Sir Don Bradman Batting, c.1930s
An original Sport & General press photograph capturing Sir Don Bradman in full batting stance during the 1930s, authenticated by PSA/DNA as a Type I original photograph.
An action image of cricket’s most untouchable record
Sir Don Bradman stands alone in sporting history. His Test average of 99.94 remains one of the most extraordinary statistical achievements in any global sport, a benchmark that has endured for nearly a century.
While Bradman is frequently represented in scorecards and print, large-format authenticated press photographs depicting him in active batting stance are markedly scarcer. This image preserves not merely the likeness of the player, but the posture, balance, and mechanics that defined an era of cricketing dominance.
The artefact
This photograph is an original press image issued by Sport & General Press Agency Ltd and authenticated by PSA/DNA as a Type I original photograph. Measuring approximately 205mm x 152mm (8 x 6 inches), the image captures Bradman at the crease in a composed batting pose characteristic of the 1930s.
Unlike later reprints or wire-service copies, a Type I designation confirms the photograph was developed from the original negative within approximately two years of when the image was taken. As such, it represents a primary historical artefact rather than a reproduction.
Front of PSA/DNA authenticated Type I original photograph showing Sir Don Bradman batting during the 1930s.
Press photography and provenance
The reverse bears the original Sport & General Press Agency Ltd stamp, consistent with period press distribution. Age-related handling marks remain visible, typical of working newsroom photographs used for editorial publication.
Such markings are not incidental. In the field of photographic collecting, agency stamps and editorial evidence form a critical part of provenance, confirming period use and reinforcing authenticity.
Reverse showing Sport & General Press Agency Ltd stamp and period newsroom handling marks confirming press origin.
Why this photograph matters
Authenticated Type I photographs of Bradman are scarce in the open market, particularly larger-format action images. Within the hierarchy of cricket memorabilia, original press photography of Bradman occupies a position alongside premier pre-war cards and elite sporting ephemera.
This image captures Bradman not as a distant icon, but as a contemporary figure actively engaged in play — a surviving document from the era in which his legend was being written.
Availability
This artefact forms part of the CardHawk Vault, a curated archive of historically significant sports material selected for rarity, provenance, and long-term collector relevance.
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PSA / PSA-DNA authentication enquiries
CardHawk provides specialist support for PSA and PSA/DNA authentication of original photographs and historically important sporting artefacts. Early press photography requires informed handling and submission strategy.
If you hold original sporting photographs or documents that may warrant authentication, we welcome enquiries for initial assessment.