Graded MINT 9 by PSA. Hall of Famer, in a sensitive "First Card in Set" depiction. Among a total of more than 3,200 copies recorded in PSA's census reporting, just one example has achieved a higher tier. Although just another face in the crowd when first acknowledged by Topps among its 1952 series of "high numbers," Jackie Robinson was placed at the front-and-center position for 1953. The lead-off card in that year's production seems, appropriately enough, to have benefited from extra attention to detail and particular care in its portrait's artistry. Robinson's image, background and surrounding graphics were all exquisitely rendered at the factory, and they remain so on the fundamentally uncirculated, offered copy. Full, lustrous gloss permeates one's sight while viewing this showpiece, and marvelous rough cuts can be observed at each edge. The card's centering is commendably fine, and its corners, especially the notoriously challenging, full-bleed tip at the lower right, are nearly impeccable. Here's the ideal piece to launch the very best display or set of 1953 Topps cards, in outstanding Mint condition.