March 21, 2019: Sports & Americana Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/21/2019
This is a simply stunning example of one of the most unique turn-of-the-century pieces ever created, the 1912 L1 Leather Series that pictured the greats of the era on horsehide-shaped pieces of leather. The pieces in most cases – including McGraw – utilized the artwork that had graced the legendary 1911 Turkey Red cards. The Leathers are listed in the Standard Catalog of Baseball Cards as 10-by-12 inches; this example of the Hall of Famer McGraw has exceptionally crisp edges but has been cut down to roughly 8 ¼-by- 5 ½ inches. The Leathers were issued as a premium by Helmar Tobacco Co. with its Turkish Trophies brand of cigarettes. This example is in wonderful condition, with the famous image of the kneeling McGraw.
1912 L1 Leather of John McGraw
Click above for larger image.