Duke Jantzen, Catcher, Minneapolis, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1889

This 1889 black and white photograph by Goodwin & Company is part of the “Old Judge” series of baseball cards commissioned by Old Judge Cigarettes. “Duke” Jantzen, a catcher for the Minneapolis Millers, is depicted in a posed action shot, appearing to catch a ball. These cards, measuring just under 7 by 3.5 centimeters, were printed in the late 19th century and became highly sought after collectibles. “Duke” Jantzen, Catcher, Minneapolis, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes is now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection in New York City.