(LOT 52)
1889 E.R. Williams – Cap Anson/Buck Ewing #15 (PSA Near Mint 7)- "1 of 3; Only 1 Graded Higher"
In 1889, Egerton R. Williams (E.R.) produced a 52 playing card set advertised as the E.R. Popular Indoors Base Ball Game. With each subject designed as a typical playing card with rounded corners, the set included players from both the National League and American Association. Of the total 52 subjects, only 19 different images were issued with 2 players affixed to the obverse side, resulting in 38 different player portrait poses. As with most 19th century issues, the card portraying Adrian "Cap" Anson's iconic picture represents the most desirable as well as valuable subject. Incredibly, Anson's neighboring partner just happens to be another immortal Hall of Famer, William "Buck" Ewing! With that in mind, presented here is the ultra-obscure Anson/Ewing E.R. Williams card in a spectacular PSA NM 7 holder, one of only 3 PSA examples at this sanctified tier with a sole specimen graded higher! Any singular card of Cap Anson or Buck Ewing is worthy of the highest accolades, let alone one depicting both of these 19th century Hall of Fame legends!

Cap Anson, the incomparable 1st baseman of the Chicago club, was the first member of the illustrious 3,000 hit club, and ended a remarkable 27-year career with a .329 lifetime batting average. Furthermore, he clubbed 97 home runs in an era where only a few each season was a formidable feat. Not to be outdone, Buck Ewing is considered by most historians as baseball's best 19th catcher, with the .300+ hitter smacking 15 or more triples 5 times in his illustrious career. Both subjects' legacies are unparalleled among 19th century players, and it's incredible to think that they actually "share" a single 19th century baseball card issue. Their cartoon/lithographic-like portrait images appear pack-fresh, separated by two sepia-hued crossed bats situated in the middle of the toned surface. Sharp edging, no glaring blemishes and a reverse side ornate batting image reflecting bold green print provide the final compliments to this seldom seen offering. If you are collecting 19th century Hall of Famers, this super scarce offering provides a grand opportunity to capture two of our National Pastime's iconic 19th century figures for the price of one!

MIN BID $1,000
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