(LOT 1680)
c.1910's Honus Wagner PSA Type 1 Paul Thompson Photo File Collection - Measures Approx. 5" x 7"
Presented here is a remarkable c.1910s Honus Wagner image taken by the immortal photographer Paul Thompson. Measuring approximately 5" x 7", this extremely rare c.1910s PSA Type I photo portrays the "Flying Dutchman" in a seldom surfacing batting pose, for as collectors surely realize, finding any illustration of the legendary Wagner in the batter's box is a daunting task. Wagner's immense popularity in the memorabilia circuit obviously stems from his unparalleled T206 subject that continues to reside as the hobby's "Holy Grail" cardboard keepsake. The legendary stature of this tobacco card has escalated the desirability and value for Wagner's other vintage artifacts including autographs, candy cards and original photos. Regarding the latter, save for the renowned Carl Horner original T206 portrait pose, only a handful of Wagner images could possibly boast the prestige of a Paul Thompson photo.

Due to his renowned T206 subject, Wagner's "on the field" exploits are sometimes overlooked, with the raw-boned shortstop capturing an amazing eight N.L. batting titles to the tune of a .325 lifetime batting average. In 17 seasons, he compiled 3,420 hits and 723 stolen bases, with his triumphant moment being the 1909 World Series when his Pirates bested Ty Cobb's Tigers in seven games; the only time these two baseball giants would ever meet as foes on a baseball diamond. Pre-WWI batting images of this 1936 Hall of Fame charter member are highly coveted by the hobby's most esteemed collectors and this Cooperstown worthy marvel certainly falls in that elite category. Wagner's classic batting depiction is an image we have not previously encountered, as Honus starts to unleash his colossal lumber at the "in-flight" horsehide sphere. Wagner's intense facial expression and period-style Pittsburgh cap literally "jump off the photo", seemingly brought to life via the superior contrast and resolution of this treasured offering. A few stray wrinkles are rendered virtually negligible versus the momentous Wagner central pose, and the verso includes the critical Paul Thompson credit stamp. One of the finest Wagner Type 1 photos extant, it exhibits an extremely obscure and desirable c.1910s batting image, as well as being originally struck by one of the most iconic all-time baseball photographers!

MIN BID $750
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