Lot # 1443: 1950s Exhibit Supply Co. Wrestler Series Near-Complete Set (30/32)

American culture at its finest is on display, with this 1950s Exhibit Supply Co. Wrestler Series near-complete set (30/34). Looking like the cast from an Italian sword-and-sandal flick, these "squared-circle" strongman are imposing figures, who delighted fans with their athletic abilities and theatrical performances. While Exhibit offered its Wrestler Series in sets of 32, two checklists listed the same 31 grapplers, along with either Don Eagle, or Michael Leone. So in total, there were 33 wrestlers issued, and finding a rare checklist would yield a set of 34, though technically a master set would include 35 cards, counting both checklist variations. As the sets were made available with a total of 32 cards, the set offered here is counted as a near-complete set (30/32).

The (30) cards in this offering are generally sharp and attractive, presenting details in a range of 70% EX to NM, 30% VG to VG-EX, with deference to light spots of adhesive staining at the corners on the reverse side, which do not compromise the integrity of the surface paper.

Featured wrestlers are: Al Williams, Bill Parks, Bill Brooks, Billy Goelz, Billy Darnell, "Nature Boy" Rogers, Benito Gardini, "Cyclone" Ayala, Dave Levin, Enrique Torres, Fritz Schnabel, "Farmer Don" Marlin, Friedrich Von Schact, Gene Stanlee, George Drake, Hans Schnabel, Joe Millich, Joe Savoldi, Jim Londos, Lou Thesz, Michael Leone, Pete Bartu, Primo Carnero, Rudy Kay, "Ruffy" Silverstein, Roger Mackay, "The Great Balbo", "The Mighty Atlas", Walter Palmer, "Zuma, Man of Mars".