(LOT 22)
1917 E135 Collins-McCarthy #80 Rogers Hornsby Rookie SGC 2 GOOD
RARE HORNSBY ROOKIE!!! The ultra-rare 1917 Collins-McCarthy Rogers Hornsby inaugural cardboard issue is one of the most underrated rookie cards extant and a must-have for any sophisticated collection. In 1917, the Collins-McCarthy Candy Co. produced a 200-card set, with the great Rogers Hornsby's first cardboard issue being one of the set's highly coveted subjects. Presented here just happens to be that elusive Hornsby rookie in an SGC 2 GOOD holder, with only 17 other specimens listed on the combined SGC and PSA census reports! Synonymous with this offering's esteemed stature is Hornsby's unparalleled batting prowess, arguably placing him as our National Pastime's premier all-time right-handed hitter. Hornsby's statistics certainly support that claim with six consecutive batting titles, a .358 lifetime average, the highest modern-day NL average (.424 in 1924), and most incredibly, averaging .400 over five consecutive seasons (1921-25)!

In 1915, The Rajah would make only 61 plate appearances in St. Louis, with the following 1916 campaign being his first full season. Hornsby wouldn't disappoint the Redbird fans, posting a .313 average, the first of 20 campaigns the multi-position infielder would surpass the .300 mark. This offering reveals an imposing throwing image, with his position listed as first base as opposed to his legendary second sacker position. The illustration exhibits exceptional clarity, with the cream-hued surface eluding any obtrusive flaws. Imperfections include a diagonal crease in the upper left corner, scattered toning, and corner wear consistent with the grade. One of the hobby's most underrated rookie cards for the longest time, the $55K sale of a PSA 4 example in Memory Lane's May 2023 auction literally broke the ice with regard to the justifiable value of the revered Hornsby rookie!

MIN BID $5,000
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