Scarce and interesting, the premiums were issued along with copies of the Sporting News between 1909 and 1913, each only distributed on one single day, the date of issue printed in a text box on the supplement. These are extremely condition-sensitive, printed on lightweight paper and subject to size-related wear, tears, pinholes, tape and trimming.
One of the keys to the M101-2 Sporting News supplements issue, this classic image taken by famed photographer Louis Van Oeyen features the top players in the American and National Leagues shaking hands before squaring off in the 1909 World Series. The Pirates would, famously, emerge victorious, taking the Series in 7 games, with Wagner batting .333 with 6 RBI.
This example does exhibit wear consistent with the grade, notably at edges and corners. Despite the wear apparent on this condition-sensitive piece, the image itself is attractive and clean, a noteworthy photo and one of the most important supplements in the entire four-year span of this issue.