This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/12/2024
Every once in a while, a card comes along that makes you think "How is that even possible?" This 1971 O-Pee-Chee example of Nolan Ryan is just such a card, with well-documented centering issues in both the Topps and OPC sets from 1971 disqualifying most from GEM MINT consideration. If you can manage to get past that major pitfall, you still have to contend with chipping along the edges and at the endpoints, with the jet-black borders providing a very unforgiving canvas. It's even more pronounced with OPC as the almost obligatory rough cut wreaks havoc on the condition. But from edge to tip all around the perimeter, this incredible specimen comes through and yields no evidence of handling. The featured card is one of two on record at PSA and, dare we say, it's as close to absolute perfection as one can imagine for this series. The centering is just about dead on, the image of Ryan is sharp and the colors that make up the team and player name seem to have a glow that is more intense than you see on Topps examples. And then there's the bright yellow reverse that is exclusive to the OPC series. Even if you're not a vintage collector of cards that originate from our friends to the north, you can't help but have an appreciation for a truly rare piece like this!