Beyond a doubt, this would have been the neighborhood's card of choice during the Spring of 1949. And why wouldn't it be? Bowman debuted its new series, blessed with the addition of color and so crisply rendered that its cards were almost astonishingly beautiful in comparison to the previous year's effort. The collectible of Robinson, in particular, featuring the aspiring Most Valuable Player whose accomplishments would take the National League by storm, benefited from the product's improved design format. His cardfront portrayal was lush in its hues, endearing in its expression and captivating in its overall aesthetic. In the case of the incredible, offered example, those attributes continue to exceed the viewer's expectations more than six decades later.

Graded MINT 9 by PSA. Hall of Famer, in his Bowman Rookie Card appearance. To emphasize this marvelous piece's elite status as a condition rarity: Among more than 1,400 copies recorded in PSA's census reporting, just ten specimens (fewer than one percent) have been placed at this admirable, unqualified tier, and not a single example has been graded higher.

Virtually proof-like in its appearance, this rendering of Jackie Robinson's likeness reflects unimprovable definition and grace in its presentation. The cardfront's spectacular image is fittingly complemented by eloquently balanced borders of the purest creamy white, yet another aspect in which time's effects were shrugged off, disdainfully, by this superlative memento. All four corners, naturally, are factory-fresh and maintain deftly crafted sharpness. Perhaps anticipating the excitement the coveted card of Robinson would generate among his friends, and fearing its loss in a flipping contest or mismanaged trade, the original owner of this wonderfully preserved masterpiece clearly exercised impeccable stewardship. Quite obviously, the card was tucked away, and shielded securely, almost immediately after the moment it was purchased. This one is a gift to the senses, in purely constructed and meticulously conserved Mint condition.