Freeman’s/Hindman Auction House is currently buzzing with anticipation as it hosts a spectacular event dedicated to historic sports memorabilia. The star of the show is an extraordinary find—a complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards. These cards hold immense value, not only for their rarity but also for the inclusion of a prized possession: a Michael Jordan rookie card. Still sealed in their original team bags, these 288 cards are expected to fetch a handsome sum between $50,000 and $70,000, showcasing the enduring allure of Michael Jordan in the world of sports collectibles.
The back story of these cards adds to their appeal. In the early 1980s, the Star Company seized the NBA trading card rights after Topps declined to renew its contract. Opting for unconventional distribution channels like mail orders and select hobby shops, Star made these cards less accessible, thus increasing their rarity. As many collectors opened their cards to display them in albums, finding a complete set in its original packaging has become a true gem for enthusiasts and investors alike.
Beyond basketball, the auction features a remarkable assortment of baseball memorabilia. Highlighting the legacy of the legendary Babe Ruth are three autographed baseballs, one of which showcases Ruth’s signature prominently placed on the sweet spot of a mini baseball. These artifacts serve as poignant reminders of Ruth’s enduring impact on the sport and beckon to collectors seeking a piece of baseball history.
The allure of the auction doesn’t stop there. Enthusiasts of Michael Jordan will find additional treasures from his rookie season, including the 1984 Gold Medalist card and the 1985 Rookie of the Year card, alongside a PSA 8 graded 1986-87 Fleer rookie card. The collection extends its appeal to fans of vintage cards with a rare 1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan rookie card graded PSA 8 and a near-complete set of 1952 Topps baseball cards, featuring over 60 high numbers sure to captivate card enthusiasts.
The auction’s offerings also showcase iconic names like Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Cochrane on a signed baseball from the 1955 Baseball Hall of Fame induction, a single-signed Jimmie Foxx ball, and a signed Ty Cobb ball from 1959. Additionally, the inclusion of multiple Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s only adds to the allure of this diverse collection.
For football enthusiasts, a San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl XXIV Champions ring stands out, while baseball aficionados will be eager to bid on a 1926 New York Yankees multi-signed baseball featuring autographs from Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. The auction also boasts a group of 1920s-30s St. Louis Cardinals contract agreements signed by Branch Rickey, further enriching the historical tapestry of American sports memorabilia up for grabs.
Running through June 13 on Freeman’s/Hindman’s website, this auction not only showcases the rich history encapsulated in these collectibles but also provides sports enthusiasts and collectors with a chance to own a piece of that illustrious past. Whether your passion lies in basketball, baseball, or the broader spectrum of American sports, this auction promises an array of treasures that cater to every collector’s interests.
