Lot # 2893: 1937 R21 "Ripley's Believe It or Not" Complete Low-Number Set (24) Plus 10 High-Numbers and Wrapper

1937 R21 Ripley's "Believe It or Not" collection of the first 24 cards (#1-24) of the 48 in the set plus one duplicate (#8). Also included are 10 (nine different) of the rare high numbers. Ripley's were printed in sheets of 24 cards and issued in two separate 24-card series. This set has always been appreciated as one of the rarest and most unusual of all 1930s nonsport card issues. It's impossible not to like them! This is what really rare 1930s nonsport bubblegum cards are supposed to look like! The set was produced in 1937 by the Wolverine Gum Company. Each card features an incredible fact or story from the Ripley's archives. Condition of the complete low-number set is 40% Ex (including a couple Ex-Mt) and 60% Vg to Vg-Ex (including a couple slightly lesser). Eight cards have been professionally graded and encapsulated by PSA (5) and SGC (3). Grading Composite: #2 (EX 5), 3 (SGC EX/NM 80), 5 (SGC EX 60), 8 (EX-MT 6), 10 (SGC EX 60), 16 (VG 3), 23 (VG 3), and 27 (EX 5). Condition of the nine unencapsulated high-number cards (two #30, 31, 32, 37, 39, 42, 43, and 44) ranges from Gd to Vg-Ex (averaging Vg). The collection is accompanied by an original wrapper that shows a repaired tear, otherwise presenting in Good to Very Good condition. This is a very attractive collection of this rare and fascinating 1930s nonsport card issue. Total: 35 cards plus wrapper.