1913 M101-3 Sporting News Postcards Ty Cobb - Extremely Rare Advertising Back

Sold For:

$44,400

Year:

1913

Auction:

2023 Summer

Lot #:

615

Category:

Prewar Baseball - 1910s and 1920s Cards

Addendum (August 6; 8:15 PM): Interestingly, this postcard is postmarked November 25, 1912, on the reverse, which confirms that these cards were produced in 1912 despite always being attributed to 1913 in checklists and catalogs. Closer inspection suggests that these special ad-back postcards were provided to proprietors to advertise upcoming promotions or new products. As can be seen here, the date "1/1/13" has been written in pencil underneath "Coming." In addition to standing alone as the only example we've ever seen with an advertising reverse, this is a particularly special postcard as it redefines the issue date of this series and gives insight into its use as an advertising vehicle in its earliest days. Graded FAIR 1.5 by SGC (submitted by REA). Presented is the key card of Detroit Tigers Hall of Famer Ty Cobb from the 1913 M101-3 Sporting News Postcards series. The offered example is especially noteworthy for its extremely rare and desirable advertising back, which features promotional text for the "Blish, Mize, and Silliman Hardware Co." A total of six cards comprise a complete set, which was available as a premium from the Sporting News. The newspaper is well known to card collectors for a number of 1910-era sets. Each postcard in the set measures 3.5 x 5.5 inches and features a duo-tone color photo on front and a traditional postcard reverse. The card is bright and clean with a flawless, crisp image and moderate wear at the corners. A light crease is visible on Cobb's chest. The card is downgraded solely due to being addressed and mailed. This is a very attractive example of Ty Cobb that presents at a level superior to its assigned grade and would be an exceptionally worthy addition to a Cobb, Hall of Fame, or postcard collection. Opening Bid $2,500.