A remarkable discovery has recently been made in the world of sports memorabilia. The son of a longtime collector stumbled upon an incredible collection of 1920s vintage baseball cards in a 100-year-old tobacco tin. The collection, which includes cards of the infamous 1919 “Black Sox” team and other Baseball Hall of Famers, is now set to be auctioned by Auction Monthly.
The collector behind this extraordinary find is Ed, a purchasing agent from Northern California and a dedicated baseball fan. Over the years, Ed carefully assembled a collection of baseball cards, valuing the preservation of items from the past. The cards, although not in gem-mint condition, are still highly valuable and sought after by enthusiasts.
Among the gems in this collection are cards of two iconic players – Babe Ruth and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson. The 1919-21 W514 “Shoeless” Joe Jackson card is a rare find and considered one of the highlights of the collection. Multiple Babe Ruth cards from various series are also included, adding to the excitement surrounding this discovery.
Brandon, the vice president of Auction Monthly, highlighted the rarity and significance of this find. Initially, the collection is estimated to be worth in the high six figures. With the historical value and rarity of these cards, it is no surprise that collectors and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the auction.
In addition to the Babe Ruth and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson cards, this remarkable collection features nearly every player from the infamous 1919 “Black Sox” team. The variety of cards spans several series, such as the 1921 E220 National Caramel Babe Ruth and the 1922 American Caramel E121 Babe Ruth. Ty Cobb cards from the same era are also part of the collection.
While the cards may not be in pristine condition, their historical significance and scarcity make them highly coveted by collectors. It is expected that some of the cards will sell for thousands of dollars at the auction. This collection serves as a time capsule, capturing the spirit and memories of a bygone era of baseball.
Auction Monthly anticipates significant interest in the first quarter of 2024 as approximately 80 of the cards will undergo grading. Ed’s son, who made the discovery, has decided to auction most of the collection while keeping a few cards and his father’s baseball glove as cherished mementos. This presents a unique opportunity for collectors to own a piece of baseball history and be part of an incredible find.
In conclusion, the unearthing of this vintage baseball card collection, featuring legends like Babe Ruth and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson, is truly remarkable. With its historical significance and rarity, the collection is generating immense excitement in the world of sports memorabilia. As the auction date approaches, collectors and enthusiasts eagerly await the opportunity to own a piece of baseball history and celebrate the passion of a devoted fan.