Most diffcult Hall of Famer?

[glchen]

Most negro leaguers (e.g. Josh Gibson). Most early pioneers / executives / umpires. Some early managers (e.g., Frank Selee).

[53Browns]

I agree with Gary. Likely negro leaguers. There's probably another issue(s) but I have only ever seen Josh Gibson on the 50-51 Toleteros. I'm not counting all of the modern day tribute cards to him.

[glynparson]

is as tough or tougher than some of the negro leaguers for playing era items.

[drcy]

Not a HOFer, but there is a Peck & Snyder of the first superstar James Creighton, and I believe that's it. I don't recall even seeing the card for auction.

[Bruinsfan94]

I would assume that the list would be almost 100% 19th century or Negro leagues?

[drcy]

If you said rookie card, you'd get some 20th century players.

I'm sure there are some modern HOFer managers where playing days cards are tough. Obviously folks such as Sparky Anderson and Tommy Lasorda didn't have stellar playing careers.

[Kenny Cole]

Depends on what you are looking for. There are photos and the Toleteros of Gibson but no card from when he played. Pete Hill has three known cards from when he played. Selee has one from when he managed. Willie Foster is reputed to have one but I've only seen it on an uncut sheet. Lots of the early19th century HOFers can be found on a CDV or photo but don't have a period card per se. Many of the negro leaguers can be found on rppcs, which are themselves rare, or photos, which are also pretty rare, but don't have any period cards. Off the top of my head that would include Rube Foster, Judy Johnson, Turkey Stearnes, Mule Suttles, Jud Wilson, Sol White, Cum Posey, Effa Manley, Willie Wells, Cool Papa Bell, Bullet Rogan, Buck Leonard, Louis Santop, Frank Grant, J.R. wilkinson, Alex Pompez, Ben Taylor and Joe Williams.