This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/20/2011
Distributed in October, 1921 by E.H. Koester, a New York bakery, this set honored the first of what would be many World Series appearances by the New York Yankees, who engaged the cross-town rival New York Giants in the championship. The complete 52-card set is divided equally and features players, coaches and managers from each of the championship participants. This special card set, similar to the E121 American Caramel Series of 120 but with blank backs, contains several Hall of Famers, but by far the most coveted issue is the Babe Ruth card. Ruth had just completed his 3rd season in the Big Apple, leading the league with 57 homers, 171 runs batted in, and a .376 batting average while just missing the American League Triple Crown due to Harry Heilmann's league leading .394 batting average. Graded SGC 80 EX/NM 6, this 1921 Koester Bread specimen of Babe Ruth is such a rare find that only 5 have ever been graded by PSA and SGC combined. Each of the four corners exhibits varying amounts of enamel loss commensurate with the SGC evaluation, however, the two left corners show a light degree of rounding that is not as pronounced as you would expect given the grade. In fact, the lower left corner is clearly superior to the SGC assessment. The front surface is sublime, with boldly struck print upon a pristine surface that exhibits no evidence of age toning. Near perfectly centered on the pasteboard, the various shades and overall placement of the pixels deliver a sharp, accurate image that rivals far more contemporary issues. Only the half-printed "r" in "Americans" reminds the observer that this is a pre-depression era relic that has withstood the ravages of time with remarkable resolve. A cornerstone to any world-class collection!