ASHWAUBENON, WI (WTAQ) — The pro shop at Lambeau Field isn’t going to be the only busy Packers outlet during the NFC Divisional Playoffs.
Antique Packers memorabilia dealers like Mike Worachek, who operates Card and Coin/Packer City Antiques on South Ridge Road in Ashwaubenon, are also expected to benefit from the influx of Packers faithful looking for a unique souvenir.
“Vince Lombardi autographed checks, broadsides, bobbleheads, stuff that’s unique and hard-to-find, that’s our specialty,” said Worachek. “Yearbooks, programs, autographs, glasses, pinbacks, buttons, unique collectibles for them to put in their man caves or just collect.”
His shop specializes in memorabilia from the Lombardi era and before. That sort of merchandise, which Worachek both buys and sells, can sometimes go for thousands.
“They sell really, really well,” he told WTAQ. “Especially the unique items that you don’t see every day.”
In recent months, Worachek has sold Vince Lombardi and Curly Lambeau autographs, as well as advertising broadsheets. A particularly unique item recently made its way through his doors as well–and it’s still there as of Tuesday.
“I’ve got a signed, dated, 1967, [Vince Lombardi’s] secretary typed out all the raises for his office people, and he signed it in pencil,” described Worachek. “That’s one of the more unique items I’ve had recently.”
While fans will flock to Packer City Antiques this weekend no matter what, Worachek says it’s particularly good for business if the Packers win the divisional game.
“If they win that first game, that changes everything,” Worachek told WTAQ. “Because then you have people coming back the next week for another game, or staying in Green Bay the whole time. So it’s a big deal to win that first round game.”
The Packers kick off against the San Francisco 49ers Saturday at 7:15.
