Freeman’s/Hindman is currently showcasing a treasure trove of historic sports memorabilia at their ongoing auction, with a particular highlight stealing the show – a complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards. Enthusiasts are in a frenzy over this gem, preserved in its original team bags, complete with the coveted Michael Jordan rookie card. Valued between $50,000 and $70,000, this set of 288 cards embodies the rare allure of Jordan’s iconic rookie card and the enduring craze surrounding it over the years.
The Star Company made a daring move in the early 1980s by clinching the NBA trading card rights, capitalizing on Topps’ decision to walk away. These cards, distributed via mail orders and select venues, now stand as prized possessions due to their limited availability compared to bigger brands. The cards remaining in their original packaging are considered treasures, evoking nostalgia and fetching high prices in the collectors’ market.
Beyond basketball, the auction also boasts remarkable baseball memorabilia, including three signed baseballs by none other than the legendary Babe Ruth. One ball, in particular, showcases Ruth’s bold autograph on a mini baseball’s sweet spot, solidifying his enduring legacy and beckoning passionate collectors of historical sports artifacts.
Delving deeper into the auction’s offerings reveals additional noteworthy Jordan cards from his rookie season, such as the 1984 Gold Medalist No. 195 and the 1985 Rookie of the Year No. 288, alongside a PSA 8 graded 1986-87 Fleer rookie card of the basketball great.
Vintage sports card aficionados won’t be disappointed either, with tantalizing lots like a rare 1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan rookie card graded PSA 8 and a near-complete set of 1952 Topps baseball cards boasting over 60 high numbers. The collection also features multiple Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s, further elevating its appeal to collectors seeking iconic sports figures.
Noteworthy additions to the auction lineup include a Super Bowl XXIV Champions ring from the San Francisco 49ers, a 1926 baseball signed by luminaries Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig of the New York Yankees, and a set of 1920s-30s St. Louis Cardinals contract agreements signed by the esteemed Branch Rickey.
Running until June 13 on Freeman’s/Hindman’s digital platform, this auction presents a unique opportunity for sports enthusiasts and collectors alike to acquire a slice of sports history. Whether you’re captivated by basketball, baseball, or the broader panorama of American sports lore, this auction promises an array of rare and valuable keepsakes waiting to find new homes with passionate collectors.
