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.
There are three different Frank Chance
cards included in the T206 set.
This version, which
features a portrait of the Hall of Famer in front of a yellow
background, is the most common of the three. Sharp edges and nice corners override the light border stains and minor
crease on the left edge. Partial diamond cutting with centering slightly
west on the canvas further explain the card's technical grade. The
Sweet Cap back isn't quite as bold as it was at printing, but it still
presents beautifully.