REA’s June Encore Auction wrapped up with a bang, emphasizing the allure of set building and vintage staples in the world of graded sports cards. This auction showcased a total of 3,278 lots, attracting a staggering 67,300 bids and generating over $1.7 million in sales.
The star performers of the auction were complete graded sets, with six sets securing positions in the top ten highest-selling items list. Topping the charts were the revered Topps Baseball complete sets from 1963, 1960, and 1961, fetching impressive prices of $75,000, $66,000, and $54,000 respectively. Renowned for their high ranking on the PSA Set Registry, these sets were coveted by collectors.
Among the standout lots was the 1970-1971 Topps Basketball #160 Jerry West PSA GEM MINT 10 card, one of only two in existence graded at such a high level. This rare gem fetched $54,000, marking a new record price for the card across all grades. The sale of this card coincided with the recent passing of the basketball legend Jerry West, who inspired the iconic NBA logo.
Notable sales from the auction include the 1914 E145 Cracker Jack #30 Ty Cobb SGC FAIR 1.5 card, which set a new record at $38,400 for its grade, and the 1957 Topps #95 Mickey Mantle PSA NM-MT+ 8.5 card, also selling for $38,400. Additionally, the 1980-1981 Topps Basketball Unopened Wax Box, featuring rookie cards of Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, sold for $18,600, captivating collectors with its sealed vintage allure.
Other highlights in the auction catalog were the 1921 Exhibits Babe Ruth PSA VG+ 3.5 card selling for $16,200, the 1933 R319 Goudey #92 Lou Gehrig PSA EX 5 card and the 1933 R319 Goudey #149 Babe Ruth SGC VG 3 card, both fetching $13,200 each. Rare finds like the 1907 Wolverine News Postcard Ty Cobb Batting Rookie PSA Authentic at $11,700 and the modern classic 2013 Bowman Chrome Aaron Judge Blue Wave Refractor at $10,200 showcased the diverse range of offerings that appealed to collectors.
REA President Brian Dwyer commented on the auction’s success, noting the ongoing demand for top-quality graded sets and unique vintage pieces. Dwyer also announced the upcoming Summer Catalog Auction starting on July 23, promising a fresh lineup of exciting items to captivate collectors’ interests.
For collectors eager to explore more offerings from REA and participate in future auctions, the company invites you to visit their website to request a catalog. Moreover, REA will be present at booth #6032 during The National in Cleveland, presenting a selection of items from the upcoming Summer Auction, adding to the excitement and anticipation within the card collecting community.
