Freeman’s/Hindman has rolled out the red carpet for sports enthusiasts and collectors with their current sports memorabilia auction showcasing an array of rare and iconic pieces. At the heart of this auction lies a complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards, a gem that is creating ripples in the sports collectibles market. This set of 288 cards, including the coveted Michael Jordan rookie card, is housed in original team bags, revealing a time capsule back to the early 80s when the basketball card landscape underwent a seismic shift.
The Star Company’s gamble to secure the NBA trading card rights at a time when Topps chose not to renew their contract was a bold move that paid off in rarity and exclusivity. Distributed mainly through mail orders and select outlets, these cards found their way into the hands of dedicated collectors who carefully preserved them, elevating their value over the years. The Michael Jordan rookie card, synonymous with basketball folklore, is a symbol of the enduring legacy of one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
Stepping beyond basketball, the auction also features a tribute to baseball history with three autographed baseballs signed by none other than the Sultan of Swat himself, Babe Ruth. Of particular note is a mini baseball showcasing Ruth’s signature in pristine condition on the sweet spot, a testament to the enduring allure of the legendary baseball figure. These signed baseballs serve as a bridge to the past, connecting collectors to the golden era of baseball when Ruth’s heroics dominated the diamond.
The auction further amplifies its offerings with additional rare 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. Delving deeper into baseball history, a signed baseball from the 1955 Baseball Hall of Fame induction weekend bearing the autographs of 19 legends, including Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Cochrane, adds a touch of nostalgia to the collection.
Vintage card aficionados will find themselves drawn to standout lots like a 1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan rookie card graded PSA 8, a near complete set of 1952 Topps baseball cards featuring high numbers, and multiple Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s. These pieces not only celebrate the sporting achievements of yesteryears but also serve as valuable additions to any discerning collector’s trove.
Rounding off the auction are exclusive finds like a San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl XXIV Champions ring, a 1926 New York Yankees multi-signed baseball bearing the autographs of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, and a collection of 1920s-30s St. Louis Cardinals contract agreements signed by the legendary Branch Rickey. These items add depth and diversity to the auction, making it a treasure trove for sports enthusiasts across the board.
Running until June 13 on Freeman’s/Hindman’s website, this auction is not just a showcase of historic sports memorabilia but a golden opportunity for collectors to own a piece of sporting history. Whether you’re an avid basketball fan, a baseball aficionado, or a sports history buff, this auction promises to captivate with its tantalizing array of rare and iconic collectibles.
