This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/22/2016
Even though the legendary 1952 Topps high-number series failed to reach expectations, the rollout of their inaugural product was a success overall. The problem was, a lot of the legendary stars never made it to collectors. So to get off on solid footing, Topps moved many of those icons to the first series of the 1953 set, and tabbed Jackie Robinson to kick off their sophomore collection. Now many years past the social issues associated with integrating the sport, Robinson was a bonafide superstar by any measure, sporting a career .318 batting average while leading the league in stolen bases twice and winning the 1949 batting title. As with every card that snags the pole position, '53 Robinson cards are tough to find in higher grade. However, this marvelous specimen is graded SGC 92 NM/MT+ 8.5 and can take on all comers in a MINT holder. Excellent centering and MINT to GEM MINT features are dominant, and it appears the conservative grade might stem from the rough cut that includes the black bordered bottom edge. While collectors have differing views about rough cuts and how they affect overall grading, we believe it gives the card a sense of character that should be rewarded, not penalized. But we're not the graders, and it's up to you to decide whether you agree. This came directly out of a pack that was opened at the Atlantic City National in 2003 and immediately submitted for grading, so you can count on one hand the number of times it was handled in its raw state. One thing is for certain; this is an incredible way to start a 1953 Topps set!