Best-In-Class
Josh Gibson Photo (Circa 1940s) PSA/DNA Type I.. ...
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Description
Josh Gibson Photo (Circa 1940s) PSA/DNA Type I.
Best-In-Class Expert Analysis/Summary:
Like most collectibles, scarcity is one of the primary drivers in the vintage photograph market. When it comes to Type I photographs featuring Negro League legend Josh Gibson, the supply is meager since the star was never given the opportunity to shine at the Major League level. With the limited number of Gibson photos in circulation, an even more minuscule tally of existing images rises to an exceptional level. That, however, is the case here with a shot that artistically captures a uniformed Gibson.
Just a few years before his death at age 35 in 1947, just a few months before Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier, this image of the generational talent was taken. The large 8" x 10" photo features Gibson in a catching pose against the grandstands in the background as he removes his mask and looks to the sky.
Besides minor surface imperfections typical of most vintage photos, this specimen's condition is outstanding, including full white borders that frame the image. In addition, the clarity is superb. As with most elite vintage photos, we might never know the name of the exact photographer who snapped this terrific shot, but it was stamped by the "McNeill News Photo Service" on the reverse. This example is one of the finest Gibson photos known due to its scarcity, image quality, context, size, and condition.