This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/11/2016
One of the most endearing attributes of turn of the century sports cards are their eye-pleasing use of deep color, quite ironic since most people identify the time period of the early 20th Century with colorless, Charlie Chaplin like silent films. But when it came to artwork, especially printed matter, explosive color was an integral part of the creative process, evidenced by T206 cards but even more so on many of the non-sports issues released during that time. Presented is one of the most stunning pieces ever made with a baseball theme. Clearly influenced by the S81 silks, it is believed that these premiums were issued by the American Tobacco Company as an incentive for redeeming 100 coupons, far more than were required for any other premium, but far more coveted as well. This particular example shows evidence of mild discoloration from age and fraying along the edges but still retains an admirable appearance with strong, vivid colors. Each presented subject is a baseball Hall of Famer, juxtaposed against a diamond that boasts varying shades of green and immediately captivates the viewer. Red cross-stitch patterns bordering each player image would indicate that the individual silks were meant to be sewn on as they were acquired, but this phenomenal sheet has been spared the needle and thread. Some light creasing is evident from being folded at different points over the years. Simply stated, this rare beauty is deserving of a home in the most advanced of world-class collections.