Robert Edward Auctions is kicking off the year with a bang, presenting an extraordinary and comprehensive Encore event that showcases an impressive collection of baseball memorabilia spanning over 180 years. This first auction of 2024 is nothing short of extraordinary, with nearly 3,700 lots on offer. Collectors will be thrilled to find some of the oldest and most unique items ever offered in the sports memorabilia world, particularly in the realm of baseball.
One of the most remarkable pieces in this auction is a signed receipt from Alexander Cartwright, a pioneer in the early days of baseball. Dated 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 history of the sport.
Another exceptional item from the 19th century featured in the auction is the incredibly rare 1888 N403 Yum Yum Tobacco John Clarkson “Throwing” card. Graded EX 5 by PSA, this card is the only example ever graded by PSA that showcases the Hall of Fame pitcher and outfielder, making it a true gem for collectors.
Harry Wright, a prominent figure in early baseball history, also makes an appearance in this auction with a personal scorecard. The scorecard, dating back to a June 22, 1883 game between Philadelphia and the Providence Grays, managed by Wright himself, is a one-of-a-kind item. Scored in both pencil and blue ink, it bears Wright’s signature and has been graded 9 by PSA.
Leading off the auction is a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card graded SGC 1.5, just one of the many Mantle items up for grabs. With over 250 autographed items, including those from iconic baseball figures of the past, collectors will have no shortage of options to add to their prized collections.
Brian Dwyer, President of REA, expressed his excitement for this Encore Auction, highlighting it as one of the company’s strongest offerings to date. He emphasized the wide range of signed items and iconic cards in various grades, catering to collectors of all types.
But it doesn’t stop there. The January Auction also features other remarkable pieces that are sure to catch collectors’ attention. These 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 boasts 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.
Collectors will also be delighted by the signed checks section, featuring checks signed by legends such as Jackie Robinson, Ty Cobb, and Roberto Clemente. The T206 offerings are vast, with over 720 options, including rare advertising backs and cards featuring the rare Carolina Brights backs.
As 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. Don’t miss the chance to own a piece of baseball history and rare memorabilia, so head over to Robert Edward Auctions now and start bidding for your favorite treasures.