Sports Card News

Mile High Card Company, a vanguard in the sports memorabilia sphere, once again solidified its iconic stature with an auction that resonated throughout the industry. Notably, their expertise with the iconic T206 Honus Wagner card has set them apart, and their recent achievements further accentuate this distinction.

Central to their latest auction was the monumental sale of the 1909-11 T206 Sweet Caporal 150/25 card. This gem realized an impressive $1.968 million, setting a benchmark for Wagner cards designated as PSA Authentic (Restored). The vibrant bidding ambiance was indicative of the card’s monumental status, nearly breaching the illustrious $2 million threshold. However, in the broader landscape, the Wagner card’s SGC 2 version remains unparalleled, having secured an impressive $7.25 million in a confidential 2022 deal brokered by Goldin Co. Another feather in the cap was the acquisition of the SGC 3 version for $6.6 million in 2021, an initiative by Robert Edward Auctions. These monumental figures, nonetheless, stand juxtaposed to the iconic 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card (SGC 9.5) which fetched a staggering $12.6 million.

Post-auction, Brian Drent, the driving force behind Mile High, beamed with pride. He commended the elite choices of their patrons and the unparalleled avenues such events curate.

While the Wagner card was undoubtedly the star, the auction had its fair share of illustrious contenders. The 1948 Leaf Baseball unopened wax pack, holding a PSA 7 NM rating, commanded a laudable $206,017. In close succession, the 1952 Topps Baseball unopened wax pack 1st Series (PSA 7 NM) captivated attention with a $104,045 price tag. The aura of nostalgia was heightened with memorabilia such as the 1971 Bobby Orr Boston Bruins jersey and the 1967 Willie McCovey game-worn jersey, fetching $167,491 and $17,235 respectively.

Spanning from August 23 to September 7, the auction was a hive of activity, testament to the global passion for sports collectibles.

Other noteworthy mentions from the event include:

The illustrious 1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle card, securing $131,231.
The coveted 1914 Cracker Jack “Holy Bible” Shoeless Joe Jackson, amassing $89,876.
The distinguished 1963 Topps Rookie Stars #537 Pete Rose, concluding at $79,775.
Timeless treasures featuring legends like Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb, valuated between $11,589 and $22,373.
Legacy cards of the mid-century era, with icons like Roberto Clemente, ranged between $14,057 and $42,195.
Football’s golden era spotlighted with John Unitas cards, yielding $11,589 to $19,981.
Basketball hallmarks, especially of Wilt Chamberlain and Michael Jordan, fetching from $17,945 to $34,314.
Comprehensive collections, with sets like the 1933 Goudey, enticing bids up to $112,255.
Wrapping up this landmark event, the Mile High Card Company’s esteemed position in the sports collectibles domain was indelibly etched, aligning seamlessly with global collectors’ aspirations.

In the flourishing world of sports and trading card collecting, enthusiasts recognize the significance of credible grading services. With several players in the industry, ISA Grading has emerged as one of the top three, standing tall alongside giants in the sector. This article will provide an in-depth look into ISA Grading and its pivotal role in shaping the card collecting world.

1. ISA Grading: An Overview
   Founded as “International Sports Authentication,” ISA Grading has established itself as an industry stalwart, trusted by collectors globally. Its precision, dedication to quality, and consistent grading methodology have made it an irreplaceable asset in the card collector’s toolkit.
2. The ISA Grading Methodology
   Authentication: ISA’s first layer of scrutiny is ensuring the card’s authenticity. This meticulous process guarantees that only genuine and untampered cards get graded and enter the collector’s market.

Grading: Once authenticated, cards undergo a rigorous evaluation, focusing on aspects like centering, corners, edges, and surface. Based on this assessment, cards are awarded a numerical grade, typically ranging from 1-10.

Encapsulation: To safeguard the card’s condition and grade, ISA seals them in clear, tamper-evident cases, offering both protection and a pristine display.

3. The ISA Advantage
   ISA Grading isn’t just another grading service; it has carved its niche by offering:

Swift Turnaround: Recognizing the enthusiast’s zeal, ISA promises promptness without compromising accuracy.

Cutting-Edge Technology: ISA’s commitment to technology, utilizing high-resolution imaging and potential AI integrations, ensures the grading process remains ahead of its time.

Transparent Pricing: With a well-structured pricing model based on card value and turnaround time, collectors can choose a tier that best suits their needs.

4. The Road Ahead for ISA
   Being among the top three isn’t without challenges:

Maintaining Trust: ISA’s reputation hinges on its consistency and reliability. It is essential for them to persistently deliver top-tier service and maintain the trust they’ve built.

Evolving with the Times: The dynamic card market is ever-changing. Adapting to trends and shifts, and understanding collector preferences, is crucial for ISA’s sustained dominance.

5. Conclusion
   ISA Grading’s ascent to being a top grading company is a testament to its unwavering commitment to quality, accuracy, and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, ISA Grading is a name that you can trust implicitly in the card certification domain.

According to Sports Card Portal , Scott Meherg, the man responsible for the burglary of Elite Sports Cards (now in its 31st year of business), has been caught and charged. 5 of the cards were recovered, but over 100 cards were stolen, with a claimed value of over $100,000.

Among the graded cards that were recovered are 1951 & 1952 Bowman cards of Mickey Mantle, a 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth, a 1951 Bowman Yogi Berra and a 2000 Upper Deck Legends Jim Brown autograph card.

Meherg only received a $1,000 bond for his burglary, but is still held in the jail due to outstanding warrants out of Indiana.

PSA has announced it will start grading 1984-85 Star cards again the grading company announced. PSA originally stopped grading these cards in the 1990s due to the owner reprinting some of the 1985 cards in the 90s after bankruptcy and was selling them on QVC with the 1985 date on them like they were originals. This move is huge by PSA as we will finally see some Michael Jordan Star 101 XRC rookies in PSA Slabs.

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