Freeman’s/Hindman is currently hosting an exhilarating sports memorabilia auction that has enthusiasts and collectors buzzing with excitement. At the heart of this auction is a complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards, a gem that promises more than just a stroll down memory lane. These cards, encapsulated in their original team bags just like they were sold decades ago, present a rare opportunity for fans and collectors alike to own a slice of history. The star of the show is, of course, the highly sought-after Michael Jordan rookie card, adding unparalleled value to this complete set comprising 288 cards.
The journey of these basketball cards traces back to a pivotal moment in the early 1980s when the Star Company took a bold leap by acquiring the NBA’s trading card rights post Topps’ departure. Opting for a distribution model that focused on mail orders, selective hobby shops, and sporting events, Star set the stage for these cards to become scarce and exclusive over time. While many cards from that era found their way into albums, the sets that have remained intact in their original packaging have become exceedingly rare and precious to collectors.
The auction’s allure extends beyond basketball, offering a tantalizing array of baseball memorabilia that would make any sports aficionado’s heart skip a beat. Noteworthy among these treasures are three autographed baseballs signed by none other than the legendary Babe Ruth, a true icon in the annals of baseball history. One of these baseballs features Ruth’s signature boldly adorning the sweet spot, a testament to his enduring legacy and the everlasting appeal of his memorabilia in the world of sports collectibles.
Among the vast assortment of items up for grabs are additional Jordan cards from his rookie season, including the 1984 Gold Medalist No. 195 and the 1985 Rookie of the Year No. 288, alongside a PSA 8 graded 1986-87 Fleer rookie card of Jordan. Vintage card enthusiasts will find themselves drawn to rare gems like the 1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan rookie card graded PSA 8, and a near-complete set of 1952 Topps baseball cards boasting over 60 high numbers. The auction also showcases a variety of Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s, adding further prestige to the collection.
In addition, standout items like a San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl XXIV Champions ring, a 1926 New York Yankees multi-signed baseball featuring autographs from the iconic duo of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, and a series of 1920s-30s St. Louis Cardinals contract agreements signed by the esteemed Branch Rickey enhance the auction’s appeal and historical richness.
Running through June 13 on Freeman’s/Hindman’s website, this auction not only offers a glimpse into the storied past of these collectibles but also presents a unique opportunity for sports enthusiasts and collectors to own a tangible piece of that history. Catering to aficionados of basketball, baseball, and the broader spectrum of American sports history, this auction ensures that there’s something special waiting for every collector eager to unearth a hidden gem from the world of sports memorabilia.
