Lot # 40: 1886-1887 N172 Old Judge #368-4 William (Bill) Phillips Brooklyn SGC EX 5 - Population 1 and Highest Graded by Either SGC/PSA

Graded EX 5 by SGC and confirmed as pose #368-4 by the service. Very impressive 1886-1887 N172 Old Judge tobacco card picturing William (Bill) Phillips of the Brooklyn Grays. This Canadian pioneer was the first from the country to suit up in the big leagues. The outdoor "Bat Over Right Shoulder" pose is exceptionally clear and framed by well-formed corners, fresh edges and a clean, blank back. Of the 2 total of the player/pose combination judged by SGC, this antique is the lone copy at the grading tier and the highest graded overall. In comparison, PSA has only graded three total copies of the offered pose with the only copy at the EX 5 tier displaying a qualifier. This relic would make a fantastic companion piece for the 1887 Carroll Studio Phillips that is available as a separate lot in this auction.