An extraordinary discovery of four untouched bricks of 1963 Exhibit "stat back" baseball cards, containing around 2,000 pieces including legends of the game, has captivated the sports memorabilia world, offering a rare glimpse into the past with cards still in their original wrapping.
In a serendipitous revelation for the realm of sports memorabilia, an unprecedented find has come to light: four unopened bricks of 1963 Exhibit "stat back" baseball cards, amounting to nearly 2,000 cards preserved in their initial packaging. This discovery, brought to attention through a social media post featuring a vintage arcade machine similar to those originally used for card dispensing, marks a significant moment for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Bill Mendel, with five decades of experience in the memorabilia trade, was astounded by the news of this discovery, relayed by an individual from the east coast with historical ties to the arcade industry. The connection to Mike Munves, a notable New York-based distributor and repairer of arcade equipment in the mid-20th century, lent credibility and intrigue to the find. The sealed packages, adorned with Exhibit Supply's Chicago address, verified their authenticity, evoking excitement and anticipation.
Upon arranging for these relics to be consigned to Memorabilia Experts, a renowned auction house and store based in Las Vegas, the significance of the find became even more apparent. Each brick, potentially housing multiple complete sets of the celebrated 64-card series, represents a treasure trove likely valued at thousands of dollars per set, due to their mint, unopened condition. Additionally, a fifth package, partially opened, along with hundreds of loose cards featuring baseball icons like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Mickey Mantle, added to the allure of the collection.
The rarity of the 1963 "stat back" cards, distinguished by their red-printed career statistics, makes this discovery particularly notable. While individual loose cards from this series are not uncommon, the presence of these cards in unopened vending packages elevates their rarity and desirability, with similar items commanding premium prices in the collector's market.
Set to be auctioned, this collection has already begun to draw considerable attention and early bids, underscoring the enduring fascination with and value of historical sports memorabilia. This auction not only offers a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of baseball history but also celebrates the rich tradition and nostalgia of collecting baseball cards, reminiscent of a time when acquiring a favorite player's card was as simple as a coin slide and push.
For Mendel and the team at Memorabilia Experts, securing this collection for auction is a testament to the vibrancy and excitement that the discovery of such memorabilia gems brings to the community. Whether these packs remain sealed or are eventually opened, their emergence into the public eye is a victory for collectors, historians, and baseball enthusiasts, honoring the legacy and enduring appeal of the sport's golden era.