1909-1911 T206 Polar Bear - Jesse Tannehill, Washington Senators - SGC 2.5

On the player - Jesse Niles Tannehill (1874-1956) was a prominent left-handed pitcher during the dead-ball era, playing for the Cincinnati Reds (1894; 1911), Pittsburgh Pirates (1897–1902), New York Highlanders (1903), Boston Americans / Red Sox (1904–1908), and Washington Senators (1908–1909).  Tannehill's versatility extended beyond the mound, being utilized in the outfield for 87 games throughout his career, showcasing his exceptional (for a pitcher) batting skills. Highlights of Tannehill's career include leading the NL in ERA in 1901 and pitching a no-hitter on August 17, 1904. His professional career resulted in an impressive WAR of 47.0, with a pitching record of 197 wins and 117 losses, and an ERA of 2.80. His hitting prowess over his 15-year career included over 1500 at-bats, with a batting slash line of .255/.310/.337.

On the back and card - The Polar Bear back is considered a better back for T206 cards, a step above Piedmont and Sweet Caporal.  Generally, around 5% of T206 cards in existence carry the Polar Bear advertising back.  Finding Polar Bear cards in good condition is rarer compared to those with other backs, as they were included in packs of Polar Bear scrap tobacco, leading to potential staining from contact with the tobacco.

Set information - The 1909-1911 T206 baseball card set is considered one of the most important sets, probably the most important set, in baseball history.  Together with the 1933 Goudey set and the 1952 Topps set, the T206 completes the “Big Three” classic baseball card sets. Affectionately named “The Monster” based on its 524-card size, the T206 is home to some of the most valuable vintage baseball cards in the hobby, including the famed T206 Honus Wagner rarity.