The January Encore Auction at Robert Edward Auctions is a dream come true for collectors of vintage sports cards and memorabilia. With rare items dating back to the 19th century, this auction offers a treasure trove of historical artifacts for sports enthusiasts. Spanning over 180 years of sports history, the auction includes over 3,700 items that are sure to captivate collectors of all types.
At the heart of this auction are a few standout pieces that truly showcase the rarity and significance of the memorabilia on offer. One such item is a signed receipt from 1842 by Alexander Cartwright, a baseball executive who played a pivotal role in the development of the sport. This piece offers a unique glimpse into the early days of America’s favorite pastime.
Another highlight is an 1888 tobacco card featuring John Clarkson, a prominent figure in baseball during that era. These tobacco cards were distributed as collectibles with cigarette packs, making them highly sought after by collectors. The presence of such a well-preserved card from this time period is a testament to its rarity and value.
REA President Brian Dwyer expressed his enthusiasm for the auction’s impressive array of signed items and iconic cards. Collectors can expect to find signatures from legendary figures such as Lou Gehrig, Walter Johnson, and Honus Wagner. One particularly noteworthy card is the 1888 N403 Yum Yum Tobacco John Clarkson Throwing card, graded PSA EX 5. This card is not only visually stunning, but it also carries with it a piece of baseball history.
In addition to the signed items, the auction features a variety of other notable pieces. A 1883 scorecard signed by Harry Wright from a game between Philadelphia and Wright’s Providence Grays provides a glimpse into the early days of organized baseball. A 1938 postcard signed by Lou Gehrig, a 1924 album page signed by Walter Johnson, and a 1939 Baseball Centennial First-Day Cover signed by Honus Wagner are also highly coveted treasures.
For collectors interested in autographs, the auction includes a Babe Ruth cut signature, as well as checks signed by baseball legends like Jackie Robinson, Ty Cobb, and Roberto Clemente. These rare pieces offer a personal connection to some of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
The auction also features a wide selection of vintage cards that are sure to catch the eye of any collector. Among these cards is the iconic 1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle card, a true gem in the world of baseball card collecting. Other notable cards include the 1914 E145 Cracker Jack Grover Alexander rookie card, the 1910-1911 M116 Sporting Life Honus Wagner card, and several 1954 Topps #128 Hank Aaron rookie cards. Football fans will be delighted to find a 1957 Topps Football Johnny Unitas rookie card.
For those with an interest in the early 20th-century T206 cards, this auction is a gold mine. Rare finds like the Ty Cobb Portrait Red Background and Carolina Brights back cards are sure to attract bidders. Modern card enthusiasts will also find highlights, including a 1986 Topps Football Steve Young rookie card and early Michael Jordan cards from 1984 and 1985.
Overall, the Robert Edward Auctions’ January Encore Event is a testament to the enduring appeal and value of vintage sports memorabilia and cards. Whether you’re a collector of signed items or vintage cards, this auction promises to deliver an exciting opportunity to acquire rare and historically significant pieces of sports history.
