Freeman’s/Hindman is currently hosting a remarkable sports memorabilia auction that is causing a stir in the collecting world. At the forefront of this auction is a complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards, stored in their original team bags from decades past. This set is garnering attention for its inclusion of a highly coveted Michael Jordan rookie card, a true gem for any basketball card enthusiast. With a total of 288 cards, this set is expected to fetch between $50,000 and $70,000 due to its rarity and the enduring popularity of Michael Jordan in the sports memorabilia market.
The Star Company revolutionized the NBA trading card scene in the early 1980s by seizing the card rights after Topps decided not to renew its contract. Their decision to distribute cards primarily through mail orders and select outlets made these cards less common, rendering the sets in their original packaging exceedingly valuable. Many collectors who purchased these cards chose to keep them in pristine condition, further increasing their rarity and allure in today’s market.
Aside from basketball treasures, the auction also boasts exquisite pieces from baseball history, most notably featuring three autographed baseballs signed by the legendary Babe Ruth. One of these baseballs showcases Ruth’s signature in bold and clear ink on the sweet spot of a mini baseball, exemplifying his enduring legacy and capturing the hearts of historical sports artifact collectors.
The auction’s offerings extend beyond Jordan’s rookie cards, encompassing other significant cards from his rookie season, including 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 of Jordan. The diversity of items also caters to vintage card aficionados, featuring rarities like a pristine 1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan rookie card graded PSA 8 and a near complete set of 1952 Topps baseball cards with over 60 high numbers. Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s further enrich the collection, appealing to fans of iconic sports figures.
Moreover, the auction presents captivating pieces such as a San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl XXIV Champions ring, a 1926 New York Yankees multi-signed baseball boasting autographs from legends Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, and a collection of 1920s-30s St. Louis Cardinals contract agreements signed by Branch Rickey, adding depth to the rich sports history encapsulated in these collectibles.
Running until June 13 on Freeman’s/Hindman’s website, this auction not only showcases the historical significance of these treasured items but also offers sports enthusiasts and collectors a chance to own a piece of that history. Whether your passion lies in basketball, baseball, or the broader spectrum of American sports history, this auction guarantees a unique find for every collector.
