Search

Graded EX-MT 6 by PSA. Magnificent high-grade example of this legendary rarity. Bright, clean, and fresh, both front and back, with virtually perfect centering and flawless registration. This is an unusually attractive example, with no print lines or other printing flaws, and with only the lightest and most ideal natural toning. Excessive toning is sometimes a problem with Lajoies. Two very tiny rubber band residue marks on the reverse, along with just a hint of corner wear, keep this gem from a much higher grade. This card has obviously been very well cared for since the 1930s, and protected from all elements. When the classic 1933 Goudey set was issued, Goudey originally failed to print #106. No matter how many packs youngsters purchased at their local candy store, they could not complete their set of 240 cards. Everyone, of course, needed #106 (which did not exist). Some of the more devoted and fanatical collectors of the day, in their great frustration, took the time to write and complain directly to the Goudey Gum Company. Goudey received enough complaints from their most devoted customers to prompt them to arrange for a special design and printing of card #106 Nap Lajoie. This special card was actually printed in 1934, and was sent by mail directly from Goudey only to those who had complained to the company in writing. This was the only way the Lajoie card was distributed, hence its extraordinary rarity today. The 1933 Goudey set is universally recognized as the most important of all 1930s gum card issues. #106 Lajoie is the most significant and valuable of all 1930s cards and is widely regarded as one of the four most important of all baseball cards (the others being the famous T206 Wagner and Plank and the Baltimore News Ruth). This is an exceptional example in an extremely desirable grade. Bright, clean, fresh, and crisp with brilliant colors, and with an overall appearance stronger than its technically accurate grade of Excellent to Mint condition. Reserve $5,000. Estimate $10,000/$20,000. SOLD FOR $34,800.00