(LOT 117)
1967 Topps Test Discs Roberto Clemente PSA Authentic – Only 3 Examples Listed on the PSA "Pop" Chart!
One of the rarest post-WWII "type" issues is the super eclectic 1967 Topps Test Discs that are only known in proof form. A total of 24 test subjects were manufactured, with Topps' original intent to have these discs pressed onto a related button issue that never came to fruition. Printed on blank-backed silver foil, the square proofs measure some 2-3/8" on each side, and the extremely colorful circular discs reveal an approximate 2-1/4" diameter. Aside from the immortal Mickey Mantle, the second most valuable and highly coveted subject just happens to be the Roberto Clemente example offered here in a PSA "Authentic" holder, one of only three known PSA-graded specimens. Of the 24 known players, PSA has only handled 17 different subjects, and of the total 45 encapsulated copies, 41 or 91% have received "Authentic" assessments most likely due to their "proof" form.

Ironically, for all of Roberto Clemente's world-class achievements including a sensational .317 lifetime batting average via 3,000 hits, four batting titles, 15 all-star appearances, 12 consecutive gold gloves, a 1966 N.L. MVP and 1971 World Series MVP awards, his legacy will forever be linked to his heroic death that stands as a defining testament for his immortal standing. On December 31, 1972, the great right-fielder would tragically die in a plane crash at the tender age of 38, flying to Nicaragua to assist earthquake victims. Clemente would immediately be placed in baseball's Hall of Fame, becoming the first Latin American/Caribbean player to receive that distinguished honor. This extremely rare '67 Topps Test Disc is one of Roberto's rarest issues (much scarcer then his highly coveted 1968 Topps 3D Test subject), portraying a classic portrait image that is affixed to a rich blue background. Relatively clean surfaces and fine edging consistent with a mid-grade example are the final superlatives elevating this Clemente obscurity to a world-class level!

MIN BID $750
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