This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/5/2022
In the 1950s the PF Flyers and Converse Chuck Taylor brands battled it out to win the title of the most popular sneaker on the playground. Though Converse eventually won, PF Flyer’s gave Chuck Taylor’s a run for their money. This outstanding piece of advertising art – the only one in existence – shows the amount of work PF put in to win the battle of the sneaker. Produced sometime between 1953 and 1957, this die-cut masterpiece advertises PF’s sponsorship of the Big League Stars on TV program and features all the top stars of the day including Hall of Famers Willie Mays, Ted Williams, Yogi Berra, Warren Spahn, Nellie Fox, Stan Musial, Pee Wee Reese, and Bob Lemon plus Bobby Avila and Al Dark. The show was hosted by NY Giants play-by-play man Russ Hodges whose call of Bobby Thomson’s “Shot Heard Round the World” in the 1951 playoffs remains one of the most iconic moments in sports broadcasting. Due to the intricate and delicate die cuts present on this piece, it is clear why no other example has survived the ravages of time. Measuring 21” x 26.5”, the display shows toning throughout along with the expected edge wear, most noticeable on the first and third base sides of the die-cut diamond. Professionally matted and framed, this is an incredibly rare piece of 1950s baseball advertising art. This rare blend of star players above a diecut baseball diamond, and a dramatic play at the plate, virtually pops out of the frame in brilliant near mint colors. To read an article about this collection from Sports Collectors Daily, click here.