Robert Edward Auctions (REA) recently hosted their March Encore sale, and it was nothing short of spectacular. Vintage card collectors and enthusiasts were eager to snag some iconic pieces, resulting in record-breaking sales and new benchmarks set in the market.
A standout moment at the auction was when a 1933 V353 World Wide Gum Canadian Goudey #80 Babe Ruth card in PSA EX-NM 6 condition fetched an impressive $32,400. This sale alone showcases the allure and value attached to these vintage collectibles. But the Ruth card wasn’t the only one making waves.
Another remarkable sale was the 1911 E94 George Close Candy Ty Cobb in SGC POOR 1 condition, which sold for $28,000. Similarly, a 1909-1911 T206 White Border Ty Cobb Bat Off Shoulder card graded PSA EX 5 with a Tolstoi Back wasn’t far behind, selling for an impressive $27,600. These sales set new records and underlined the growing fascination with vintage sports cards.
The auction boasted over 3,300 lots, attracting a bidding frenzy that ultimately resulted in over $1.3 million in sales. With nearly 66,000 bids placed, it’s clear that demand for these historical pieces remains strong and vibrant in the collector’s market.
Among other notable sales were a 1976 Topps #500 Reggie Jackson in PSA GEM MINT 10 condition, which fetched $30,000. A 1980-1981 Topps Basketball Larry Bird/Magic Johnson Rookie graded PSA MINT 9 followed closely behind, selling for $25,200. Additionally, a 1948-1949 Leaf #79 Jackie Robinson Rookie graded PSA VG+ 3.5 changed hands for $23,400, further solidifying the market’s enthusiasm for iconic sports memorabilia.
Noteworthy mentions include a 1911 M110 Sporting Life Cabinet Honus Wagner graded PSA GOOD 2 (MK), which sold for $14,400, and a 1951 Bowman #253 Mickey Mantle Rookie in SGC GOOD+ 2.5 condition, fetching the same price point. These sales underscore the enduring appeal of legendary players in the sports card collecting scene.
The auction also featured rare finds that captivated bidders, such as an Extremely Rare 1921 Schapira Bros. Candy Babe Ruth box fragment, which sold for $10,800. An 1888 N28 Allen & Ginter John Clarkson card graded PSA EX-MT 6 was another highlight, commanding an impressive $8,100.
Setting additional records were items like a Billy Southworth Single-Signed Baseball, a 1909-1911 T206 White Border Cy Young Portrait graded PSA POOR 1 (Brown Hindu Back) which sold for $7,500, and a 1934 R320 Goudey #37 Lou Gehrig in SGC GOOD+ 2.5 condition, fetching $5,280. These sales further emphasized the growing interest and value in the vintage sports memorabilia market.
REA’s President, Brian Dwyer, expressed his delight at the auction’s success, citing it as a testament to the strength of the vintage market. With this momentum, all eyes are now on the upcoming Spring Catalog Auction, promising even more excitement and record-breaking sales in the world of vintage sports collectibles.
