2017 October Legends Closing November 11
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/12/2017
Graded EX 5 by PSA. Hall of Famer. "Sweet Caporal - 350 Subjects" back. Among a total of seventy-one examples recorded in PSA's census reporting, just seven copies have been placed at a higher, unqualified tier. Consideration of favorable grade ranking aside, it must be emphasized that the offered specimen stands head-and-shoulders above the greatest majority of its contemporaries in terms of refinement and preservation. Forever compared to the Wagner in terms of rarity, it can be stated definitively that the white-bordered tobacco insert card of Eddie Plank is the second most valuable baseball card in our hobby. Many theories have been advanced in the ongoing effort to explain its scarcity, but none has ever been proven. It is evident that the Plank's lack of availability isn't far removed in degree from that of Wagner's, and that very few additional specimens of either Hall of Famer seem poised to surface. The offered example delivers radiant quality in its blue-backgrounded portrait illustration. The card's well-shaped corners concede meaningful wear only at the top-left; their collective evidence of circulation is consistent with the assigned grade, and does not for a moment threaten the piece's superior and warm overall aesthetic. This Plank's caption is clear and undisturbed, and the item's centering reinforces the viewer's overall impressions of satisfaction and awe. This scarcer-backed version of the sought-after card (with a "Sweet Caporal - 350 subjects" advertisement adorning the reverse instead of the more routine "150" variety) boasts wonderful clarity in its back's discreet red inking and nicely toned surround. This enviable collectible has combined highly appealing visual elements with relatively minor vestiges of wear to provide a marvelous entry for an advanced T206 assembly. This is a very gratifying, Excellent condition example of the White Border issue's key Plank rarity (with an obverse presentation that projects essentially Excellent to Mint character). A singular card, this is a relic that merits the admiration of an entire memorabilia industry.