In the world of sports memorabilia, few items stir up as much excitement and fascination as the 1909-11 T206 Eddie Plank baseball card. Currently featured in the PWCC Marketplace’s December Premier Auction, this card is not just a collector’s item; it is a precious artifact that encapsulates the remarkable tale of one of the early 20th century’s greatest pitchers, Eddie Plank.
Eddie Plank, affectionately known as “Gettysburg Eddie,” was born and raised in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. He established himself as one of the most dominant left-handed pitchers during the era of baseball known as the “Deadball Era.” His career spanned from 1901 to 1917, during which he achieved an astounding 326 wins and maintained a noteworthy career ERA of 2.35 across 623 games. In his final season, he displayed his exceptional skill with a remarkable 1.79 ERA. Plank’s excellence extended to the World Series, where he boasted a stellar 1.32 ERA in 54 2/3 innings, contributing significantly to the Philadelphia Athletics’ triumph in securing three championships.
Despite his remarkable achievements, Plank often found himself overshadowed by contemporaries like Cy Young, Walter Johnson, and Christy Mathewson. However, his prowess on the mound was not overlooked by all. In a 1926 letter, Babe Ruth, a formidable pitcher before becoming a legendary slugger, hailed Plank as one of the game’s finest pitchers.
The T206 Eddie Plank card, manufactured between 1909 and 1911, stands as a testament to Plank’s enduring legacy. Regarded as the second rarest tobacco card, surpassed only by the T206 Honus Wagner, it is a coveted gem in the world of vintage baseball card collecting. The card’s scarcity has sparked various theories, including Plank’s rumored aversion to cigarettes, a printing plate mishap during production, or simply an accidental error.
Currently up for auction at PWCC Marketplace, the graded SCG 1 PR T206 Eddie Plank card has already attracted a bid of $32,000. Its rarity is emphasized by the fact that it has appeared in public auctions only 11 times in recent years. Furthermore, the card’s grading history is noteworthy, with SGC grading only 39 examples and PSA grading 21.
Alongside the T206 Eddie Plank card, the auction also features other remarkable and rare items. One such item is the 1909-11 T206 Sherry Magie (Magee) PIEDMONT 150 error card, known for misspelling Magee’s name. Graded PSA 2, this card exemplifies the unique quirks that make card collecting such an intriguing hobby.
Notable cards from other sports are also part of the auction, including a 1997 Metal Universe Championship Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan /50 card, graded BGS 9. Additionally, there is a 1982 NCAA Finals Ticket Stub autographed by Michael Jordan, representing a pivotal moment in basketball history. Furthermore, the auction showcases a 2015 Fleer Showcase Metal Universe Blue Connor McDavid ROOKIE /50 card, the only one graded PSA 10, and a 1998 Ultra Masterpieces Tim Duncan 1/1 #55P card, graded PSA 7.
The significance of the 1909-11 T206 Eddie Plank card transcends its rarity; it represents an era when legends were forged and the sport of baseball was shaping its identity. Obtaining this card is not only an opportunity to possess a valuable piece of memorabilia but also a chance to hold a fragment of the sport’s illustrious and captivating past.
