A remarkable piece of sports memorabilia history is poised to make waves in the upcoming Clean Sweep Auctions event, as a supremely rare 1913 Honus Wagner card takes center stage. This elusive card, part of the Voskamp’s Coffee series distributed exclusively in Pittsburgh where Wagner made his mark, has captured the attention of collectors worldwide. Originally tucked away in packages of coffee and tea by the local company, Voskamp’s Coffee, these cards have become a rare treasure over the past century.
Clean Sweep Auctions has revealed that the September auction will showcase this unique 1913 Voskamp’s Coffee Honus Wagner card, offering a chance for collectors to own a piece of baseball history. The card, recently graded by the prestigious PSA at the National Sports Collectors Convention in Chicago, has only been graded three times by PSA and four times by SGC, emphasizing its exceptional rarity. Since 2017, this will be the first time a Voskamp’s Wagner card graces a public auction, making it an unparalleled opportunity for enthusiasts to acquire a coveted collector’s item.
The auction doesn’t stop at the Wagner card; it boasts an impressive lineup of vintage baseball cards and memorabilia. From two 1887 N172 Old Judge cards featuring Hall of Famers Mike “King” Kelly and Harry Wright to a range of Ty Cobb cards, including an E102 graded by PSA and a T206 with a green background, collectors are in for a treat. The iconic Cy Young Portrait card, graded by PSA, adds to the allure of the auction with its depiction of the legendary pitcher.
For those with a penchant for pre-war treasures, the auction offers a variety of collectibles that include P2 Sweet Caporal pins, an E103 Williams Caramel Ty Cobb, and an E101 Honus Wagner—all graded and authenticated. With a mix of Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth cards, collectors can immerse themselves in the nostalgia of baseball’s golden era.
Of notable mention is the nearly complete autographed 1952 Bowman Baseball set, showcasing signatures from legends like Roy Campanella, Gil Hodges, Mickey Mantle, and Willie Mays. Additionally, basketball enthusiasts can vie for the iconic Michael Jordan cards from the 1980s, while football fans can explore high-grade Bart Starr cards spanning his illustrious career.
The memorabilia section of the auction offers a unique opportunity to own pieces of baseball history, such as a Walter Johnson single-signed baseball and a 1933 New York Yankees team-signed baseball with signatures from Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. Collectors can also delve into a range of unique items, including vintage pennants, tickets and programs, boxing memorabilia, presidential autographs, and entertainment signatures, adding a touch of diverse collectibles to the auction.
Steve Verkman of Clean Sweep Auctions aptly sums up the event, stating, “This auction presents perhaps the most eclectic mix of items we’ve ever assembled.” From rare vintage cards to significant memorabilia, the auction promises something for every collector, celebrating the rich tapestry of sports history preserved through these timeless collectibles.
Indeed, Clean Sweep Auctions’ September event is set to be a landmark occasion for collectors, offering a blend of rarity and diversity that encapsulates the allure of sports memorabilia. The presence of the 1913 Voskamp’s Coffee Honus Wagner card serves as a beacon, shining a light on the historical significance and cultural value embedded in these timeless artifacts.
