I’ve had this discussion many times with a few collectors. I don’t think they ever were put into packs or issued to the public. In fact I think the SGC graded examples are also AUTH and because they have seen so few and because of the importance and pressure gave them grades. Add to the fact that at least 80% or more of the examples have originated from the same area/collector and so few have survived. Yet the non-sports versions while some are tough are around and in all degrees of condition.
I have yet to see a beat T215 baseball subject has anyone?
Even if there was one beater the swing is the exact opposite the bulk are high grade and very few are rough…I can’t think of many issues where that happens.In the end we’re talking about cards issued overseas to soldiers in fox holes as the story goes etc. Did they all go overseas into battle with card savers?
Just my two cents..not iron clad just my thoughts on the issue.