Freeman’s/Hindman is currently hosting an exhilarating sports memorabilia auction that has caught the attention of collectors worldwide. One of the standout pieces in this auction is a complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards, including a prized Michael Jordan rookie card. These cards are sealed in their original team bags, adding to their rarity and desirability among collectors. The set of 288 cards is expected to fetch between $50,000 and $70,000, a testament to Michael Jordan’s enduring legacy in the sports collectibles market.
The Star Company made a bold move by securing the NBA’s trading card rights at a time when Topps had chosen not to renew its contract. Limited distribution through mail orders and select locations made these cards less common, with many collectors opening them for display, making sealed sets like this one exceedingly scarce and valuable.
While basketball memorabilia is a highlight, the auction also features exceptional pieces from baseball history. Of particular note are three autographed baseballs signed by Babe Ruth, one of which features his signature boldly displayed on the sweet spot of a mini baseball. These items pay homage to Ruth’s enduring influence on the world of sports collectibles.
In addition to the coveted Jordan cards from his rookie season, the auction boasts a PSA 8 graded 1986-87 Fleer rookie card of Jordan and other notable vintage cards and collectibles. One standout lot is a signed baseball from the 1955 Baseball Hall of Fame induction, adorned with signatures from legendary players like Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Cochrane. Collectors will also be drawn to a single-signed Jimmie Foxx ball and a 1959 Ty Cobb signed and inscribed ball.
Vintage card enthusiasts will find much to admire, including 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. The inclusion of multiple Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s further enhances the auction’s appeal to fans of iconic sports figures.
Other remarkable items up for grabs include a San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl XXIV Champions ring, a 1926 New York Yankees multi-signed baseball with autographs from Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, and a collection of 1920s-30s St. Louis Cardinals contract agreements signed by Branch Rickey. These items add depth to the auction, catering to a diverse range of sports enthusiasts and collectors.
Running through June 13 on Freeman’s/Hindman’s website, this auction not only showcases the storied history of these collectibles but also offers a chance for sports fans to own a piece of that history. Whether you’re a basketball aficionado, a baseball buff, or a history lover, this auction has something special for everyone.