This lot features the 1959 Topps Elston Howard #395 GAI 8.5 - NMMT+ Yankees! ---

 

The Yankees' first black player, Howard was forced to play the outfield through much of his first five seasons because Yogi Berra was behind the plate. By 1960, Howard was the starting catcher and Berra was more often in the field. Howard was an exceptional defensive catcher; his .993 career fielding average is one of the highest ever, and he pioneered the use of a hinged catcher's mitt that led to the modern one-handed catching techniques. He was also highly regarded as a handler of pitchers. He was named to the AL All-Star team nine consecutive years.

 

Here’s a good-looking example of his 1959 card. This pack-fresh beauty has 4 super nice corners, 4 pearl-white mint borders and a super clean, flaw free surface. There is wonderful color and clarity to this card and a clean back makes this one keeper. Please check my feedback and bid with confidence. Buyer adds 2.50 for ship insured, US customers only, cc and m.o. payments go out next day, checks held 5 days. Please email with questions. Always combined shipping on multiple purchases. Thanks and good luck