This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/30/2023
At the end of the 1956 season Jackie Robinson was 37 years old. A decade of big league excellence and countless high school and college football games had taken their toll on his body. The trail Robinson had blazed in 1947 had opened the doors for Larry Doby, Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Frank Robinson, and countless other African Americans to play in the Major Leagues. His job fulfilled and place in history cemented, the time had come to retire. The decision was made a little easier when Robinson learned that Brooklyn Dodgers had traded Jackie to the New York Giants, their crosstown rivals, on December 13, 1956.
This special photograph was taken of Robinson as he finished clearing out his locker in the Dodgers clubhouse at Ebbets Field for the last time. Official Dodgers photographer Barney Stein was on hand to record the historic moment, and Robinson obliged, posing with his Brooklyn cap, bats, and jersey one last time. Robinson, who had already agreed to take an executive position with the Chock Full o’ Nuts corporation, smiles easily as he looks forward to his post-baseball life. This is the only known Type I example of this photograph that we are aware of. It shows light toning with some creasing and rounded corners. There is a prominent crease on the top left corner area and couple noticeable surface abrasions as well, but these minor condition issues are easily overlooked knowing the scarcity and significance of this important Barney Stein photo. The reverse bears an official Barney Stein stamp and some minor staining. Above all, this museum-worthy 8x10 original photo remains in very good overall condition. Rare opportunity to obtain the only Type I example of an historic moment in baseball history. Encapsulated Type 1 by PSA/DNA.