(LOT 142)
1936 Joe DiMaggio PSA Type I Original George Burke Photo – "Image Used for DiMaggio's 1936 R312 Rookie - Measures Approx. 4" x 6" - PSA Type I LOA
One of the most classic Joe DiMaggio images ever issued was the 1936 batting pose of the "Yankee Clipper", portraying this baseball icon completing his mighty right-handed swing. The architect of this world-class photo was George Burke, and it is our distinct pleasure to now offer this hallowed George Burke "Joe D" silver gelatin photo. Measuring approximately, 4" x 6", this is the exact image that was used for several Joe DiMaggio legendary baseball cards including his 1936 "R312 Rookie Card". Indeed, the photo's unparalleled popularity certainly swayed the manufacturers of these iconic cards and this seldom surfacing gem stands high on most elite collector's want lists.

The imposing DiMaggio batting pose graces the obverse side, emanating stellar contrast and brilliant clarity as "Joltin Joe dons his Yankee road uniform. The black background reveals traces of the photo's silver gelatin surface, the white borders are relatively clean and no obtrusive flaws are evident. The verso reveals the critical "GEO. BURKE – 847 BELMONT AVE. – CHICAGO" credit stamp near the lower right edge, with Joe DiMaggio's hallowed name affixed typed near the upper edge. A truly captivating heirloom from the Yankee Clipper's rookie era, it stands as a monumental testament to a player that stands as one of the finest centerfielders in baseball history.

In 1969, sportswriters voted DiMaggio the greatest living ballplayer; with that being no small feat considering Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, Mickey Mantle, Ted Williams and Stan Musial were all alive when that renowned vote was cast. We cannot imagine any player who commanded the unparalleled respect of this baseball "god" who via his incredible baseball prowess and marriage to Hollywood bombshell Marilyn Monroe will forever stand as an embodiment of a National hero. With that in mind, what could be more rewarding than this "awe-inspiring" Burke keepsake from DiMaggio's earliest major league origins, that was utilized for three of his most exalted cardboard keepsakes! - LOA – PSA/DNA Type I 

CATALOG CORRECTION: The Catalog indicates this Photo was used for Joe Dimaggio's 1940 & 41 Play Ball issue as well as his 1936 Rookie.  It was only used for his 1936 Rookie card.

MIN BID $300