In an exciting turn of events for sports memorabilia enthusiasts, a collection of approximately 2,000 unopened 1963 Exhibit “stat back” baseball cards has emerged from the past. These cards, still encased in their original brown packaging, represent a significant find within the hobby, especially considering their untouched state. The discovery was made public through a social media post showcasing a vintage arcade machine, reminiscent of those that once dispensed these cards.
The news of this discovery came as a shock to Bill Mendel, a seasoned professional in the sports memorabilia industry. He learned about the find from a contact on the east coast who had connections to the arcade business. The contact had acquired the cards from Mike Munves in New York, a well-known distributor and repairer of arcade machines during the 1950s and 60s. The sealed packages, complete with Exhibit Supply’s Chicago address, confirmed their authenticity and historical value.
Mendel, representing Memorabilia Experts, a Las Vegas-based memorabilia store and auction house, wasted no time in arranging for the consignment of these treasures. The unopened bricks are likely to contain multiple complete sets of the 64-card series, and given their pristine, uncirculated condition, they could be worth thousands each. The collection also includes a partially opened fifth package and hundreds of loose cards, including ten Hank Aarons, ten Willie Mays, nine Mickey Mantles, and other baseball legends, making this find even more extraordinary.
The 1963 “stat back” cards, known for their career statistics printed in red, are a rarity due to their size and quality. While loose cards from this era and series aren’t uncommon, finding them in unopened vending packages is exceptionally rare, with similar items fetching high prices on the collector’s market.
This collection, featuring both the unopened bricks and the loose cards, is set for auction and has already attracted significant interest and bids. The upcoming auction not only presents a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire these valuable pieces but also celebrates the history and nostalgia of baseball card collecting. It harkens back to a time when acquiring a card was as simple as inserting a coin into a machine and hoping for a prized player.
For Mendel and Memorabilia Experts, securing these items for auction is a significant achievement. It shines a spotlight on the ongoing allure and excitement of discovering sports memorabilia gems. Whether these packs will be opened or remain sealed is a decision for the winning bidders to make. However, the mere existence of these cards in their original state is a win for collectors and historians alike, as it celebrates the legacy of baseball’s past.
In conclusion, the discovery of the unopened 1963 Exhibit “stat back” baseball cards is a rare and significant event in the world of sports memorabilia. The untouched condition of these cards, encased in their original packaging, adds to their value and historical significance. The upcoming auction of this collection is already generating a buzz among collectors and provides a glimpse into the nostalgia and excitement of baseball card collecting.
