Lot # 1640: 1952 Wheaties Tin Tray Near-Complete Set (3/4)

Presented is an extremely rare, near-complete set of 1952 Wheaties Tin Trays consisting of three of the four trays, missing Jackie Robinson for completion. Issued in 1952 with boxes of Wheaties cereal, the self-framed metal premiums in this unique near-set feature color images printed on tin of three great stars of the day: Ralph Kiner, Stan Musial, and Phil Rizzuto. Each premium is designed with the photo appearing to be "framed" (the frame is part of the design and is punched to create the effect of a three-dimensional frame, with a hole at the top to allow for hanging). Each premium was issued attached to the back of a Wheaties cereal box (by glue) as part of the promotion, as opposed to being packaged inside the cereal box. This is why the 1952 Wheaties Tins often have glue and paper residue on their backs (as is the case with the examples offered here). The surrounding frame has the borders "raised," giving the issued tins essentially a three-dimensional quality. Measuring 4.75 by 5.75 inches, each of the offered tin trays is extremely attractive, featuring vibrantly colored images of the depicted players along with a facsimile signature underneath. Grading Very Good overall, as is common with these trays, they do display a few surface scratches and dents. As mentioned, the reverse of each tray displays excess paper from being affixed to the box, with the Kiner tray displaying writing on the excess paper. Of special note: For some unknown reason, Robinson is an extreme rarity in this series. Only a few examples are known to exist. Most consider the set complete at three because the Robinson tin is so rare. This is an extremely fascinating and attractive near-complete set (minus one) of this rare promotional premium set. Total: 3 trays. The size/weight of this item requires that there will be an additional shipping charge for this lot.