Dig deep for this recently excavated 1910 Draper & Maynard advertising sign. Printed on heavy cardboard stock, this captivating creation measures a whopping 28-3/4 x 21-1/4”. Inset in a faux frame design with the legend “Compliments of Draper & Maynard Co. Plymouth, N.H.” on the bottom edge of the frame, is a team photo of the 1910 Philadelphia A’s, with the caption “Philadelphia American League and Worlds Champions 1910, Athletes”. While the classic team photo is well-known, this colorful sign is not, and it could quite possibly be a unique example, as research failed to encounter any mention, or other images of this proud piece.
Discovered behind the walls during renovation of a 200-year-old Vermont homestead, this ancient advertisement may well have been in seclusion for a century, Considerable signs of attrition support the genuine antique nature and authentic appeal of this well-conceived sporting goods promoter. A variety of baseball equipment illustrations surround the black and white photo, and the famed D&M logo is centered above. Noted among the World Champion A’s are Hall of Famers Connie Mack, Eddie Collins, Frank Baker, “Chief” Bender (hole punched through right eye), and Eddie Plank, along with stars Jack Coombs, Jack Barry, “Stuffy” McInnis, “Topsy” Hartsel, “Rube” Oldring, Amos Strunk, Bris Lord, Danny Murphy, and others. This supremely talented squad was the foundation of one of baseball’s most remarkable dynasties and is considered one of the greatest teams ever.
Other than a hole on the edge of the D&M logo above the team photo, and the one through Bender’s eye, most of wear and staining is located around or near the perimeter, with the worst affliction being a jagged tear on the bottom border. Two holes on the top border appear to have been punched by the sign’s printer, which is identified at the bottom right corner as “The P.R. Warren Co. Lowell, Mass.”. Truly a remarkable find, this dynamic advertising relic defines the notions of “pride of ownership”, and “display appeal”.
The size/weight of this item requires that there will be an additional shipping charge for this lot. Opening Bid $500.