(LOT 10)
Magnificent Rookie Era (c.1902/'03) Christy Mathewson Original Type I George Grantham Bain Photo – Measures Appx.. 5-3/4" x 8" – PSA Type I LOA
The "Lord" of all early 20th century hurlers, the immortal Christy Mathewson began his illustrious career in 1900 with the New York Giants after being traded to the New York club from the Cincinnati Reds for star hurler Amos Rusie. In 1901, the incomparable 'Matty" would earn the first of his thirteen "20-win" seasons, and from 1903 to 1905 compile three consecutive 30+ win seasons, posting a microscopic 1.28 E.R.A. in 1905. The 1905 season would ultimately end with the Giants claiming their first 20th century World's Championship by besting Connie Mack's Athletics in a five game contest.

It was in that Fall Classic that Mathewson would achieve the near-impossible task of tossing three complete-game shutouts against the might A's, prompting Mack to boldly claim: "Christy Mathewson is the greatest pitcher I ever saw. It was a pleasure to watch him pitch when he wasn't pitching against you"! The "Christian Gentleman" was a hero to a seemingly countless number of young aspiring baseball fans, ending his career with an astounding 373 wins (N.L. record tied w/Grover Alexander) and remarkable 2.13 E.R.A. To the dismay of many advanced enthusiasts, early "turn of the century" Matty artifacts are virtually impossible to find.

His two 1903 rookie cards (E107 Briesch Williams & W600 Street Clothes) seldom surface, and only a handful of photos from this period exist. For those collectors seeking one of these Mathewson mementos, this is your lucky day because presented here is a magnificent c.1902/'03 George Grantham Bain original Type I 5-3/4" x 8" image depicting Matty in his iconic "hands over head" pitching pose (a PSA Type I LOA is included). Portraying magnificent contrast and crystal clear clarity, Mathewson dons his classic New York jersey in what we assume to be a spring training photo taken during the 1902/'03 period.

No obtrusive surface blemishes are evident, the corners reveal right-angle formations, and no noticeable creases are found on either side. Only a modest area of surface loss near the lower right corner and some negligible faint toning near the upper edge surface prevent a technical near-mint+ grade, yet as most hobbyists would agree, its breathtaking aesthetics and ultra-rarity are its key aspects. The verso reveals the standard Culver Pictures stamp typically affixed to many of Bain's early photos (the Bain stamp is typically situated beneath the Culver stamp).

We have seen only one other exemplar of this legendary image, with its paucity level rivaled by only a handful of other world-class Mathewson artifacts. It represents the origin of this legendary right-handed twirler's remarkable career, with many baseball historians dubbing Matty as the finest hurler in baseball history. An unequivocal heirloom, now is a grand opportunity to jump aboard the "Big Six" express and ride this exalted photo directly to the winner's circle!

MIN BID $2,000
_