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1954 Joe DiMaggio & Marilyn Monroe Signed Photograph. Those who followed the May 2006 Heritage Signature Sports auction will certainly remember the historic sale of the Finest Known Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe Signed Baseball, which set a World Record with a price realized of $191,200. Tremendous press exposure followed, as both hobby and mainstream publications trumpeted this extraordinary new mark for the autographed baseball record books. As a result of this international post-auction coverage, we were contacted by the family of the former sports editor for the Tokyo newspaper that owned the "Yankees" of the Japanese League, the Tokyo Giants. They claimed to have a very special autographed piece of their own.

And they were right. Presented here, for the second time in as many auctions, is the definitive example of a piece signed by this most famous of celebrity couples, in this case an 8x10" photograph snapped and signed as the pair honeymooned in Japan. As in the case of the $191,000 baseball, the autographs of Joe and Marilyn are essentially unimprovable, rating 9+/10 on a conservative grading scale. Joining them in the image, and in flawless black ink, is Joe's best buddy Frank "Lefty" O'Doul. Unbelievably, DiMaggio requested that O'Doul join him and Marilyn on this romantic getaway, a fact that might help to explain why the couple didn't make it to their first anniversary. The photograph itself is likewise magnificent in appearance, with no condition flaws to note.

Included in the lot is a copy of a 1954 Japanese sports magazine that features a photo montage of the marriage and honeymoon of the newlyweds. One photo finds Joe, Marilyn and Lefty posing together, clearly taken at the same event as was the signed image.

It is well known within hobby circles that DiMaggio flatly refused to sign any piece related to his former wife Marilyn in the years following her death. While his marriage to this timeless icon of Hollywood glamor was short an
Auction 705 | Lot: 19165 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $89,625.00
National Basketball Association 50 Greatest Players Signed Lithograph from Sam Jones. Unquestionably the most coveted single piece in the basketball autograph collecting hobby is this simply awe-inspiring lithograph produced to commemorate the League's Golden Anniversary in 1996. The tremendous array of Hall of Fame talent that has blessed this piece with 10/10 pencil autographs below artfully rendered photo-realistic portraits is only part of the equation, however. The scarcity of the piece--only 250 were ever produced--puts the owner of one in an elite class of legendary athletes, team executives and VIP's fortunate enough to have access to the tiny supply. This one once belonged to superstar Boston Celtics guard Sam Jones, who appears between Michael Jordan and Rick Barry at lower left. Just below is a handwritten notation earmarking this copy for him, which reads, "Jones 1/1."

While a few of these hardcourt icons have passed since the 1996 signing (notably Chamberlain, Mikan and DeBusschere), only the tragic early death of Pete Maravich kept this piece from being signed by the full contingent of fifty in 1996. The full list of signers: George Mikan, Oscar Robertson, Elvin Hayes, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Willis Reed, John Stockton, Hakeem Olajuwon, Bill Russell, Dave Cowens, Walt Frazier, John Havlicek, Charles Barkley, Elgin Baylor, Nate Thurmond, Hal Greer, Clyde Drexler, Wilt Chamberlain, Paul Arizin, Jerry Lucas, George Gervin, Larry Bird, Scottie Pippen, Jerry West, Dolph Schayes, Dave DeBusschere, Shaq O'Neal, Moses Malone, Earl Monroe, Dave Bing, Bob Cousy, Julius Erving, Magic Johnson, Bill Cunningham, Wes Unseld, Kevin McHale, Michael Jordan, Sam Jones, Rick Barry, Bob Pettit, Nate Archibald, Bill Walton, Isiah Thomas, Lenny Wilkens, Bill Sharman, Patrick Ewing, Karl Malone, James Worthy, Robert Parrish, and David Robinson. Bringing the auto LOA from James Spence Authentication.graph total to an even fifty is commissioner Daniel Stern, who signs ju
Auction 705 | Lot: 19325 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $41,825.00
1920's Grover Cleveland Alexander Single Signed Baseball. We expect that there will be a fairly sizable group of bidders who decide this is the "can't miss" lot of the auction. Whether collectors of singles from 300 Game Winners, or simply from Hall of Famers, most will be lacking an example from this troubled legend, whose alcoholism, epilepsy and post-traumatic stress from World War I horrors couldn't derail one of the most remarkable pitching careers in baseball history. Alexander's death in 1950, and the aforementioned afflictions that saw him absent from the public eye with only rare exceptions since the end of his barnstorming days in the mid-1930's, have left only a tiny supply of single signed baseballs available to the collecting market. Here we present the finest we've ever seen. The medium is an ONL (Heydler) baseball, which almost certainly dates the autograph to Alexander's Major League playing days. A blue ink sweet spot signature remains in remarkable 9/10 condition, aided in its boldness by a thin application of shellac. The ball is otherwise moderately and evenly toned, retaining a pleasing vintage patina. Educated collectors will surely understand what a rare opportunity it is that we present here. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19002 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $26,290.00
Exceptional 1940's Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball. There are several components that must fall into place to create a world class Babe Ruth single. First, of course, is the signature itself. It must be rendered in the boldest ink, and unmolested by stains or wear. It should be centered on the sweet spot of the baseball, and lacking personalized inscriptions. The baseball itself should likewise be free of defects that detract from the visual appeal of the autograph, and should most desirably be of Official American League origin. Each and every one of these traits conspire here to result in one of the most stunning Ruth singles to be offered this auction season.

Decades of lonely existence in the original Reach box have passed since the legendary Yankee cradled this sphere in his massive paw, but as a result this baseball boasts a youthful appearance that only a tiny handful of Ruth singles could match. The blue ink sweet spot signature easily approaches a perfect 10/10 rating, with the hide of the OAL (Harridge) ball toned the most luscious creamy hue imaginable. Only a scattering of foxing exactly opposite the signature (and hence completely invisible upon display) can steer this sphere from unmitigated perfection, though this will be of little concern to the educated collector. The cornerstone of any fine sports collection, for the hobbyist who demands only the best. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19022 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $26,290.00
2005 Upper Deck Legendary Lineups 1/1 Redemption Piece. There's no question that the hobby of sports card collecting has changed in a fundamental way since the days when a few pennies would buy a wax pack with a stick of gum and a few cards inside. While there are still many collectors who concentrate on set building, the way their fathers and grandfathers once did before them, it is the added excitement of a special "pull," hobby lingo for finding a limited run redemption card, that fuels the market today. Every time a card collector breaks open the packaging of a new purchase, fingers are crossed that something truly special is lurking inside. Like the protagonist in the famous book "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," everyone is hoping to find Willie Wonka's Golden Ticket.

For our lucky consignor, that dream became a reality when he opened a tin of 2005 Upper Deck Hall Of Fame Baseball Cards and made the hobby's ultimate pull. Tim Muret himself, Vice President of Upper Deck Authenticated, weighed in on the magnitude of this find, saying, "The Upper Deck Authenticated Legendary Lineups autographed framed piece is almost certainly the most unique and valuable redemption piece ever offered by Upper Deck." We'll go a step further and proclaim that this is likely the finest autographed redemption piece in the hobby, bar none. The general public seems to agree with this assessment. At the National Sports Collectors Convention in Anaheim, California in July where the piece was on display, hundreds of collectors salivated over it. Many proclaimed it the most impressive item at the show. Some posed beside it for photographs. One gentleman half-jokingly offered his young son as a trade.

This adoration is clearly justified. The autograph cards that we have seen selling for tens of thousands of dollars pale in comparison to the compilation of elite s LOA from James Spence Authentication.ignatures we find here, and the shadow box design is so artfully r
Auction 705 | Lot: 19223 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $26,290.00

Make Offer to Owner
$39,435 or more
1896 Boxing Contract for Corbett vs. Fitzsimmons Heavyweight Championship Bout. The state of Nevada would host its first legal prizefight as a result of the two-page document we offer here, the earliest known surviving contract for a Heavyweight Championship bout. To describe this piece as "historic" would be the greatest of understatements--even at the time, the Carson City event was heralded as "The Fight of the Century." Corbett was the man who ended the legend of the undefeated Boston Strongboy John L. Sullivan with a knockout victory over the last bare knuckle Champ in 1892. Fitzsimmons was seen as a devastating puncher, a perfect foil to Corbett's "sweet science." The massive crowds expected for the event would be managed by Old West gunslingers Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson. The winner's purse, noted in the contract, would total $15,000, well over a quarter-million in today's dollars.

The details of the fight are well documented, with "Gentleman Jim" easily managing the blacksmith from New Zealand through the first dozen rounds, badly bloodying the challenger as he controlled the action with his superior dexterity. One fortuitous shot on Fitzsimmons' behalf in the fourteenth round would change the course of history, however, as Corbett was paralyzed by a solid blow to his solar plexis, the nerve center just below the breastbone. Corbett was unable to regain the use of his legs before the count of ten, and Fitzsimmons would assume the title.

These events were set in motion on December 17th, 1896, as two typed pages on legal size sheets (7x12") spelled out the details of the bout beginning with the stirring words, "We, the undersigned, JAMES J. CORBETT, of New York and ROBERT FITZSIMMONS, of New York, do hereby agree to fight to a finish under Marcus (sic) of Queensbury rules, for the Heavyweight Championship of the World..." Issues of f inances (each must guarantee his participation with a $2,500 bond), the purse ($15,000) and the referee (chief cor
Auction 705 | Lot: 19236 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $26,290.00
1948 Babe Ruth Signed Enormous Photograph. Though his body was infested by "termites," the term which Ruth used to refer to the cancer that ravaged his body, this gift to a close friend made just three and a half months before his death ensured that he would be remembered by all who saw it for the days of his greatness. This exceptional and extraordinarily large (17.5x21.5") photograph finds the Babe exiting the batter's box as he releases his mighty Hillerich and Bradsby from his grip, his eyes trailing the flight of a baseball almost certainly headed beyond the outfield wall. Against the pale background of infield clay, the Babe applied a 9/10 black fountain pen inscription, which reads, "To a Lovely couple and dear friends Din and Joe Brown, From Babe Ruth, 5-1-48." A fascinating handwritten letter of provenance from Brown explains that he spent a month with the Babe in his capacity as a sports publicist for the film "The Babe Ruth Story." The two became close friends during this time, and Brown would later attend the retirement ceremony of Ruth's number "3" at Yankee Stadium, and the Babe's funeral at St. Patrick's Cathedral. Brown also notes that he went on to serve for over twenty years as the general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates. This piece remained his prized possession however, and he closes his letter with the sentiment, "Babe Ruth will always be in my mind the greatest player in Baseball's long history. I was honored by his friendship." The photograph itself remains in splendid condition, with a few minor wrinkles in the dark upper left corner visible only at certain angles to the light. Otherwise, it presents as NRMT. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19142 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $23,900.00
1911 T9 Turkey Red Prizefighters Complete PSA-Graded Set (26). The Turkey Red boxing series of 26 was issued in conjunction with the T3 baseball player series of 100 and are considered by many to be part of the most beautiful sport card issue ever created. This fresh set comes straight to Heritage from an East coast tobacco find and it represents many of the finest specimens in the hobby. Should the winning bidder choose to list it on the PSA set registry, they would find themselves immediately with the finest T9 set to ever be registered. An astounding 15 of the 26 cabinet cards in this offering represent the highest ever graded according the PSA population reports. A total of 26 cards have been graded with an aggregate SMR value of $14,450. Includes: Graded cards - PSA NM 7: 1 card, 60 .PSA EX-MT 6: 14 cards w/ 51 (Driscoll), 52 (Attell), 55 (Jeffries), 56, 57 (Nelson), 58, 61, 63, 64, 65 (Langford), 68, 71, 72, 74 . PSA 5 EX: 8 cards w/ 54, 59, 62, 66, 67 (Ketchel), 69, 73, 75. PSA 4 VG-EX 3 cards w/ 53, 70, 76 (Johnson). (Total: 26 )
Auction 705 | Lot: 19257 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $22,705.00
Circa 1900 James J. Jeffries Championship Sash Belt. Jim Jeffries was born on April 15, 1875 at Carroll, Ohio, one of eight children of a man who split time between farming and ministering at the local church. As a youth Jeffries became involved in both wrestling and boxing, but put off his boxing career at the request of his mother. He was a strapping man standing over six feet two inches tall and weighing over two hundred pounds. Jeffries was a great outdoorsman and spent much of his spare time hunting. He turned professional boxer in 1895. By 1897 he was already fighting good competition and engaged in several exhibitions with notables like Jim Corbett and Joe Choynski. In 1898 he defeated an aging Peter Jackson, and then went on to score a big win over Tom Sharkey. On June 9, 1899 Jeffries challenged Robert Fitzsimmons for the World Heavyweight Title at Brooklyn's Coney Island. Jeffries ability to absorb punishment and his incredible stamina proved too much for Fitz who he stopped in the eleventh round to win the title. Jeff went on to defend the title seven times beating such notables as Corbett, Sharkey, Fitzsimmons (in the rematch) and Choynski. He retired undefeated in 1905 and moved to a farm in California where his weight ballooned up to 300 pounds.

When Jack Johnson became Champion, Jeffries was coaxed out of retirement to challenge him in one of the biggest fights of the century. They met in Reno, Nevada on July 4, 1910. The five-year layoff and the year it took to get in shape (Jeffries lost eighty pounds) took its toll on Jeffries and he was stopped by Johnson in a one sided affair. Johnson, the first African American to win the title, dominated from the outset. To his credit, after the fight, the always humble Jeffries, admitted he could not have beaten Johnson on the best day of his life. In his later years Jeffries trained several fighters and promoted some fights at the famous Jeffries Barn in California.

Offered here is a Championship sash bel
Auction 705 | Lot: 19243 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $21,510.00
1911 Christy Mathewson Signed Cabinet Photograph. A dream will come true for one sophisticated collector here, as Heritage presents one of the most remarkable sports autographs to be placed upon the auction block in recent memory. Those with even a passing knowledge of the baseball collectibles market are aware of the scarcity and desirability of any Mathewson signature. Christy's death by pneumonia in 1925, the delayed result of a World War I poisonous gas attack, ended the supply more than eight decades ago. And his well justified placement in Cooperstown's inaugural class has created a feeding frenzy among collectors wherever his scarce autograph appears. But almost never do we find the opportunity to own a Mathewson signed photograph, much less one that dates from the absolute pinnacle of the New York Giants hurler's considerable fame.

The 1911 season marked Matty's fourth of five seasons as League leader in earned run average, notching a microscopic 1.99 en route to the National League flag. He would win twenty-six in 1911 against just thirteen losses, and even start and win the first game of the World Series, allowing just a single run to Mack's power-packed Athletics roster in a head to head battle with fellow Hall of Famer Chief Bender. While, again, any autograph from Mathewson commands attention, a signature of this vintage proves all the more delectable.

We begin with the image itself, a razor-sharp study of Mathewson's famously boyish good looks. The image area measures 3.75x5.5" in size, with the mount bringing the final dimensions to 5.5x7.5". Mathewson appears in his 1910 Giants jersey, which serves as the background for his fountain pen inscription. It reads, "To Mr. Peter Heim From Christy Mathewson, Jan 7, 1911." Just five years short of a century since its placement on the photo, the inscription remains impressively bold and ent LOA from James Spence Authentication.irely legible, mellowing to an average of 6/10 in strength. The imag
Auction 705 | Lot: 19083 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $17,925.00
1953 Bowman Football Complete High-Grade Set (96). Bowman was the only major producer of football cards during this year. Cards were issued in five-card, five-cent packs. Currently the 4th finest in PSA's registry, this completely graded set has an overall rating of 7.44 and an aggregate SMR value of $14,355. Breakdown of the graded cards is as follows: PSA 8: 47 cards - #2, 3, 7, 8, 9 Motley, 10, 13, 16, 17 Trippi, 18, 19, 24 Bednarik, 25 Rote, 26 Graham, 27, 30 Young, 31 Hart, 43 Gifford, 45, 46, 49, 50, 51, 53 Tunnell, 54, 55, 58, 59, 61, 63, 66, 68, 70, 71, 73 Pihos, 76, 78, 79, 81, 82, 85, 88 Nomellini, 89, 90, 91, 93 Marchibroda, 95 Groza; PSA 7: 45 cards - #1 LeBaron, 5, 6 Walker, 11 Van Brocklin, 12, 14, 15 Lavelli, 20 Conerly, 21 Layne, 22 Hirsch, 23 Finks, 28, 29, 32, 33, 34, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 44, 47, 48, 52, 56 Tittle, 57, 60, 62 Renfro, 64, 65, 67, 69, 72, 74, 75, 77, 80, 86, 87, 92, 94, 96 Cross; PSA 6: #4, 35, 83, 84.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19405 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $15,535.00
1970's Roger Staubach Game Worn Jersey. Twice a Super Bowl Champion, and the Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl VI. A six-time Pro Bowl selection. Four NFL passing Championships. Certainly there was never any question of whether the man they called "Captain Comeback" would one day find his way to Canton. Thankfully for our Heritage bidding clientele, this remarkable blue mesh Dallas Cowboys gamer didn't follow him there. It's definitely deserving of a home behind plexiglass in the hallowed Hall, instantly bringing to mind the image of the 1963 Heisman winner commanding the troops under the watchful eye of Tom Landry. His unforgettable number "12" is sewn in white tackle twill to chest, back and shoulders, crossing from the blue mesh of the body to the striped durene from which the sleeves are fashioned. A block lettered "Staubach" is sewn across the rear nameplate. Unlike so many of the modern quarterback jerseys, which typically present no more than a single game's wear, this specimen has taken its knocks over a number of games--and perhaps even years--as the Cowboys infrequently wore their blue jerseys. Two team repairs and several surface abrasions tell this tale. Proper "Southland Athletic" label appears in collar, with Staubach's correct "Size 46 L" flap tag below. A rock-solid representation of one of the most desirable jerseys of the era. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19429 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $15,535.00
1940's Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball. The Bambino makes full use of the sweet spot of this "Wilson" brand ball, registering one of the largest Ruth signatures you'll find on horsehide. The bold black fountain pen ink has mellowed only slightly through the passing decades, rating an impressive 8.5/10 today. A few scattered spots of toning around the signature present absolutely no cause for concern, and are mentioned purely for accuracy's sake. Our catalog imagery should illustrate that the ball presents magnificently, certainly comparable to those Ruth singles realizing tens of thousands of dollars on the auction block. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19024 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $13,742.50
1927 Babe Ruth & Lou Gehrig Signed Baseball. Just eight days after this most famous of baseball duos closed out the most remarkable season in history with a four-game sweep of the World Series, Ruth and Gehrig were out on the barnstorming tour with the Bustin' Babes and Larrupin' Lous. At this October 16th stop of the tour, a young fan approached the Home Run King and the American League MVP with an Official League Ball in his hand, which the superstar Yanks graciously signed. The result is one of the most appealing examples of a Ruth/Gehrig ball on the market today, with a vintage notation that definitively links the sphere to the storied baseball year of 1927. Ruth's sweet spot signature is rendered in strong black fountain pen ink, rating a very conservative 8/10 due to minor surface wear. The Gehrig, fortuitously placed so as to provide simultaneous display with the Ruth, rates at worst a half point below. The ball shows even, attractive toning, with a mild degree of surface wear that does very little to hinder visual appeal. A dream piece for the serious baseball autograph collector. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19011 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $13,145.00
The Finest Bobby Jones Signed Photograph on Earth. If our lot title is inaccurate, we'd certainly like to see the proof to the contrary. While this photo was on display at the National Sports Collectors Convention in Anaheim, it brought no shortage of oohs and aahs, and this came as little surprise. The tremendous appeal and desirability of the photo is undeniable. First, it pictures the golf legend at the majestic pinnacle of his powers in 1930, the year he cemented his legacy as the world's finest linksman with a sweep of golf's "Grand Slam." He poses with the gleaming treasures of those wins, the victory cups of the British Amateur, the British Open, the U.S. Open and the American Amateur. At center is a fifth trophy, the Walker Cup, a biennial contest pitting the best American amateurs against those of the British Isles. The image is simply flawless and wonderfully large, measuring 10x13" in size. One must remember that photos of this size were quite expensive to create at this time in history, and it's certain that only a tiny handful of this photo would have been printed, and only for noteworthy recipients (this one was issued to celebrity attorney J.E. "Ike" Lambert, who counted Mary Pickford among his clients). The inscription itself is the other jewel in this crown, boldly inked in 9+/10 fountain pen, "To Major J.E. Lambert, Kind regards and best wishes, Robt. T. Jones, Jr." Not only is the signature quality essentially unimprovable, but the style dates it definitively to the time of the image. Serious golf collectors know that the majority of Jones autographs date from his post-playing days, and that those signed during the era of his dominance carry a significant premium in value and desirability. In every regard this piece establishes its brilliance, much the same way that Jones himself did the year 1930. This exceptional image is appropri LOA from James Spence Authentication.ately matted and framed to museum quality, and final dimensions of 21x23".
Auction 705 | Lot: 19344 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $13,145.00
Early 1930's Babe Ruth, Tony Lazzeri & More Signed Baseball. It looks like a $50,000 Ruth single, doesn't it? We can thank the older gentleman who acquired the signatures upon this baseball in person for that fact. While most boys during the Depression would eventually take their autographed baseballs out of storage and to the sandlot, our consignor left his untouched in a dark, dry place where it remained for over seven decades before it was consigned to this Signature auction. Only the addition on the side panel of Yankee Hall of Famers Tony Lazzeri and Earle Combs, and fellow Bronx hero Frank Crosetti, keep this "Pioneer League" ball from rating as one of the Bambino's finest solos, and our catalog photography should illustrate that the ball presents quite convincingly as a single. But then we certainly shouldn't diminish the accomplishments and appeal of his pinstriped pals, who appear in the same 9+/10 ink that characterizes the Babe's sweet spot signature. The ball itself remains clean and only very lightly (and evenly) toned, with attractive red and blue stitching. Practically pristine! LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19016 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $11,960.76

Make Offer to Owner
$23,922 or more
1949 Ty Cobb Single Signed Baseball. Simply outstanding specimen ranks among the very finest Cobb singles to have reached the auction block in recent memory. While the Babe Ruth single is considered the "must have" piece for any serious baseball autograph collection, we would humbly suggest that the Cobb single is just as important. This gem was signed on an Official Pioneer League baseball almost twelve years to the day before his passing, with the Peach's black fountain pen autograph, dated "July - 16 - 49," rating a legitimate 9.5/10. The ball itself is blessed by the mildest of even, creamy toning, resulting in a sphere with unlimited visual appeal. For the collector who will settle for nothing but the best. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19029 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $11,950.00

Make Offer to Owner
$17,925 or more
Mid to Late 1960's Gale Sayers Game Worn Jersey. Like the winds that share his first name, Gale Sayers appeared on the scene with destructive force, powerful and elusive, and then suddenly was gone. One can only speculate what might have been had not two vicious hits destroyed the ligaments in each of the superstar Bear's knees, first slowing and then ending one of the most promising careers in football. Though he was named the top halfback of the NFL's first half-century in 1969, many wondered if Sayers' short career might keep him outside the gates of Canton, but that question was answered in 1977 when Sayers became, at age thirty-four, the youngest inductee to the Football Hall of Fame.

Here we present an exceptional example of a jersey that would be perfectly at home on display in that museum, a road white Sayers gamer from the time when he ruled the NFL rushing world. The wear is simply outstanding, tangible evidence of the brutality of a game that would eventually take the magic out of Sayers' world class legs. These lightweight tear-away jerseys were particularly susceptible to this sort of damage, worn to minimize the detrimental effects of heat and humidity in the summer and early fall, and, to a lesser degree, the ability of tacklers to grab a firm hold. Jersey authenticator Lou Lampson notes, however, that while many of the smaller repairs on the upper jersey front, shoulders and sleeves were the result of actual game wear, the larger repairs which involve major interior reinforcement were likely due to use during the subsequent year's practice and preseason camp. It was common for Bears jerseys to be reused in this manner. Lampson does note that all repairs are consistent, match exemplars, and are team instituted.

Sayers' number "40" is sewn to chest, back and sleeves in navy and orange tackle twill, and it must be noted that th LOA from James Spence Authentication.e "0" digit on the right sleeve was lost to a postseason repair. La
Auction 705 | Lot: 19425 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $11,950.00
1930's Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball, PSA NM 7. High-grade orb was likely signed by the Bambino on a St. Louis Browns road trip, as the "Leacock Official League" ball was created by a sporting goods store headquartered in that town. Seven decades later the ball still looks like it just came off a store shelf, with bold stamping and pale white hide. The sweet spot autograph projects wonderfully, mellowed only slightly from the day of the signing. Both the signature and the ball itself have been assigned a grade of NM 7 by PSA/DNA, accounting for the combined score as noted. With top quality Ruth singles continuing to outperform the hobby, a piece like this is always an attractive investment. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19020 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $10,755.00
1944 Hall of Famers Signed Baseball with Babe Ruth Signed Letter of Provenance. 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 705 | Lot: 19021 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $10,755.00
1889 Sullivan vs. Kilrain Full Ticket. On Monday, July 8, 1889 history was made in the small sawmill community of Richburg, Mississippi. This was the site chosen for the last bare knuckle Heavyweight Championship fight. The Champion, John L. Sullivan agreed to fight Jake Kilrain. The site was somewhat of a secret due to the illegal nature of the sport which at the time was outlawed in thirty-eight states. So this little hamlet 104 miles from New Orleans and three miles south of Hattiesburg became the site. The fight had evolved slowly over time largely due to the long standing animosity between Sullivan and Richard K. Fox of the Police Gazette who backed Kilrain. Fox used the pages of his publication to manipulate and goad Sullivan into the match. A crowd of about 3,000 assembled to see the fight on a blisteringly hot day. Sullivan's corner had William Muldoon and Jimmy Wakely while Kilrain's had Charley Mitchell and Mike Donovan. Bat Masterson was the timekeeper and John Fitzpatrick was the referee. It started at 10:10 a.m. Sullivan went right to work. By the thirty-fourth round Kilrain's nose was broken, his lip was split and one eye was swollen shut. The fight lasted two hours and sixteen minutes. Donovan threw in the sponge in the seventy-sixth to end it. Kilrain just could not go on. Any artifacts from this fight are extremely rare. Few attended and the site was so remote there was little to bring back. Offered here is a very rare full, unused ticket to this historic event. Both names are boldly printed. The ticket is numbered 1390. It has no creases and only minor edge wear. There is a stain on the reverse which does not show through to the front. One of the better examples of this ticket to have surfaced. LOA from Craig Hamilton / JO Sports.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19231 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $10,157.50
1929 Green Bay Packers NFL Championship Presentational Pocket Watch. Unless all of the stories we've heard of the fierce, blood loyalty that Green Bay Packers fans have for their team are untrue, the bidding on this simply phenomenal gridiron artifact should be intense. Certainly one of the finest early Packers pieces ever to reach the auction block, this pocket watch was the prize issued to center Bernard "Boob" Darling for his efforts in securing the team's first ever NFL Championship. We must stress that this is the equivalent of a modern Super Bowl ring, the one and only Championship prize issued to Curly Lambeau's victorious team. It derives directly from the Darling estate, sold to a noted Green Bay hobbyist in 1990 by Darling's son, and remains to this day in stellar (and fully functioning) condition. The silver "Hamilton" watch is engraved beautifully on verso, "Bernard Darling, Member, Green Pay Packers Football Team, National Champions, 1929." To the best of our knowledge, this is the first and only such watch ever to surface, and the fact that it once belonged to a member of the Packers Hall of Fame adds yet another layer of desirability. While any rare object from this monumental season in Packers history is cause for celebration, this simple token of a job well done stands head and shoulders above the rest. Letter of provenance from the former owner of The Card and Coin Corner of Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19355 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $9,560.00
Late 1940's Jackie Robinson Single Signed Baseball. The heroic Dodger's appearance on a ball dating from Ford Frick's National League presidency assures an early career signature, as the Hall of Fame exec turned over the reins to Warren Giles to become Commissioner of Baseball during the 1951 season. So, while any Jackie single carries tremendous collecting appeal, one deriving from those tumultuous early years is particularly noteworthy. The quality of the "Best Wishes, Jackie Robinson" inscription is likewise cause for celebration. Though the word "Best" demonstrates poor ink flow, the final three words project magnificently in bold 10/10 black fountain pen. The ball itself is lightly and evenly toned, only adding to the tremendous visual power. Any Jackie Robinson artifact transcends the sporting world and should be held in great reverence, as we're certain the winning bidder will agree. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19027 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $8,962.50
1913 Philadelphia Athletics Team Signed Celebratory Dinner Program. For the legions of collectors who focus upon artifacts relating to Connie Mack's white elephants, this may well be the most exciting piece to hit the auction block in recent memory. Complete with the yellow and baby blue ribbon that binds it, this program serves as a timeless memento of the squad's first great dynasty, and more specifically the team that won its third World Championship in four years. Each of the five leaves of paper that comprise the program is packed with intrigue, beginning with a terrific cover image and the text, "Dinner to the Athletics by Citizens of Philadelphia, World's Champions 1913, Bellevue-Stratford, Tuesday, October 28, 1913." Page two offers a terrific team photo on paper, the third a dinner menu, and the fourth a listing of the members of the victorious squad. But it is the back cover that should send collectors' jaws southward, as twenty banquet attendees have applied their 9/10 and better pencil signatures there. From top to bottom, we find Rube Oldring, Herbert J. Pennock, Joe Bush, Jack [Stuffy] McInnis, Wally H. Schang, Chas. A. [Chief] Bender, Amos A. Strunk, Ira Thomas, Dan Murphy, Rev. T.W. Davis, Connie Mack, John K. Tener (National League President 1914-18), B.F. Shibe (half owner of the A's, gave name to Shibe Park), E.S. [Eddie] Plank, Jack Barry, Eddie Murphy, Carroll Brown, Jim Walsh, Frank [Home Run] Baker and Eddie Collins. Literally every major player on the squad is present, perhaps most notably Eddie Plank, whose death in 1926 has elevated the value of his autograph alone to $7,000 in Sports Market Report. But, in this case, the whole is worth far more than the sum of its parts. The entire $100,000 Infield is here, and each of the team's Hall of Famers: Pennock, Mack, Plank, Baker and Collins. Even the non-players, notably Ben Shibe and John Tener, carry significant collector interest. But the fact remains that we have never, ever seen another team signed
Auction 705 | Lot: 19085 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $8,962.50
1964 Clay vs. Liston I Full Ticket. On February 25, 1964 at Miami Beach, Florida World Heavyweight Champion Sonny Liston defended his title against upstart, undefeated challenger, Cassius Clay of Louisville. Clay, 'the Louisville Lip," came into the fight a tremendous underdog to the seemingly invincible Sonny Liston. Liston, fresh off two consecutive one-round knockouts of Floyd Patterson, was predicted by most observers to be an easy choice to stop Clay in one round. It did not happen. Using his youth, speed and power Clay was able to batter Liston swelling up his eye and eventually forcing him to retire before the start of the seventh round. Clay had shaken the boxing world and had won his first Heavyweight Championship. Presented here is a very scarce full, unused ticket to the historic bout. This is an illustrated full, unused ticket picturing both fighters. It is a $20.00 arena style which includes a section, row and seat number. The ticket is in excellent condition with good color, no creases, clean front and back and the stub firmly attached. The ticket is accompanied by the envelope from the promoter of the fight Chris Dundee in which it was left for the attendee (who, luckily for us, did not attend). One of the most sought after full, unused boxing tickets in the hobby. LOA from Craig Hamilton / JO Sports.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19288 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $8,962.50
1924 Babe Ruth World Series Single Signed Baseball. Historic horsehide was acquired in person by the father of our consignor after winning a newspaper contest with the prize of meeting the Babe before Game Four of the '24 Series at the Polo Grounds. The ONL (Heydler) ball offers the classic quotation-marked "Babe" Ruth signature on the sweet spot, widely considered to be his most desirable autograph variation. Saved from action in the seven to four victory for the Washington Senators over the hometown New York Giants, the ball has taken on a deep brown hue over the ensuing decades, while the black fountain pen autograph survives in an impressive 7/10 state. Even the original Spalding box is here, solid except for the detached (but still present) lid. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19007 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $8,365.00

Make Offer to Owner
$16,730 or more
1957 Cassius Clay Golden Gloves Trophy. The man many consider to be the greatest Heavyweight Champion in prizefighting history was just a fifteen-year old kid when he was presented this simple token for his first-place showing in his hometown Golden Gloves contest. Though its understated aesthetics are a far cry from the belt that Ali would wear as the king of the boxing world, the historic importance of the piece-quite likely the first boxing trophy ever awarded to the legendary sportsman-is just monumental. The trophy measures 13.25" in height with a bakelite base 4.5" in diameter. An affixed plaque reads, "City of Louisville, Golden Gloves, Novice Division, Winner, 1957." This trophy was given to Joe Martin by Clay and is offered with a notarized letter of authenticity from the late Joe Martin's grand daughter, Jole Martin. In the letter she attests to the fact that this was indeed Cassius Clay's trophy that was given to her grandfather and displayed at the Columbia Street Gym. Trophy remains in splendid condition, with just a few small scratches on the brass center section. Displays perfectly. LOA from Craig Hamilton/ JO Sports.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19283 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $8,365.00
1986-87 Michael Jordan Game Worn Jersey. This season began a seven-year run atop the NBA's scoring charts for basketball's most recognizable star, a feat matched only by the legendary Wilt Chamberlain in the history of the league. While the man who would be King had certainly shows flashes of greatness in his two years with the Chicago Bulls prior to this one, it was the 1986-87 season that truly put the basketball world on notice that Jordan was a breed apart. This road red mesh jersey shows definite wear from that important season in this first-ballot Hall of Fame career, with the classic styling that is unmistakably Jordan. "Bulls 23" is screened in bold black and white across the chest, with "Jordan 23" in place on verso, with the proper "drop," or positioning below the collar, for genuine NBA gamers (replicas and samples have a much shallower drop). All tail tagging is likewise correct in style and placement, with dual "Sand-Knit" labels designating "Bulls Exclusivity" and "[size] 44," with "3" LB" tailoring designation in embroidered swatch to the left. Early career Jordan gamers are much tougher than those dating from the second half of his NBA tenure, and collectors realize that there is a definite premium attached to jerseys like this one. And, understanding that Jordan will be remembered throughout history in the way that only a tiny handful of iconic athletes are (Babe Ruth, Muhammad Ali, etc.), the investment outlook here is very encouraging. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19309 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $8,365.00
1935 National Chicle Bronko Nagurski #34 PSA NM 7. Far and away the most valuable card in the National Chicle set, Bronko outpaces his closest competitor by multiples when it comes to value and desirability. As such, high-grade specimens such as this one are treasured by collectors, and the opportunity to own one doesn't come along very often. In fact, only seven examples have ever graded NM-MT 8, and none have ever rated higher. In other words, you might have a very long wait ahead of you if you crave a finer representation. Marvelous centering and bright colors offer no shortage of eye appeal.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19395 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $8,365.00
1948 Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball. The consignor's notarized letter of provenance is so charming, we'll let it do the talking: "June 21, 1948 was Babe Ruth Day in Spencer, Iowa. I was twelve years old. My Dad and a friend of his took myself, my older brother and a friend to the event. We stopped on the way at a hardware store and Dad bought three baseballs, for twenty-nine cents each, for us three boys to have the Babe sign. We were in the stands, at the park, when an announcement was made that the Babe was very ill and on his way to the nearby Mayo Clinic in Minnesota and would not be signing any autographs. The three of us, with the baseballs in our pockets, crawled down the back of the grandstand and went to the driveway leading to the parking lot. The Babe's car finally arrived. We stood, with our arms clasped, in the middle of the road. Babe was in the front passenger seat and his secretary was in the back. The secretary hollered 'Get out of the way you little brats,' but the Babe said 'Come on over here, boys,' in a deep and broken voice. He then asked his secretary for a pen and signed my brother's ball, then our friend's, and my ball last. What a thrill!"

The result of this young boy's brash move, and that of the Babe's limitless kindness toward children, is a fantastic sweet spot signature rating a conservative 9/10 in boldness. The ball is mounted with what appears to be glue on the lower panel into a shadow box where it is displayed with a program from that Spencer, Iowa event and a newspaper clipping noting the Babe's dozens of baseball records. Certainly this is one of the final autographs ever signed by the dying legend, and the Babe's generosity under these circumstances speaks volumes, and reminds us why we love him so much to this day. Notarized letter of provenance from consignor is included. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19028 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $7,767.50
Early 1920's Babe Ruth Signed Baseball. A sweet spot signature from Ruth with the early style quotation-marked "Babe" presents quite convincingly as a single, though a very faint alternate autograph once did reside upon the panel below. This particular model of Official American League baseball was only utilized through 1925, at which point a small change was made to the patent code. The Babe's signature still rates a very acceptable 6.5/10 in boldness, and the advanced vintage only adds to the appeal. The ball shows moderate handling wear but still presents very nicely. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19004 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $7,170.00

Make Offer to Owner
$14,340 or more
1980's Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Game Worn Jersey. The ultimate Kareem jersey according to noted authenticator Dave Bushing, who assigns a top score of A10 to the yellow mesh home gamer. The rail-thin but iron-tough Abdul-Jabbar trained with Bruce Lee in the off-season and dominated the NBA on the court, taking the League's all-time lead in such categories as points scored, blocked shots and MVP awards. The active life of the jersey, which Bushing pins to the 1981 to 1987 era, places it at the center of a golden age for the Los Angeles Lakers, recalling their epic battles with the Eastern Champ Boston Celtics teams of Bird and McHale. One glimpse at this jersey, with its purple and white "Lakers 33" on the chest and "Abdul-Jabbar 33" on verso, and you can almost see the goggles and the sky hook of this Hall of Fame legend. Proper understated "Tiernan" label is in front tail. The cherry on top is a 10/10 black ink signature from the jersey's former owner on the front numeral. Wear is light but definite. A marvelous and tremendously important gamer. LOA from Dave Bushing. LOA from Lou Lampson. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19305 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $7,170.00
1920's Ruth, Gehrig, Cobb, Pennock & Combs Signed Baseball. Not a bad bunch of names, is it? One savvy fan of Golden Age baseball resisted the temptation to hand this "State League" ball over to just anybody with a glove or a bat, seeking out the cream of the crop instead. Now a lucky bidder will become the beneficiary of this fan's wisdom, as we're able to present this most exclusive of signed spheres on the auction block. Taking up his permanent sweet spot residence is the Babe (5/10) himself, with Lou Gehrig (3/10) on the panel to his left and Ty Cobb (7/10) to his right. Lefty Gomez (9/10) above is the strongest of the bunch, with Earle Combs (4/10) and Herb Pennock (5/10) downstairs. The ball shows a fair amount of surface wear, but our catalog photography should illustrate that the effects are not that dramatic. Five playing-days 1920's Hall of Famers for the price of one! LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19003 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $6,572.50
1958 Rogers Hornsby Single Signed Baseball & Album Page. "Any ballplayer that don't sign autographs for little kids ain't an American," the Hall of Fame second baseman once told a reporter for The Saturday Evening Post. "He's a communist." The mighty Rajah practiced what he preached to create the contents of this fine lot, with exceptional blue ink signatures on an ONL (Giles) baseball and an album page. The former is a clean, pale sphere with an 8.5/10 side panel autograph tagged "1958." The latter is a flawless 10/10 inscription reading "To Allan from Rogers Hornsby 1958." The page is 4x5" with very minor edge wear but no noteworthy flaws. While autographs on paper from this St. Louis hero are relatively available, high-grade singles such as the one presented here find their way to the auction block very infrequently, and as such should be considered strongly by any serious Hall of Fame baseball collector. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication. (Total: 2 Items)
Auction 705 | Lot: 19037 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $6,572.50
1881 Harry Wright Personal Scorebook with Multiple Signatures! Wright's contributions to the early development of our National pastime place him right alongside Cartwright and Doubleday as one of baseball's most noteworthy pioneers. He was center fielder for the the first professional ball club, the 1876 Cincinnati Red Stockings, invented the box scoring system, designed the standard baseball uniform and was the first to direct his defense to shift in relation to hitters' tendencies. Yet despite his indisputable importance to the game, most Hall of Fame autograph collections find him sadly absent, certainly due to the great scarcity of available specimens born of the eleven decades that have passed since Wright did.

But here we offer a veritable mother lode of Wright autographs, finding a home on the most desirable and thoroughly significant home they possible could, his own personal "Base Ball Score Book." It is meticulously utilized to track twenty-three games featuring the team Wright managed, the Boston Red Caps of the National League, with every last hit, run, error and out notated in the penciled shorthand style still utilized to this day. Written in his Hall of Fame hand are the names of others that would join him in eternity at Cooperstown: Charles Radbourne, Bid McPhee, John Ward and his brother George Wright, whose name is written in Harry's hand no fewer than thirteen times, an autograph of sorts (It's also worth noting that "Sam Wright" appears written by Harry twice). Most appealing about this historic bound volume, however, is the presence of Wright's autograph in the "Scorer" box on thirteen of the twenty-three games' pages. Seven are initialled "H.W.," while five are signed with the full "Harry Wright." One other is signed "H. Wright." Please do note, however, that even the unsigned score sheets are filled out entirely in Wright's hand. LOA from James Spence Authentication.He notes on the cover, also in the standard NRMT pencil, that this book
Auction 705 | Lot: 19078 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $6,572.50
1930's Babe Ruth Signed Photograph & Single Signed Baseball. Pair of autographed pieces from the game's greatest star were signed to Judge Richard Burke and consigned to Heritage by Burke's son, who had the ball and photo beautiful mounted in a shadow box for display. The photo measures 6.5x8" in size and captures the Bambino in the follow through of his home run swing. Blue fountain pen ink spells, "To My good friend Judge Burke, Sincerely Babe Ruth." The inscription and signature project at an impressive 8.5/10, and the photo shows no signs of damage or wear. The Official National League ball mounted just below, still in its original box, reads simply, "To Dick, from Babe Ruth" at a boldness of 5/10. We have not removed the ball from the display to examine it in its entirety, but the portion that is visible shows no staining or damage of any sort. Together the pieces form an impressive display, measuring 17x23" in its shadow box frame. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19112 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $6,572.50
1910 Jack Johnson vs. Jim Jeffries "Dana" Postcards Lot of 118. Simply the most complete and incredible collection of Dana postcards from this most historic of Heavyweight Championship bouts ever to reach the auction block. Text and a selection of images couldn't possibly convey the magnitude and splendor of this collection that will serve as the best visual record of the Reno, Nevada event until somebody invents a time machine. The collection begins with fine portraits of the two battlers, then continues on to images of each sparring, President Teddy Roosevelt enjoying pre-fight festivities, and the legions of spectators packing themselves into the wooden arena. Several images of the announcements before the fight begins feature John L. Sullivan and Tex Rickard. Then we come to images of Johnson and Jeffries entering the ring. Various shots finds a smiling Johnson in his corner before the opening bell, and a determined Jeffries on his stool. Then the bell rings and we come to forty-five action shots detailing the bout round by round, beginning with the opening parries and ending with Jeffries on the canvas and Johnson standing above him. Images of Johnson being declared Champ and Johnson's white wife cheering for him, the only joyous spectator, close out the remarkable collection.

While these are sometimes seen in small quantities, rarely more than a dozen, we believe that the presentation at auction of such a comprehensive set is unprecedented. All show the edge and corner wear typical of postcards of this era, and they appear to have all been tacked to a wall at some point in their past. It must be noted, however, that only a small percentage actually bear tack holes--the rest have small rust stains where they were held to the wall by the flat part of the tack, rather than having been punctured by it. Not a single postcard shows wear that proves significantly detrimental to its visual power. Perhaps five duplicates are present, and two portraits of Johnson ma
Auction 705 | Lot: 19254 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $6,572.50
Early 1930's Lou Gehrig Single Signed Baseball. Anyone with even a passing knowledge of the Hall of Fame autograph market knows just how tough the Gehrig single is. Perhaps it was the Iron Horse's tremendous humility that precluded him from taking center stage, or the fact that most autograph hunters sought out his teammate Babe Ruth instead. Whatever the reason, you'll find one hundred (or more) Ruth singles for every Gehrig, so one shouldn't miss this rare chance to fill a hole that is found in even the most advanced collections. Lou's unpersonalized side panel signature rates a very conservative 6/10--many would call it 7/10 instead. The "Junior League" ball that serves as its home is a hair smaller than Official baseballs, but still much larger than the "mini balls" that occasionally surface in the hobby. When it comes to Lou Gehrig solos, such minor considerations must be taken in context. Your collection will increase exponentially in quality with the addition of this piece. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19015 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $6,273.75

Make Offer to Owner
$9,411 or more
Early 1950's Cy Young Double Signed Baseball. Yes, you read the title correctly, and if you are thinking that this must be the most unique signed baseball from the sport's only 500-game winner, you're probably right. As the story was related to us, a relative of our consignor lived close to Young's Ohio hometown and encountered the elderly legend one day. The starstruck fan presented a baseball to be signed, but was disappointed to find that Young's large side panel signature ended in the seams of the ball. He asked Young to try again, accounting for a second, even larger, autograph that extends from another side panel all the way through the ball's sweet spot. In another hand, on a blank side panel, someone has penned, "Won 511 Games, Pitched 3 No Hit, 1 Perfect Game." Young's blue ink remains in marvelous condition, ranging from 7/10 to 8/10 in boldness, and the occasional scuff to the lightly-toned Little League ball does not affect the writing in any noteworthy fashion. Certainly it goes without saying that this offering represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and we expect that those collectors who concentrate on quality and rarity will bid accordingly. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19030 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $5,975.00

Make Offer to Owner
$25,000 or more
Circa 1927 Babe Ruth & Lou Gehrig Signed Album Page. You'll be hard-pressed to locate a more displayable pair of autographs from this historic Yankee duo than is found on the page we present here. Each is rendered in the boldest of vintage black fountain pen ink, in a style that pegs them rather convincingly to the era of their greatest achievements. The autographs are found at center of a 5x6" album page which has two horizontal folds that run on either side of the autographs, well clear of the ink. Each individual autograph is obviously very desirable, but together the appeal is well beyond the sum of the parts. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19091 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $5,975.00
1946 Babe Ruth Double Signed Check. While any Ruth check is worthy of tremendous collecting interest, the rare dual-signed example definitely does far more than double the appeal. Here we present a top specimen from that scarce supply, a "June 11 1946" personal check on Ruth's "The Chase National Bank" account made out to fifty dollars cash. He signs off at lower right, and then endorses the check with the same "G.H. Ruth" autograph on verso. PSA/DNA has authenticated and graded each of the two signatures, awarding the first a score of Mint 9 and the second NM-MT 8. Each remains entirely clear of the bank's punch coding. The check is encapsulated by PSA/DNA for protection and unquestioned authenticity. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19137 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $5,975.00
1980's Mickey Mantle Single Signed Baseballs Lot of 12. Dealers and collectors alike would be well advised to take notice of this opportunity, one of the most sure-fire investments in the auction. The value of Mantle singles continues to rise, and these OAL (Brown) balls remain in terrific condition, with only the occasional very mild shading to dismiss a Mint grade, which the autographs themselves surely merit. The surge in value of Mantle balls has made bulk offerings like this one quite rare--who knows when you'll see another one? LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication. (Total: 12 )
Auction 705 | Lot: 19063 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $5,676.25
1940's Ty Cobb, Jimmie Foxx & Lefty Grove Signed Baseball. Trio of top-tier Hall of Famers briefly shared a dugout at Shibe Park as members of the American League powerhouse Philadelphia Athletics in the late 1920's. Here they regroup on a lightly coated OAL (Harridge) ball, each signature retaining spectacular 9/10 or better boldness. Fellow Cooperstonian Ray Schalk and Bob Elliott round out the esteemed assemblage. It should be noted that the signatures are spaced quite evenly, allowing for a myriad of display possibilities. Perhaps most appealing is the look of a Ty Cobb single afforded by the Georgia Peach's lone appearance on the ball's side panel. But we'll leave that choice up to the winning bidder. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19023 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $5,377.50
1924 Eddie Plank Signed Original Artwork. "Gettysburg Eddie" learned the game of baseball on grounds hallowed by this nation's most historic Civil War battle, and took those skills to Connie Mack's Philadelphia Athletics and eventual Hall of Fame immortality. With his term of service to the Major Leagues confined entirely to the Dead Ball Era, and his death in 1926, Plank makes for an exceedingly difficult autograph, and even the finest collections are usually lacking a specimen. Perhaps the finest to reach the auction block is presented here, rendered in 9/10 black fountain pen ink for a young artist who drew an impressive likeness of the three hundred game winner with colored pencil above. The entire page upon which both the artwork and signature reside measure 9x13" in size, making for a particularly bold display. The page shows no condition flaws to note, adding to the miracle that such a wonder could even exist. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19090 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $5,377.50
1948 Babe Ruth Signed "The Babe Ruth Story" Book. Search the globe and you will not locate a more pristine Bambino autograph than that which resides on the title page of this hardcover autobiography released just weeks prior to Ruth's passing. Though the book closes with the Babe's pledge to regain his health and continue his work as an ambassador of the game he loved and dominated, it sadly was not to be, and as such very few signed examples of this collectible book are to be found. Short of a missing dustjacket, there is little room for criticism of the offered specimen, as typical spine and edge wear is not problematic and the binding remains tight. All interior pages present as NRMT, keeping pace with the historic autograph that makes this piece a genuine heirloom of baseball's Golden Age. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19144 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $5,377.50
1999 All-Century Team Signed Bat. Even the manliest sports fans couldn't help but get a little choked up when the ailing eighty-one year old Ted Williams was wheeled out to a roaring Fenway Park All-Star Game ovation in what was to be his last appearance at a Major League ballpark. How appropriate it is that a perfect replica of Teddy Ballgame's signature model Hillerich & Bradsby would be the home for eighteen flawless blue sharpie signatures from the men who joined him on the diamond that day. Present are Williams, Bench, McGwire, Musial, Rose, Schmidt, Griffey Jr., Koufax, Aaron, Spahn, Ryan, Mays, Clemens, Ripken, Brooks Robinson, Berra, Banks and Gibson. Williams' personal holographic authenticating sticker is affixed near the end of the barrel. A majestic, pristine piece. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19197 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $5,078.75

Make Offer to Owner
$7,618 or more
Circa 1920 "Babe" Ruth Single Signed Baseball. While we can't be entirely certain of the year that the Babe applied his signature to this important orb, we can make a strong assumption that the month was October. The "Official National League" stamping opposite Ruth's signature leaves little doubt of this fact, as the Babe would have had little contact with balls from the Senior Circuit except in World Series matches. Such a revelation then allows our minds to wander--could it have been signed in 1916, the day of his fourteen-inning shutout of the Brooklyn Robins? Or does it date to his Game One shutout in the 1918 Fall Classic? Unfortunately the wear to the leather of the ball's surface has eliminated the vestiges of the League President stamping to assist with dating the ball itself, but the ball definitely was issued previous to 1926. That in itself makes this a particularly unique and desirable Ruth single. But thankfully the autograph itself has survived in far better condition than the presidential stamping, remaining entirely legible and unmistakable on the dappled sweet spot. While certainly not a pristine autograph, its importance as one of the earliest on the market, and as one boasting Championship vintage, cannot be understated. LOA from PSA/DNA.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19001 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $5,078.75
1941 Babe Ruth Signed Check to His Wife Claire, PSA Mint 9. Fourteen years to the day after the Babe clubbed two home runs in a 1927 pennant-clinching showdown with the Indians, he filled out and signed this gorgeous personal check in the boldest of black fountain pen ink. Several factors set this example apart from (and above) the vast majority of Ruth checks. First, the ink quality is simply unimprovable. Second, the check itself is the most desirable style, with Ruth's name printed in bold font at the left edge. Third, the punch coding and bank stamping do not infringe upon the Babe's autograph, and there are no creases, tears or stains to the check. And finally, by listing "Claire Ruth" as the payee, it amounts to a second Ruth autograph of sorts. The check came to us gorgeously matted and framed (final dimensions 13x17"), but we must assume that the check is endorsed by Claire on the verso. For the collector who demands nothing but the best. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 705 | Lot: 19125 | Oct 28, 2006

Sold For: $5,078.75

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