(LOT 330)
1909-11 T206 Christy Mathewson White Cap Brown Hindu/Factory 649 - PSA 6 EX-MT – "POP 1"; Highest Graded Brown Hindu Example on the Combined PSA & SGC "Pop" Charts!
When Carl Horner originally struck his iconic Christy Mathewson "Hands at Chest" pitching pose after the turn of the 20th century, little did he know it would go on to represent some of the hobby's foremost vintage cards including several T206 "Matty" subjects. Indeed, both of Mathewson's "Black" and "White" Cap 1909 tobacco cards are hobby cornerstones, and when you add a super scarce advertisement back to any of these high-grade tobacco treasures, it creates an unprecedented hobby frenzy. That said, presented here just happens to be one of the most miraculous T206 subjects you will ever encounter, a PSA 6 EX-MT Christy Mathewson White Cap marvel that just happens to include the super desirable Brown Hindu ad back. Ultra-elusive to say the least, PSA's prestigious population report reveals only 12 total encapsulated copies, with this incredible "POP 1" "Matty" Hindu easily residing as the highest graded example on the combined PSA and SGC census reports! Its closest competitor just happens to be a PSA 3 that has been outdistanced by this Cooperstown worthy PSA 6 by an imposing three full grades.

Furthermore, it is no secret as to the popularity of any Brown Hindu subject, let alone one representing the "Christian Gentleman", with the highly regarded "T206 Resource" website listing Brown Hindu as the 14th scarcest cigarette advertisement of the total 39 ad backs. We cannot imagine a finer testament for the immortal Christy Mathewson than a "POP 1" Highest Graded cardboard subject issued during the peak of his remarkable career. The 1909 campaign would see the "Big Six" post 25 wins and his lowest single-season E.R.A. of his career, a microscopic 1.14 figure. This would be the seventh consecutive season that Mathewson would surpass 20 wins, on his way to twelve straight years of 20+ victories. He would end his remarkable career with 373 wins, that along with Grover Alexander, stands as the most victories ever tallied by a National League hurler. Yet, along with his four seasons of 30+ wins and lifetime 2.13 E.R.A., his greatest achievement would be his three shutouts in the 1905 World Series against the Philadelphia Athletics, a record that in lieu of the modern-day relief pitcher craze, will stand forever.

Synonymous with his unparalleled success from the pitching rubber comes along this magnificent PSA 6 Brown Hindu offering that likewise stands as the "best of the rest." Mathewson's legendary "hands at chest" white cap pose is absolutely breathtaking, eluding any noticeable flaws and literally "popping" off the card via its sparkling hues and crystal clear clarity. Of utmost significance is the virtually dead-on 50/50 centering between four snow white borders, with numerous Matty T206s exhibiting skewed images. At first glance, this grand offering portrays near-mint aesthetics, with the slightest corner touching (especially the lower right corner) and a diminutive soiling spot affixed to the central right border preventing a higher grade. Both surfaces have eluded any obtrusive flaws, and the verso depicts the critical bold brown HINDU and Factory No. 649 advertisement. As a definitive recap, this masterpiece's "POP 1"/Highest Graded Stature; brilliant eye appeal including near-perfect centering, and highly coveted Brown Hindu ad back all combine to place this tobacco treasure as one of the most extraordinary T206 "Big Six" cardboard mementos extant!

MIN BID $5,000
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