An exceedingly rare 1907 postcard featuring the portrait of baseball legend Ty Cobb is taking center stage in the latest auction by Robert Edward Auctions (REA). Graded PSA VG 3, this postcard is a true gem from Cobb’s early days and is currently commanding a bidding war with offers reaching $17,000. This postcard, issued by Wolverine News, offers a unique glimpse into the formative years of one of baseball’s most celebrated figures, making it a highly coveted item for collectors.
The 1907 Wolverine News postcard captures Cobb during his first full season in Major League Baseball, symbolizing the dawn of his remarkable career. With only three known examples in existence, this postcard holds the distinction of being the highest graded among them, adding to its allure. Beyond being a mere collectible, this artifact serves as a piece of history, shedding light on the emergence of a legend who would leave an indelible mark on the sport.
Lot #1 in REA’s September Encore Auction, this exceptional postcard stands out amidst a plethora of vintage and modern sports memorabilia. Alongside the Ty Cobb postcard, the auction features a diverse selection of high-grade classic cards and memorabilia, offering collectors a chance to own pieces of baseball history.
Among the highlights of the auction are the 1910 E103 Williams Caramel Ty Cobb card graded PSA VG-EX 4, providing another perspective on Cobb’s early career, and the 1921 W516-2-1 #5 Ty Cobb card graded PSA NM 7, a scarce issue in top condition. Collectors can also set their sights on the 1948-1949 Leaf #8 Satchel Paige Rookie Short Print graded SGC GOOD, a coveted rookie card of the legendary pitcher.
Additionally, the auction showcases an impressive array of vintage cards, including the 1952 Topps #312 Jackie Robinson graded NM/MT 8, 1952 Topps #261 Willie Mays graded PSA 7, and 1955 Topps #194 Willie Mays graded PSA NM-MT 8, offering high-grade examples of these baseball greats. Another standout is the 1959 Topps #514 Bob Gibson Rookie graded PSA NM-MT+ 8.5, a pristine rookie card of the Hall of Fame pitcher.
Autograph enthusiasts will not be disappointed either, as the auction includes signed treasures such as the 1934 R320 Goudey #6 Dizzy Dean card graded PSA GOOD 2 (MK) with a GEM MINT 10 signature, and the 1968 Topps #280 Mickey Mantle card graded PSA VG-EX+ 4.5 with a GEM MINT 10 signature. Moreover, autographed cards of Willie Mays with PSA signature grades of 8 and 9 are also up for grabs, adding to the richness of the collection.
For fans of the Sultan of Swat, Babe Ruth, the auction offers vintage collectibles including a PSA/DNA Type 1 International Newsreel photo from around 1921. This valuable photograph was used to create the 1932 Ruth Sanella Margarine card, adding a layer of historical significance to the item. Furthermore, a photo signed by both Babe Ruth and his business agent, Christy Walsh, adds a unique touch to the array of memorabilia available for bidding.
In a world where sports memorabilia serves as a bridge between the past and the present, auctions like REA’s September Encore Auction provide enthusiasts and collectors with a chance to own a piece of history. From rare rookie cards to autographed gems, this auction is a treasure trove for anyone looking to connect with the legends of the game and the iconic moments that define them.
