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Posted By: Chris Counts

Marty Sheldon, evidently, is the artist behind all the Helmar cards that have been popping up the past couple years, courtesy of the Helmar Brewing Company. In addition to Reese and Robinson, Sheldon has "painted" cards of Negro Leaguers, banned players, vintage Japanese players, boxers and a handful of HOFers. While his images are wonderful, the cards are poorly produced. The surface literally peels off the backing, which is thicker than an Exhibit card. They also chip and ding like 1971 Topps cards and you can't fit them in a topholder. At one time, a disclaimer on the company's website actually explained the reasoning behind the poor production. They claim they were trying to produce a card that those who hype and profit off of modern cards would avoid. They succeeded. Apparently, Sheldon is now producing "one-of-a-kind" cards, which must certainly carry a high price tag. His images are also available on wooden signs, which are particularly impressive ...

For more info:

http://www.helmarbrewing.com