(LOT 246)
Magnificent c.1907 Christy Mathewson Pitching Pose – PSA Type 1 Encapsulated Paul Thompson Photo – Measures Approx. 6-1/2" x 8-1/2" (Incl. PSA Type 1 LOA)
One of the grandest Christy Mathewson photos we have ever handled, this awe-inspiring c.1907 PSA Type 1 offering portrays the immortal right-handed twirler completing one of his masterful pitches as he dons his classic "NY" period-style flannels. Taken by the illustrious photographer Paul Thompson, it effectively "turns back the clock" to an era when the "Big Six' was virtually unhittable, courtesy of his vast array of tantalizing pitches that included a blazing fastball, sweeping curve and his legendary "fadeaway" that was synonymous to toady's screwball. Indeed, Matty was the "lord" of all turn of the century hurlers, and by 1907 had surely established himself as baseball's undisputed "king of the hill". Substantiating that notion was his three consecutive 30-win seasons from 1904 thru 1906 as well as his seemingly un-breakable record of tossing 3 complete-game shutouts in the 1905 Fall Classic against Connie Mack's Philadelphia Athletics, a feat that arguably stands as the greatest accomplishment in World Series history.

The 1907 campaign (when this photo was taken) would see Mathewson gather a formidable 24 wins while compiling a stellar 2.00 E.R.A., with the following 1908 season being Christy's finest ever via his 37 wins and microscopic 1.43 E.R.A., one of five seasons in which the iconic Matty would post a sub-2.00 E.R.A. He would ultimately tally 373 lifetime wins (tied for Alexander as the all-time N.L. wins leader), and end his remarkable career with a 2.13 E.R.A. One of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, Mathewson artifacts are widely sought-after by the collecting community, and this 6-1/2" x 8-1/2" Thompson offering certainly resides as one of his most extraordinary photos. A few stray wrinkles near the corners do not impede the compelling glossy image as Christy follows thru on another one of his "near-impossible-to-hit" tosses. Extremely well-centered with a verso that includes the critical PAUL THOMPSON credit stamp, this museum worthy pose serves as a vivid reminder of the "Christian Gentleman's" unparalleled dominance of his inferior opposition, rightfully earning him a niche as one of our National Pastime's five Hall of Fame charter members!

MIN BID $1,000
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