(LOT 67)
1888-89 Cabinet "King" Kelly #261-B Bat at 45 Degrees, "Kelly, (No position) Boston" SGC 4 VG/EX
In 1888-89, Goodwin & Co. issued the N173 cabinet photograph set as a secondary release to the N172 Old Judge "tobacco cards" from 1887, each of which held more than 500 professional ballplayers from the National, Western and American Leagues. The N173 cabinet photographs measuring 4-1/4" x 6-1/2" each, featured the same players in the N172 set, but were only available through a mail-order exchange program. Offered here is one such redemption featuring "King" Kelly clad in his black Boston uniform, "holding his bat at a 45 degrees with "Kelly – Boston" handwritten at his feet. Encapsulated SGC 4 VG/EX, this photograph appears marginally faded, with diminishing of the image occurring toward the top, but otherwise devoid of any flaws or markings. Considering that the 19th century N173 cabinet cards were redeemable through a coupon exchange promotion, it is amazing that this remains in exceptional condition.

MIN BID $1,500
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