(LOT 196)
1933 Goudey #194 Earl Averill PSA 9 MINT – "POP 2"; Highest Graded PSA Example!
HIGHEST "POP 2" HOFer!!! Consistent with so many of the pack-fresh cards in Manny Gordon's magnificent Goudey collection, this unfathomable PSA 9 MINT marvel stands as one of the foremost Goudey bubble gum cards on the planet. Joined by only a single other example at this stratospheric plateau, it reigns supreme as the finest of its kind, somehow retaining virtually all of its original pristine qualities. As most would expect, the number of PSA 9 Mint 1933 Goudey gum cards are few and far between, with that notion substantiated by PSA's illustrious "Pop" Chart listing a microscopic 0.2% of the 94,000+ encapsulated examples at the hallowed "9 Mint" assessment. Underrated Hall of Famer Earl Averill is one of the Cleveland Guardians' (formerly the Indians) greatest players ever, ending his outstanding 13-year career with a stellar .318 lifetime batting average and six All-Star game appearances.

Along with Joe DiMaggio, he was one of the finest centerfielders in the 1930s, and will forever be famous for hitting the line drive that broke Dizzy Dean's toe in the 1937 All-Star Game. Averill's legacy will outlast eternity via this breathtaking 1933 Goudey #194 Mint offering that appears as if a star-struck boy has just pulled it from a 1933 wax pack. The left-handed slugger never looked better as he completes his classic swing, with the timeless pose emanating the finest possible clarity, contrast and robust hues. Tranquil orange, yellow and green colors provide a sensational backdrop, and the entire illustration is extremely well centered between four snow white borders, only revealing a smidge of favoritism towards the upper edge. We cannot detect any surface flaws, whatsoever, and the four razor-sharp corners could literally draw blood. A bona fide "9 Mint" offering, it has survived for nearly 90 years to present itself in immaculate condition, and more than worthy of a final resting place in the most prestigious 1933 Goudey compilation!

MIN BID $3,000
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