Robert Edward Auctions, a renowned auction house for sports memorabilia, has started the year with a bang by presenting an extraordinary collection of historic baseball memorabilia and rare collectibles. This Encore event showcases an impressive selection that spans over 180 years of sports history, making it one of the most comprehensive auctions to date. With nearly 3,700 lots, this collection offers something special for every sports enthusiast and collector, with a particular focus on baseball.
One of the most remarkable pieces up for auction is a signed receipt from Alexander Cartwright, a pioneer in the world of baseball, dating all the way back to 1842. Not only does this piece stand out for its age, but it also holds immense historical significance as it directly connects to a seminal figure in the early history of the sport.
Another highly sought-after item from the 19th century is the incredibly rare 1888 N403 Yum Yum Tobacco John Clarkson “Throwing” card. This card, graded EX 5, is the only PSA-graded example featuring the Hall of Fame pitcher and outfielder, making it a true gem for collectors and a rarity in the world of sports memorabilia.
Harry Wright, a prominent figure in early baseball history, is also represented in this auction with a personal scorecard from a June 22, 1883 game between Philadelphia and the Providence Grays, which Wright managed. This one-of-a-kind item, scored in both pencil and blue ink, bears Wright’s signature and has been graded a remarkable 9 by the Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA).
Kicking off the auction is a highly coveted SGC 1.5 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card, just one of the many Mantle items included in the collection. With over 250 autographed items, this auction offers numerous opportunities for collectors to acquire pieces signed by iconic baseball figures of the past.
Brian Dwyer, the President of Robert Edward Auctions, expressed his excitement for this Encore Auction, describing it as one of the strongest the company has ever had. He emphasized the wide selection of signed items and iconic cards available in various grades, catering to collectors of all interests and preferences.
Aside from the aforementioned highlights, REA’s January Auction also features a diverse range of exceptional items. These include a 1914 E145 Cracker Jack #37 Grover Alexander SGC VG 3 card, a 1986 Topps Football #374 Steve Young Rookie SGC GEM MINT 10 card, a Babe Ruth cut signature, a 1938 Lou Gehrig signed postcard, a 1924 Walter Johnson signed album page, and a 1939 Honus Wagner signed Baseball Centennial First-Day Cover. Additionally, the auction boasts a trio of 1954 Topps #128 Hank Aaron rookie cards, a 1957 Topps Football #138 Johnny Unitas Rookie BVG NM-MT 8 card, and early Michael Jordan cards, among other desirable collectibles.
Enthusiasts of signed checks will also find a treasure trove in this auction, with checks signed by Jackie Robinson, Ty Cobb, and Roberto Clemente among the offerings. Furthermore, the T206 section features over 720 options, including cards with rare advertising backs and those featuring the rare Carolina Brights backs.
As per the tradition of REA’s Encore Auctions, all items have a starting bid of just $10, making this historic collection accessible to a wide range of collectors and fans alike. Bidding for this diverse array of sports history is now open on the company’s website and will continue until January 21, providing ample time for enthusiasts to secure their desired pieces of baseball history and rare memorabilia.