Lot # 3185: 1936 R144 "Strange True Stories" Complete Set (24) Plus Wrapper

Issued by Wolverine Gum, "Strange True Stories" is one of the most outrageous nonsport sets ever issued! Cards are devoted to strange and, well, pretty horrifying stories, especially scary for children, and they feature fairly gruesome artwork. With titles such as "Drowned by a Giant Clam," "Death in the Sahara," and "Murder in the Depths," most cards were capable of provoking nightmares. While each card advertises that the set contains 260 cards, unfortunately only the first series of 24 was ever produced. In addition to its rather unique subject matter, "Strange True Stories" is also one of the rarest gum-card sets of the 1930s. Presented is a complete 24-card set, plus an original wrapper. Condition of the set is one Ex, four Vg-Ex, two Vg, eight Gd, and nine Pr to Fr. The wrapper offers a very presentable appearance while technically grading Poor due to small holes and a missing piece on the edge. Wolverine Gum of Detroit apparently had a fascination with the bizarre, as its only other card set was its Ripley's "Believe It or Not" issue. Both Wolverine sets are among the most popular of all 1930s issues. Total: 24 cards plus wrapper.