2020 Late December Auction Closing January 3
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/3/2021
Graded VG-EX 4 by PSA, one of fewer than seventy 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 thoroughly pleasing Very Good to Excellent condition.