(LOT 42)
"Unique for the Grade" Sherry Magee 1912 S81 Helmar Silk (SGC NM 7) – The Only Encapsulated/Graded Example!
Most of Sherwood Magee's stellar seasons were spent as the Philadelphia Phillies star leftfielder (10 consecutive seasons) until he was traded to the Braves in 1915. A formidable player for 16 years, while he falls somewhat short of Cooperstown stature, he has earned hobby "immortality" via his legendary T206 error card in which his name is misspelled "Magie." It is this exact tobacco card that has elevated Magee's stature throughout our illustrious hobby, with collectors likewise seeking some of his other cardboard rarities. One of those obscure mementos is presented here, an absolutely spectacular SGC "NM 7" 1912 S81 Helmar Silk that miraculously resides as the SOLE encapsulated example on the planet! Indeed, not a single other Magee S81 Silk has found its way into a professional grading services holder, with this "1 of 1" marvel truly besting "father time."

Distributed in 1912 by the Helmar Tobacco Co. as a premium for their Turkish Trophy cigarettes, the S81 Silks measure approximately 6-3/4" x 8-3/4" and include brilliant images for 25 of the game's top players. A majority of the illustrations are also seen on the 1911 T3 Turkey Red cards, with this Magee image just happening to be one of the same S81 illustrations affixed to his highly coveted T3 Turkey Red subject. Magee's brilliant illustration portrays impeccable contrast and crystal-clear clarity, as the star leftfielder, glove in hand, reaches with his outstretched arms to snag either a batted or tossed horsehide sphere. The sparkling image is well positioned between the silk borders, both sides reveal snow-white surfaces, and only some modest scattered threads are situated across the upper edge. The remaining three borders/edges portray sharp edging with no fraying whatsoever, and the only notable blemish is a diminutive surface impression situated behind the pantaloons on Magee's upper left leg. Unquestionably one of Sherry Magee's most obscure heirlooms, it has defied 108 years of potential wear to present itself in magnificent condition, with its "unique" professionally graded status worthy of any advanced compilation!

MIN BID $500
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