Griffin, Center Field, Baltimore Orioles, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

This 1888 baseball card from the "Old Judge" series features centerfielder "Griffin" of the Baltimore Orioles. The card, part of a larger set produced by Goodwin & Company for Old Judge Cigarettes, depicts Griffin in a studio portrait, standing with his arms crossed and wearing his team's uniform. The image, a simple yet effective depiction of a baseball player, exemplifies the early days of baseball card collecting. These cards served as a form of advertising for Old Judge Cigarettes, giving fans a glimpse into the world of professional baseball and its rising stars. The card, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, captures a moment in time, reminding us of the enduring popularity of baseball and the evolution of sports memorabilia.