2017 holiday
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/10/2017
Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA. Hall of Famer, in his Rookie Card appearance. This piece emanates from its issue's run of scarcer "High Numbers." Among a total of more than 4,000 copies recorded in PSA’s census reporting, fewer than two percent have attained a higher, unqualified tier. Presented is the rookie card of Pete Rose, the elusive and condition-sensitive 1963 Topps card picturing baseball's all-time hits leader as the lower left member of an arbitrary rookie quartet. This example occupies the topmost range of aesthetic prowess, and the first of its features to catch the eye is its shimmering gloss. Illumination seems to be held on its surface, and then deliberately reflected back toward the admirer's eyes. The four, crisply defined red circles on its face project as molten, pulsating vignettes, from which the tiny player portraits burst forth. The card's yellow and blue regions offer color that is spectrum-pure and remarkably intense. Surrounding this active and immensely satisfying palette are borders of snow white and a top edge of deep blue. The cards' corners are razor sharp, with the tiniest wisp at the top-right their only, minimal concession to reality. Overall, this is a masterpiece in marvelous condition, and a fantastic Rose rookie card by any perceptual measure. Near Mint to Mint condition.