Outstanding large-format panoramic photo picturing the Baltimore Elite Giants of 1949.  Managed by Hoss Walker and Lennie Pearson, the team played its games at Bugle Field in Baltimore.  At the beginning of the season, club owner Vernon Green died of a heart attack, the club playing one final season in 1950 before finally dissolving.  This photo is housed in a modern frame measuring 20 1/2" x 10 1/2" and presents extremely well, a black and white photo printed on yellowish/cream paper.  Close inspection reveals that the photo has been folded horizontally at least twice, lengthy series of creases traversing across the photo at the players' feet and again at their necklines.  Additional wrinkling and light creasing is evident, again upon closer inspection.

Each of the players represented have signed the photo above his likeness.  Signatures include Ed Finney, Henry Kimbro, Johnny Hayes, Leon Day (HOF), Pee Wee Butts, Vic Harris, Jim Gilliam, Bob Romby, Frazier Robinson, Alfred Wilmore, Hoss Walker, Butch Davis, Lennie Pearson, Leroy "Toots" Ferrell, and Joe Black.  An exceptional photo.  

SADLY, WE ARE WITHDRAWING THIS ITEM DUE TO CONFUSION OVER THE LOA. This piece was submitted by us in person for authentication at the National in Cleveland, and authenticated at the show.  Unfortunately, the LOA was returned to us this week - PSA authenticated the signatures of Frazier Robinson, Leroy Ferrell and Joe Black, and then added "There are 14 unidentifiable signatures on the item."  Unfortunately at this late date we have been unable to ascertain whether PSA is rejecting those signatures, whether there is an error in their notes, or whether they are actually unable to identify the others - which include signatures of Hall of Famer Leon Day, Brooklyn Dodger fan favorite Jim Gilliam, and other very familiar names.  Until we receive clarity from PSA/DNA on this issue, we do not feel comfortable selling the piece.  We never want to be unclear or put questionable pieces out into the hobby, so until we can obtain verification from PSA/DNA, we cannot in good conscience sell the item.  Please look for this to be offered in our Fall, 2024 auction, just two months away.