April 5th Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/6/2013
This 1933 Goudey #106 Napolean Lajoie has been critically examined, authenticated, and graded Near Mint+ 7.5 by SGC. That there are any examples of any 1933 Goudey cards numbered “106” available to hobbyists today is only by the perseverance of collectors in the 1930’s. Whether it was an oversight on their part or an effort to keep young collectors interested in “Big League Chewing Gum” for the entire year Goudey never released a card numbered “106” by standard means in 1933. Completing a set of Goudey’s just wasn’t in the cards for 1933. Those collectors who were persistent enough and for those that had the presence of mind to even think to write to Goudey Gum Company, provisions would be made in 1934. As Goudey was winding down production of their 1934 issue they made room on their high-number sheet for card #106 to fill out the 1933 sets, via mail, but only for those that wrote in with complaints about being able to finish their 1933 sets. Needless to say, very few collectors finished their 1933 Goudey sets. This particular 1933 Goudey #106 Napolean Lajoie is an exceptional specimen and shows virtually no signs of being 80 (or should we say 79?) years old. The centering of the image on this card is just slightly low and to the right but would still be acceptable on a card grading NM-MT. Very minimal, requisite toning which wouldn’t be “out of line” on an example even a full grade higher is the only evidence that this unaltered treasure is the proper vintage. Possibly the only thing that is impeding this card’s rightful placement in a NM-MT holder is just a hint of very minimal wear on the lower right corner. As it stands, this card is worthy of placement in some of the hobby’s finest collections as a high-end Near Mint card.