A remarkable discovery has been made in the world of sports memorabilia. The son of a longtime collector recently stumbled upon a hidden treasure trove of vintage baseball cards from the 1920s. The collection, found in a 100-year-old tobacco tin, includes cards of baseball legends such as Babe Ruth and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson.
The collector, named Ed, was a purchasing agent from Northern California and a passionate baseball fan. He meticulously assembled this collection, which also features cards of the infamous 1919 “Black Sox” team and other Baseball Hall of Famers. Ed’s family valued preserving items from the past, and as a result, the cards have been well-preserved over the years.
The vintage baseball cards, although not in gem-mint condition, are still highly valuable and sought after by collectors. Among the rare finds in the collection is the 1919-21 W514 “Shoeless” Joe Jackson card, known for its scarcity and historical significance. Multiple Babe Ruth cards from various series are also present, adding to the allure of this extraordinary find.
Auction Monthly’s vice president, Brandon, expressed his excitement over the rarity of the collection. The initial estimate for the entire collection is expected to reach the high six figures, emphasizing its incredible value. The auction is set to take place in the first quarter of 2024, once about 80 of the cards have been graded.
While the decision to auction the majority of the collection has been made, Ed’s son plans to keep a few cards and his father’s baseball glove as cherished mementos. This gesture speaks to the sentimental value and personal connection that this collection holds for the family.
The vintage baseball cards in this collection represent a bygone era of the sport, filled with history and nostalgia. Not only do they include iconic figures like Babe Ruth and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson, but they also encompass nearly every player from the infamous 1919 “Black Sox” team. Cards from various series, such as the 1921 E220 National Caramel Babe Ruth and the 1922 American Caramel E121 Babe Ruth, highlight the breadth and depth of the collection. Ty Cobb cards from the same era further add to its historical significance.
Despite their lower grades, these cards are highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts due to their historical value and rarity. It is expected that some of the cards will sell for thousands of dollars at the auction, making them true collector’s items.
The discovery of this remarkable collection presents a unique opportunity for baseball fans and collectors to own a piece of history. Ed’s son’s decision to downsize and auction the majority of the collection allows others to share in the joy and excitement of owning these iconic cards. Enthusiasts and collectors alike are eagerly awaiting the auction, which will be held by Auction Monthly.
In conclusion, the recent discovery of a collection of rare 1920s vintage baseball cards, including legends like Babe Ruth and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson, in a century-old tobacco tin is truly remarkable. The historical value, rarity, and carefully preserved nature of these cards make them highly sought after by collectors. As the auction approaches, the anticipation and excitement for this extraordinary find continue to grow.