(LOT 1753)
c.1951 Jackie Robinson PSA Type I Encapsulated International News Photo Measures Approx. 7" x 9"
American Icon Jackie Robinson achieved unequivocal immortality when in 1947 he accomplished the seemingly impossible feat of becoming baseball's inaugural modern day African-American baseball player. Spearheaded by Brooklyn's courageous general manager Branch Rickey's innovative persistence, Robinson officially broke the Major League baseball "Color Barrier" when he took the field on opening day, April 15th at Ebbets Field before 26,000+ spectators (of which over 14,000 were African-Americans). With Eddie Stanky still the Dodgers' starting 2nd baseman, Robinson played his first game at 1st base and while he went hitless, he did walk and scored a run in Brooklyn's 5-3 win over the Boston Braves.

Ultimately, his first MLB season was a huge success, with Jackie batting a stellar .297, scoring 125 runs and stealing 29 bases, eventually claiming the Rookie of the Year Award. His greatest season would be 1949 when he captured his only MVP award while winning the National League batting title with a sensational .342 mark. He would retire after the 1956 season with six All-Star appearances, the aforementioned NL MVP, nearly 200 stolen bases and a robust .311 lifetime average. Yet, for all his marvelous statistical achievements, it is his immortal stature as MLB's first modern-day African-American player that places his stature at a pinnacle level. As a sheer testament to Jackie's unbridled legacy, presented here is a breathtaking 7" x 9" PSA Type 1 Illustration portraying the legendary Robinson in a classic portrait pose.

Even more impressive is that this c.1951 grand offering is strikingly similar to the images used on Robinson's 1952, 1955 & 1956 Topps subjects, possibly being taken in the same photo shoot and only being a "shutter" or two off from the exact image used for those iconic cards. (This offering depicts Jackie in a slightly more "sideways" portrait pose head somewhat turned towards the right). The sparkling eye appeal is a result of the finest possible resolution and contrast, with Jackie's candid smile, detailed facial features and gleaming surface literally bringing the image to life. Donning his period style home Dodgers uniform/Brooklyn cap, the 70-year-old illustration reveals no major flaws, and the few diminutive wrinkles/surface scratches and soiling spot on the lower left border don't impede the imposing aesthetics. The final compliment is the critical International News credit stamp on the verso, with this magnificent memento from Jackie Robinson's playing days stirring up wonderful memories of how this courageous athlete forever changed the face of our National Pastime via his unparalleled determination and courage!

MIN BID $500
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