1961 Topps #73 Jim Ray Smith PSA 8

1961 Topps #73 Jim Ray Smith PSA 8 - A Dominant Force in the Trenches

In the rugged, run-heavy landscape of 1950s and early ’60s football, Jim Ray Smith stood out as one of the most dominant offensive linemen of his time. As a five-time Pro Bowler and core member of the Cleveland Browns’ offensive line, Smith helped anchor one of the league’s most feared ground attacks—paving the way for legendary ball carriers like Jim Brown with a blend of power, quickness, and technique rarely seen at the guard position. His athleticism and footwork made him a nightmare for defenders and a critical piece of Cleveland’s offensive success throughout the late 1950s.

The 1961 Topps #73 card showcases Smith in a bold, no-frills portrait against a deep blue background, framed by Topps’ clean and timeless design from that year. With minimal text and strong visual balance, the ’61 set remains a favorite among vintage football collectors. This PSA 8 example is a beautifully preserved specimen, offering sharp corners, rich color saturation, and excellent surface clarity. With centering well within grade standards, this is a standout card from a set that often suffers from misalignment and print flaws.