when the Star Company boldly stepped in to secure the NBA’s trading card rights after Topps opted out. With their distribution primarily through mail orders and select outlets, these cards became elusive gems, contrasting with the widespread availability of larger producers’ cards. The scarcity of Star Company cards in their original packaging enhances their worth as a prized possession for any collector.
Beyond basketball, the auction boasts an array of baseball memorabilia, notably three autographed baseballs by the legendary Babe Ruth. One particular gem is a mini-sized baseball with Ruth’s signature elegantly emblazoned on the sweet spot, showcasing the enduring legacy of the Sultan of Swat and drawing in aficionados of historical sports artifacts.
The auction’s variety extends to other notable Jordan cards from his rookie era, as well as a PSA 8 graded 1986-87 Fleer rookie card. Collectors will also find captivating pieces like a signed baseball from the 1955 Baseball Hall of Fame induction weekend, featuring iconic signatures from luminaries such as Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Cochrane, a treasure trove for baseball aficionados.
Vintage card enthusiasts are in for a treat with offerings including a rare 1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan rookie card graded PSA 8, a nearly complete set of 1952 Topps baseball cards with over 60 high numbers, and multiple Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s. The auction’s spectrum expands with unique items such as a San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl XXIV Champions ring, a 1926 New York Yankees multi-signed baseball bearing autographs from Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, and a series of 1920s-30s St. Louis Cardinals contract agreements inked by Branch Rickey.
Running until June 13 on Freeman’s/Hindman’s platform, this auction not only celebrates the rich tapestry woven into these collectibles but also provides sports lovers and collectors a chance to own a tangible piece of that legacy. Whether one’s passion lies in basketball, baseball, or the broader realm of American sports, this auction offers a treasure trove of items waiting to find a new home in a collector’s hands.
