(LOT 270)
1948 Leaf #3 Babe Ruth PSA 4 VG-EX
CLASSIC RUTH PORTRAIT!!!... No longer an underappreciated Babe Ruth cardboard issue, the '48 Leaf Ruth has recently soared in value, with collectors truly catching on that it stands as the Sultan of Swat's final mainstream subject. This magnificent PSA 4 Leaf offering just happens to be one of the finest examples you will ever encounter for the grade, with its near-perfect centering literally stealing the show. Vintage enthusiasts are well aware that finding a well-positioned '48 Leaf Ruth image is a near-impossible task with most of the existing specimens reflecting skewed illustrations. Additional highlights include a brilliant portrait pose, robust blood-orange background, relatively clean surfaces evading any glaring flaws, and even corner wear arguably consistent with an "EX" example. Issued in 1948, this would be the year a 53-year-old Ruth would ultimately succumb to his battle with throat cancer on August 16, 1948, with his illustrious Leaf #3 subject the final card issued during his celebrated life. This might be the primary reason collectors gravitate towards Ruth's '48 Leaf subject, standing tall as his most coveted post-playing days cardboard issue!
MIN BID $1,000
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