2017 Great American Trading Card Auction Ending April 1
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/1/2017
Graded EXCELLENT+ 5.5 by BVG. Hall of Famer, in a very rare "Pre-Rookie" appearance. At the time it was originally distributed, this treasured minor league collectible was simply an ice-breaker to help local police officers interact with youngsters while passing along "Crime Prevention Tips" and perhaps discussing up-and-coming ballplayers. The hobby now recognizes Cal Ripken, Jr. as an extraordinary "Iron Man" and Baltimore Orioles superstar, but this scarce, orange-bordered memento preceded Ripken's achievements by a full generation. Very few of these cards were retained at all – let alone carefully preserved – and the offered piece stands as a remarkable survivor. Traces of circulation are apparent only at the outermost points of the cardfront's full-bleed design, and its presentation quality is highly favorable. Perhaps the most hotly pursued and elusive minor league trading card of its time, in thoroughly pleasing Excellent-plus condition.