Winter Auction 2021 Ending March 6-7
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/6/2021
Graded VG-EX+ 4.5 by PSA, one of fewer than eighty examples validated across all grade levels by that company. 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, blue-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 Very Good to Excellent-plus condition. This card comes from the personal collection of Hall of Famer Cal Ripken, Jr. and a signed LOA from Cal will accompany this card.