April 15, 1947 Jackie Robinson Original News Photograph - Robinson's Official Major League Debut! - PSA/DNA Type 1

Sold For:

$2,280

Year:

1947

Auction:

2019 Spring

Lot #:

2254

Category:

Original Photography

Original news photo picturing Jackie Robinson at Ebbets Field during his historic Major League debut on April 15, 1947. Certified as an original Type 1 photograph by PSA/DNA. Robinson is pictured shaking hands with former Senator James Mead and Brooklyn Borough President John Cashmore, both of whom offered their congratulations on his becoming the first African-American player to break baseball's long-standing color barrier. While we have seen many original photographs of Jackie Robinson dating from 1947, this is the first example we can recall that pictures him on April 15th, the day he made his Major League debut against the Boston Braves. As such, it is one of the rarest and most historically significant Robinson photos we have ever offered. An "International News Photo" credit stamp appears on the reverse, as does a "Central Press Stamp" that is dated "Apr 16 1947. The original paper news caption, dated "4-15-47," accompanies the photo (it became detached at some point and is now taped to reverse with clear tape). The photo (10 x 8 inches) displays a small tear in the upper right corner as well as light surface wrinkles throughout. In Very Good condition overall. Reserve $500. Estimate (open).