Freeman’s/Hindman is currently hosting a thrilling sports memorabilia auction that is sure to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. The spotlight of the event is a complete set of 1984-85 Star Company basketball cards, a highly coveted collection that includes the sought-after Michael Jordan rookie card. Encased in their original team bags from decades past, these cards are expected to fetch between $50,000 and $70,000, a testament to their rarity and the enduring appeal of Michael Jordan in the sports collectibles market.
The 1980s marked a bold move by the Star Company when they secured the NBA’s trading card rights after Topps opted not to renew its contract. Distributing mainly through mail orders and select outlets, Star made their cards less accessible, rendering them more scarce compared to those of larger producers. Retaining their original packaging, these sets have become incredibly rare and valuable over time as many collectors opted to open them for display in albums.
While basketball memorabilia takes center stage at the auction, baseball enthusiasts will not be disappointed. Three autographed baseballs signed by the legendary Babe Ruth are among the key attractions, showcasing Ruth’s enduring legacy and drawing in collectors of historical sports artifacts.
Adding to the allure are other standout Michael Jordan cards from his rookie season, such as the 1984 Gold Medalist No. 195 and the 1985 Rookie of the Year No. 288, along with a PSA 8 graded 1986-87 Fleer rookie card.
The auction also boasts an array of vintage cards and sports collectibles, including a signed baseball from the 1955 Baseball Hall of Fame induction weekend bearing signatures from icons like Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Cochrane. Collectors will also find treasures like a single-signed Jimmie Foxx ball, a 1959 Ty Cobb signed and inscribed ball, a rare 1968 O-Pee-Chee Nolan Ryan rookie card graded PSA 8, and a near complete set of 1952 Topps baseball cards with over 60 high numbers.
Phenomenal pieces like San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl XXIV Champions ring, a 1926 New York Yankees multi-signed baseball featuring autographs from Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, and 1920s-30s St. Louis Cardinals contract agreements signed by Branch Rickey will also be up for bidding.
Running through June 13 on Freeman’s/Hindman’s website, this auction not only showcases the depth of history embedded in these collectibles but also offers sports fans and collectors alike the chance to own a piece of that rich history. Whether you are a basketball aficionado, a baseball enthusiast, or simply a lover of American sports history, this auction promises a treasure trove of valuable and memorable items for every collector to enjoy.