Very nicely matched group of 4 PSA graded cards from the 1889 N526 Diamond S Cigars tobacco series, featuring members of the 1889 Boston Beaneaters who finished tied with the gamed New York Giants in wins with 83 but finished 2nd on the basis of having 2 more losses. Hall of Famer members Dan Brouthers and Charles "Old Hoss" Radbourne are among the quartet. Cards are:
Old Hoss Radbourn VG PSA 3 (1/1) - Winner of a record 60 games for Providence in 1884 and 308 during his 12 year Hall of Fame career, Radbourne went 20-11 for the 1889 Beaneaters. At first glance appears EX. Closer examination of the back reveals what looks to be a diagonal paper wrinkle near the top left side. All things considered, a great looking card. The only VG 3, either Diamond S or Number 7 Cigars ad back, with nothing rated higher by PSA.
Dan Brouthers PR PSA 1 - One of the greatest hitters of the 19th Century, Brouthers finished with a .343 lifetime average over his 19 year career. He hit .373 and drove in 118 runs in 126 games for the 1889 Beaneaters. At first glance appears VG, with a pair of creases at the top left of the card. Some light toning on the back. Not sure why the Poor rating, as the Brouthers looks better than either of the PSA 2's. Possibly the best Diamond S as PSA does not distinguish between Number 7 and Diamond S Cigars ad backs on their population report, since there is just 1 GD 2 listed higher.
C. W. Ganzell GD PSA 2 - Like Brouthers, a key member as starting catcher for the World Champion 1887 Detroit Wolverines, Ganzell played a utility role with the 1889 Beaneaters. Dark staining at upper right corner and along the side. Stains correspond to the back, but lighter. Heavier crease at same upper right corner with some creasing at lower left. Corners about VG to EX. Possibly the best Diamond S as PSA does not distinguish between Number 7 and Diamond S Cigars ad backs on their population report, since there is just 1 VG 3 listed higher.
James A. Hart GD PSA 2 - Manager of the 1889 Beaneaters, his one and only season at the helm. He was replaced by the legendary Frank Selee who would guide them to 5 National League Titles between 1890 and 1898. Hart went on to become involved in the ownership of the Chicago Colts of the 1890's and eventually buy the team, now called the Cubs, from John Spalding in 1902. Displays more VG in appearance on the clean front with corner wear, very light creases at lower left corner and small ding at lower right corner. Back does have a small 1/4" by 3/4" area of paper loss that touches the Diamond S logo. Corners about VG. ***Card has been MISLABELED by PSA. IT DOES NOT HAVE ANY C. S. WHITE & CO. AD anywhere on the card.*** Possibly the best Diamond S as PSA does not distinguish between Number 7 and Diamond S Cigars ad backs on their population report, since there is just 1 VG 3 listed higher.