A highly anticipated sports memorabilia auction is on the horizon, with a standout attraction sure to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. The spotlight shines on a historic piece of baseball history—the 1913 Honus Wagner card issued exclusively through Voskamp’s Coffee in Pittsburgh. This particular card, a rare gem in the world of sports memorabilia, is set to headline Clean Sweep Auctions’ upcoming event.
The 1913 Voskamp’s Coffee Honus Wagner card has emerged as a prized possession for collectors due to its scarce availability and storied origins. Originally included in packages of coffee and tea from Voskamp’s Coffee, a local Pittsburgh company, these cards have become increasingly difficult to come by over time. Graded and encapsulated at the National Sports Collectors Convention in Chicago, this specific Wagner card holds the distinction of being only the third Voskamp’s Wagner card graded by PSA, with SGC having graded just four examples thus far.
Collectors and enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the opportunity to secure this elusive Wagner card, as it makes a rare public appearance in an auction setting for the first time since 2017. The allure of owning such a sought-after piece of baseball memorabilia adds an element of excitement to the upcoming auction, promising a thrilling bidding experience for those with a passion for sports history.
Beyond the iconic Honus Wagner card, the auction features an impressive assortment of vintage baseball cards and memorabilia that will undoubtedly pique the interest of collectors. Highlights include two 1887 N172 Old Judge cards featuring Hall of Famers Mike “King” Kelly and Harry Wright, an E102 Ty Cobb showcasing the early career of the baseball legend, and various graded Ty Cobb cards from the T206 series. Additionally, a Cy Young Portrait card, collector-grade 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth cards, and a 1941 Play Ball Joe DiMaggio card are among the notable offerings that add depth and diversity to the auction lineup.
Enthusiasts of pre-war baseball collectibles will find a treasure trove of items to explore, ranging from a lot of P2 Sweet Caporal pins to rare Ty Cobb pieces such as the E103 Williams Caramel card and the T3 Turkey Red card. Notable mentions also go to the E101 Honus Wagner graded by PSA 3 and the complete 1955 Topps baseball set featuring a BVG 7 Roberto Clemente rookie card, showcasing a range of vintage gems that appeal to the seasoned collector and novice alike.
The auction extends its scope beyond baseball, featuring a nearly complete autographed 1952 Bowman Baseball set that includes individual autographed cards of Roy Campanella, Gil Hodges, Mickey Mantle, and Willie Mays. For basketball enthusiasts, iconic Michael Jordan cards from his early career are on offer, while football collectors can delve into sets and high-grade Bart Starr cards spanning the legendary quarterback’s career milestones.
In the realm of memorabilia, the auction presents a diverse collection of artifacts that add a unique dimension to sports history. From a Walter Johnson single-signed baseball to a 1933 New York Yankees team-signed baseball with signatures from Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, these items offer a tangible connection to the golden era of baseball. Additionally, unique mementos such as 1914 Joe Tinker and 1920 Brooklyn Dodgers pennants, vintage tickets, boxing cards, and presidential autographs further enrich the auction experience, appealing to collectors with varied interests.
As the auction curator, Steve Verkman, aptly notes, this event brings together an eclectic mix of items that cater to a wide range of collectors. With a focus on rarity, historical significance, and diversity, Clean Sweep Auctions’ September event promises to be a memorable showcase of sports memorabilia, culminating in a celebration of the enduring legacy preserved within these timeless collectibles.
