(LOT 163)
1952 Red Man Tobacco #15 Willie Mays w/Tab (PSA NM/MT+ 8.5)
Presented here is a spectacular PSA "NM/MT+ 8.5"1952 Red Man Tobacco #15 Willie Mays w/Tab that is one of only 4 specimens at this hallowed plateau with a meager 2 other examples graded higher! Red Man Tobacco sets were the first tobacco sets issued since the early part of the century. J. G. Taylor Spink of the Sporting News selected the players for each Red Man set which were issued from 1952-1955, with the '52 set comprised of 52 total subjects including 25 players and a single manager from each league. The colorful cards were extremely condition sensitive because of the manner in which they were packaged, with many surviving examples missing the 1/2" perforated tab at the bottom of each card that could be redeemed for a free baseball cap.

The unparalleled technical attributes of this museum worthy masterpiece are synonymous with the "Say Hey Kid's" legendary career. Willie Mays is considered one of our National Pastime's top five all-time players with his 660 homers, .302 lifetime batting average, uncanny throwing arm, base-path running dexterity, and unparalleled defensive prowess arguably place him as baseball's greatest "5-tool" player. Based on his esteemed stature, card enthusiasts actively seek his most precious cardboard gems and most would agree only a handful of Mays subjects could possibly boast the breathtaking eye appeal of this sanctified offering.

The imposing Mays half body color pose is as pristine as the original factory issued date some 67 years ago, with his classic image boldly projected by a robust orange hued background. Immaculate to say the least, the combination of the "pack-fresh" orange background and central image's crystal-clear clarity virtually transcend the illustration to "3-D" like status. The final exclamation points are pinpoint corner tips, impeccable surfaces and razor- sharp perimeter and the existing lower tab all substantiate the ultra-scarce "8.5" assessment. An astonishing keepsake to say the least, its extremely high grade is the perfect testament to Willie Mays' unparalleled stature in the baseball community!

MIN BID $1,500

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