Stunning example of the portrait photo of Hall of Famer "Cap" Anson an image typically found with considerable fading. This specimen graded VG/EX 50 by SGC boasts an exceptionally clear image with deep contrast the glint in Anson's eye and the finely-groomed mustache clearly visible. Checklisted as card #11-1 in The Photographic Baseball Cards of Goodwin & Company (1886-1890) by Miller Gonsowski and Masson (an absolutely essential tool we might add one of the most important and interesting works the hobby has ever produced) there are actually multiple versions of this card with the variations lying in the typography. Several examples exist with Anson's name and team affiliation written across his breast and the team affiliation also varying when typeset above the Old Judge advertisement at the bottom of the card. This particular example often labeled card #11-1a features no writing across Anson's breast with the name "A. C. ANSON" and "Chicagoes" typeset underneath the image. Very few examples of this variation have been made available for public sale with VCP recording just six transactions dating back to 2005. While the grade of VG/EX 50 assessed by SGC is technically accurate it is due largely to what appears to be a mark of thin paper loss in the shape of a small square of tape on the card reverse. The image quality is as noted the finest we have encountered the card front easily approaching EX/MT territory. The clarity and contrast of the image is such that any condition flaws - particularly those on the card reverse - are insignificant. The level of detail seen in the image is simply atypical for this card and it is extremely unlikely that a finer quality image will ever present itself at public auction. One of the most desirable cards of the entire N172 Old Judge issue.