James Albert "Al" Myers, Shortstop, Washington Nationals, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887 - 1890

This black and white photograph, part of the "Old Judge" series of trading cards for Old Judge Cigarettes, depicts James Albert "Al" Myers, a shortstop for the Washington Nationals, in a fielding position. Created by Goodwin & Company between 1887 and 1890, the image captures Myers in his baseball uniform, with a "W" visible on his chest, showcasing the early days of baseball card collecting and the evolution of sports memorabilia. The card's small size, measuring 2 11/16 x 1 3/8 in. (6.9 x 3.5 cm), is characteristic of this era's trading cards and speaks to their intended use as promotional materials for the tobacco company. Currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, this card is a piece of American sports history and offers a glimpse into the past of baseball.