This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/14/2024
The Garden City Publishing Company made a splash in 1950 with their release of the highly sought-after "ALL-STAR BASEBALL PIN-UP BOOK." This unique book featured ten die-cut circular punch-outs of baseball players, each measuring just under 7" in diameter. The front and back covers boasted iconic poses of Ted Williams, with the punch-outs showcasing striking black and white portrait images framed by elegant dark green borders and printed baseballs.
Among the exclusive lineup of players included in this book were seven Hall of Famers: Ralph Kiner, Ted Williams, Stan Musial, Joe DiMaggio, Jackie Robinson, Phil Rizzuto, and George Kell. Rounding out the list were three all-stars: Gil Hodges, Jim Hegan, and Mel Parnell. The intention was for collectors to punch out these players from their respective pages using the perforations surrounding their framed images. However, this particular copy of the book features all ten players intact, with no perforations. Furthermore, the pin-up images are in exceptional condition, showcasing a conservative "EX+" aesthetic.
While the cover exhibits some expected wear along the edges and moderate surface wear, the inner pages remain largely intact. What sets this book apart is the presence of highly significant subjects such as Ted Williams, widely regarded as baseball's greatest hitter of all time; Joe DiMaggio, the iconic "Yankee Clipper"; Stan "The Man" Musial, the immortal slugger of the St. Louis Cardinals; and Jackie Robinson, who broke baseball's color barrier in 1947. These players are rarely found in any condition, making this book a true treasure chest of classic pin-up images featuring some of the greatest heroes of baseball's Golden Age.
This vintage gem from 1950 offers a captivating glimpse into the past, providing collectors and enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to own a piece of baseball history. With its well-preserved pin-up images and the inclusion of legendary players, this "ALL-STAR BASEBALL PIN-UP BOOK" is a must-have for any avid fan of the National Pastime.