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1958 Duke Snider Game Worn Jersey. "We wept," the Hall of Fame Dodgers outfielder said of his teammates' reaction to their departure from Ebbets. "Brooklyn was a lovely place to hit. If you got a ball in the air, you had a chance to get it out. When they tore down Ebbets Field, they tore down a little piece of me." Even today, a full half century since the hated Walter O'Malley pulled up stakes and headed west, you'll find the borough of Brooklyn full of senior citizens who have yet to get over the betrayal. But, in many ways, those tears shed back in 1957 were the nourishment needed for the game to grow, and for the fulfillment of baseball's Manifest Destiny. Today we couldn't imagine the Major Leagues confined to one side of the Mississippi River.

Dating to what may well be, in retrospect, the most important season in our National Pastime's history, this road grey Los Angeles Dodgers jersey might even have seen action during the first Major League game on the West Coast. The Dodgers would celebrate Opening Day, 1958 as the visitors to the newly christened San Francisco Giants at Seals Stadium. Though the club wouldn't see anything close to the same level of success in 1958 that the following World Championship season would bring, this first-year style is clearly the most desirable of all Los Angeles models. The supple grey flannel body provides the classic "Dodgers" on the chest, the only year the road model would not announce "Los Angeles" instead. Snider's retired number "4" appears on verso. While most jerseys from this era were sent down to the minors following the season and reworked with the new team's design, this example remains 100% original and unaltered but for two of the seven buttons on the jersey front. The tail holds the proper "Wilson [size] 44" label beneath a blue chainstitched "#4 D Snider, 1958 Set 2." Wear is solid and consiste nt throughout, following in the theme of supreme desirability. The jersey was sourced through a gentleman close to th
Auction 709 | Lot: 19668 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $65,725.00
1970-71 Pete Maravich Game Worn Rookie Jersey.

If I have a choice whether to do the show or throw a straight pass, and we're going to get the basket either way, I'm going to do the show.

With all the struggles, success and tragedy of any great Hollywood movie, the short, brilliant life of Pete Maravich remains one of the most compelling in the history of American sport. Born in 1947 in a small Pennsylvania steel town, young Pete was molded by his loving yet domineering basketball coach father into an LSU standout and first round NBA draft pick, a journey that started when he was just three years old and so small he could only shoot the ball with a great heave from his hip, like a six-shooter. So they called him "Pistol."

Presented for the elite hobbyist is the one and only known example of Pistol Pete's rookie jersey, which, by default, must also be labeled the most important and appealing Maravich artifact ever to be offered at public auction. Simply ideal in every conceivable regard, the heavyweight blue knit treasure is as worthy of display at Springfield as any piece currently residing within the Basketball Hall of Fame.

The glorious aesthetics of the jersey is the first jewel in the crown, indicative of the Atlanta Hawks desire for a new and striking image for this inaugural season of the 1970's. The tri-color striping in an asymmetrical design seems an appropriate complement to the addition this season of the flamboyant young superstar, as the look bears comparison to the uniforms of the flashier ABA, an imitation by the Hawks that was likely not entirely unintentional. The small and stylish font spelling "Atlanta" upon the chest is applied in white tackle twill, as is the number "44" that appears on both front and verso. It should be noted that the 1970-71 season was the last in which the NBA failed to require player names on its teams ' jerseys, allowing definitive dating of the offered example to Maravich's rookie year.

The
Auction 709 | Lot: 19809 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $50,787.50
Circa 1947 Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball, PSA NM-MT+ 8.5. Absolutely stunning single from the Sultan of Swat dates to the final years of his life, as the unique stamping of the ONL (Frick) ball upon which his autograph resides was produced only between 1946 and 1951. As a cornerstone of a top-echelon baseball autograph collection, one couldn't choose a more worthy candidate, as the blue fountain pen autograph is flawlessly executed here, following decades of practice as the game's most sought after and generous signer. The baseball itself provides the creamiest tone of horsehide without a single distracting fault, and the manufacturer's stamping retains its original boldness. One merely states the obvious when proclaiming this as one of the very finest Ruth singles known to the hobby. Both the autograph and the baseball itself garner a frankly stingy grade of 8/10, with a half-point added for eye appeal to result in the score as posted. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19342 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $50,787.50
1936 Freddie Lindstrom Game Worn Jersey. The Hall of Fame third baseman spent the bulk of his career in the service of the New York Giants, and was remembered by his teammates as one of the very few players with the nerve to square off against the legendary gruffness of manager John McGraw. He would attribute his premature grey streak in his blonde hair to McGraw, and was quoted as saying that his greatest thrill in baseball "...came the day Mr. McGraw named his twenty all-time players. I'm ninth on that list and that is thrill enough to last me a lifetime."

Though we have never encountered a game worn jersey of Lindstrom's from the Giants or any other team prior to this example, simple mathematics would suggest that the offered lot is the rarest possible. Lindstrom appeared in just twenty-six games, the last of his career, as a member of the Brooklyn Dodgers, making his final appearance on a Major League diamond on May 15, 1936. The Dodgers were at home at Ebbets Field on that day, facing the Pirates club Lindstrom had represented two years earlier, so there is a very genuine possibility that this home white pinstriped flannel is the very last jersey worn by this early legend in competition. Visually, the jersey is an absolute masterpiece of Depression-age baseball couture, with navy and red felt lettering spelling "Brooklyn" across the chest in the most elegant of fonts, and the number "31" on verso likewise the height of art deco style. Double navy piping rings the collars, cuffs and button path, furthering the aesthetic cause. "F. Lindstrom" is artfully chainstitched into the body of the collar beside the small and simple "Spalding" manufacturer's label, matching the year "36" designation sewn directly into the lower front left tail. Short of a small degree of uneven trimming of the rear tail, which does not draw the eye to any significant degree, the jersey remains 100% original and unaltered from its issued state. Very possibly the only chance the elite hobbyist
Auction 709 | Lot: 19661 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $46,306.25

Make Offer to Owner
$69,459 or more
1967 Bob Gibson Game Worn Jersey. One of the fiercest competitors in the game's long history, Gibson one explained "I've played a couple of hundred games of tic-tac-toe with my little daughter and she hasn't beaten me yet. I've always had to win. I've got to win." And win he did. While his career total of 251 is certainly impressive enough, perhaps even more so is his record of seven and two in World Series games, including three he notched the year he wore this incredible jersey, giving up just three runs in twenty-seven innings of work. Quite possibly this is the very jersey he wore for his Game Four shut-out performance against Carl Yastrzemski and his American League Championship Red Sox. A season's worth of wear is clearly evident in the creamy white flannel that composes the body of the shirt, which remains 100% original and unaltered right down to the buttons on the chest. The Cardinals' chenille bird and bat logo has retained its colorful look as have the two-color felt identifiers. The name on back is particularly critical as the majority of Cardinals' flannels had the names removed prior to the following spring training. This one has survived gloriously, and the steeply arched "Gibson" above the "45" on the verso is unaltered, original, and majestic. A "Rawlings [size] 42" label in the lower left front tail is accompanied by a washing instructions label with a "Set 1 1967" flap tag attached to its right vertical quadrant edge. In between is a chain link stitch in Cardinals red reading "Gibson 67." It is perfect in all respects, matching all 1967 and 1968 exemplars. The cherry on top comes in the form of a 10/10 black sharpie signature from Gibson on the chest. A simply unimprovable Hall of Fame home white flannel from a World Series MVP season. Can it get any better? LOA from Lou Lampson. LOA from PSA/DNA (autograph). LOA from James Sp ence Authentication (autograph).
Auction 709 | Lot: 19671 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $44,812.50
1966 Mickey Mantle Game Used Bat Graded Perfect 10 by PSA/DNA & MEARS. One of the finest examples of Mantle lumber ever to reach the auction block, this signature model Hillerich & Bradsby W215 finds all leading bat authenticators united in their assessment that the offered specimen is the standard by which all other late-career gamers should be judged. Provenance, documentation in factory records and tremendous game use converge to establish the joint perfect ratings, with each firmly linking the bat to this most beloved Yankee of all. Experts Vince Malta and John Taube note that half a dozen W215's were ordered by Mantle on May 6, and another six on May 10th, with the length of thirty-five inches and weight of thirty-four ounces that match identically the example presented here. Heavy use is evident in deeply embedded stitch marks coat which coat both sides of the barrel in accordance with Mantle's switch-hitting style, and the patch of pine tar on the handle and fading number "7" in marker on the knob are likewise ideal Mantle traits. Green bat rack marks are noted as well. The handle remains uncracked despite the significant trauma suffered in the hands of the pinstriped slugger. Dave Bushing's letter of opinion notes that this was one of two Mantle bats sold to an Atlanta collector at the National Sports Collectors Convention by a former Cleveland Indians bat boy, who acquired the bat from Mantle directly. This bat was sold at auction in June 2006 for the sum of $60,000, which still stands as a record price for a regular season Mantle gamer. An offering that should appeal to the most sophisticated and discerning of game used bat collectors. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from MEARS.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19712 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $35,850.00
Late 1920's Babe Ruth Signed Bat. While our national pastime's most noteworthy figure laid pen to the horsehide of tens if not hundreds of thousands of baseballs during his lifetime, it is a particularly rare and exciting occurrence when one encounters a bat bearing the mark of the Babe. Autographing bats just wasn't something that was typically done back in the days before permanent markers were in vogue, so those collecting pre-war signed wood are a brave and ambitious lot. They'll have cause to celebrate now, however, as we present a remarkably strong signature from Ruth on a signature model Hillerich & Bradsby 40 B.R. retail issue. On the rare occasions when bats were autographed during the pre-war era the glossy finish of the area to be signed was often filed away to present a more welcoming home for fountain pen ink, and such is the case here. The Babe centers his autograph within a 1.5x4" filed patch, with his signature surviving in remarkably strong 8/10 condition to this day. The bat itself likewise presents beautifully, and measures thirty-five inches in length. As it was with a Hillerich & Bradsby in his hands that Babe carved himself a heaping slab of athletic immortality, we couldn't think of a better home for his autograph than some Louisville lumber. LOA from PSA/DNA.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19483 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $28,680.00
1915 PM1 Ornate Frame Pins Ty Cobb. The greatest name of the Dead Ball era demonstrates the wide stance and grip that gave birth to over 4,000 hits. The most extensively represented baseball figure from the tobacco days, Cobb is found in Mint condition in only a small handful of the thousands of surviving cards and pins of the era. Certainly this competes for the finest playing-days issue of all.

One of the most exciting "finds" of 2007 will present bidders in the Heritage Auction Galleries May 2008 Signature Sports Auction with the opportunity to own what are unquestionably the finest PM1 pins on the face of the earth. The nine pins were located by Heritage's consignors at an Arkansas flea market and purchased for a song, the seller unaware of the tremendous scarcity and importance of the treasures.

The discovery of these pins sheds a small beam of light upon an issue that still remains largely shrouded in mystery. Though it has been established that these Ornate-frame Pins date to 1915, the identity of the original issuer and the mode of distribution remain an enigma. This stunning assortment Mint pins adds a Hall of Famer to the known roster of PM1's, providing the hobby with its first look at a Chief Bender model. And the balance of the find, featuring Frank Baker, Frank Chance, Al Demaree, Ty Cobb, Johnny Evers (name only), Walter Johnson, Benny Kauff and Joe Tinker, each remain attached to its original 2x2" blank card, also never before encountered in the hobby.

Those few hobbyists who have met with this rare issue are well aware that condition problems are accepted as an inevitability when collecting PM1's, with oxidation and damage to the delicate metal frame and scratching of the central image present on essentially all existing specimens. The Mint condition of this Arkansas find is quite literally unprecedented, and should pique the interest of many elite collectors who demand nothing but the very best.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19310 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $23,900.00
1932 New York Yankees Team Signed Baseball. Exceptional high-grade sphere may well be the finest honoring the Babe's final World Championship team ever to reach the auction block. Ruth occupies his customary position on the sweet spot of this gorgeous OAL (Harridge) ball, joining fifteen other teammates that only once (Ben Chapman at 6/10) veer more than a point from the 9/10 strength that characterizes the Bambino's offering. All the pinstriped icons are present and accounted for: Gehrig, Lazzeri, Combs, Dickey, Sewell and Ruffing, proving this ball is far more than just a pretty face. The ball itself has mellowed only slightly to a light tobacco shade, and the manufacturer's stamping remains vivid and pronounced. As glorious and unexpected as Ruth's World Series Called Shot, this ball is destined for a place of honor in the finest of private baseball autograph collections. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19503 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $23,900.00
Circa 1950 Jesse Burkett Signed Black & White Hall of Fame Plaque. Spectacularly rare offering is almost certainly the only example in the collecting world, acquired from this titan of the Dead Ball era during the brief period between his 1946 Cooperstown and his passing in 1953 at the age of eighty-four. Just about any baseball autograph collector worth his salt knows that Burkett, whose career spanned the period between 1890 and 1905, is an exceedingly tough signature in any format. But the modestly proportioned yet flawlessly rendered 10/10 black fountain pen ink signature presented here is truly one of a kind. A light lower right corner bend and mild edge toning do nothing to diminish the exceptional eye appeal of this singularly unique artifact which will serve to establish its eventual owner as a peerless collector. LOA from PSA/DNA.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19468 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $22,705.00
1957 Jackie Robinson Signed Retirement Letter. The incredible saga of baseball's most culturally significant career came to a close when this letter was presented to New York Giants owner Horace Stoneham, who had acquired the pioneering Hall of Famer from the Brooklyn Dodgers for the sum of Dick Littlefield and $30,000 cash. In the ten years since his heroic transversal of baseball's color line, the superstar infielder had won over most of the sporting world with his talent and dignity, inspiring an outcry from baseball fans at his departure from the Major Leagues quite different but almost as vocal as was heard upon his arrival. Dodgers general manager Buzzie Bavasi would explain that that the dismissal of Robinson from his beloved Bums had been team owner Walter O'Malley's idea alone, and Jackie would characterize the 2008 Hall of Fame inductee in his 1972 autobiography I Never Had It Made as "viciously antagonistic." Bavasi was personally opposed to the trade, noting, "The only reason he was traded was because Walter O'Malley and Jackie never got along. It was a personal feud between Walter and Jackie, and I was asked to trade him. Walter wanted a trade a year earlier, but I told Walter we could win the pennant in '56 with Jackie and wouldn't without him. So he put it off a year."

Though the popular story in baseball culture is that Robinson considered the Polo Grounds the enemy camp and chose retirement over the treasonous act of suiting up in a Giants uniform, the truth is that his denial of such rumors in the text of his January 14, 1957 letter to Stoneham is likely genuine. He writes:

Dear Mr. Stoneham:

After due consideration I have decided to request to be placed on the voluntary retired list as I am going to devote my full time to the business opportunities that have been presented.

My sincere thanks to you and to Mr. Feeney f or your wonderful cooperation and understanding in this matter.

I assure you that my reti
Auction 709 | Lot: 19431 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $22,705.00
1945 Albert "Red" Schoendienst Game Worn Rookie Uniform. The red-headed Hall of Famer wore the uniform of the St. Louis Cardinals in six different decades, but this was the first of them all, issued to the 1989 Hall of Fame inductee upon his arrival at Sportsman's Park in 1945. Though signed as a free agent in 1942 at the age of nineteen, military service delayed Schoendienst's Big League debut, and a serious eye and shoulder injury almost ended his brilliant career before it started. His rookie season provided a sign of his greatness to come, as he would lead the National League with twenty-six stolen bases and help his club finish just three games short of the pennant.

The simply stunning home white flannel uniform offered here would be a treasure even without its regal heritage, as the classic chenille birds and bat chest logo joins the patriotic World War II stars and bars patch on the left sleeve to create an aesthetic marvel. Number "6" is applied in red and navy to the jersey verso, with "Schoendienst 45" elegantly scripted in red embroidery at the left front tail. Proper "Rawlings St. Louis" label inside collar rests beside a "42 Regular" size tag. The matching pants bear an identical manufacturer's label at interior waistband, framed by "Dry Clean Only" and "38 Regular" tags. Two other names are inked inside the waistband, and while we are convinced that the pants first belonged to Schoendienst, we must admit that no physical evidence of this does exist. At the very least, it is the proper style, and provides the required visuals for display.

Wear is solid and consistent throughout the uniform, though it must be stressed that there are no stains or holes to report short of an apparent blood stain at the pants' right knee where the wound to the flannel has been patched, and the condition could not possibly be any more ideal. Few players in b aseball history have given more to a single team than has Red Schoendienst, and we suspect that this first offerin
Auction 709 | Lot: 19662 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $22,705.00
1915 PM1 Ornate Frame Pins Chief Bender. Arguably the most desirable of the stunning assortment of PM1's from "The Arkansas Find" is this specimen paying tribute to the Hall of Fame right-hander who spent the 1915 year of issue plying his trade for the Baltimore Terrapins of the Federal League. Until this pin's discovery late in 2007, the Bender model was unknown to the hobby.

One of the most exciting "finds" of 2007 will present bidders in the Heritage Auction Galleries May 2008 Signature Sports Auction with the opportunity to own what are unquestionably the finest PM1 pins on the face of the earth. The nine pins were located by Heritage's consignors at an Arkansas flea market and purchased for a song, the seller unaware of the tremendous scarcity and importance of the treasures.

The discovery of these pins sheds a small beam of light upon an issue that still remains largely shrouded in mystery. Though it has been established that these Ornate-frame Pins date to 1915, the identity of the original issuer and the mode of distribution remain an enigma. This stunning assortment Mint pins adds a Hall of Famer to the known roster of PM1's, providing the hobby with its first look at a Chief Bender model. And the balance of the find, featuring Frank Baker, Frank Chance, Al Demaree, Ty Cobb, Johnny Evers (name only), Walter Johnson, Benny Kauff and Joe Tinker, each remain attached to its original 2x2" blank card, also never before encountered in the hobby.

Those few hobbyists who have met with this rare issue are well aware that condition problems are accepted as an inevitability when collecting PM1's, with oxidation and damage to the delicate metal frame and scratching of the central image present on essentially all existing specimens. The Mint condition of this Arkansas find is quite literally unprecedented, and should pique the interest of many elite collectors who demand nothing but the very best.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19308 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $22,705.00
Circa 1911 Tully Frederick "Topsy" Hartsel Game Worn Jersey. One of just a tiny handful of jerseys dating to Connie Mack's first great Philadelphia Athletics dynasty known to survive today, this incredible home white flannel shared the diamond with the likes of Frank "Home Run" Baker, Eddie Plank and Charles "Chief" Bender when the City of Brotherly Love was the center of the baseball world. It comes to us from the descendants of Hartsel, who served the cause of the White Elephants for ten seasons, though it would stand to reason that this was his last jersey that he kept, dating it to the World Championship season of 1911.

The simple style, however, with the black felt letter "A" over the heart and pullover/buttoned tailoring, is correct for Hartsel's entire term of Athletics service. The ancient "Spalding" manufacturer's tag appears at rear interior collar, with a pale "Hartsel" chain stitched just below. Button holes at the sleeve cuffs recall a day when removable long sleeves were in baseball vogue. Sadly, the decision was made at some point to trim the jersey of its collar. But, outside of this alteration and a single missing button, the jersey remains exactly as it was worn during the fabled Dead Ball days.

Wear is strong throughout, but the jersey is free of the heavy staining and moth damage so often seen on ancient flannel uniforms. A few light spots, likely tobacco-related, are noted for accuracy but cause no visual concern. Provenance is spectacular, as this jersey shares space with several other lots from the Hartsel estate, including his 1910 World Series trophy, also found within this auction. Included with the jersey is an 8x10" mounted photograph (Good) picturing Hartsel wearing what may very well be the offered jersey. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19660 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $21,510.00

Make Offer to Owner
$32,265 or more
1958 Willie Mays Game Worn Jersey.

One of the most significant artifacts within this auction, both for the great stature of the player who once owned it and for the historic westward shift of the game that it heralded. This incredible grey flannel was the first roadster issued to the Giants' superstar center fielder after abandoning the Polo Grounds, announcing upon its chest a California town that had forever prior remained two thousand miles removed from the nearest Major League action. While it was a heartbreaking development for millions of Big Apple baseball fans who had suddenly seen their baseball options diminished by two-thirds, Mays thrived in the Pacific air, posting a career-best .347 batting average and leading the National League in stolen bases and runs scored.
Fine wear is evident from this key season in a career with no shortage thereof, with a team repair at the right shoulder and consistent softening of the tackle twill identifiers announcing "San Francisco" on the chest and "24" on verso. We must note here that the identifier on chest has been restored. A "MacGregor size 42" label appears within interior collar, with an artfully chainstitched "Mays" properly applied to a white felt swatch an inch and a half below. Left front interior tail houses the small but important flap tag proclaiming "Set 2 1958." A small amount of loss to the black and orange piping at the back of the collar and some bleaching of the rear numerals are mentioned for accuracy's sake and do not materially diminish the stunning visual or historic appeal. Post-war baseball collectibles don't get much more significant than this jersey, and we expect that the eventual winning bidder will give it the place of honor that it deserves within his trophy room. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19669 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $18,522.50

Make Offer to Owner
$46,317 or more
1977-78 Gordie Howe Game Worn Jersey. The size of Gordie Howe's body of work is so expansive that the only appropriate nickname -- Mr. Hockey -- encompasses the whole of the sport that made him famous. A bit of the opposite can also be said, as Howe had few rivals for popularity during his extensive career. A crushing presence on the ice during his heyday, Howe confounded with his amazing combination of toughness and goalscoring. More than impressive even in his 40s, Howe showed that the ravages of time could do little to affect his god-like talent as he widened the breadth his legend even further. From his WHA days with the New England Whalers we present this road green durene gamer manufactured by Wilson. Game use on this example consists of fine pilling and stick marks throughout, as well as some board burns. Stylized "W" logo on chest and whales on shoulders make for exceptional instances of graphic design. Verso has white-on-gold tackle twill identifiers with numeral "9" and full name "GORDIE HOWE" sewn directly to the jersey above, indicating that his sons also played on the team. Jersey is size 48 and has the fight strap removed -- a detail indicative to Howe gamers. Not only did Howe turn 50 years old during the campaign which this jersey was worn, but he also recorded his 1,000th career goal that season -- which he did while wearing a green Whalers sweater. The chance to own a top-notch Hall of Fame gamer worn in a milestone game such as this one will quite possibly never come again. It is believed that this jersey originates from the collector Steve Reyson, who was a personal acquaintance of Howe's and a well-known hobbyist in the Detroit area. LOA from Rich Ellis. LOA from Game Worn Auctions.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19771 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $17,925.00
1961 Phil Goyette York Peanut Butter Glass. Part of a popular two-tiered premium promotional that the York Peanut Butter Company launched just before the 1961 Stanley Cup Playoffs, here we offer one of the gem pieces of the collection. The glass peanut butter tumblers included a total of 21 different players from the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens, and the Phil Goyette exemplar seen here rates among the toughest of them all. Rarely seen and in exceptional condition, hobby enthusiasts will surely clamor to own this fine prized possession. This precious memento will make for a top-notch highlight in any collection.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19747 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $17,925.00
1915 PM1 Ornate Frame Pins Benny Kauff. A member of the Federal League's Brooklyn Tip-Tops at the time of issue, Kauff led that rogue league in batting average and stolen bases in 1915. A touch of oxidation at the exterior metal frame is noted for accuracy's sake, but the pin remains in stellar condition otherwise.

One of the most exciting "finds" of 2007 will present bidders in the Heritage Auction Galleries May 2008 Signature Sports Auction with the opportunity to own what are unquestionably the finest PM1 pins on the face of the earth. The nine pins were located by Heritage's consignors at an Arkansas flea market and purchased for a song, the seller unaware of the tremendous scarcity and importance of the treasures.

The discovery of these pins sheds a small beam of light upon an issue that still remains largely shrouded in mystery. Though it has been established that these Ornate-frame Pins date to 1915, the identity of the original issuer and the mode of distribution remain an enigma. This stunning assortment Mint pins adds a Hall of Famer to the known roster of PM1's, providing the hobby with its first look at a Chief Bender model. And the balance of the find, featuring Frank Baker, Frank Chance, Al Demaree, Ty Cobb, Johnny Evers (name only), Walter Johnson, Benny Kauff and Joe Tinker, each remain attached to its original 2x2" blank card, also never before encountered in the hobby.

Those few hobbyists who have met with this rare issue are well aware that condition problems are accepted as an inevitability when collecting PM1's, with oxidation and damage to the delicate metal frame and scratching of the central image present on essentially all existing specimens. The Mint condition of this Arkansas find is quite literally unprecedented, and should pique the interest of many elite collectors who demand nothing but the very best.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19314 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $16,730.00
1923 Yankee Stadium Terra Cotta Figural Piece. For five decades, from the birth of The House that Ruth Built until the 1973 renovations, this treasure of baseball archaeology kept watch over the millions of fans passing through the home plate gates of Yankee Stadium. The 16x19x5" slab of baseball history should be instantly recognizable to those fans fortunate enough to have visited the Stadium during its first half century of life, and now that the game's most important venue is mere months from its destruction, the importance and appeal becomes all the more vivid. Those thinking that more will become available when the wrecking ball comes should be advised that none still remain on the Stadium's walls, though these pieces are clearly visible in vintage photography, and Yankee Stadium blueprints (copies of which are always available on eBay) present this design above the text "Terra Cotta Panels on Balconies." The decorative design consists of two baseballs in the center of a scrolled pattern backed by a golden oval that was meant to convey a sense of glowing light. It's a stunning display piece that conveys better than any stadium chair or featureless brick the majesty of this Golden Age monument to our National Pastime. Fifty years of weathering is apparent upon its surface, but the weighty piece (perhaps seventy-five pounds) remains solid and undamaged, ready for a place of distinct honor in even the finest of private collections.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19616 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $15,535.00
1927 Babe Ruth & Lou Gehrig Signed Barnstorming Photograph. Those experienced in the baseball autograph collecting hobby have been trained to believe that Bustin' Babes and Larrupin' Lous dual-signed photos are actually modern reproductions, and for the most part that's true. Take a look on eBay and you'll find a dozen of them. Here we provide one of the rare breaks from that tradition, that instantly recognizable image of the barnstorming World Champs offering genuine, hand-signed autographs dating to the historic national tour. Pioneering sports agent Christy Walsh was the mind behind both this tour and this souvenir photograph that was sold at one of the ballparks the Home Run King and American League MVP visited in the weeks following the Yanks' four-game Series sweep. One wise fan took the opportunity to approach Ruth and Gehrig with this photo and a black ink fountain pen in hand, providing one collector eight decades later with a compelling reason to raise his bidding paddle high. Ruth's autograph rates a strong 8/10 in boldness, with Gehrig's, who adds an "Oct. 23, 1927" notation, a couple of shades lighter. The photo itself remains in remarkably fine condition with not a crease, stain or tear to be found. The 7x9" image is matted and framed to an elegant 15x17". LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19378 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $15,535.00
1944 Hall of Famers Signed Baseball with Babe Ruth Signed Letter of Provenance. UPDATE: Please note that this baseball was signed at "Connie Mack Day" festivities at Shibe Park on August 4, 1944. A program (VG) from the event is included with the ball. Spectacular lot is best described in the words of the great Bambino himself, whose typed letter to a fan reads, in part, "...I am glad that you are very much interested in baseball and instead of sending you an autographed picture, I am sending you under separate cover a baseball autographed by myself, Eddie Collins, George Sisler, Frank Baker, 'Tris' Speaker, Lefty Grove, Lou Costello, Walter Johnson and Bud Abbott. If you will have your Father or some one cover this ball with white shellac, the signatures will not wear off and you can keep it for an indefinite period..." The letter, on New York City's Hotel President letterhead, is signed at the close in flawless 10/10 fountain pen ink. The baseball of which Ruth writes is an OAL (Harridge) model, featuring each of the inaugural class Hall of Famers and the "Who's on First" comedians that he promises. His advice to shellac the ball was heeded by the young fan, causing somewhat pronounced and uneven toning, but maintaining a boldness of 7/10 or better for Ruth, Speaker, Sisler, Baker and Abbott. Costello, Grove, Collins and Johnson are all still entirely legible, but range from 3/10 to 5/10 instead. Now, over six decades later, one winning bidder will be able to experience the same rush of finding these autographed treasures in the mail as did young Vern Haas from Kalamazoo in August 1944. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19533 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $14,937.50
1967 Mickey Mantle Game Used Bat. UPDATE: Mantle's autograph has been traced. Important signature model Hillerich & Bradsby K55 dates from the season that the Mick earned his key to the 500 Home Run Clubhouse. Though Mantle's offensive production was beginning to hit the downward slide that would lead to his retirement at the close of the 1968 season, it is noteworthy that the use on this lumber is characterized by top expert John Taube as "outstanding," suggesting the likelihood that at least a few of the legendary slugger's twenty-two home runs that season were launched from its barrel. A handle crack, since expertly repaired, brought the end to this bat's lengthy service, joining plentiful ball and stitch marks on both sides of the barrel that indicate Mantle's switch-hitting style. Also to be found are red and blue bat rack streaks and a moderate coat of pine tar on the handle, the latter of which appears to have been applied during the repair process. Mantle's number "7" appears in marker on the knob. Weight of thirty-one and a half ounces is correct for Mantle's records. A 9+/10 blue sharpie signature on the barrel, notated "No. 7," is the tasty cherry on top of this delicious package, though we must note that the signature has been enhanced at some point. Graded GU7.5. LOA from Taube & Malta.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19713 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $14,340.00
1930's-40's Major League Baseball Players Signed Government Postcards Lot of 249 with Ruth, Wagner, Walter Johnson. Perhaps the finest vintage collection of autographed government postcards we've ever encountered, this thrilling grouping is offered for the first time to the collecting hobby, having been consigned to us by the elderly gentleman who personally collected them seven decades ago. While the very finest specimens from this collection are being offered as individual lots within this auction, there is still absolutely no shortage of magnificent specimens within this massive lot. There is far too much to list or image within the pages of this catalog, so we strongly recommend that interested parties visit our offices to peruse the collection personally if at all possible. Unless otherwise noted, all autographs appear in 9/10 or better blue ink, with the mailed postcards toned with age but otherwise free of any concerning defects.

Highlights: Ruth (2/10), Wagner, Walter Johnson, Lazzeri (postcard slightly trimmed), Ted Williams, Speaker (3/10), Mack (2/10), Vaughan, Vance, Musial, Manush, Barrow, Ruffing, Gomez, Joe DiMaggio, Hoyt, Rizzuto, Ernie Bonham (tough, d. 1949), McCarthy, Mack, Simmons, Harry Davis (d. 1947), Lyons, Griffith, Harris, Rick Ferrell, Appling, Walsh, Greenberg, Gehringer, Goslin (7/10 pencil), Eric McNair (d. 1949), Cochrane, Feller (signed in 1937), 1939 Indians with 14 including Feller, 1941 Indians with 16 including Boudreau, Boudreau (8/10), Jim Bagby Jr. (tough, d. 1954), Landis, Harridge, Frick, MacPhail Sr., Reese (2 different), Herman, Wheat, Medwick, Grimes, Klein, Stengel, Averill, Paul Waner, Dizzy Dean, Dahlgren, Root, Mize, Southworth, Slaughter (2 different), Haines, Martin, McKechnie, Lombardi, Lloyd Waner, Vander Meer, Luque, Roush, Kelly, Hubbell, Terry, Hartnett (9/10 pencil), Frisch, Lopez, 1942 White Sox with 13 including Appling, Ruffing, Red Barber, Hafey and many, many more.

Turn of the century names are here, as are
Auction 709 | Lot: 19463 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $14,340.00
1958 N.F.L. Championship Game Used Football Signed by Unitas. Known in the football world as simply "The Greatest Game Ever Played," the historic meeting of the Baltimore Colts and the New York Giants to establish N.F.L. supremacy in 1958 remains one of the noteworthy events in the annals of American athletics. Yankee Stadium, the site of so many unforgettable moments in baseball lore, served as the battlefield in a game that is credited with bringing professional football into prominence, essentially giving birth to the modern N.F.L. It was a game that had it all--lead changes, turnovers, a game-saving goal line stand, a game-tying last minute field goal. Every minute, it seemed, history was being made. "When the game ended in a tie," Colts quarterback Johnny Unitas remembered, "we were standing on the sidelines waiting to see what came next. All of a sudden, the officials came over and said, 'Send the captain out. We're going to flip a coin to see who will receive.' That was the first we heard of the overtime period."

Of course we all know how it ended, with a single-yard dive by Hall of Fame running back Alan Ameche to sentence the Giants to sudden death and clinch for the Baltimore Colts a piece of immortality. And now, as we approach the Golden Anniversary of this gridiron milestone event, Heritage is proud to present for the first time to the collecting community this Bert Bell "The Duke" football battled over on December 28, 1958 on the ground where Ruth and DiMaggio once plied their trade. But on this day, it was Unitas, Ameche, Berry and Gifford that hallowed the Bronx turf and turned Yankee Stadium once again into the center of the sporting world. And as if any football used on this day would not be appealing enough, this remarkable pigskin was carried home from the game by Johnny Unitas himself, who later gave the ball to a family friend. A notariz ed letter from the son of the recipient explains that his father worked for the local Coca-Cola distributorship and se
Auction 709 | Lot: 19845 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $14,340.00
Circa 1928 Babe Ruth & Lou Gehrig Signed Baseball. Equal in quality to Ruth and Gehrig signed spheres that have summited the $40,000 mark at auction, this outrageously high-grade specimen should realistically approach a similar level despite the addition of contemporary Boston Red Sox Bill Carrigan and Ira Flagstead, particularly given the fact that Carrigan managed Ruth in Boston upon his arrival in the Majors. Matching the ideal bold composition of the four black fountain pen autographs upon this "Brine's Official League Ball" are the signatures' ideal placement, each very effectively presenting as a single upon its own hemisphere of horsehide. The subtle variations in the formation of the Ruth and Gehrig autographs, paired with the fact that Carrigan and Flagstead shared a dugout just two and a half seasons, allow us to date the ball with great confidence to the period between 1927 and 1929, coinciding with the absolute height of Murderer's Row Yankeedom. We must note that our authenticators believe the ball was professionally cleaned to remove grime accumulated over the passing decades, though this will not be apparent upon display. A splendid addition to any high-end baseball autograph collection. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19321 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $14,340.00
1972 Peter Maravich Triple-Signed Last Will & Testament. Just twenty-five when he signed this brief legal document bequeathing his possessions to friends and family, the young superstar couldn't possibly have imagined that the end would come so soon. Though a later will would replace this one, the poignance of this offering is impossible to miss, as Pistol Pete would be struck down at the youthful age of forty while playing the game he loved. Beyond that extraordinary appeal, autograph collectors will thrill at the sight of three variations of Maravich's signature, stacked near the bottom of the single page document in 9/10 and better blue ink. Signatures of three witnesses appear below. The page itself measures 8.5x13.5, and remains in flawless condition, with original storage folds, and is stapled to a sleeve from the law offices of Roth & Herskovitz in Aliquippa, PA. One of the most interesting and important Maravich documents to surface in the hobby market in quite some time. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19810 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $14,340.00
1922-25 Babe Ruth Game Used Bat. There's nothing quite like the thrill of holding a Babe Ruth bat in one's hands, and this is a scarce early example dating to the era of the New York Yankees' first World Championship season. The signature model Hillerich & Bradsby exhibits excellent use with a professionally repaired handle crack, suggesting that the Babe may have launched a few into the cheap seats with this historic lumber. Several ball marks are visible on the right and left barrel, with the latter showing evidence of spike marks as well. Though Ruth typically utilized bats measuring thirty-five or thirty-six inches in length, he is quoted in an article on batting that he did sometimes use shorter bats as well. At a length of thirty-four inches and weight of thirty-seven ounces, this specimen certainly falls within the acceptable range. With examples matching Ruth's most commonly used attributes routinely approaching and surpassing the $100,000 mark at auction, this specimen boasting slightly more modest dimensions becomes all the more attractive. A key artifact from the beginning of the New York Yankees reign as baseball's most noteworthy franchise. Graded GU5. LOA from Taube & Malta.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19695 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $14,340.00
Early 1940's Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball. Absolutely exceptional specimen will serve as the cornerstone of the finest of Hall of Fame single signed baseball collections. Ideal in all regards, the offering pairs a clean and milky-white OAL (Harridge) ball and a bona fide 9/10 sweet spot signature rendered in flowing blue fountain pen ink. A black ink notation in the autograph seeker's hand gifts this treasure to a lucky young collector, who clearly took great interest in the baseball's care. Babe Ruth autographs, and particularly those of the utmost quality, have been the hobby's most consistent and unshakeable performers in the hobby market for years, a trend which will almost certainly continue as long as baseball is played. All indicators would suggest that this is one of the auction's safest investments. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19337 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $13,145.00
1914 Providence Grays Imperial Cabinet Photograph with Babe Ruth. Perhaps the most convincing evidence in existence to prove the popular maxim, "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again," this exceptional photograph finds a nineteen-year old George Herman Ruth upon a trip back down to the minors after failing to convince the Boston Red Sox, in twenty-three innings of pitching work, that he was ready for the Big Leagues just yet. Less than a year removed from his days at St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys, the baby-faced Babe towers over his teammates at back row center in one of the earliest known images of baseball's greatest star as a professional. It was with the Providence Grays of the International League that the Babe would swat his first professional homer, during a September 5, 1914 meeting with Toronto. Despite this early hint at his destiny as the greatest slugger of his age, Ruth would continue in his pitching role for the Grays, helping to lead them to the International League Championship with a personal eight and three record.

One of just a handful of such images known to survive to this day, this spectacular specimen is almost assuredly the finest of that tiny supply. It comes to Heritage from the descendants of former Detroit Tiger Matty McIntyre, who had shared an outfield with Ty Cobb before a trade to the Chicago White Sox, eventually closing out his career in Providence before his early death in 1920 from tuberculosis. McIntyre stands second to right in the image, beside the boy in dark pants. With an image size of 10.5x13.5 (complete dimensions including mount 14.5x18.5"), this image would have been very costly to produce in 1914, and would have been issued only to players and VIP's, explaining the highly endangered status today. But again we must stress that this example has done far more than simply survive--it remains in outrageous NRMT condition, exhibiting only the most inconsequential wear at the edges of the mount to suggest its appro
Auction 709 | Lot: 19608 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $13,145.00
1929 Philadelphia Athletics Team Signed Photographic Portrait Album. Magnificent photographic portraiture and a cast of World Championship legends collide here to produce one of the most exciting autographed pieces to be found within this auction. Presented only to team members and important figures in the Philadelphia baseball scene, volumes such as this one are the work of H. Madonna Wagner, whose photography bears more than a passing resemblance to legendary lensman George Burke. Embossed gold lettering upon the cover of the volume features Wagner's name and the text, "Snapshots, The World's Champions Baseball Club of 1929, To My Friends." Twenty-nine individual photos, each measuring 5x8" in size, are affixed to the black scrapbook pages within, with each photo signed by its subject in the boldest of fountain pen ink. All of this elite squad's legends are present and accounted for, with Foxx, Cochrane, Collins, Simmons, Grove and Connie Mack representing the Hall of Fame contingent. Other notables include the very tough Thomas Shibe, 1919 Black Sox manager Kid Gleason, Dykes, Earnshaw, Quinn, Walberg, Boley and more. All Hall of Famers rate 8/10 or better, with the balance ranging from 6/10 to 9/10. The photos uniformly remain in NRMT condition, though a few have come loose from the scrapbook pages. The most attractive keepsake we've yet to encounter from this number three rated club on "The Sporting News" list of baseball's greatest teams in history. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19406 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $13,145.00

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1968-69 Curt Flood Game Worn Uniform. The superstar Cardinal's 1,861 hits, .293 lifetime average, three All-Star appearances, and seven Gold Gloves tell the story of an excellent major league player, but fails to address his even greater relevance in baseball history as an instrumental figure in overturning the Major Leagues' reserve clause. Though the Supreme Court voted against his case and it disrupted his career and changed his life, it was an important battle which provided the union strength and platform for its mid '70's victories which opened up the salary floodgates. Every current player should salute Curt Flood and also salute his '68/'69 uniform which is not only earth-shaking in its beauty, but pristine in its condition.

Unlike most cotton/wool blend flannels of the era, this one has just a slight cream hue to the white flannel. All seven buttons are original and the red bird and bat chenille stitched front logo retains its colorful brilliance. The same holds true for the original front and back 2-color felt numerals and the all important arched name on back.

Notorious for quick removal of NOB's at season's end, this Cardinals' gem retains its original "Flood" with spectacular arch and spacing. The front tail sports some of the most beautiful decorative highlights of any 1960's flannel. A "Rawlings [size] 38" label was apropos for the diminutive but powerful 5' 9", 165 pound centerfielder. The washing instructions label with "Set 1 1968" flap tag are straight stitched beneath, leaving ample space for a "Flood 68" chain link identifier which rates a "10" on the calligraphy scale. A bonus feature is the presence of an original MLB 100th anniversary patch on the left sleeve, indicating use or backup use during the 1969 campaign.

Taking the superlatives a step further is a matching pair of Flood's flannel pants with 1/4" red b raid side piping. Again, the inner waistband provides the best in 1960's flannel tailoring and decoration. A "
Auction 709 | Lot: 19672 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $11,950.00
1973 Willie Mays Career Home Run #656 Baseball. Back in the Big Apple after a decade and a half on the West Coast, the greatest slugging talent of his age was able to supply his former hometown with the last of his home run heroics. Presented is the ONL (Feeney) ball that Mays launched for hsi 656th round tripper, supporting a ten to two victory at Shea over the San Diego Padres. The well-worn sphere, clearly showing the bruise of its historic bludgeoning on a side panel, was retrieved and supplied to Mays for an autograph, which appears on the sweet spot in black felt tip that has mellowed to an 8+/10 shade of brown. The same pen was used to neatly notate the ball's wild ride into the record books, reading, "Willie Mays' 656th Home Run, 6-16-73" on the northern panel, and "At: New York, Pitcher: Randy Jones" to the south. Game used baseball collectors are well aware that post-500 home run balls are very scarce, and post-600 examples are all but non-existent in the hobby. And Mets fans will fondly recall the 1973 season for its National League Championship victory as well, adding the last little bit of appeal to a ball with no shortage thereof. LOA from PSA/DNA (autograph). LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
Auction 709 | Lot: 19690 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $11,352.50
1948 Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball. Three days after he made his final appearance at Yankee Stadium to attend the ceremonies retiring his number "3" jersey, and less than two months before his death at age fifty-three, the greatest icon in baseball history autographed one of the last baseballs of his life for a fan. The "Official League" ball finds the dying Bambino in his customary sweet spot position, his hand still strong despite the cancer that ravaged his once powerful frame. The 8+/10 blue ink autograph is dated "6-19-48" in Ruth's hand, supplying the heartbreaking context. The ball exhibits a small degree of surface wear, but the writing remains all but entirely untouched by these minor concerns, as our catalog imagery will attest. A special piece from the final weeks of one of the most intriguing American lives of all. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19341 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $11,352.50
1948 AAFC Most Valuable Player Trophy Presented to Frank Albert & Otto Graham. Long before the WFL, the USFL and the absolutely dreadful XFL, there was the All-America Football Conference, perhaps the most formidable, but still ultimately unsuccessful, challenger to the gridiron dominance of the National Football League. Though its life ended almost sixty years ago in 1949, the three-year experiment did give birth to both the San Francisco 49'ers and the Cleveland Browns, who battle on to this day and whose quarterbacks were the joint recipients of the elegant prize presented here. The honorees, San Francisco's Frank Albert and Cleveland's Otto Graham, shared a unique proclivity toward rushing, often putting up similar yardage totals with both their arms and their legs. While Graham's name is immortalized at Canton, Albert was a worthy partner for this top prize, leading the 49'ers to an outrageous 3,138 yards on the ground for the 1948 season.

This fine trophy stands just over twenty-six inches tall and bursts with figurals of a rushing ball carrier, perched eagles and a laurel-bearing victory. An engraved brass plaque upon the substantial wooden base speaks to the specifics, exclaiming, "All-America Football Conference, Most Valuable Player Trophy, Awarded in 1948 to Frank C. Albert, San Francisco Forty-Niners and Otto E. Graham, Cleveland Browns." While a degree of wear consistent with sixty years of life is to be noted, this is confined almost entirely to rubbing at the wood edges, with a clipped eagle wing the only issue that could rightfully be characterized as "damage." One will quickly realize that these faults have very little bearing upon the tremendous aesthetics of the artful offering, and certainly none upon its immeasurable historic appeal. The twin attributions both to this short-lived professional football league and to the brilliance of one of the most iconic figures in the sport make it a priceless treasure to the cultured collector.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19843 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $11,352.50
1940's-60's Hall of Fame Black & White Signed Plaques Lot of 33. Issued between 1947 and 1963, the black and white Artvue Hall of Fame plaque postcards quickly caught on as a favored medium for autograph seekers, and continue to rise in popularity with every passing year. The appeal is obvious, as the images of the plaques on display at Cooperstown speak to the very nature of each legend's greatness. This exciting collection should carry great appeal to both collectors and dealers alike. Unless otherwise noted, all autographs are in 9/10 or better ink, and the postcards present no noteworthy flaws. Included: Jackie Robinson (personalized, postcard creased and stained at lower left edge), Ott, Hornsby, Lajoie, Baker, Paul Waner, Traynor, Cochrane, Walsh (personalized "To Mother"), Griffith, Clarke, Sisler, Frisch (8/10), Hubbell, Grove, Gehringer, Terry, Dickey, DiMaggio, Lyons, Hartnett, Schalk, Greenberg (7/10), Cronin, McCarthy (personalized), Crawford, Wheat, Carey, McKechnie, Feller, Roush, Rice, Flick. All are signed on front for ideal display. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19467 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $11,113.50
2002-03 Michael Jordan Game Worn Jersey. Intense rarity, ironclad provenance and a spectacular late-career performance by the game's greatest figure makes the offered home white mesh gamer one of the most important Jordans to reach the market in recent memory. Our records show not a single instance of a final-season Michael Jordan jersey presented at auction to date, as MJ and the Wizards have kept tight wraps on the available specimens. This one does come directly from a team source, however, with a letter on Wizards/Mystics/MCI Center letterhead attesting that "this item was personally worn on December 18, 2002, by Michael Jordan and signed on March 10, 2003 by Michael Jordan." And what a game it was. After a recent two-point game had started the whispers that the Jordan magic was finally gone, the thirty-nine year old legend led the Wizards to a 118 to 100 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, posting thirty-three points while going fourteen for twenty-three from the floor with three steals, five boards and two three-pointers. "I ain't seen nothing like that," Grizzlies rookie Drew Gooden said after the game. "I ain't seen nothing like that in I don't know how long, but he was on. It seemed like every time he shot it was going in."

The home white mesh shirt provides the distinctively fonted "Wizards" upon the chest with Jordan's immortal number "23," each applied in tri-color tackle twill. "Jordan 23" fills the verso. "Nike [size] 50" labeling in the tail features the logos of the Wizards and the NBA, and dangles a "Length +4" flap tag to match Jordan's preferred tailoring modifications. Wear is light but definite, appropriate for a single game of superstar use. A 10/10 silver sharpie signature on verso is joined by an Upper Deck serialized holographic authenticating sticker, and the corresponding certificate is present, as is UDA's high-tech "PenC am" DVD that further documents the signing. Not a single bell or whistle is missing from this package, which is certa
Auction 709 | Lot: 19831 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $10,755.00
1994 Wayne Gretzky European Exhibition Tour Game Worn and Signed Jersey. In an attempt to jar the powers that be at the league offices, Wayne Gretzky organized a six-game tour of Finland, Sweden, and Norway during the 1994 NHL lockout. Officially earmarked as a tour of goodwill and charity, "Wayne Gretzky & Friends" included several high-profile stars such as Mark Messier, Brett Hull, Sergei Federov, and Steve Yzerman. A classy design of the utmost eccentricity, the red and white striped sweater presented here is the on-ice garment for the Great One for that '94 tour. Script wording spelling Gretzky's famous jersey number is embroidered across the chest, which also is home to an NHLPA logo at right breast and a 4" white-red-white three-color tackle twill captain's "C" at left breast. Red twill stars complete the design of the jersey front as two flank the neck and four more form a horizontal line near the waistline. The player's surname "GRETZKY" is affixed to a red name plate on the jersey's verso along with white-red-white "99". A pair of CCM logos have been stitched into the rear tail, which also carries the customization of a velcro swatch on the inside right. The fight strap has been appropriately removed. As can be expected from an exhibition jersey, only light signs of wear can be discerned, however the white portions have picked up a bit of staining, especially near the waist on the reverse. A photograph is included depicting Gretzky himself presenting the jersey and the stained area can be accurately photo matched. A 10/10 Gretzky signature and "Tour 94" inscription has been added to the eastern "9" on the verso. We can't imagine a more attractive and unique exemplar from the Great One than this slick gamer. LOA from Rich Ellis. LOA from PSA/DNA (autograph). LOA from James Spence Authentication (autograph).
Auction 709 | Lot: 19792 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $10,755.00
1910 Philadelphia Athletics World Championship Trophy Presented to Tully Frederick "Topsy" Hartsel. One of the earliest and most impressive Major League Baseball Championship trophies ever to reach the auction block, this stunning specimen was the prize awarded to Connie Mack's feisty little left fielder Frederick "Topsy" Hartsel following the White Elephants' five-game Series victory over Tinker, Evers, Chance and the rest of the Chicago Cubs ballclub. The tri-handled loving cup is boldly engraved upon its face, "Presented by The Citizens of Philadelphia to T. Frederick Hartzel (sic), World's Champions, The American Baseball Club of Philadelphia, Season 1910." The raised seal of the City of Philadelphia rests at center. The two remaining sides of the cup feature a crossed bats and ball motif and a team logo pennant respectively, the latter exhibiting some loss to the enameling but none to the enormous visual appeal. The body of the cup is crafted from silver-plated base metal and measures eight inches in height, with the mouth of the cup at a diameter of six inches. A dent at the edge of the base, below the right arm in the catalog photograph, must be noted, but is barely noticeable upon display. A weighty and impressive piece even without its tremendous baseball significance, and the ultimate memento of Connie Mack's first great dynasty. Please also see Hartsel's game worn jersey, personal photographs and funeral guestbook also featured within this auction.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19602 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $10,755.00
1947 Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball, PSA EX 5. This Official American League (Harridge) ball has found its way home again, signed by the Babe in 1947 at Dallas, Texas' Reverchon Park, literally across the street from the Heritage offices. It comes to us from the son of Harry Rubin, an early twentieth century European immigrant who embraced his adopted country's national pastime with a fervor, spending much of his young adult years at Yankee Stadium in awe of the Babe. In 1933, Rubin was forced to leave New York for Dallas, though his love of baseball, and the Yankees specifically, never faltered. So, when Rubin was trying to advance the sport in Dallas as the district athletic officer of the American Legion, he rather optimistically placed a call to his idol asking for assistance. Typical of Ruth's well-documented generosiity, he accepted the invitation, arriving at Dallas Love Field airport to huge crowds headed by Rubin and Dallas Mayor Jimmy Temple. Now, six decades later, the prized keepsake of that meeting arrives on our auction block. The black fountain pen sweet spot signature still projects wonderfully, garnering a rather stingy score of 6/10 from the PSA graders. The ball grades at 4/10 due to moderate toning and surface wear for the combined score as listed. A letter of provenance from the son of Harry Rubin is included in the lot. Full grading LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19340 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $10,755.00
1930's Baseball Signed Autograph Lot of 123 with Ruth, Foxx, Cuyler. Fantastic collection of prewar autographs from our National Pastime offers no shortage of the game's all-time greats, offering an intriguing look into one young man's hobby many decades ago. Most autographs are penned on colored album pages, often with an image of the player carefully trimmed from newspapers and magazines and pasted beside the signature. Quite a few autographs are placed directly on the image, and will be italicized if it is a signed image in the list to follow. Signature quality is a fantastic 9/10 and better throughout, with almost no exceptions. The brightest star, of course, is Babe Ruth, whose 1930's-era autograph appears upon an image of him in Red Sox uniform. The piece is encapsulated by PSA/DNA in a NM-MT 8 holder. Also featured: Musial, Hartnett, Maranville, Schoendienst, Grimes, Gomez, Ruffing, Gehringer, Terry, Rizzuto, Medwick, Stengel, Mack, Manush, Herman, Hubbell, Lyons, Lombardi, Southworth, Sisler, Greenberg, Wheat, Rick Ferrell, Grove, Lloyd Waner, McCarthy, Foxx, Bottomley, Mize (3), Rixey, Cuyler, Lopez. One of the finest treasure troves of vintage baseball autographs we've seen in some time, this collection affords one savvy hobbyist the opportunity to take his collection to the next level with a single bid. LOA from PSA/DNA.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19410 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $10,157.50
1970's Jack Nicklaus Tournament Used Golf Bag. Golf's equivalent of Mickey Mantle, the flaxen-haired Golden Bear was the American dream of a sports superstar, with movie star looks and boy next door charm to match his unparalleled athletic abilities. The offered green and white leather MacGregor bag accompanied the legendary linksman at the crest of his storied career, a period that saw him capture six of his record eighteen Major Championship victories. It comes to us from the Professional Caddies Association, which is consigning the historic piece to raise funds for its charitable interests, and informs us that this bag was used by Nicklaus from January 1971 through December 1975. Interior "MacGregor" factory coding lists this bag as serial number "002," attributing the bag definitively to this iconic golfer far more than even the "Jack Nicklaus" applied in vintage black tackle twill to the center striping could allow. Wear is fantastic throughout, recalling a long life in the presence of a legend, but could still ably render service to its new owner if required. Originally sourced through Nicklaus' long time personal caddie "Angie" Argea.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19579 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $9,560.00
1950's President Dwight D. Eisenhower Game Used Golf Clubs. Some months after the end of his term as President of the United States, a journalist asked Eisenhower if leaving the White House had affected his golf game. "Yes," he replied, "a lot more people beat me now." The thirty-fourth President is properly recognized as the greatest golf enthusiast to occupy our nation's highest office, and can be credited in large degree with the increase in popularity that transformed the sport from the sole property of the upper class to a nationwide phenomenon. In this regard, this full set of five woods, eight irons and a putter takes on a significance that is equally political and athletic. The high-quality "Spalding" clubs bear the stamped facsimile signature of the President, with the irons holding that of Ike's friend and ultimate golf icon Bobby Jones as well. Only the putter is free of either name. All clubs show fine use but no damage, with even the rubber grips remaining free of condition problems. Included are letters of provenance from both Eisenhower's son and daughter-in-law, each of whom attest that the clubs were used by the President, then given as a gift to their neighbors after they had inherited them following Ike's death. The fantastic provenance is further assured by the gorgeous custom leather golf bag in which the clubs currently reside, stamped with the name "John Eisenhower," Ike's son. While we can't expect this lot to reach the same astounding level as the $770,000 realized in 1996 for clubs used by President John F. Kennedy, this well-loved and perfectly provenanced set from his Oval Office predecessor could properly be considered within the same elite league.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19577 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $9,560.00
1915 PM1 Ornate Frame Pins Frank Chance. The 1913 season saw big changes for the New York Americans, who traded their "Highlanders" nickname and Hilltop Park home field for the "Yankees" and the Polo Grounds respectively. This is the man who took the reins at the start of that new era, striking a batting stance for a pin that would be issued the first year of his retirement.

One of the most exciting "finds" of 2007 will present bidders in the Heritage Auction Galleries May 2008 Signature Sports Auction with the opportunity to own what are unquestionably the finest PM1 pins on the face of the earth. The nine pins were located by Heritage's consignors at an Arkansas flea market and purchased for a song, the seller unaware of the tremendous scarcity and importance of the treasures.

The discovery of these pins sheds a small beam of light upon an issue that still remains largely shrouded in mystery. Though it has been established that these Ornate-frame Pins date to 1915, the identity of the original issuer and the mode of distribution remain an enigma. This stunning assortment Mint pins adds a Hall of Famer to the known roster of PM1's, providing the hobby with its first look at a Chief Bender model. And the balance of the find, featuring Frank Baker, Frank Chance, Al Demaree, Ty Cobb, Johnny Evers (name only), Walter Johnson, Benny Kauff and Joe Tinker, each remain attached to its original 2x2" blank card, also never before encountered in the hobby.

Those few hobbyists who have met with this rare issue are well aware that condition problems are accepted as an inevitability when collecting PM1's, with oxidation and damage to the delicate metal frame and scratching of the central image present on essentially all existing specimens. The Mint condition of this Arkansas find is quite literally unprecedented, and should pique the interest of many elite collectors who demand nothing but the very best.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19309 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $9,560.00
1942 Sam Snead PGA Championship Tournament Used Golf Bag. Rated the third greatest golfer (behind Nicklaus and Hogan) by Golf Digest in 2000, Snead is best remembered today for his "Perfect Swing," which generated thousands of imitators over his many decades of service to the game. Though his record eighty-two PGA Tour victories span the period between 1936 and 1965, his first and therefore arguably his most important Major victory came in 1942 at the PGA Championship at Seaview Country Club in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Snead mentions this event in the handwritten letter of provenance that accompanies the offered bag:

9-22-90

Hello! Cricket:

The bag your Dad will give you I used during my early Spring of 1942 and during my stay in the Navy and a while after. I finally got a new Bag after they/Wilson resumed making golf equipment. I won the 1942 P.G.A. using the bag and several other P.G.A. Tournaments before I changed.

I hope you are well. My best to the John Deer's.

Cheers, Sam.

The original mailing envelope and a second letter of provenance from Cricket Gentry are included as well. The leather and canvas bag shows heavy use with some fraying of the shoulder strap but nothing else that could rightfully be considered damage. Our catalog imagery should accurately illustrate that the strength of display is still considerable. Snead's name is screened in black script on the rear of the bag, along with the "Wilson Sporting Goods Co." manufacturer's markings. A plastic identification tag clipped to the back of the bag reads, "Claude Harmon, Member of P.G.A., Winged Foot Golf Club, Mamaroneck, N.Y., SAM SNEAD, Rack No. 449." With supreme historic relevance and ironclad provenance to match, this bag rates among the most important and desirable to reach the auction block in recent memory. Letter of provenance from Sam Snead.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19576 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $8,962.50
1940's Babe Ruth Signed Oversized Photograph, PSA Graded Mint 9. While this stirring photographic portrait of the Babe should be familiar to most collectors, the enormous size of this high-quality print is certainly no common sight. There was surely some reason for this expensive print to be made, and one can only assume that the original recipient was a VIP of some manner. We can thank that person for giving the piece the care it deserves, as the 11x14" photo provides not a single flaw of note, and the black fountain pen "Sincerely, Babe Ruth" blasts from the pale background at a strength of 9/10, a score assigned on the full PSA LOA. One of the most impressive autographed Ruth photos you'll encounter at auction in 2008. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19388 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $8,962.50
1999 New York Yankees World Series Championship Trophy. "A pop in to left...the New York Yankees...World Champions. Team of the decade. Most successful franchise of the century." That was Bob Costas' call as the Yanks closed out a four-game annihilation of the National League Champion Atlanta Braves, becoming the first team to win the Fall Classic with consecutive sweeps since the 1938-39 Bronx editions. This shimmering trophy was the spoils of war for one team staffer, who was fortunate enough to be on the payroll for the twenty-fifth World Championship season. The design should be familiar to any collector, but it still never fails to send up a chill. Pennants rising up to a foot tall and representing all Major League teams surround crown and baseball figurals at center of a circular base, upon which the press pins for both the Yankees and the Braves are applied. A golden band cinches the base, engraved with the celebratory phrase, "World Series Champions, New York Yankees, 1999." Unless you know how to hit, pitch or otherwise cater to the strict demands of The Boss, this auction may be the only way one of these will ever sit upon your mantle.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19641 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $8,604.00
1970 Wayne Cashman Stanley Cup Finals Game Worn Jersey. A teammate who played alongside Bobby Orr in their junior hockey days with the Oshawa Generals, Wayne Cashman rejoined his Hall of Fame mate when he skated with him as a member of the Boston Bruins. Cashman was part of the legendary 1969-70 Bruin squad that ended a 29-year Stanley Cup drought and was one of the first men to mob Orr when he scored his championship-winning overtime goal in the most heroic of fashions. Here we present the jersey that Cashman donned that day, a glorious well-worn Bruins Wilson gamer with numerous team repairs and advanced puckering to the numerals and front logo. The right wing's numeral "12" has been applied in gold-on-white tackle twill on each shoulder as well as the verso, while the chest area is dominated by the Bruins' signature eight-spoke logo in three-color tackle twill. The black garment sports the vintage lace-up collar. A fight strap inside has been removed. A fine opportunity to own a classic exemplar of one of hockey's most attractive uniform designs, complete with the added distinction of its proximity to such a momentous athletic event. Comes from the personal collection of Cashman himself. LOA from Rich Ellis.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19761 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $8,365.00
1932 Babe Ruth & Lou Gehrig Signed Baseball. Note the faint remnants of the red John Heydler presidential stamping on the side panel of this Official National League ball? That's a single-year style, issued only during the year 1932. And we can think of only one occasion that would have brought this pair face to face with an NL ball, and that's the World Series at Wrigley, where the Babe taught the taunting Cubs a lesson with his famed Called Shot. Historical suppositions aside, however, there's still much to love about this fine specimen. The Babe's sweet spot signature, and Lou's offering to the west, each present at a strong 7/10, and the black and red stitched sphere provides a marvelous vintage patina of evenly toned horsehide. A special keepsake from the era of the Babe's most celebrated moment. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 709 | Lot: 19327 | May 3, 2008

Sold For: $8,365.00

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