Unquestionably the key card in the scarce and attractive 1934 Goudey premium issue, the R309-1 Babe Ruth is typically found in lower grades for the obvious reason that young collectors coveted the oversized premiums and used them as display items in their rooms. Tack holes, creases, and various forms of wear are common to the issue. Graded POOR 1 (MK) by PSA, this example appears strong for the grade. A black marking can be observed above Ruth's hand, though not distracting from the visual appeal of the image. Additional surface wear is apparent, along with some light abrasions, corner wear and light corner creasing (most notable at the bottom left). Paper loss on the reverse, along with soiling and an ink marking above the easel, are largely responsible for the grade. Regardless, an exceptional example of a popular gum era premium, always in high demand in any grade.