Lot # 2815: 1933 R136 National Chicle "Sky Birds" Uncut Proof Sheet #85-96 (12 Cards)

Superb uncut proof sheet of 1933 R136 National Chicle "Sky Birds." The "Sky Birds" set features famous pilots and airplanes of the day, and has always been regarded as one of the most popular of all 1930s nonsport gum-card sets, in part because of its bright colors, sharp details, and popular subject matter. The sheet includes the following 12 cards: #85 McLeod, 86 The Austin Ball, 87 Gilbert, 88 Eielson, 89 Nieuport Ballon Rockey Ship, 90 Wellman, 91 de Seversky, 92 McCubbin, 93 Sopwith Tabloid, 94 Voisin 12 BN 2, 95 Buggati-Spad, and 96 A.E.G. Bomber. This complete proof sheet was part of the legendary find of materials from the National Chicle Company that surfaced approximately 38 years ago. All of the National Chicle sheets (and original artworks) in the hobby originate from this significant find. The sheet has blank backs (like all proof sheets) and has printer's marks and/or notations in the extra large margins. Minor creasing is visible, along with light toning front and back. Technically the sheet is in Good condition, but the colors remain vibrant and the image registration is outstanding. This is an extremely impressive and rare 1930s uncut sheet, which is all the more significant since it was actually used in the production process of this classic 1930s gum-card set. Amazingly, we have six different uncut proof sheets offered in this current auction, which together represent 72 of the 108 different cards featured in the set. The sheet measures 14.75 x 11.5 inches.