REA’s June Encore Auction delivered a thrilling showcase of high-quality collectibles, where esteemed complete graded sets and sought-after vintage gems took center stage. The event, consisting of an impressive 3,278 lots, unfolded into a bidding frenzy that culminated in over $1.7 million in sales, fueled by a staggering 67,300 bids.

The auction revealed a prevailing emphasis on set building, as six complete graded sets seized the spotlight. Garnering significant attention were the Topps Baseball complete sets from 1963, 1960, and 1961, fetching impressive prices of $75,000, $66,000, and $54,000, respectively. These sets, revered for their impeccable quality, rank among the top contenders on the prestigious PSA Set Registry. Additionally, complete sets from 1950 Bowman, 1964 Topps, and 1965 Topps Baseball each commanded a notable $37,200.

Among the standout lots was the 1970-1971 Topps Basketball #160 Jerry West in a pristine PSA GEM MINT 10 grade. Pioneering as one of only two examples graded at such a remarkable level, this card soared to a record-setting $54,000 in a poignant tribute to the recently departed Basketball Hall of Famer, Jerry West, renowned for inspiring the iconic NBA logo.

Noteworthy sales continued with iconic pieces such as the 1914 E145 Cracker Jack #30 Ty Cobb in SGC FAIR 1.5 grade, reaching an impressive $38,400—a record high for the card in this particular grade. The 1957 Topps #95 Mickey Mantle in a PSA NM-MT+ 8.5 grade also shone bright, achieving the same remarkable price point.

In a nod to the golden era of basketball, the 1980-1981 Topps Basketball Unopened Wax Box, housing 36 packs from the rookie years of Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, attracted considerable interest at $18,600. Meanwhile, vintage aficionados found delight in the 1921 Exhibits Babe Ruth graded PSA VG+ 3.5, which sold for $16,200, and the 1933 R319 Goudey #92 Lou Gehrig and #149 Babe Ruth cards, each fetching $13,200.

The auction further captivated collectors with rarities like the 1907 Wolverine News Postcard featuring a Ty Cobb Rookie batting pose in a PSA Authentic grade, commanding a worthy sum of $11,700. Modern cards also made an impact, exemplified by the 2013 Bowman Chrome Draft Picks & Prospects Autographs #BCA-AJ Aaron Judge Blue Wave Refractor #18/50 graded PSA GEM MINT 10, which sold for $10,200.

Brian Dwyer, the President of REA, remarked on the successful auction, noting the notable demand for top-quality graded sets and vintage treasures. As anticipation builds for the upcoming Summer Catalog Auction commencing on July 23, REA promises a captivating array of items set to ignite collectors’ passions and sustain the current market trends.

For collectors eager to partake in the excitement, REA invites enthusiasts to request a catalog through their website. Additionally, the company will be showcasing an array of captivating Summer Auction items at booth #6032 during The National in Cleveland, promising a memorable experience for attendees.

As the anticipation mounts for REA’s next grand event, the fervor for exceptional collectibles and unique finds continues to shape the landscape of the hobby, promising an exhilarating journey for collectors old and new alike.

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