He was just seventeen years old when he scored twice in the 1958 World Cup Final to defeat Sweden on their home field in Stockholm, exhibiting such peerless artistry that opposing player Sigvard Parling later commented, "When Pelé scored the fifth goal in that Final, I have to be honest and say I felt like applauding." Despite the teenage superstar's skyrocketing fame, only a small sampling of these Brazilian-issue trading cards are known to exist today.
The provided trading card dates to that season of World Cup glory, diminutive in size but massive in collecting appeal. The card features corner wear and a small crease to its lower right corner, but bold colors along with perfect centering. Only eighteen graded at SGC with two at this grade and six higher.