REA’s June Encore Auction has wrapped up with a resounding success, showcasing a strong emphasis on set building and vintage collectibles. Among the top-selling items were six complete graded sets, with the top three sellers being Topps Baseball complete sets from 1963, 1960, and 1961, fetching impressive sums of $75,000, $66,000, and $54,000, respectively. These sets are highly regarded and rank among the top on the PSA Set Registry. Notably, complete sets from 1950 Bowman, 1964 Topps, and 1965 Topps Baseball also found new homes, each selling for $37,200.
With a grand total of 3,278 lots up for grabs, the auction drew in over $1.7 million in sales from a staggering 67,300 bids, reflecting a robust interest in the world of collectibles and memorabilia.
A standout item that captured the attention of bidders was a 1970-1971 Topps Basketball #160 Jerry West PSA GEM MINT 10 card, one of just two examples graded at this high level. This rare find fetched $54,000, setting a new record for the card at any grade. The sale of this card took on added significance following the recent passing of the legendary Basketball Hall of Famer, known for inspiring the iconic NBA logo.
The auction also saw notable sales of iconic pieces, such as the 1914 E145 Cracker Jack #30 Ty Cobb SGC FAIR 1.5 card, which achieved a record-breaking price of $38,400 in its grade. Additionally, the 1957 Topps #95 Mickey Mantle PSA NM-MT+ 8.5 card went for the same amount. A highlight for basketball enthusiasts was the sale of the 1980-1981 Topps Basketball Unopened Wax Box (36 Packs) – BBCE, featuring the rookie year of Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, which sold for $18,600.
Other coveted items that found new homes included the 1921 Exhibits Babe Ruth PSA VG+ 3.5 card, the 1933 R319 Goudey #92 Lou Gehrig PSA EX 5 card, and the 1907 Wolverine News Postcard Ty Cobb Batting Rookie PSA Authentic, all fetching significant sums from enthusiastic collectors.
REA’s President, Brian Dwyer, expressed satisfaction with the auction results, noting the continued interest in top-quality graded sets, vintage staples, and rare finds. Looking ahead, REA is gearing up for its Summer Catalog Auction, set to commence on July 23. Collectors eager to browse the upcoming lots can request a catalog through the REA website or visit the company’s booth #6032 at The National in Cleveland, where a curated selection of items from the Summer Auction will be on display.
For collectors keen to stay informed about REA’s auction schedule and to delve into captivating consignor stories from past and upcoming events, a visit to the REA website provides a wealth of information and insights into the world of collectibles.
