This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/27/2010
If this offering doesn't make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, I'm not sure what will! This is an astounding tobacco card from 1895, featuring Hall of Fame pitcher John Clarkson, that has miraculously survived the last 115 years in EX+ 5.5 condition as determined by PSA. If the sheer age of this pasteboard doesn't impress you in its own accord, consider the highly-susceptible black borders and full-bleed reverse that show light enough evidence of handling and wear to earn the assigned grade. Then consider the central image, shown with a level of clarity and contrast that far exceeds the norm for the era. Then marvel at the fact that this image is nearly perfectly centered between borders that could conceivably be found on a card graded EX/MT 6 or better, save for a small chip on the bottom border that is smaller than the width of a pencil eraser. Finally, try to conceive of a pitcher throwing 623 innings in one season while earning a head-spinning 53 wins! Not to mention the fact that is card is the only one graded at this level with just one copy graded higher, a scant half-point higher to be exact! Incredible is the term I would use!