REA’s May Encore Auction, recently concluded on a bustling Sunday night, was a monumental event in the world of collectibles. This auction was a playground for collectors, with a particular focus on completing classic baseball sets from the 1950s. The sets showcased were not just your average run-of-the-mill collections; they were highly sought-after due to their rarity and exceptional condition, attracting enthusiasts looking to build their own high-grade set masterpieces.
One of the auction’s shining stars was the impressive sale of a 1958 Topps near-complete set, missing only one card, which commanded a staggering $126,000. This set, ranking #13 on the PSA Set Registry with a remarkable GPA of 8.00, exemplifies the pinnacle of excellence in set building that collectors aspire to achieve. Following closely was the sale of a 1957 Topps complete set, ranked #24 on the PSA Set Registry with a GPA of 8.00, fetching an impressive $99,000. Additionally, the 1959 Topps complete set, holding the #29 spot on the PSA Set Registry with a GPA of 8.01, was sold for $72,000, adding to the auction’s allure.
The auction didn’t stop at post-war treasures; it also delved into the world of pre-war rarities, setting new records and captivating the audience. A highlight was the sale of a 1909-1911 T206 Ty Cobb Bat Off Shoulder card with the rare Uzit Back, graded PSA FAIR 1.5, which accomplished a remarkable price of $54,000, setting a new benchmark for its grade and back combination. Another notable sale was the 1933 R319 Goudey #53 Babe Ruth card, fetching $30,000, marking a record price for its VG-EX 4 grade.
With over 3,600 items going under the hammer, the auction generated nearly $1.8 million from an impressive 63,000 bids. Among the top sellers were iconic pieces such as the 1955 Topps #164 Roberto Clemente Rookie card, PSA NM-MT 8, selling for $52,800, the 1954 Topps #128 Hank Aaron Rookie card, PSA NM-MT 8, reaching $36,000, and a 1907 Wolverine News Postcard featuring a Ty Cobb Portrait Rookie, SGC FAIR 1.5, which garnered $29,400. Notable mentions included Mickey Mantle’s 1951 Bowman #253 Rookie card, PSA EX 5, selling for $25,200, and a 1933 R319 Goudey #144 Babe Ruth card, PSA VG-EX+ 4.5, along with a 1955 Topps #123 Sandy Koufax Rookie card, each selling for $24,600.
Continuing the parade of remarkable sales, a 1954 Topps #94 Ernie Banks Rookie card, PSA NM-MT 8, brought in $24,000, while an unopened wax box of 1980-1981 Topps Basketball cards featuring Larry Bird and Magic Johnson rookies was sold for $17,400. Furthermore, a 1933 R319 Goudey #181 Babe Ruth card, PSA VG+ 3.5, fetched $15,600, and a 1951 Bowman #1 Whitey Ford Rookie card, PSA NM-MT 8, was purchased for $14,400.
REA President Brian Dwyer expressed his satisfaction with the auction’s success, emphasizing the strong results and the resurgence of interest in high-grade set building. Dwyer conveyed optimism for future events, hinting at even greater achievements in the industry on the horizon.
Looking towards the future, REA is gearing up for its June Encore Auction, commencing on June 13, followed by the highly anticipated Summer Catalog Auction starting on July 23. Coinciding with the 44th annual National Sports Collectors Convention, where REA will have a prominent presence at Booth #6032, these upcoming events are sure to keep the excitement alive in the world of vintage collectibles.
