(LOT 147)
Jackie Robinson "Portrait" Type I Original "Brooklyn National League Baseball Club Inc." Photo – Measures Approx. 8" x 10" - Full PSA Type 1 LOA
American Icon Jackie Robinson will forever reside as one of our Nation's most revered heroes when in 1947 he achieved the seemingly impossible feat of becoming baseball's inaugural modern day African-American baseball player. Ignited by Brooklyn's courageous general manager Branch Rickey's innovative persistence, Robinson officially broke the Major League baseball "Color Barrier" when he took the field on opening day, April 15th at Ebbets Field before 26,000+ spectators (of which over 14,000 were African-Americans). With Eddie Stanky still the Dodger's starting 2nd baseman, Robinson played his first game at 1st base and while he went hitless, he did walk and scored a run in Brooklyn's 5-3 win over the Boston Braves.

Ultimately, his first MLB season was a huge success, with Jackie batting a stellar .297, scoring 125 runs and stealing 29 bases, eventually claiming the Rookie of the Year Award. His greatest season would be 1949 when he captured his only MVP award while winning the National League batting title with a sensational .342 mark. He would retire after the 1956 season with six All-Star appearances, the aforementioned NL MVP, nearly 200 stolen bases and a robust .311 lifetime average. Yet for all his statistical achievements, it is his immortal stature as MLB's first modern day African-American player that places his stature at a pinnacle level. For that reason alone, his collectibles are widely sought after, such as this brilliant 8" x 10" PSA Type 1 "Portrait" photo that depicts the immortal Robinson in a classic portrait pose.

Emanating the finest possible contrast and clarity, its overall aesthetics are nothing short of breathtaking as Jackie portrays a fascinating smile, donning his period style Brooklyn cap and home Dodgers uniform. Exhibiting "Near-Mint" like eye appeal, the image reflects a gleaming surface, bright white borders, and no glaring flaws. Affixed to the relatively clean verso is an ink stamp that clearly reads: "NOTICE: This picture is not to be used directly or indirectly with commercial advertising or endorsement. – Brooklyn National League Baseball Club Inc.". A magnificent memento from Jackie Robinson's playing days, it conjures up memories of how this courageous athlete forever changed the face of our National Pastime via his unparalleled determination and courage! - Full PSA Type I LOA

MIN BID $200