Card Statistics

Oscar Charleston is presented in Helmar’s T3 series in the uniform of Almendares, shown in a composed batting stance with the bat held diagonally across his body. The white pinstriped uniform, blue stockings, and bold blue chest emblem stand against a deep green field and softly clouded sky, giving the card a clean, balanced appearance. The pose is restrained, but Charleston’s broad build and alert expression give the figure considerable presence.

The original artwork was painted by Natalia Valiukavich in watercolor. Fine blue striping runs through the pale uniform, while stronger blue accents in the cap, chest emblem, and stockings organize the figure. The bat is rendered in warm brown tones, and the face and hands are modeled with deeper reds and ochres. The background is handled broadly, with muted greens, golds, and blues creating atmosphere while keeping attention on Charleston.

Oscar Charleston was one of the greatest all-around players in the history of Black baseball. A powerful left-handed hitter, exceptional center fielder, and aggressive baserunner, he starred for numerous leading Black clubs and was widely regarded by contemporaries as one of the finest players of his generation. Charleston also spent many winters in Cuba, where he faced elite competition and became a prominent figure in the Cuban League. He later managed as well as played, and his long career connected several major eras of Black baseball. Charleston was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1976.

Numbered #72, the Charleston card is especially notable because it gives collectors a second, very different presentation of one of the T3 series’ most important Negro League subjects. Card #40 showed Charleston as part of the celebrated Santa Clara outfield trio with Pablo Mesa and Alejandro Oms; here he appears alone in an Almendares uniform, emphasizing his substantial Cuban League career. For collectors of Charleston, Negro League baseball, or Cuban baseball, the two cards form a particularly strong pair within the checklist.

Produced in Helmar’s distinctive handcrafted tradition, the card combines original watercolor artwork, one of Black baseball’s greatest stars, and an important Cuban League chapter in his career.

Original watercolor artwork by Natalia Valiukavich.

• Description: Side view with bat
• Team: Almendaras, Cuba
• Population (# Sold): 18
• First Date Sold: 2021-01-26
• Latest Date Sold: 2026-07-14
• Card Status: Active
• # Sold in past year: 3
• Highest Auction: $ 122.57
• Average Auction Result: $ 75.11

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