Lot # 80: 1888 N173 Old Judge Cabinet John Clarkson SGC GOOD+ 2.5

Graded GOOD+ 2.5 by SGC. 1888 N173 Goodwin Old Judge cabinet card of Hall of Famer John Clarkson (#78-1 pose) of the Boston Nationals. This is an exceptional example from one of the 19th century's most revered sets. Bright, clean, and crisp. All Old Judge cabinets are extremely desirable, especially Hall of Famers, and John Clarkson, of course, is one of the most prominent of all 19th century Hall of Famers. 1888 marked Clarkson's first season with Boston, having spent his prior four Major League seasons with the powerhouse Chicago Nationals. This is a particularly fascinating card as it was obviously issued very shortly after Clarkson finished the 1887 season with Chicago. Apparently no photographs of Clarkson in a Boston uniform were available yet, so Goodwin took a photo of Clarkson in his Chicago uniform and had the art department add "Boston" onto his uniform. Close examination of the photograph easily allows this to be seen, giving this card a fascinating added dimension of interest and appeal. The image on the card is very bold with extraordinary contrast. The photograph has a diagonal surface wrinkle on the right portion which is largely responsible for its condition downgrading from a much higher level. This is a very striking and attractive card which, aside from the noted wrinkle, is in spectacular condition.