(LOT 57)
1952 Topps #312 Jackie Robinson PSA 8 NM-MT
PSA 8 JACKIE!!! Presented here is one of the most important post-WWII cards in the hobby in this outstanding PSA 8 NM-MT 1952 Topps #312 high-number Jackie Robinson bested by only 13 examples on PSA's Pop Chart. Jackie's 1952 Topps have surged of late, with two separate PSA 9 examples fetching nearly $1 million and a PSA 8 realizing nearly $400K. When Topps issued their 1952 set, they saved the best for last as the high-number series started with the hobby's post-war "Holy Grail" #311 Mickey Mantle followed immediately by #312 Jackie Robinson.

Jackie Robinson was the 1947 National League Rookie of the Year, won the 1949 NL MVP Award, led the Dodgers to six pennants and a 1955 World Championship, stole bases, hit for average and power, fielded his position flawlessly and was as fiery a competitor as the game has ever seen. Far beyond his on-field accomplishments, and there are many, his signing and ultimate MLB debut as the first African American was one of the most significant moments in baseball history. But even more so, Robinson advocated for his community during and long after his career to become one of the most vocal proponents of the civil rights movement.

Any early cardboard keepsake of Jackie Robinson remains highly sought-after and this 1952 Topps PSA 8 marvel easily resides as one of Jackie's monumental, and recognizable, issues. Robinson's bat-over-right shoulder pose provides exceptional contrast and crystal-clear clarity with spectacular blue hues emanating from his Dodger cap. The robust fire engine red background is virtually immaculate; the edging reflects razor-sharpness; and atypically with most '52 Robinsons, the classic image reveals near-perfect centering between four amazingly white borders, reflecting only a mild partiality towards the left edge. Potentially preventing a higher assessment are the barely visible but lightly touched corners. Yet the remaining attributes surely justify the world-class grade that seldom surfaces for the taking.

Robinson's iconic standing stems from the embodiment of courage he displayed when he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947, enduring unimaginable cruelties in order to effectively release fellow black players from being kept down so they could enjoy the spoils of being big leaguers, thereby changing the game forever. The 1952 Topps #312 high-number Robinson stands tall alongside his '48 Leaf as one of his two most prominent issues, with this sensational PSA 8 heirloom destined for the finest 1952 Topps or Jackie gathering!

MIN BID $20,000
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