The January Encore Auction at Robert Edward Auctions is a true haven for collectors of vintage sports cards and memorabilia. This event showcases a wide range of rare items dating back to the 19th century, offering a glimpse into the rich history of sports. With over 3,700 items spanning more than 180 years of sports history, there’s something here for every collector to treasure.
At the heart of this auction are some truly exceptional pieces. One of the highlights is a signed 1842 receipt by baseball executive Alexander Cartwright, a key figure in the development of the game. This piece of history gives collectors a direct link to the early days of baseball. Another standout is an 1888 tobacco card of John Clarkson, a renowned player during that era. This card serves as a window into a time when tobacco companies used trading cards to promote their products.
According to REA President Brian Dwyer, this auction offers an impressive array of signed items and iconic cards, catering to collectors with diverse interests. The collection includes signatures from legendary figures like Lou Gehrig, Walter Johnson, and Honus Wagner. Collectors will be delighted to find a unique 1888 N403 Yum Yum Tobacco John Clarkson Throwing card, graded PSA EX 5.
Among the other notable items up for auction is an 1883 Harry Wright-signed scorecard from a game between Philadelphia and Wright’s Providence Grays. This scorecard provides a fascinating glimpse into the early days of organized baseball. A 1938 Lou Gehrig-signed postcard and a 1924 Walter Johnson-signed album page are also must-see items for fans of these baseball legends. For collectors interested in covers and envelopes, a 1939 Honus Wagner-signed Baseball Centennial First-Day Cover is sure to impress. And of course, no vintage baseball collection would be complete without a Babe Ruth cut signature.
In addition to the signed items, the auction features a wide selection of vintage cards that are sure to excite collectors. One of the highlights is a 1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle card, a true gem in the realm of baseball cards. For fans of early baseball history, there’s a 1914 E145 Cracker Jack Grover Alexander rookie card and a 1910-1911 M116 Sporting Life Honus Wagner card. The auction also includes several 1954 Topps #128 Hank Aaron rookie cards, showcasing the rise of one of baseball’s greatest players. And for football enthusiasts, there’s a 1957 Topps Football Johnny Unitas rookie card.
If you’re a fan of the T206 card set, you’ll be thrilled to find hundreds of these cards in the auction. These iconic cards feature players from the early 20th century, and there are rare finds like the Ty Cobb Portrait Red Background card and cards with the scarce Carolina Brights backs. The auction also features modern card highlights such as a 1986 Topps Football Steve Young rookie card and early Michael Jordan cards from 1984 and 1985, providing collectors with a glimpse into the more recent history of sports cards.
Overall, the January Encore Auction at Robert Edward Auctions is a true showcase of the enduring appeal and value of vintage sports memorabilia and cards. Whether you’re interested in 19th-century artifacts or iconic cards from more recent decades, this collection has something for every collector to cherish. Don’t miss the opportunity to own a piece of sports history and add to your own cherished collection.