George F. "Piano Legs" Gore, Center Field, New York, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887 - 1890

This 1887-1890 "Old Judge" baseball card, printed by Goodwin & Company, features the likeness of George F. "Piano Legs" Gore, center fielder for the New Yorks. The card, part of a series issued by the Old Judge Cigarette Factory, depicts Gore in a striped jersey, white pants, and holding a bat. The sepia-toned card is a prime example of the early days of baseball card collecting and a glimpse into a time when baseball was becoming a truly national pastime. The card, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art collection, is a reminder of the history of American sports and the connection between advertising and popular culture.