The first series of cards in the T206 set were issued beginning in 1909 in cigarette and loose tobacco packs through 16 different brands owned by the American Tobacco Company. It is a landmark set in the history of baseball card collecting due to its size and rarity, with cards of over 500 major and minor-league players issued in the set through 1911. It is known informally as the "White Border" set due to the distinctive white borders surrounding the quality color lithographs on each card.

As the auction prices of T206 Hall of Famers has skyrocketed, the prices of the more common (but very desirable) card of Ty Cobb has followed suit, the red-background portrait card remaining one of the most popular cards in the set. Centering on this example is east on the canvas, with soft, rounded corners. Lots of wear and chipping in the edges, particularly the sides, showing this card has most likely been handled often over the years. Some creasing in the bottom left and top right corners, along with light staining around the perimeter, explain the card's technical grade.

The Sweet Cap back may be west on the canvas, but the red printing is still bold and beautiful. Some faint soiling appears on the right side, but overall the reverse looks very presentable. Despite any condition issues from the front, this remains one of the most important and highly desirable cards in the entire T206 issue.