Freeman’s/Hindman is currently hosting an electrifying sports memorabilia auction that is sure to captivate sports enthusiasts and collectors alike. The highlight of the event is a complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards, a treasure trove that includes the highly coveted Michael Jordan rookie card. What sets these cards apart is their pristine condition, as they are still sealed in their original team bags, preserving their allure from decades past. With 288 cards in total, this set is expected to fetch a substantial sum ranging from $50,000 to $70,000, a testament to both its scarcity and the enduring popularity of Michael Jordan in the world of sports collectibles.
The tale behind the Star Company’s acquisition of the NBA’s trading card rights is a fascinating one. In the early 1980s, following Topps’s decision not to renew its contract, the relatively small Star Company boldly stepped in to fill the void. Opting to distribute their cards primarily through mail orders and at select hobby shops and sporting events, Star deliberately limited accessibility, resulting in a scarcity that only adds to their value today. While many collectors opened their cards to display them in albums, the sets that have remained sealed in their original packaging have become increasingly rare and sought after.
Beyond basketball memorabilia, the auction also boasts an impressive array of baseball artifacts that are bound to thrill fans of the sport. Notable among these are three autographed baseballs signed by the legendary Babe Ruth, including one adorned with his bold and clear signature on the sweet spot of a mini baseball. These pieces serve as poignant reminders of Ruth’s enduring legacy and are certain to draw the attention of collectors interested in preserving the history of America’s favorite pastime.
In addition to the spotlight on Michael Jordan memorabilia, the auction features other significant 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.
The diverse offerings at the auction cater to a wide range of collectors, with vintage card enthusiasts in for a treat. Highlights include a rare 1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan rookie card graded PSA 8, and a nearly complete set of 1952 Topps baseball cards containing over 60 high numbers. The presence of multiple Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s further enhances the appeal of this auction to fans of iconic sports figures.
Noteworthy items up for grabs also 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 the legendary Branch Rickey.
Running through June 13 on the Freeman’s/Hindman website, this auction not only showcases the rich tapestry of history woven into these collectibles but also provides a unique opportunity for sports aficionados and collectors to own a piece of that heritage. Whether your passion lies in basketball, baseball, or the broader landscape of American sports history, this auction promises a delightful journey for every collector looking to secure a slice of sporting nostalgia.
