Sports Card News

Upper Deck Extends Partnership with NHL Alumni Association

Upper Deck, a prominent name in the trading card industry, has recently announced the extension of its licensing partnership with the NHL Alumni Association (NHLAA). This renewed agreement solidifies Upper Deck’s exclusive rights to produce and distribute physical trading cards featuring over a thousand former NHL athletes.

According to Jason Masherah, President of Upper Deck, this renewal is a strategic move for the company. Masherah recognizes the vital role played by the NHLAA in enriching Upper Deck’s offerings, allowing them to feature trading cards and autographs of hockey’s greatest players. This partnership enhances the collectibles market, catering to the passionate hockey enthusiast community.

The NHL Alumni Association, based in Ontario, has been actively supporting former NHL players. Their group licensing program, initiated in June 2017, grants the NHLAA the authority to use the collective image rights of its members. This program helps fund various programs and initiatives of the association. The participation of legendary players like Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Ray Bourque, among others, contributes to the success of this program, with nearly a hundred Hall of Fame inductees involved.

Upper Deck’s collaboration with the NHLAA reflects the broad commercial appeal of the association. Apart from producing trading cards, the NHLAA is also involved in other activities such as player appearances, professional-amateur tournaments, career transition programs, and an annual stick auction. These initiatives celebrate the sport and honor its legacy.

Glenn Healy, the Executive Director of the NHL Alumni Association, expressed his enthusiasm about the extended partnership with Upper Deck. He highlighted the significant role that Upper Deck trading cards play in capturing and preserving the heritage of hockey. This agreement ensures that fans and collectors across different generations can continue to cherish and celebrate the iconic NHL Alumni who have contributed to shaping the game.

In an exciting development, Upper Deck also announced plans to expand its product line to include digital trading cards, available through its Evolution platform. This move signifies the company’s efforts to bridge the gap between traditional collecting and the digital age. The introduction of digital trading cards offers a new medium for fans and collectors to connect with the rich history of hockey.

In conclusion, the extended licensing agreement between Upper Deck and the NHL Alumni Association not only establishes Upper Deck as the exclusive producer of physical trading cards featuring former NHL players but also marks a significant foray into the world of digital collectibles. This partnership aims to enrich the legacy of hockey for a new generation of fans and collectors, combining the best of traditional and digital collecting experiences.

Source

Michael Jordan’s Championship Sneakers Head to Auction: A Collectible Ensemble

In a truly remarkable event for basketball enthusiasts and collectors alike, a set of six sneakers worn by the legendary Michael Jordan during his NBA championship-clinching games is about to hit the auction block. After being privately held for years, these iconic pieces of sports history are now poised to be sold to the highest bidder in an upcoming auction organized by the prestigious Sotheby’s. Scheduled to open on February 2nd, this highly anticipated auction features the sneakers as part of a larger collection and boasts an impressive pre-sale estimate of $7 million to $10 million.

Known as The Dynasty Collection, these sneakers were once the prized possession of a private collector who acquired them from Tim Hallam, the public relations director for the Chicago Bulls during the team’s era of dominance in the 1990s. The tradition of Jordan gifting Hallam with one of his game-worn shoes after each Finals victory led to the formation of this unique collection.

Displayed at the 2022 National Sports Collectors Convention in Atlantic City, The Dynasty Collection spans the Bulls’ championship years from 1991 through 1998. Each sneaker in the collection has been personally autographed by Michael Jordan, the Finals MVP in each of those championship series.

The collection, aptly named by Sotheby’s, showcases various models of Air Jordans that Jordan wore during his illustrious career. It includes the Air Jordan VI (1991), inspired by Jordan’s Porsche 911; the groundbreaking Air Jordan VII (1992), the first model without Nike branding; the Air Jordan VIII (1993) featuring the iconic “x-strap” design; the famous “Bred” Air Jordan XI (1996) known for its translucent sole; the Nike Zoom Air-equipped Air Jordan XII (1997); and the early prototype “Last Shot” Air Jordan XIV (1998), mirroring his Ferrari 550 Maranello.

Adding to the allure of this extraordinary collection is a set of unique signed photographs capturing Jordan in the moments following each championship win, wearing only one sneaker – the other already in Hallam’s possession. This playful and historic exchange between Jordan and Hallam showcases the personal nature of this collection.

Each sneaker in The Dynasty Collection stands as a testament to Jordan’s evolving style and the advancements in sneaker technology over the years. The authenticity and history of these sneakers have been rigorously verified, involving detailed certification processes and extensive high-resolution photographic documentation by CSG and other experts.

This upcoming auction follows the historical sale of another pair of Jordan’s sneakers from the 1998 Finals Game 2, which set a record by selling for $2.2 million – the highest price ever paid for game-worn shoes. The auction of The Dynasty Collection is more than just a sports memorabilia event; it offers a rare and unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of basketball history. These sneakers, worn by one of the greatest athletes in the sport, Michael Jordan, embody his legacy and are sure to be highly sought after by collectors and fans alike.

Source

Caitlin Clark’s Auctioned Basketball Card Shatters Records and Elevates Women’s Basketball

The sports memorabilia world is currently abuzz with the auction of a highly sought-after basketball card, representing none other than Caitlin Clark, who is widely regarded as one of the best female college basketball players globally. This particular card, featuring Clark, is not just a collectible item; it stands as a potential record-breaker in the history of women’s basketball cards.

Enabled by the recent NIL rules, Clark, the all-star point guard from Iowa, was featured in a card set from the 2022 Bowman U Basketball series even before her senior season kicked off. Among these cards, her 1/1 SuperFractor autograph card has become the centerpiece, potentially setting a new high for the value of women’s basketball trading cards.

As the auction progresses, with more than a week remaining, the card’s bid has already reached a remarkable $20,400. This figure is significantly higher than the previous record-holder, a Sabrina Ionescu 1/1 card, which was sold for $11,500. The steep rise in bidding indicates a growing interest and appreciation for women’s basketball memorabilia.

The prized Clark card was originally found by Wasteland Gaming in Atlanta in the latter part of the previous year. Following its discovery, it was sent to PSA for grading, where it achieved an impressive Gem Mint 10 rating. The sticker autograph on the card also received a perfect score, adding to its value and appeal.

Currently, this much-coveted card is being auctioned through PWCC Marketplace, drawing attention from collectors and enthusiasts across the globe.

In conjunction with this auction, another unique card of Clark’s, the 1/1 Prime Signatures SuperFractor, is also up for grabs on eBay, with its auction concluding on January 23rd.

Caitlin Clark has established herself as a basketball sensation, known for her exceptional skills and captivating presence on the court. Her ability to draw crowds, both at home games and on the road, mirrors her prowess and charisma as a player. Comparisons have been drawn between her playing style and that of legends like Pistol Pete and Larry Bird, underscoring her impact on the game.

Her contributions extend beyond her on-court performances. Clark has been instrumental in elevating the viewership and popularity of women’s basketball. Off the court, she is recognized for her humble nature and dedication to promoting the sport. ESPN analyst and Basketball Hall of Famer Rebecca Lobo remarked on Clark’s unique ability to captivate audiences and her significant role in advancing women’s basketball.

In conclusion, Caitlin Clark’s SuperFractor card is more than just a piece of sports memorabilia. It represents a milestone in women’s basketball, capturing the essence of Clark’s remarkable career and her role in elevating the sport to new levels of recognition and appreciation. This auction is not only about setting a new financial record but also about celebrating the growing stature of women’s basketball in the sports world.

Source

Wheatland Auctions Unveils Exciting Sports Memorabilia Collection for 2023

Wheatland Auctions, a prominent Pennsylvania-based auction house, has started off the year 2023 with a bang by presenting a diverse and exciting range of sports collectibles. With nearly 500 lots on offer, the auction features a remarkable combination of vintage and modern cards, memorabilia, and sealed high-end football products from Panini.

One of the highlights of this auction is the twelve sealed cases of Panini’s high-end football products, which have caught the attention of modern sports card enthusiasts. These cases include sought-after editions such as the 2018 Prizm Hobby, 2020 Prizm Jumbo, 2021 Flawless, as well as multiple years of National Treasures, Contenders Optic, Immaculate, Select, and Panini One. These sealed cases are highly coveted in the world of modern football card collecting.

In addition to the high-end football products, the auction also offers an impressive selection of vintage and modern cards. Notably, all four lower to mid-grade copies of the Babe Ruth cards from the iconic 1933 Goudey set are up for grabs, along with one of the highest SGC graded 1922 E121 American Caramel Ruth cards. Fans of vintage baseball memorabilia will also be drawn to the 1933 and 1934 Lou Gehrig cards, adding to the auction’s appeal.

Basketball fans will not be disappointed either, as the auction includes five Michael Jordan rookie cards and two Jordan rookie stickers. These items hold significant value due to Jordan’s enduring legacy in the sport.

Collectors will also find several other noteworthy items, such as an SGC 10 1986-87 Fleer Isiah Thomas rookie card, 1926 W512 cards of Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb, and partial sets of 1933, 1934 Goudey, 1934-36 Batter Up, and 1934-36 Diamond Stars. Single Diamond Stars cards featuring legends like Mel Ott, Jimmie Foxx, Lefty Grove, and Hank Greenberg are also featured, showcasing the depth and variety of the collection.

The memorabilia section of the auction is equally impressive, with signed baseballs from historic figures such as Pie Traynor, Frankie Frisch, Willie Mays, and Thurman Munson (on a Little League ball). A rare 1917 World Series Game 2 ticket is another standout item, offering collectors a tangible piece of baseball history.

Wheatland Auctions has built a strong reputation for offering complete and partial vintage sets and graded cards from the post-War era. This event stays true to that tradition, providing collectors with an opportunity to acquire pieces from a crucial period in sports history.

The auction is open until Sunday, February 18, providing enthusiasts and collectors with ample time to peruse and potentially own a piece of sports history. Whether you’re interested in modern high-end football products, vintage baseball cards, or rare memorabilia, this auction offers a unique opportunity to explore and acquire a wide range of sports collectibles.

Source

Super Bowl Auction: Johnny Unitas and NFL Legends Memorabilia

The 17th annual Super Bowl Live Auction, a highly anticipated event in the world of sports memorabilia, is set to showcase an extensive collection of items from one of the greatest pro football players of all time, Johnny Unitas. This collaboration between Hunt Auctions and the NFL promises to be a highlight for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Taking place on Saturday, February 10th, just before Super Bowl LVIII, the auction will feature over 1,000 football-related items. Among these, hundreds have been consigned directly by the family of Johnny Unitas, the late Hall of Fame quarterback who achieved legendary status before his passing in 2002 at the age of 69.

Johnny Unitas, often referred to as “The Golden Arm,” rose to fame as a collegiate star at the University of Louisville. Despite being a ninth-round draft pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers, his journey took a turn when he didn’t make the team, leading to his signing with the Baltimore Colts in 1956. Overcoming initial challenges, he established himself as one of the preeminent players of the 1950s and 1960s.

One of the standout items from Unitas’ collection is his personal copy of his 1957 Topps Johnny Unitas rookie card. Unitas was instrumental in leading the Colts to the NFL Championship in 1958, a game famously known as “The Greatest Game Ever Played.” This overtime victory, broadcast nationally, significantly boosted the NFL’s popularity in the 1960s.

One prime item in the auction is Unitas’ 14k gold 1958 championship ring, estimated to fetch between $100,000 and $200,000. Unitas’ illustrious career with the Colts included three NFL Championships, a Super Bowl championship, three NFL MVP awards, and numerous NFL passing records, including a remarkable streak of 47 consecutive games with a passing touchdown. His Super Bowl V championship ring is another highlight of the auction.

The items from Unitas’ career, being offered publicly for the first time, come with letters of provenance from the Unitas family. A portion of the proceeds will benefit NFL Auction Charities. The family has made it known that not all items from his career are being sold, as some have previously been donated for public display.

Highlights from the Johnny Unitas Collection include professional model high-top cleats from the 1970s, his 1979 Football Hall of Fame Induction ring, an autographed Baltimore Colts professional model helmet from the late 1960s-early 1970s, his 1967 NFL Most Valuable Player award: the Jim Thorpe Memorial Trophy, the 1964 Pro Bowl Most Valuable Player Award, and a Rolex wristwatch.

In addition to Unitas’ collection, the auction will also feature items from the personal collection of Cincinnati Bengals offensive lineman and Pro Football Hall of Famer Anthony Muñoz. Muñoz, selected third overall in the 1980 NFL Draft from USC, had a profound impact on the Bengals and is regarded as one of the finest offensive linemen in NFL history. His collection includes his final game uniform from December 27, 1992, a Cincinnati Bengals professional model jersey from the 1980s, and more.

The auction also includes items from other notable football figures and events. One highlight is a 2014 Tom Brady autographed and inscribed New England Patriots game-worn jersey from the season opener against the Miami Dolphins. This jersey, authenticated by MeiGray and valued between $250,000 and $500,000, is considered one of the finest Tom Brady game-worn jerseys available.

Other notable items include a 2022 Lamar Jackson game-worn Baltimore Ravens jersey, Lamar Jackson’s autographed rookie year game-worn cleats, and more. NFL Auction has also provided items with proceeds awarded to the league’s nonprofit partners, including a Trevor Lawrence game-worn Jacksonville Jaguars jersey and other pieces from notable players.

The live auction items will be available for preview at the Super Bowl Experience at the Phoenix Convention Center from February 7-10, with tickets required for entrance. Hunt Auctions experts will offer complimentary appraisals for sports memorabilia during these hours. This auction not only offers a unique glimpse into football history but also supports various charitable causes, making it a notable event in the sports community.

Source

Robert Edward Auctions Debuts 2024 with Historic Baseball Memorabilia and Rare Collectibles

Robert Edward Auctions is kicking off the year 2024 with a bang, presenting an exceptional and comprehensive Encore event that showcases an impressive collection spanning over 180 years of sports history. This first auction of the year is truly extensive, featuring nearly 3,700 lots of some of the most unique and oldest items ever offered in the realm of sports memorabilia, particularly in the world of baseball.

One of the most notable pieces up for auction is a signed receipt from Alexander Cartwright, a recognized pioneer in the world of baseball, dating all the way back to 1842. This item stands out not only for its age but also for its direct connection to a seminal figure in the early history of the sport.

Another remarkable item from the 19th century highlighted in the auction is the extremely rare 1888 N403 Yum Yum Tobacco John Clarkson “Throwing” card. Graded EX 5 by PSA, this card is the only one of its kind to feature the Hall of Fame pitcher and outfielder, making it a true rarity for collectors.

Harry Wright, a prominent figure in early baseball history, is represented with a unique personal scorecard from a June 22, 1883 game between Philadelphia and the Providence Grays, which Wright managed. This one-of-a-kind item, scored in both pencil and blue ink, bears Wright’s signature and has been graded a remarkable 9 by PSA.

The auction opens with an SGC 1.5 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card, part of a wide array of Mantle items. Additionally, there are over 250 autographed items, many of which come from iconic baseball figures of the past.

Brian Dwyer, President of REA, expressed his enthusiasm for this Encore Auction, noting it as one of the strongest the company has ever had. He highlighted the diverse selection of signed items and iconic cards in various grades, catering to collectors of all types.

Other standout items in REA’s January Auction include a 1914 E145 Cracker Jack #37 Grover Alexander SGC VG 3 card, a 1986 Topps Football #374 Steve Young Rookie SGC GEM MINT 10 card, a Babe Ruth cut signature, a 1938 Lou Gehrig signed postcard, a 1924 Walter Johnson signed album page, and a 1939 Honus Wagner signed Baseball Centennial First-Day Cover. The auction also features a trio of 1954 Topps #128 Hank Aaron rookie cards, a 1957 Topps Football #138 Johnny Unitas Rookie BVG NM-MT 8 card, and early Michael Jordan cards, among others.

The signed checks section includes checks signed by Jackie Robinson, Ty Cobb, and Roberto Clemente. The T206 offerings are vast, with over 720 options, including rare advertising backs and cards featuring rare Carolina Brights backs.

As is customary with REA’s Encore Auctions, all items have a starting bid of $10. Bidding for this diverse and historic collection is now open on the company’s website and will run through January 21, offering collectors and enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of baseball history and rare memorabilia.

Source

Exciting Sports Card Releases from 1/12/24 – 1/30/24

As winter grips the nation, sports card collectors can find solace in the thrill of indoor activities. The upcoming weeks are set to deliver a wave of exciting new releases to local hobby shops and online retailers. From football to hockey and baseball to basketball, there’s something for every sports card enthusiast. Let’s take a closer look at what’s on the horizon.

On January 12, 2024, SAGE Low Series Football storms the shelves, providing an early treat for football card aficionados. Although lacking team logos, this pre-draft release is packed with autographed cards. Each box features 16 packs, with every pack containing an autograph and seven cards in total. Keep an eye out for the SP Kaleidoscope Autographs and the Next Level autograph cards, which showcase on-card signatures. If you’re on the hunt, you can find hobby boxes for under $130 on eBay, with blaster boxes also available for purchase.

While it may bear the name of the previous season, the 2022-23 Upper Deck ICE Hockey is finally here. With 12 packs in a box, each boasting six cards, this release promises an autograph or memorabilia card in most packs. Notable highlights include hard-signed Ice Premieres Auto and Auto Patch cards, as well as a 250-card base set. Adding an extra touch of intrigue, Signature Swatches cards feature a hard-signed autograph and a game-worn jersey swatch. You can grab these boxes for around $125.

On January 17, 2023, Bowman’s Best Baseball steps up to the plate, shining a spotlight on prospects and rookies. Each Hobby box contains 12 packs spread over two mini-boxes, guaranteeing at least three Chrome autograph cards. This year’s edition includes an insert set by none other than Hall of Famer Randy Johnson. If you’re eager to secure these boxes, the current best price on eBay is $289. Additionally, 2023 Leaf Metal Draft Baseball will also be releasing on the same day.

After a slight delay from its original October release, Topps Stadium Club Baseball will finally hit the market on January 24, 2023. Known for its photo-focused 300-card base set, this release offers two Hobby box versions. Locking in the excitement, each Hobby box gives collectors a chance to score a box price of $148. Simultaneously, 2023-24 Upper Deck Trilogy Hockey will make its debut, tantalizing fans with the promise of two autograph and/or memorabilia cards per box.

The pulse of basketball enthusiasts will quicken on January 26 with the release of 2023-24 Panini Donruss Basketball. Featuring fat packs and Rated Rookies, Hobby boxes are jam-packed with ten packs. Each pack contains 30 cards, including one sought-after autograph. Additionally, 2023 Panini Phoenix Football will also make its appearance. These boxes offer two autos, one memorabilia card, and various other exciting collectibles online, with prices ranging from $300 to $350.

As the temperatures drop, fans of sports cards can elevate their indoor experience with these thrilling releases. Whether you’re a football fan, a hockey devotee, a baseball aficionado, or a basketball lover, these upcoming releases offer something for everyone. So, mark your calendars and gear up to fill your collection with these must-have collectibles!

Note: Prices mentioned are subject to change and may vary across different platforms and retailers.

Source

LeBron James Partners with Fanatics for Exclusive Trading Card Deal

LeBron James, the legendary NBA superstar, has entered into an exclusive multi-year trading card partnership with Fanatics Collectibles, a division of Fanatics specializing in trading cards and collectibles. This new deal with Fanatics marks the end of his long-standing relationship with Upper Deck, with whom he had a previous card and memorabilia contract that concluded last year.

Expressing his excitement about the partnership, LeBron stated that he is thrilled to share more moments with his fans and celebrate the achievements of athletes at their peak. He emphasized the importance of recognizing both the significant and subtle milestones in sports, showing his commitment to the sport he loves.

To commemorate this collaboration, Fanatics plans to release a special trading card featuring LeBron and his son Bronny James as part of the 2023-24 Bowman University Chrome Basketball set. This exclusive 1/1 on-card dual autograph card will showcase LeBron in his St. Vincent-St. Mary’s high school uniform and Bronny in his USC Trojans jersey. The set will also feature other notable athletes, including women’s college basketball All-Americans Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers, among its 100 players.

Fanatics Collectibles CEO, Mike Mahan, expressed his excitement about having LeBron join the Fanatics family. Mahan aims to expand the boundaries of the trading card hobby and foster enthusiasm among fans and collectors alike. Alongside LeBron’s signing, Fanatics is promoting the card release with a captivating video titled “Origin of Greatness,” narrated by LeBron himself. The video highlights the early moments of various Fanatics athlete partners, adding an element of storytelling to the collectibles.

LeBron’s partnership with Fanatics is a significant addition for the company, following more than two decades of association between LeBron and Upper Deck. Upper Deck acknowledged their longstanding collaboration with LeBron and their efforts in building his brand into a highly valuable collectible. They also highlighted their work with the LeBron James Family Foundation, expressing gratitude for having had LeBron as a part of their Upper Deck family.

This collaboration between LeBron James and Fanatics marks the beginning of a new era in the world of trading card collectibles. Fans and collectors can look forward to exclusive and innovative releases, celebrating the accomplishments and legacies of their favorite athletes. With LeBron’s star power and Fanatics’ dedication to the hobby, the partnership promises to redefine the landscape of sports memorabilia and bring joy to fans around the world.

Source

Lionel Messi: The Ultimate Collector’s Guide to His Top Trading Cards

Lionel Messi, one of the greatest soccer players of all time, has left an indelible mark on the sport. With a collection of trading cards that spans his illustrious career, collectors around the world are captivated by the opportunity to own a piece of Messi’s legacy. From his early years at Barcelona to his triumph in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Messi’s trading cards have gained immense value and interest among fans and collectors alike.

While finding Messi’s early cards can be a challenge, there are a few gems that enthusiasts should keep an eye out for. The 2004-05 Panini Mega Cracks card, featuring Messi as a rookie, is a highly coveted piece that commands top dollar, especially in pristine condition. Another early rarity is the 2004-05 Panini Este La Liga Sticker, highly sought after due to its scarcity despite being a sticker card.

As Messi’s career progressed, so did the availability of his autographed cards. The 2013 Icons Limited Messi Collection Autographs marked the debut of certified, pack-pulled Messi autographs, including autographs and jersey cards. This set opened the door to more accessible Messi autographs in subsequent soccer card releases, with efforts from popular brands like Panini, Topps, and Leaf.

Panini’s 2014 Prizm World Cup set is notable for its extensive checklist of Refractor parallels, including 11 different versions of Messi’s cards. The prized possession from this set is the 2014 Panini Prizm World Cup Signatures Lionel Messi #S-LME Autograph, regarded as one of the most sought-after Messi autographs. It is a key card for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Other prestigious autographed Messi cards include the 2016 Panini Flawless Lionel Messi Autographs, which features on-card autographs and even includes pieces of Messi’s match-worn shoes. The 2016-17 Panini Noir Lionel Messi Autographs is renowned for its hard-signed autographs, some even signed in gold ink, providing collectors with a range of Messi signature cards.

For those seeking ultra-rare autographed cards, the 2017 Panini Revolution Lionel Messi Autograph #A-LM SSP is an extremely limited card, available in only 25 copies or less. The 2018 Panini Eminence Lionel Messi Autographs takes luxury to another level, featuring extravagant designs, limited runs, and encased cards adorned with diamonds and on-card signatures. Similarly, the 2018 Panini National Treasures Lionel Messi Autographs includes the Colossal insert, showcasing a jumbo relic and pristine on-card signature.

In addition to his World Cup triumph with Argentina in 2022, Messi has also made a name for himself in the UEFA Champions League. Topps Champions League sets offer limited autograph cards featuring Messi during his time with both Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. Donruss, known for its classic design style, features autograph cards of Messi across multiple years. Panini Select showcases Messi autographs across various Select Soccer sets, combining his talent with the brand’s distinct style. Finally, Leaf provides diverse Messi autograph options, sometimes pairing him with other sports legends, although without team logos.

Lionel Messi’s trading cards allow fans and collectors to commemorate his incredible career and the impact he has had on the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the hobby, owning a piece of Messi’s soccer history is a unique opportunity. From his highly coveted rookie cards to his autographed gems, acquiring these cards not only adds value to your collection but also celebrates the brilliance of one of soccer’s true icons.

Source

Rare 19th Century Memorabilia and Vintage Cards Shine in Robert Edward Auctions’ January Encore Event

The January Encore Auction at Robert Edward Auctions is a true gem for collectors of vintage sports cards and memorabilia. This exciting event features rare items dating back to the 19th century, showcasing the rich history of sports through over 3,700 items spanning more than 180 years.

One of the highlights of the auction is a signed 1842 receipt by baseball executive Alexander Cartwright, a figure recognized as one of the founding fathers of the sport. This piece provides a fascinating glimpse into the early days of baseball and its development. Another standout item is an 1888 tobacco card of John Clarkson, a prominent player from that era. This card is not only a piece of sports history but also a beautiful collectible.

The auction offers something for collectors of all types, with a wide range of signed items and iconic sports cards. Autographs from legendary figures such as Lou Gehrig, Walter Johnson, and Honus Wagner are proudly featured. One notable card in the collection is the unique 1888 N403 Yum Yum Tobacco John Clarkson Throwing card, graded PSA EX 5. This card is a rare and valuable find for any serious collector.

Many other captivating items are up for auction, including an 1883 Harry Wright-signed scorecard from a game between Philadelphia and Wright’s Providence Grays. This historical piece allows collectors to connect with the early days of baseball. A 1938 Lou Gehrig-signed postcard and a 1924 Walter Johnson-signed album page add further value to the collection. The 1939 Honus Wagner-signed Baseball Centennial First-Day Cover is another prized item, commemorating a significant milestone in baseball history. And of course, a Babe Ruth cut signature is a must-have for any true sports memorabilia enthusiast.

The auction doesn’t stop at baseball memorabilia. There are checks signed by other iconic baseball figures like Jackie Robinson, Ty Cobb, and Roberto Clemente. For collectors of vintage cards, there is a selection of highly sought-after items, including the 1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle card, often considered one of the holy grails of card collecting. A 1914 E145 Cracker Jack Grover Alexander rookie card and a 1910-1911 M116 Sporting Life Honus Wagner card add to the excitement, representing rare finds from the early 1900s. Fans of football will appreciate the inclusion of a 1957 Topps Football Johnny Unitas rookie card.

In addition, the auction features hundreds of T206 cards, a popular set among collectors. Rare finds like a Ty Cobb Portrait Red Background card and cards with rare Carolina Brights backs make these T206 cards even more desirable. The modern card section showcases a 1986 Topps Football Steve Young rookie card and early Michael Jordan cards from 1984 and 1985, demonstrating the enduring popularity of these modern-day legends.

Overall, the Robert Edward Auctions’ January Encore event provides a diverse and historically rich collection of vintage sports memorabilia and cards. With items spanning over 180 years, collectors have the opportunity to acquire rare pieces that hold significant value both in terms of history and worth. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your journey, this auction is not to be missed.

Source