A treasure trove of vintage baseball cards from the 1920s, including legends Babe Ruth and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson, has been discovered in a century-old tobacco tin. Assembled by Ed, a passionate baseball fan and purchasing agent from Northern California, the collection is set to be auctioned by Auction Monthly, offering enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a piece of baseball history.
The collection holds remarkable historical value, featuring cards of not only Babe Ruth and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson but also nearly every player from the infamous 1919 “Black Sox” team. The cards, although not in gem-mint condition, are highly sought after due to their rarity and historical significance. Some of the rare finds include the 1919-21 W514 “Shoeless” Joe Jackson card and multiple Babe Ruth cards from various series.
Among the series represented in the collection are the 1921 E220 National Caramel Babe Ruth, the 1922 American Caramel E121 Babe Ruth, and Ty Cobb cards from the same era. While the cards may have lower grades, they are still expected to fetch thousands of dollars at auction. The collection serves as a testament to a bygone era of baseball, capturing the spirit and memories of a fan’s lifelong passion for the game.
Auction Monthly’s vice president, Brandon, emphasized the rarity and excitement surrounding this find, estimating the collection to be worth in the high six figures. With approximately 80 cards set to be graded, Auction Monthly anticipates significant interest once the auction begins in the first quarter of 2024.
Ed’s son, who made the remarkable discovery, has decided to auction most of the collection but plans to keep a few cards and Ed’s own baseball glove as cherished mementos. As the process of downsizing begins, this auction provides an extraordinary opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire a piece of baseball history.
The meticulous preservation of the cards by Ed’s family over the years has ensured their longevity and value. This discovery represents not only a valuable collection of baseball cards but also a glimpse into the past and the love and dedication of a true fan. Each card tells a story, connecting present-day enthusiasts to the heroes and legends of the early 20th century.
As the auction date approaches, collectors and fans eagerly await their chance to bid on these coveted pieces of baseball history. The auction will not only attract those seeking to expand their own collections but also individuals interested in owning a piece of the sport’s heritage.
In conclusion, the discovery of this vintage 1920s baseball card collection, featuring Babe Ruth, “Shoeless” Joe Jackson, and the 1919 “Black Sox,” is a remarkable find. Auction Monthly is preparing for an auction in the first quarter of 2024, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to own a piece of baseball history. The collection’s rarity, historical value, and the meticulous preservation by Ed’s family make it a truly remarkable find for collectors and aficionados alike.