DID YOU KNOW #4 - Mayo Cut Plug - "N172"

Mayo Cut Plug Trading Card from 1887

The Mayo Cut Plug trading cards, also known as the "N172" set, were issued by the Mayo Tobacco Company in 1887. They are considered to be the first baseball trading cards ever produced. These cards were included as a premium in packs of Mayo Cut Plug tobacco to boost sales, featuring 50 players from the National League and the American Association.

Measuring approximately 2.5 x 3.5 inches, the cards showcase a black and white photograph of the player, complemented by their name, team, and position on the front. The reverse side of the cards carries an advertisement for Mayo Cut Plug tobacco. Their historical significance as the pioneering baseball cards, combined with their rarity, positions the Mayo Cut Plug set among the most valuable and significant baseball card sets in existence.

Collectors highly value the Mayo Cut Plug cards due to their pioneering role in baseball card history. Depending on their condition, these cards can range in value from several thousand dollars to over $100,000. Given their limited production and the ravages of time, these cards have become even more valuable and elusive.

The Mayo Tobacco Company, headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, was renowned for its premium tobacco products. It stood as one of the most prosperous tobacco enterprises of its era.

In conclusion, the Mayo Cut Plug trading cards are not just historical artifacts but also invaluable collectibles. Their historical significance, combined with their rarity and pristine condition, makes them a coveted item for collectors and an essential piece for any baseball card enthusiast.