Freeman’s/Hindman is currently hosting a sports memorabilia auction that is ticking all the boxes for enthusiasts and collectors alike. The standout piece of the auction is a complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards, featuring the highly coveted Michael Jordan rookie card. Encased in their original team bags, these cards exude nostalgia and rarity, making them a must-have for any serious collector. The set of 288 cards is estimated to fetch between $50,000 and $70,000, a testament to the enduring appeal of Michael Jordan in the sports collectibles market.
The Star Company’s bold move to secure the NBA’s trading card rights in the early 1980s paid off immensely, especially after Topps decided not to renew its contract. By distributing their cards mainly through mail orders and select hobby shops and sporting events, Star made their cards less common, thus boosting their rarity and value. With many collectors putting these cards in albums, finding a complete set in its original packaging has become increasingly rare, heightening its appeal to passionate collectors.
The auction isn’t just about basketball; it also boasts remarkable pieces from baseball history. Among the highlights are three autographed baseballs signed by none other than the legendary Babe Ruth, with one featuring his bold and clear signature on the sweet spot of a mini baseball. These baseballs serve as a poignant reminder of Ruth’s enduring legacy and are sure to attract collectors of historical sports artifacts.
Adding to the allure of the auction are other notable Jordan cards from his rookie season, such as the 1984 Gold Medalist No. 195 and the 1985 Rookie of the Year No. 288, along with a PSA 8 graded 1986-87 Fleer rookie card of Jordan.
The auction also presents a diverse range of vintage cards and sports collectibles. Collectors will be drawn to a signed baseball from the 1955 Baseball Hall of Fame induction weekend, featuring autographs from 19 baseball greats including Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Cochrane, as well as a single-signed Jimmie Foxx ball and a 1959 Ty Cobb signed and inscribed ball.
For vintage card enthusiasts, standout lots include a rare 1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan rookie card graded PSA 8, and a near complete set of 1952 Topps baseball cards with over 60 high numbers. Additionally, multiple Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s add to the auction’s appeal for fans of iconic sports figures.
Other remarkable items up for grabs include a San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl XXIV Champions ring, a 1926 New York Yankees multi-signed baseball featuring autographs from Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, and a collection of 1920s-30s St. Louis Cardinals contract agreements signed by Branch Rickey.
Running through June 13 on Freeman’s/Hindman’s website, this auction not only showcases the rich history embedded in these collectibles but also provides sports enthusiasts and collectors with a chance to own a piece of that history. Whether it’s basketball, baseball, or the broader history of American sports, this auction promises a treasure trove of collectibles for every fan and collector to appreciate and own.