Freeman’s/Hindman is currently hosting a one-of-a-kind auction that is making waves in the sports memorabilia world. One standout highlight of this auction is the complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards, a collector’s dream come true. These cards are not just any cards; they are presented in their original team bags, preserving them in the same condition as they were sold decades ago. Among this set lies the crown jewel—a highly coveted Michael Jordan rookie card. The significance of this complete set, consisting of 288 cards, cannot be overstated, and it is estimated to fetch between $50,000 and $70,000, a true testament to the enduring appeal of Michael Jordan in the sports collectibles market.
The story behind these Star Company cards adds to their allure. In the early 1980s, The Star Company made a bold move by securing the NBA’s trading card rights after Topps decided not to renew its contract. Despite being a relatively small company at the time, Star chose to distribute their cards through mail orders and select hobby shops and sporting events, making them less accessible and thus more rare compared to cards from larger producers. The fact that many collectors opened their cards to store them in albums further adds to the rarity of those sets that remain in their original packaging, heightening their value in the eyes of passionate collectors.
But the auction doesn’t stop at basketball memorabilia; it also features remarkable pieces from the annals of baseball history. Among these treasures are three autographed baseballs signed by none other than the legendary Babe Ruth. One of the baseballs showcases Ruth’s signature boldly and clearly on the sweet spot, encapsulating the enduring legacy of the Great Bambino and serving as a beacon for collectors of historical sports artifacts.
In addition to these gems, the auction houses other notable Jordan cards from his rookie season, including the 1984 Gold Medalist No. 195 and the 1985 Rookie of the Year No. 288, along with a prized PSA 8 graded 1986-87 Fleer rookie card of Jordan, adding to the allure of this collection for basketball aficionados.
Enthusiasts of vintage cards will find plenty to marvel at in this auction. Highlights include a signed baseball from the 1955 Baseball Hall of Fame induction weekend with autographs from 19 legends such as Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Cochrane. Additionally, a single-signed Jimmie Foxx ball and a 1959 Ty Cobb signed and inscribed ball are sure to captivate collectors seeking pieces of baseball history.
Among the numerous lots up for bidding are a 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 high numbers. The auction also boasts multiple Mickey Mantle cards from the 1950s and 60s, further adding to its appeal for collectors drawn to iconic sports figures.
Notable items such as the 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 round out the auction’s offerings, offering something for every sports memorabilia enthusiast.
Running through June 13 on Freeman’s/Hindman’s website, this auction is not just a marketplace for rare collectibles—it’s a journey through the rich tapestry of American sports history. Whether you’re a basketball buff, a baseball aficionado, or simply fascinated by the legacy of iconic sports figures, this auction presents an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of that storied past.
