(LOT 471)
1915 Cracker Jack #133 Branch Rickey PSA 8 NM-MT
Locating a high-grade Branch Rickey 1915 Cracker Jack might qualify as painful a task as breaking the Major League color barrier. Far-fetched as that statement may seem, this spectacular Branch Rickey 1915 Cracker Jack graded a PSA 8 NM-MT has been joined by only twelve other examples at this high-grade tier with a paltry pair graded higher! Whenever you think of Jackie Robinson and his contribution to the game of baseball, Branch Rickey's name must follow as arguably residing as one of the shrewdest businessmen and most consequential figures in baseball history. From his creation of the farm system to his signing of Jackie Robinson to a Major League contrast in 1947, thereby integrating baseball which had been alarmingly "white only" since its inception in the 1800s. Rickey was considered the game's most inventive catalyst and one of the most monumental individuals of all-time in the sports arena.

Unfortunately for Hall of Fame collectors, there simply aren't a vast number of Branch Rickey cardboard issues available for the taking with this world-class offering considered one of his pinnacle Cracker Jack specimens. The brilliant aesthetics are clearly consistent, if not superior, with the technical assessment, starting with a sparkling portrait image of the legendary Hall of Famer. A tranquil blend of soft facial hues and his blue/gray period style cap complete the eye-pleasing image that has been encompassed by a near-flawless red background setting. Superb centering exhibits a hint of favoritism towards the bottom edge between four bright white borders, the corner tips are razor sharp and the ultra-clean surfaces reveal no obstructive flaws. The final exclamation point is an outstanding registration on the back that displays a slight tilt and notable off-centering that likely account for why this gorgeous example did not assess higher. This extremely elusive high-grade Branch Rickey offering from the coveted and scarce Cracker Jack series seldom surfaces in this exceptional high-grade condition, making it a certain upgrade issue for any collection! Once again, only two of the 70 graded examples surpass this high-grade offering!

MIN BID $5,000
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