(LOT 284)
1913 –'15 Pinkerton Postcard – Christy Mathewson (SGC VG 3) - "1 of 5; Only 4 Graded Higher
The images depicted on the renowned 1911 T5 Pinkerton Cabinets were also utilized on postcards distributed from 1913 thru 1915. These postcards included both "blank" and "scorecard" versos with both versions rarely seen in the memorabilia circuit. Fortunately, one of these scarce examples is offered here with one of its most imposing subjects, the legendary Christy Mathewson in a splendid SGC 40/3 holder. One of only five SGC 3 examples, it has only been bested by a mere 4 other SGC specimens. Furthermore, its unquestionable paucity level is substantiated by the COMBINED SGC and PSA census reports listing only 20 encapsulated examples! The majestic Christy Mathewson is on many experts' lists as, arguably, the greatest pitcher who ever toed the rubber. His 373 victories still stand as the all-time National League mark (tied with Grover Alexander), and he won 30 games in four different seasons, including three consecutive years!

He was famous for his virtually un-hittable fade away pitch (more commonly called the screwball), and was noted for his pinpoint control. For 12 consecutive seasons (1903 – 1914) he won 20+ games, ably assisting the New York Giants to 4 pennants and one World Championship. It is that 1905 World Championship when "Matty" elevated his game to a stratospheric level when he threw 3 shutout World Series victories against Connie Mack's mighty Athletics. Never again will our National Pastime witness such a performance on its grandest stage, and this scant offering is a perfect testament to Matty's revered stature. His classic pitching pose (likewise affixed to Matty's iconic T5 Pinkerton Cabinet) reveals the immortal right-handed twirler reaching back to toss another one of his virtually un-hittable fade-away pitches.

The high-coveted sepia-toned central image has escaped virtually any serious flaws, portraying fine contrast and resolution. Some scattered surface wrinkles and uniform corner wear account for the assessment, yet most significantly, the central image aesthetics are superb. One of the "Christian Gentlemen's" tougher type cards to locate, we highly expect any advanced Mathewson or Type card enthusiast to emulate the "Big Six" himself and ride this seldom surfacing keepsake directly to the winner's circle!

MIN BID $400
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