(LOT 11)
Magnificent 1887 Old Judge N172 Ed Delahanty Rookie Card "123-1 Bat at Ready by Right Shoulder" Pose (PSA EX 5) "1 of 2"; Only ONE Graded Higher!
Most would agree that sophisticated N172 Old Judge enthusiasts are more concerned with the aesthetic quality of the real photographic sepia-toned images than the professionally assigned grade. A myriad of the Old Judge cards in circulations portray very light contrast whereby in some cases it is extremely difficult to view image details. Yet, some of these "lightly contrasted" cards have been awarded high grades since their other technical attributes meet the specified criteria (e.g., surface, corners, edging, etc.). Bottom line is the most sophisticated Old Judge collectors are constantly seeking eye pleasing images, and this stellar PSA 5 Ed Delahanty "123-1 Bat at Ready by Right Shoulder" ROOKIE CARD (as presented in the renowned "Photographic Cards of Goodwin & Company" periodical) resides as one of the premier Delahanty subjects via its aesthetically pleasing central illustration. Its excellent image easily supports the strong mid-grade "EX 5" assessment that just happens to place this world-class gem as one of two specimens at this rare plateau with only a single "EX+ 5.5" example graded higher. In fact, we recently sold that higher graded Delahanty in our last auction for a staggering $25K price tag! Ed Delahanty's stature as possibly the most sought after 19th century Cooperstown Inductee on a cardboard issue is not only related to his incomparable batting prowess but the manner in which he tragically passed away.

In only 15 seasons, "Big Ed" accumulated almost 2,600 hits, batted over .400 three times, finished his career with an astonishing .346 lifetime batting average and also owns the rare distinction of winning a batting title in both the National (Phillies) and American (Senators) Leagues. Unfortunately, his career ended in tragedy when in 1903, after allegedly drinking too much, stumbled off a train crossing over Niagara Falls and plunged to his untimely death. Yet, similar to Lou Gehrig and Roberto Clemente, Delahanty's tragic death has solidified his hallowed legacy, forever linking him with baseball immortality. Synonymous with Delahanty's remarkable batting prowess is the superb aesthetics of his inaugural 1887 issued "Batting" pose that exhibits fine contrast and clarity. The well-centered image still reveals a majority of its original details including "Big Ed's" classic uniform and period style lumber. The print quality beneath this sanctified batting pose is likewise legible, the surfaces reveal no glaring blemishes, and the blank back is super clean. While only some modest/even corner wear prevents this timeless cardboard marvel from achieving a higher assessment, its "1 of 2" w/only a SOLE example graded higher "pop" status is more than sufficient for even the most advanced enthusiasts. One of the most impressive N172 Ed Delahanty rookie cards extant, any 19th century collector would gladly welcome it into their esteemed collection!

MIN BID $2,000
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