(LOT 213)
1911 T205 Gold Border John McGraw Piedmont Cigarettes/Factory 42 PSA 7 NM – Only 3 PSA Examples Graded Higher!
T205 NM MCGRAW!!!... You'll get no arguments from meticulous collectors regarding the extreme condition sensitivity of the 1911 T205 Gold Border tobacco cards due to the chipping associated with its fragile gold borders. Consider that the PSA Pop Chart lists approximately 44,000 encapsulated subjects, of which only 2.6% depict a 7 NM grade or higher! Presented here is the legendary Hall of Fame player/manager John J. McGraw in a sensational PSA 7 NM holder, one of only eleven copies at this hallowed plateau with a paltry three PSA examples graded higher! The fiery McGraw was a standout 3rd baseman for the 19th century Baltimore club for which he batted over .300 nine consecutive seasons.

Regardless of his playing excellence, McGraw's legendary stature is predominately due to his 29-year stint as the New York Giants manager, winning an astounding eight pennants and three World Championships. McGraw was possessed with being the best, and it is apropos that his breathtaking representation on this world-class offering has earned it the rightful "7" assessment. Robust autumn orange and brown hues encompass a sparkling McGraw portrait image that is highlighted by colorful rosy cheeks. You can literally see the gleam in McGraw's eye as he prepares for another one of his many confrontations, and uncharacteristically for most T205s, the well-centered image resides between four extremely clean borders, with only the slightest surface wear at each of the corner tips. Right angled corners, relatively clean surfaces, and an imposing Piedmont Cigarettes ad back complete this time-defying marvel that has only been bested by three PSA specimens!

MIN BID $750
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