(LOT 20)
1947 Jackie Robinson Rookie - Type 3 PSA Encapsulated International News Photos Composite Photograph
IN A ROYAL/OUT A BUM!!!...
On October 23rd, 1945, Brooklyn Dodgers GM Branch Rickey and KC Monarch shortstop Jackie Robinson changed baseball forever as Jackie became the first Black player to integrate organized baseball. His monumental signing was one of the most significant events in the post-WWII era of baseball. Starting with the Montreal Royals, Jackie endured racial threats, verbal abuse and heavy skepticism despite his leading Montreal to an International League pennant and Little World Series win. In 1947, prior to the start of the season, Rickey created a 7-game exhibition series where he would introduce Jackie to the Dodgers. Presented is a 1947 rookie image of Jackie Robinson, clad as a Montreal Royal, as he enters the Dodgers clubhouse at Ebbets Field, waving to cameramen and media, and then emerges donning his new Brooklyn Dodgers jersey. This PSA-encased 7" x 9" International News Photos photograph was designated "Type 3" due to the fact that this is two Type 1 images from the period (taken actually the same day given the black stain on Jackie's left leg) were combined to create this composite before-and-after photo. This composite was printed and created during the period when each photo was taken and not at a later date. Because the images were combined the piece is borderless, and displays light toning overall, minor surface abrasions and a small tear at the upper right border, but nothing can detract from the poignancy of this fantastically created moment. With the caption entitled "First Negro Dons Major League Uniform" still affixed to the back, this magnificent image captures the moment when ALL players became eligible to play in the big leagues.

MIN BID $1,500
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