This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/15/2023
Perhaps it was merely by chance, especially since Topps went with little-known Andy Pafko to open their inaugural 1952 Topps collection, but 500-home run hitter Eddie Mathews was chosen to close out the collection, making his rookie card one of the most elusive to find in high grade. Playing in Boston (they would move to Milwaukee the following year and then on to Atlanta in 1966), Mathews never received the fanfare of such "Big Apple" icons as Willie Mays and Mickey Mantle, but his 9 consecutive 30+ home run seasons (and 20+ home runs in each of his first 14 seasons) was a model of excellence and consistency that sent him to Cooperstown. Whether it's to finish off a world-class 1952 Topps set or a key piece to add to a HOFer collection, the featured card makes a solid case for NM/MT consideration as to start, the framing of the central image is almost perfect, more accurate than examples we've seen that were assessed a half to full point higher. Factoring in the above-grade characteristics of the central image, delivered with outstanding registration and near-perfect placement of color as evidenced by the chilling intensity of the rookie slugger's expression, we could easily see this card being considered for a NM/MT evaluation if given another look by the graders. The corners don't appear to provide any glaring evidence for the deduction. A very slight centering shift on the back could be the reason, though that seems a little harsh. As it stands, this is a very eye-pleasing example of one of the key rookie cards ever produced by Topps, and they did it with their first comprehensive offering!