Goldin will offer a Babe Ruth 1916 blank back rookie card in its April 1 sale.

It’s one of a series issued by New Orleans' H Weil Baking Company and is regarded by many in the hobby as the ultimate rookie card.

That’s due to its age, rarity and the legendary figure it depicts.  

Babe Ruth was a pitcher during his rookie season 

Only a handful have survived.

In 1916 Babe Ruth was playing for the Red Sox, where he developed a reputation for his abilities as a pitcher – hence his depiction on the card.

He began batting in earnest in 1917 - initially as a way to get more time on the field (pitchers only got to play a couple of times a week).  

The card, graded SGS 70 EX+5.5, is expected to sell for somewhere in excess of $300,000.

Goldin comments: “This is one of just two examples at its tier (with none graded higher) among a total of eleven copies recorded in SGC's census reporting.

“The rookie card of Babe Ruth represents one of the peak achievements in all of card collecting, and a thoroughly commendable example of the coveted rarity is presented here.”

This same card last sold for $83,650 in 2013, showing the extraordinary growth in the market over the past four years.

You can take a look at our amazing range of sports memorabilia for sale here.

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