This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/16/2013
This lot features the popular and incredibly difficult to acquire 1914 Christy Mathewson Cracker Jack card. In 1914, the manufacturers of Cracker Jack hadn't yet realized that collectors were anxious to obtain complete sets of the captivating "Base Ball Players and Managers" cards enclosed with the company's product. This frustration was addressed a year later in 1915, but enthusiasts were left to open boxes of the sticky treat in order to assemble an array of the brightly colored 1914 gems. The set's designers nevertheless recognized the first issues character and potential, and thus left its gallery of subjects largely intact in the subsequent series. Although expanded to 176 cards from 144, the 1915 release utilized most of the glamorous images already tested in 1914. Presented is one of the very few (and by far the most important) exceptions to that strategy. Christy Mathewson is shown, for 1915, in a compelling and highly detailed portrait. That item is the Mathewson piece proudly owned by the most serious hobbyists to represent the Hall of Famer among their treasured Cracker Jack holdings. This 1914 card is a striking example of Matty's horizontal "action" pose, a piece that is seldom found with such abundant eye appeal in its illustration. Although conceding undeniable and significant corner and edge faults, the all important Mathewson image, itself, is outstanding. The incomparable quality of the unmistakable Cracker Jack colors is majestic and undiminished, and Mathewson's likeness remains wonderfully fresh. A very delicate and almost indescribably elusive piece, this card is difficult to acquire in ANY condition. There have only been 17 samples ever graded listed in the latest population report with the highest grade being a NM 7. That card is worth in excess of six figures. A Good 2 books at $15,250. Bid aggressively on this rarity; who knows how long it will be until another becomes available!
(SGC)