Original glossy news service photo from 1945. Superb full figure image of Jackie in Monarchs uniform posing w/a bat, spectators in bkg. behind him. Overall size is 4.5x8.25" and this was printed as a larger photo and then cut-out and mounted to a larger 5.5x8.5" sheet of stiff paper at the time of publication to give it a more dramatic effect in print. The sheet it is mounted to has pencil notation on reverse along w/"The Sporting News" offical logo ink stamp. Authenticated and encapsulated by SGC. 1945 was the one and only year he played in the Negro Leagues. In all, Robinson played 47 games at shortstop for the Monarchs, hitting .387 with five home runs, and registering 13 stolen bases. He also appeared in the 1945 Negro League All-Star Game. In 1947 he would change history, breaking the color barrier by playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers. This photo represents Jackie at the very start of his professional baseball carrier. As cut-out, there is a 1" tear below his knees. Otherwise lt. handling wear but totally clean and glossy w/bold, sharp image.