The June Encore Auction by Robert Edward Auctions (REA) brought the hammer down on a wealth of collectibles, with complete sets and vintage staples taking center stage. Setting the tone, six complete graded sets featured prominently in the top ten items sold. Leading the charge were Topps Baseball complete sets from 1963, 1960, and 1961, going under the gavel for impressive amounts of $75,000, $66,000, and $54,000, respectively. These sets are revered on the PSA Set Registry, attracting serious collectors.
The auction, boasting 3,278 lots, saw spirited bidding resulting in over $1.7 million in total sales from a staggering 67,300 bids. Among the standout pieces was a 1970-1971 Topps Basketball #160 Jerry West PSA GEM MINT 10, fetching a remarkable $54,000, and setting a new record for the card in any grade. This sale carried particular significance as it followed the recent passing of the legendary Jerry West, known for inspiring the iconic NBA logo.
Noteworthy sales continued with rare finds like the 1914 E145 Cracker Jack #30 Ty Cobb SGC FAIR 1.5, achieving $38,400, a record price for the card in that grade. The 1957 Topps #95 Mickey Mantle PSA NM-MT+ 8.5 also commanded the same impressive sum. Additionally, collectors pounced on items like the 1980-1981 Topps Basketball Unopened Wax Box, featuring Larry Bird and Magic Johnson’s rookie year, which sold for $18,600, adding a touch of nostalgia to the auction.
The thirst for vintage classics was evident in sales such as the 1921 Exhibits Babe Ruth PSA VG+ 3.5, which went for $16,200, and the 1933 R319 Goudey #92 Lou Gehrig PSA EX 5 selling for $13,200. The 1907 Wolverine News Postcard featuring Ty Cobb in a batting stance, graded PSA Authentic, fetched $11,700 – a testament to the allure of baseball history.
The auction also saw modern cards attracting attention, with the 2013 Bowman Chrome Draft Picks & Prospects Autographs #BCA-AJ Aaron Judge Blue Wave Refractor #18/50 PSA GEM MINT 10 commanding $10,200. Meanwhile, the 1909-1911 T206 White Border Cy Seymour Portrait PSA VG-EX 4 – Cycle 460 Back, the highest graded example, brought in $9,900. The 1951 Bowman #305 Willie Mays Rookie PSA VG-EX 4 closed at $9,000, cementing the timeless appeal of baseball rookie cards.
REA President Brian Dwyer commented on the auction’s success, noting the strong performance of graded sets and enduring demand for vintage rarities. Looking ahead, he teased the upcoming Summer Catalog Auction starting on July 23, promising a treasure trove of exciting lots to captivate collectors.
Collectors eager to dive into the world of REA’s auctions can request a catalog via the company website. Additionally, REA will be present at booth #6032 during The National in Cleveland, showcasing a tantalizing selection of items from the upcoming Summer Auction. For more auction details and fascinating consignor stories, enthusiasts can explore the REA website for a deeper dive into the world of collectible treasures.
