Freeman’s/Hindman is hosting a captivating sports memorabilia auction, captivating collectors with a rare find—a complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards. This impeccable set, presented in the original team bags from decades ago, boasts a coveted Michael Jordan rookie card. Estimates suggest this set of 288 cards could fetch between $50,000 and $70,000, highlighting the rarity and enduring allure of Michael Jordan in the collectibles market.
The Star Company made a bold move by securing the NBA’s trading card rights in the early 1980s, filling the void left by Topps. By distributing their cards primarily through mail orders and select outlets, the company ensured rarity that collectors now cherish. Many cards were promptly placed in albums, making untouched, bag-sealed sets exceptionally scarce and valuable today.
Beyond basketball, the auction offers a glimpse into baseball history with three autographed baseballs signed by the legendary Babe Ruth. Notably, one miniature baseball showcases Ruth’s bold and clear signature on the sweet spot, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Sultan of Swat and a coveted piece for historical sports collectors.
The auction also showcases more significant Jordan cards from his rookie era, such as the 1984 Gold Medalist No. 195 and the 1985 Rookie of the Year No. 288, as well as a graded PSA 8 1986-87 Fleer rookie card of Jordan.
Other noteworthy items in the auction appeal to a variety of sports collectors. These include a baseball signed during the 1955 Baseball Hall of Fame induction weekend, bearing the signatures of 19 luminaries like Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Cochrane, a Jimmie Foxx single-signed ball, and a Ty Cobb signed and inscribed ball from 1959.
Vintage card enthusiasts will be thrilled by prime lots like the rare 1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan rookie card graded PSA 8, and a near complete set of 1952 Topps baseball cards featuring over 60 elusive high numbers. The inclusion of multiple Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s adds to the appeal of the auction for fans of iconic sports figures.
The auction also boasts standout pieces like a San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl XXIV Champions ring, a 1926 New York Yankees multi-signed baseball with autographs from Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, and a collection of 1920s-30s St. Louis Cardinals contract agreements signed by Branch Rickey.
Running through June 13 on Freeman’s/Hindman’s website, this auction not only celebrates the rich history encapsulated by these collectibles but also presents a chance for sports enthusiasts and collectors to own a piece of that cherished history. Whether one’s passion lies in basketball, baseball, or the broader narrative of American sports, this auction promises to offer something extraordinary for every collector.