Graded 50 VG/EX 4 by SGC, one of just three copies validated by that company. The 1870 Philadelphia Athletics were one of baseball's first professional teams. A juggernaut from the Keystone State, the squad was led by second baseman extraordinaire and future sporting goods magnate Al Reach, Harry Schafer (late of the Cincinnati Red Stockings), and pitching ace Dick McBride. The offered carte-de-visite, produced by John Gihon ("Artist and Photographer") of Arch Street in Philadelphia, is one of the hobby's finest examples. Its player images are absolutely flawless, the composite's clarity is superb, and the mount concedes routine evidence of aging and handling. An exceptional specimen of this extremely important baseball artifact, in Very Good to Excellent condition.  This lot is subject to a reserve.