REA’s June Encore Auction was a vintage sports card collector’s dream, showcasing a magnificent array of high-end complete sets and timeless classics that left enthusiasts clamoring for more. The bidding frenzy saw a whopping 3,278 lots go under the hammer, generating a staggering $1.7 million from an impressive 67,300 bids.
Set building emerged as a dominant theme, with six complete graded sets stealing the limelight. Leading the pack were the illustrious Topps Baseball complete sets from 1963, 1960, and 1961, commanding eye-watering prices of $75,000, $66,000, and $54,000, respectively. These sets, revered for their pristine condition, are coveted gems in the PSA Set Registry, magnetizing bidders with their historical significance.
Noteworthy among the star-studded lineup was the 1970-1971 Topps Basketball #160 Jerry West PSA GEM MINT 10 card, a rarity boasting only two exemplars graded at such a pristine level. The card fetched an impressive $54,000, setting a new record for its grade. This milestone sale resonates deeply following the recent passing of basketball legend Jerry West, immortalized as the inspiration behind the iconic NBA logo.
In a testament to the enduring allure of vintage collectibles, a diverse range of treasures found new homes at the auction. Standout sales included the 1914 E145 Cracker Jack #30 Ty Cobb SGC FAIR 1.5 card, achieving a record-breaking $38,400 in its grade. The 1957 Topps #95 Mickey Mantle PSA NM-MT+ 8.5 card also dazzled bidders, realizing the same impressive sum.
The auction further delighted collectors with finds like the 1980-1981 Topps Basketball Unopened Wax Box featuring the rookie year of Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, which sold for $18,600. Meanwhile, the 1921 Exhibits Babe Ruth PSA VG+ 3.5 card and the 1933 R319 Goudey #92 Lou Gehrig PSA EX 5 card captured the essence of baseball history, fetching $16,200 and $13,200, respectively.
Brian Dwyer, President of REA, expressed delight at the auction’s success, noting the strong performance of graded sets and the unwavering demand for rare vintage memorabilia. With enthusiasm building for the forthcoming Summer Catalog Auction commencing on July 23, REA promises an exciting lineup set to captivate collectors once again. Interested parties can request a catalog through the REA website to get a sneak peek into the upcoming treasure trove of collectibles.
As the anticipation mounts for REA’s next auction extravaganza, collectors and enthusiasts alike eagerly await the chance to secure their own piece of sports memorabilia history. With each auction offering a chance to own a slice of nostalgia, REA continues to reign supreme as the ultimate destination for vintage sports card aficionados.