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1922 Babe Ruth Signed Contract Addendum Limiting His Drinking, Late Nights.

"I'll promise to go easier on drinking and to get to bed earlier, but not for you, fifty thousand dollars, or two-hundred and fifty thousand dollars will I give up women. They're too much fun."

--Babe Ruth to Col. Jacob Ruppert, 1922

New York Yankees owner Colonel Jake Ruppert was concerned. The year 1922 had been a tumultuous one for his superstar slugger, whose poor behavior had kept the Babe in the scandal rags, and out of the line-up, far more than a man earning over three times as much as his next biggest player's salary should be. After missing six weeks at the beginning of the season due to Judge Landis' suspension for barnstorming infractions, Ruth went just five days before being stripped of his captain's stripes for throwing dirt on an umpire and then directing a vulgar gesture at a heckler in the stands. In mid-June, he was tossed twice on consecutive days. By August, Ruth had been suspended by the League five times.

And while receiving just 110 games of service for his $52,000 annual commitment to the Babe, Ruppert received almost daily briefings of the Babe's off-field behavior, the drinking, the carousing, the many late nights. He was convinced that all of these factors were connected, and that the time had come to rein in the Bacchanalian Babe. After all, the club was moving to an palatial new baseball grounds in the Bronx the next season. This sort of behavior just wouldn't do. If Babe Ruth was really worth one thousand dollars a week, he had better start acting like an adult.

It was this revelation on the part of the frustrated Yankee patriarch that spawned the incredible document we present here, almost certainly the first "substance abuse" agreement ever conceived in the course of American athletics. Six typed legal-size pages spell out the terms that would hopefully curb Ruth's self-destructive tendencies, and help earn
Auction 707 | Lot: 19090 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $65,725.00
1922 Bert Cole Game Worn Detroit Tigers Uniform. Spectacular heavy grey wool flannel full uniform was worn by this young southpaw during road mound appearances for player/manager Ty Cobb's Tiger ballclub. It should go without saying that any Major League uniform dating to the first quarter of the Twentieth Century carries tremendous collecting appeal, and the remarkable condition in which we find this example, and the fantastic provenance, puts it in a class by itself. The jersey sports the classic Old English "D" over the heart in flawless black felt. A proper "Spalding" tag appears in the collar, with a secondary tag below that is faded beyond legibility. Embroidered in the rear tail is a scripted "Cole" in black thread. The sleeves have been custom cut as was common for pitchers of the day, and we're firmly convinced that these alterations do indeed date to the time of the jersey's use. There is some slight fraying of the black piping that encircles the collar, but to no visual detriment. The matching pants are tagged identically to the jersey, and again feature a scripted "Cole" embroidered in the fly's button path. There is not even the slightest flaw to mention here.

The uniform comes to us directly from the Cole family, and includes a few other personal keepsakes from his collection, most notably a pair of Tigers spring training rosters from 1922 and 1925, which finds Cole listed in alphabetical order just after Tyrus Raymond Cobb. A pair of photos of Cole in the uniform of a minor league club is here as well. A special opportunity to own a high-grade uniform dating one of the most intriguing eras of our National Pastime. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19420 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $47,800.00
1922 Historic Sale of Babe Ruth Promissory Note. Now that the curse has finally been broken by an historic eight-game October winning streak, we feel safe in bringing this important document into the light of day, reassured that those Boston Red Sox fans who wished to send this piece to the same place that Cubs fans sent the Bartman ball have softened their stance on the issue. Yet surely, even in the glow of recent and long overdue victory, no New Englander could look upon this unassuming yet titanically important document without cringing just a little, remembering over eighty years of tragedy that followed the biggest trade/mistake in baseball history. Offered here is one of the three promissory notes issued by the New York Yankees to the Boston Red Sox organization, each made payable for $25,000 (plus six percent interest), with the final $25,000 of the $100,000 price tag for the Babe paid in cash.

Text of the note is as follows: "$25,000 (addended to read $25,500 to include 6% interest), NY January 3, 1922, One Hundred and twenty days after date we promise to pay to the order of The Boston American League Baseball Club Twenty-five Thousand and no/100 Dollars at Yorkville Bank with interest at 6%, American League Baseball Club of New York, Inc. by (signed) Jacob Ruppert, President, (signed) T.L. Huston, Secretary." The signatures of Ruppert and Huston appear again on the verso, along with that of the most hated man in Boston baseball history, the team owner who cared more about a play called "No No Nanette" than the sanity of countless millions of current and future Red Sox fans. He writes, "Boston American League Baseball Club By (signed) H. Frazee, Prest." Two unidentified signatures, likely those of bank employees appear at bottom. All signatures are bold and strong.

Headlines were made in June of 2005 when the actual contract sending Ruth to the Yankees sold at auction for just short of one million dollars. Of course that piece will remain a dream f
Auction 707 | Lot: 19091 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $35,850.00
Circa 1927 Babe Ruth & Lou Gehrig Signed Baseball. What adjective could possibly do justice to this one? In fact, we're tempted to forgo descriptive text entirely, since any attempt to convey the magnificence of this dual-signed sphere would fail to be anything more than a statement of the obvious. Just look at the photos. Clearly this ranks among the few finest baseballs signed by the most important of Yankee duos ever to reach the auction block.

The Mint condition in which this Worth Official League ball finds itself a full eight decades after its brush with greatness could be attributed to a long and lonely life sequestered in its original box, which remains to this day in likewise magnificent shape. Affixed to two panels of the box are newspaper clipping photographs announcing a visit from the "Bustin' Babes" and "Larrupin' Lous," the barnstorming squads headed by the twin heroes of the 1927 season that toured the country following the Yanks' four-game Series sweep. This unimprovable vintage could be considered yet another layer of icing on this most delectable of cakes.

Ruth's sweet spot signature offers the desirable "quotation mark" style that characterizes his early autograph, and Gehrig's to the left is the dignified, carefully rendered model that collectors crave. Again, each has maintained the identical boldness of its original application. The hide of the ball has mellowed half a shade at best, only adding to the exceptional aesthetic appeal of this treasure. Even the red and blue stitching reminds us of the OAL balls that were in vogue at the time.

Opportunities to own such a pristine example of this important baseball have become ever more uncommon with each passing year, and prices continue to climb. The conventional wisdom to "invest in quality" is conventional wisdom for a reason. We suspect that the winning bidder of this lot will remember this in the future as one of his smartest buys. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James
Auction 707 | Lot: 19011 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $33,460.00
1939 Lou Gehrig Handwritten Signed Letter Discussing His Illness.

"Fans, for the past two weeks you have been reading about a bad break I got. Yet today I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth..."

--Lou Gehrig at Yankee Stadium, July 4, 1939.

It was just two weeks after the Bronx captain's heartbreaking farewell to the fans he had entertained and thrilled with 2,130 games of uninterrupted service that a letter arrived in the mailbox of Bess Bell Neely. She had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis nine years earlier, and had sought help from many doctors near her home in the suburbs of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with very little success. In the late spring and early summer of 1939, sclerosis was suddenly very much in the news, though in this case it was amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the illness that would come to be known as "Lou Gehrig's Disease."

She had written to Gehrig with little expectation of a reply, but with the hope that if he did write back that he might have some advice that could help stem the progression of her illness. After all, if there was anybody in the world who would have the means to research treatments for sclerosis, it would be a famous man like Lou Gehrig. Surely the medical profession was rushing to his aid.

Perhaps had Mrs. Neely followed the noble career of this Yankee icon, she would have known that a response would come. Understanding the sort of man that the Iron Horse was, the tremendous character that inspired him to play through broken bones and all manner of injury and illness, one cannot be too very surprised that he would have taken the time to pen this kind letter of support to a complete stranger as he fought for his own life:

Sunday-

Dear Mrs. Neely-

It is with deep regret that I read of your condition, sclerosis. However, the condition in which I am afflicted may differ from the way you are infected, so if I told you of my t
Auction 707 | Lot: 19140 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $31,070.00
1920's Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig & Miller Huggins Signed Baseball, PSA NM-MT 8. No superlative seems appropriately strong when it comes to describing this remarkable sphere compiling the three most important Hall of Fame autographs from the Murderer's Row days at Yankee Stadium. While even the most casual collector is aware of how desirable a Ruth/Gehrig duo is, the addition of the diminutive Yankee skipper to a ball featuring the superstar sluggers lifts this ball to the absolute peak of the hobby. Of the multitudes of future Cooperstown residents to wear pinstripes during baseball's Golden Age, Huggins is unquestionably the toughest, having succumbed suddenly to blood poisoning in 1929 as a result of an eye infection. He signs in his standard "MJ Huggins" format to the left of the Babe's booming sweet spot signature, with the great Lou Gehrig framing balancing out the trio on the right. PSA grades the Ruth and Gehrig signatures as 8, and the Huggins just a touch below at 7. The OAL (Barnard) ball is blazingly white for one of such an advanced age, with bold, dark stamping, grading an 8 according to the judgment of PSA. Quite clearly this baseball was placed in a dark, dry place very soon after it passed through these historic hands, and forgotten. Now it resurfaces to allow one elite collector the opportunity to own a singularly unique and perfect memento of the Yankees' most glorious era. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19014 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $26,290.00
1940's Ben Hogan Tournament Used Putter. Although Hogan was known as one of the greatest drivers in the game's history, the same was never said about his putting, and it was a skill upon which he worked feverishly in an attempt to improve. To be fair, most of his problems with the short game resulted from damage to one of his eyes suffered in a 1949 automobile accident, well after he made use of this incredible "MacGregor Spur Putter," considered the state of the art club around the time of the Second World War. The thirty-four inch club was constructed to Hogan's exact specifications, and his "B.H." initials are factory-stamped into the club's head, a modification that only would be found on his personally owned models. Original grip, in fine condition, is likewise present. Consigned by a former staffer at Fort Worth, Texas' Colonial Country Club, Hogan's home course, who acquired the club in person from Hogan.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19341 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $20,315.00
Circa 1915 Sam Crawford Single Signed Baseball. A devastating combination of power and speed elevated "Wahoo Sam" to the top of the career charts for triples with a total of 309, fourteen better than his closest rival and Hall of Fame teammate Ty Cobb. Much like Gehrig's experience with Ruth, Crawford often found himself in the shadow of the more famous Tiger, and his single signed baseballs are rarely seen within the hobby. Of the thin supply, only a tiny handful date to the pre-war era as does this gorgeous Official American League ball in the style used from 1910 to 1925. The gorgeously applied black fountain pen side panel signature rates a stunning 10/10, a simply unimprovable example with only a single pinprick to the leather at the letter "m" that is really too minor for mention. Scattered toning is completely uniform on the panel housing the signature, making for an ideal display. Arguably the finest Crawford single in the hobby. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19020 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $19,120.00
1977 Muhammad Ali Fight Worn Gloves from Shavers Bout.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19369 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $16,730.00
Circa 1927 "Babe" Ruth Single Signed Baseball. One of the more appealing Ruth singles to surface in the hobby in recent months is presented here, a stunning specimen that has maintained its youthful good looks remarkably well over the better part of a century since its birth. A consideration of past exemplars leads us to estimate the date of birth in the era of Ruth and the Yankees' greatest season, and the quotation marks framing the "Babe" assure it is no more than a year later. We'll conservatively rate the black fountain pen ink that resides upon the sweet spot of this "Wilson Official League" ball at 9/10, though we are likely doing this masterpiece a disservice with that assessment. The handsome sphere is further aided by the two-tone stitching and mellow toning that completes the gorgeous vintage look. While any Bambino single carries undeniable allure, there is something extra special about top-quality 1920's models such as this, and one will find that most true connoisseurs of vintage autographs will agree. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19010 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $14,340.00
Muhammad Ali Signed Sports Illustrated Magazines Run of 37. Incredibly comprehensive offering was a visionary project for one dedicated fan of the charismatic Heavyweight Champ, who acquired high-grade copies (EX-MT or better), sans mailing label, of every S.I. to feature Ali on the cover. He then proceeded to have every one autographed, at great expense, in the mid-1990's when Ali could still offer an attractive signature. Adding even further appeal to the proceedings, Ali signed "Cassius Clay" twice for his earliest appearances as a coverboy, and "Muhammad Ali AKA Cassius Clay" for the next eight. The balance features his standard autograph. The sharpie signatures overwhelmingly rate 9/10 or better, though nine (all the standard "Muhammad Ali" variation) rate between 6/10 and 8/10. Not included in the count is a thirty-eighth Ali autograph, signed upon a card that reads, "This signature is for a future issue of Sports Illustrated that may be issued in my honor." All magazines are attractively matted and framed in groups of three, in chronological order, for display. Sadly, Ali's deteriorating medical condition makes duplication of this remarkable set impossible, so collectors could consider this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Each autograph is accompanied by its own certificate of authenticity from Online Authentics, the marketing company that represents the Champ's autograph activities. LOA from James Spence Authentication. LOA from PSA/DNA.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19371 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $11,950.00
1940's Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball. No serious baseball collection could be considered complete without the Bambino within its ranks, and here we present a specimen that would be at home in the finest of them. A bold sweet spot signature from baseball's greatest star is visible from the next county, and its placement upon an OAL (Harridge) ball couldn't be more desirable. A bit of scattered toning is in evidence, but our catalog photography should illustrate just how minor these considerations are. With the price of Ruth singles on a steady rise, there's no good reason to wait. And when you buy quality, such as the example offered here, you can't go wrong. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19042 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $10,755.00
1920's Grover Cleveland Alexander Single Signed Baseball. The obvious Golden Age styling of this "D&M Official League Ball" leaves little question but that the troubled Hall of Fame pitcher autographed it around the era of his famous (and purportedly drunken) strike out of Tony Lazzeri in the 1926 World Series. Seasoned collectors are well aware that Alexander singles are particularly tough, and this specimen boasts a sweet spot signature that you can read from a mile away. The ball shows a moderate degree of scuffing, but the signature has escaped the worst of it and maintains a very conservative 8.5/10 rating. The blue and red stitching recalls the Official balls of the era, adding further visual appeal to this elite sphere. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19003 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $10,157.50
1970's Jack Nicklaus Tournament Used Golf Bag. With eighteen major Championships under his belt, five better than Bobby Jones and six ahead of Tiger Woods, there's little question but that Nicklaus ranks high among the most significant figures in golf's long history. Here we present an incredible artifact from the second decade of his most productive years, when he was unquestionably the biggest name on the professional golf circuit. It is quite likely that a little bit of research will find a photo match for this green and white leather "MacGregor" bag which was acquired by our Ft. Worth Colonial Country Club staffer from a personal employee of the Golden Bear. Fine use is clearly evident, but the bag remains in marvelous condition, aching to return once again to the links. Whether you intend to load your own clubs inside, or display the bag in your trophy room, you can be sure you'll turn heads with this important artifact. Letter of provenance from the Colonial C.C. staffer is included.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19353 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $10,157.50
Late 1920's Babe Ruth & Grover Cleveland Alexander Signed Baseball. Important orb almost assuredly saw action at Sportsman's Park in either the 1926 or 1928 World Series, which pitted Ruth's Yankees against Alexander's Cardinals in a battle for baseball's top prize. The apparent bat mark and red paint transfer on ONL (Heydler) ball suggest a wild ride into the seats of Sportsman's Park, and the presence of each legendary Hall of Famer on a ball from Heydler's presidency could only logically be explained by an October meeting. While these points could never be definitively proven, this much is clear--each legendary autograph maintains remarkable boldness and clarity these many decades later, with the Babe rating 9.5/10 on the sweet spot, and Old Pete perhaps a half-point below at 9/10. Though several surviving balls from the opening of the Hall of Fame bear the autographs of each of these storied superstars, we can assert with almost complete confidence that this is the only dual-signed example on the face of the earth. It's just pure luck that it's such a beauty as well. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19013 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $9,560.00
Early 1940's Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball. A milky-white OAL (Harridge) ball supplies the most desirable of homes for a strong sweet spot signature from the man who rose from a Baltimore orphanage to the pinnacle of international fame. The blue fountain pen ink rates an extremely conservative 8/10 in strength, and the ball couldn''t be more attractive, with just a couple very faint dots of toning well clear of the signature that have zero effect upon the visual power. The cornerstone of any serious baseball autograph collection, the Ruth single is an essential acquisition and one of the safest investments in the hobby. And when you buy quality, you''ll never regret it. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19034 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $9,560.00
1994 Wayne Gretzky All-Star Game Worn Jersey. Elite jersey from the game's greatest figure was given to former Toronto Blue Jays star Duane Ward, who writes in his included signed letter of provenance, "...I had the honor of meeting and becoming very good friends with Wayne Gretzky and his family. Through the years our paths crossed numerous times in Toronto and Los Angeles. It was on a trip to Los Angeles that I attended his wife Janet Jones' birthday party, by invitation from Wayne and his family. While at the party I asked Wayne for one of his Hockey jerseys, it was at that time he promised me that he would give me his second period All-Star game jersey..." The striking purple and black sweater features "star" imagery to match the theme of the game, with "NHL Western Conference" and captain's "C" patches on chest, and "Gretzky 99" taking up the rear, with those digits repeated on each sleeve as well along with decorative patches for the Madison Square Garden event. Collar holds "CCM [size] 56" tagging. Wear is appropriately light for a single period of exhibition game action. A notation in an unknown hand (but likely Gretzky's) appears on the fight strap, reading "All-Star Game Sweater #2." A flawless black sharpie inscription on verso reads, "To Duane, Your Friend, Wayne Gretzky 99, 1994." With impeccable provenance and All-Star Game appeal, this ranks as one of the most attractive Gretzky jerseys to surface in recent years. LOA from James Spence Authentication. LOA from PSA/DNA.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19331 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $9,560.00
Six United States Presidents Signed Baseball. Hail to the Chiefs, half a dozen of them! Over thirty years of White House history convenes upon the pale white surface of this OAL (Brown) ball deriving from the personal collection of a famous sports broadcaster who acquired all signatures in person. One needn't expound upon the intense scarcity of this sphere, and it's safe to say that this will be collectors' one and only chance to own such a piece. Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan appear in black ink, Gerald Ford and George H.W. Bush in blue ink, and Bill Clinton in black felt tip marker. All maintain a boldness of 9/10 or better. This should set off a fierce war between collectors in the realms of Sports and Americana, so ready your bidding paddles. Just like politics itself, this auction is likely to get rough. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19080 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $8,962.50

Make Offer to Owner
$25,000 or more
Late 1970's Johnny Bench Game Worn Catcher's Mitt. We've said it before, but it bears repeating--game worn fielder's gloves remain the most elusive of all equipment/uniform pieces to collectors of the genre. The reasoning is quite simple. Nothing is more personal to a ballplayer than his glove, and it's the only piece in his arsenal (with the possible exception of shoes) that improves with age. While jerseys, bats, caps, batting gloves, etc. are typically discarded with little thought or sentimentality, the fielder's glove is something entirely different, usually used for an entire season or more. One will recall the scandal in the New York Yankees spring training camp a few years ago when Derek Jeter's fielder's glove was stolen. Surely he's lost endless jerseys and bats to equipment thieves, but the loss of the glove sent Jeter to the press, and subsequently smoked out the culprit as a fellow Yankee teammate (who was summarily dismissed).

Don't worry though--we come by this game used leather entirely honestly. A great letter of provenance from our consignor, who idolized Bench as a child, tells the story of how Duane Walker (Cincinnati Reds 1982-85) guilted Bench into making a gift of it to the boy, whose father had coached Walker in high school. And lest you think to question the authenticity of the glove itself, twin letters of authenticity are likewise provided from both top glove expert Joe Phillips and senior Rawlings glove designer Bob Clevenhagen. Both note that the "RL-P" model of this glove is an exclusive pro-stock designation, and that such a mitt could not have been purchased commercially. They likewise note the unusual customization of a "DE" wingtip model back with an "RL" front, such as only a professional could request. The quick action fold is also typical of Bench's preferred models, and even the indentation at the index finger area of the outside of the mitt indicates the manner in which Bench wore his. Finally, a vintage number "5" on the thum
Auction 707 | Lot: 19437 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $8,962.50
Early 1940's Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb & Tris Speaker Signed Baseball. The original owner's notarized letter of provenance is so magnificent that we reproduce it here: "I do hereby state that in 1943 I was driving to work one evening on Shaker Blvd. in Shaker Heights, Ohio, when another automobile rolled through a stop sign, striking my automobile. The person driving the other automobile was Tris Speaker. It was obvious that Speaker had been drinking and he told me to stop by his office in downtown Cleveland so he could give me something as a way of saying he was sorry for what happened. A couple days later I stopped by his office and Speaker gave me a baseball signed by himself, Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth. I have been in possession of that baseball for more than fifty-one years until today, January 17, 1995."

This incredible DUI "mea culpa" is a gift most collectors would happily trade for a dented fender, compiling what are arguably the three greatest hitters of the pre-war era. The Babe occupies his customary sweet spot on this "National Amateur Baseball Federation" orb, with Speaker and Cobb to the north and south respectively. Each presents at a conservative 8/10 or better, yet another reason why this ball will be the greatest conversation piece in your collection. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19038 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $8,663.75
1920's-30's Babe Ruth & Dizzy Dean Signed Baseball. Fantastic pairing of Hall of Fame autographs is made all the more appealing by vintage notations (in an unknown hand) that attribute each autograph to that legend's definitive season. The Babe's side panel blue fountain pen autograph, rating an unequivocal 10/10, is dated "10-15-27," with Dizzy's 9/10 offering tagged "10-12-34." While the authenticators cannot attest to the legitimacy of the dates, there is some logic to them, as both Ruth and Dean set off on barnstorming tours immediately after their respective World Series victories these years, and each date would be appropriate for these tours and explain the somewhat unusual pairing. One could easily believe that a baseball enthusiast in a more remote part of the country would use the same baseball to collect the autographs of these two living legends several years apart as their tours came through town. Of course this is all supposition, but the tremendous quality of the autographs is not. And, as our catalog imagery illustrates, each autograph presents as a gorgeous single, which only adds to the powerful allure. Non-official ball exhibits moderate toning, delivering a desirable vintage patina. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19019 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $8,365.00
Early 1930's Roger Peckinpaugh Single Signed Baseball. Super-tough single derives from the estate of Bob "Suitcase" Seeds, who represented the Cleveland Indians the first two seasons of his Big League career under the managerial rule of Peckinpaugh. The sweet spot signature of the early New York Yankees shortstop and 1925 American League MVP retains a marvelous 9/10 boldness against the moderately toned hide of the OAL (Harridge) baseball that serves as its home, rating it as one of the finest of the small available supply. A highly desirable vintage sphere that will thrill collectors of early Yankees, Senators and Indians singles. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19021 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $7,767.50

Make Offer to Owner
$11,651 or more
1940's Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball, PSA NM 7. An enormous and marvelously bold blue fountain pen sweet spot signature on an OAL (Harridge) ball makes this a dream piece for legions of baseball autograph collectors. While its true that the coating of shellac that covers the Bambino's autograph has yellowed over the passing decades, we must give it the lion's share of credit for maintaining the fantastic strength of the autograph. The graders at PSA, notoriously tough with their standards, applied a subgrade of 8/10 for the signature, though we'll refer you to our catalog imagery and see if you agree with our contention that the score is very conservative. A grade of 7/10 for the baseball itself accounts for the final score as listed. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19039 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $7,767.50
1942 Jimmie Foxx Single Signed Baseball. Unique solo sphere was autographed the day after the Hall of Fame slugger was selected off waivers by the Chicago Cubs from the Boston Red Sox franchise he'd called home since leaving Connie Mack at the close of the 1935 season. Foxx' 9+/10 sweet spot signature on this OAL (Harridge) ball is framed by top and bottom side panel writing in the slugger's hand that reads, "Tom, you are a grand guy," and "June 2, 1942." The circumstances lead us to wonder if "Tom" might be Hall of Fame Red Sox executive Tom Yawkey, and the use of an American League ball further suggests a farewell gift in Boston rather than a greeting in his new National League home. Regardless, one will be very hard-pressed to find a bolder specimen from this early powerhouse. Ball is moderately toned and appears to exhibit game use, very possibly from Foxx' final appearance in a Red Sox uniform. While these thoughts of provenance are purely conjecture, the spectacular quality of this rare single most assuredly is not. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19048 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $7,767.50
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 707 | Lot: 19051 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $7,767.50
1958 Cassius Clay Kentucky Golden Gloves Trophy. It was a petty crime that set into motion the events that would create the most famous pugilist in the long and storied history of boxing. The year was 1954, and a twelve-year old Cassius had left his new red Schwinn bicycle outside the Columbia Auditorium to visit a bazaar inside. Returning to find an empty space where his bike had been, Cassius flew into a tearful rage, and was led to a police officer named Joe Martin in the basement of a nearby boxing gym to file a report. "I'll whup whoever stole it," Cassius reported to the officer through his sobs. Martin suggested that if Cassius wished to do so, he had better come around the gym and learn how to fight.

Offered here is the earliest fruit of the labor that came as a result of that fateful meeting with Clay's first trainer and mentor, Joe Martin. Clay quickly became a fixture at the Columbia Street Gym in Louisville, and just as quickly proved himself both naturally gifted and disciplined beyond his years. Only six years after the theft of his Schwinn, Cassius Clay would stand atop the podium at the Rome Summer Games. And less than a decade after that sad afternoon in Louisville, Sonny Liston would not answer the bell for the seventh round in Miami Beach, and Clay would be crowned as Heavyweight Champion of the World. This exceptional, one-of-a-kind trophy marks the earliest stage of this legend's climb to the pinnacle of the boxing world.

A sixteen-year old Clay earned this impressive prize for taking top honors in his home state tournament. Measuring 20" from the base to the top of the boxer's head, the trophy bears an engraved plaque on the bakelight base which reads, "Kentucky Golden Gloves Tournament Division Champion, 1958." Four eagles perch at the corners, and a tall column rises at the center, holding the boxing figurine aloft. For years the trophy was displayed in a glass case at the Columbia Street Gym, where Clay had taken his very first sw
Auction 707 | Lot: 19368 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $7,767.50
1948 Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball. High-grade single dates from just two months before the Babe lost his battle to cancer, though the bold blue fountain pen inscription is rendered with a firm and steady hand. He inscribes the OAL (Harridge) ball to a friend, penning "To Art Goldie, From Babe Ruth, 6-15-48." The ball itself remains in similarly fine condition, toned an even, creamy shade. Certainly one of the cleanest solo Ruth balls to reach the auction block in recent memory, and one that would bring $50,000 or more if unpersonalized. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19050 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $7,170.00
1926 Pie Traynor All America Team Certificate Signed by Babe Ruth. Could there be any greater honor for a Golden Age ballplayer than to be recognized by the legendary Babe Ruth as the best at your position? Surely Hall of Fame Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Harold "Pie" Traynor was suitably honored by the presentation of this elegant scroll naming him as the cream of the 1926 crop. While these certificates do occasionally surface in the hobby, the Cooperstown credentials of the recipient in this case adds particular appeal. Signing off on the Babe's choice is a committee of sportswriters from each Big League city, with the tremendously desirable "Geo. H. 'Babe' Ruth" signature variation at bottom worth the price of admission alone. All autographs present at a strength of 9/10 or better, and the certificate itself offers no condition flaws to note. Measures 13x18" in size, with matting and framing extending the final dimensions to 17x25". Certificate was gifted to actor Max Gail, who appeared in the title role of the 1984 Broadway production "The Babe." A signed Playbill and poster from this production is included. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19093 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $7,170.00
1946 Babe Ruth's Last Home Run Baseball, Signed. It's a little known fact that the Babe gave the final exhibition of his home run talents just two years before his death at age fifty-one while on vacation south of the Rio Grande. As the notarized letter from our consignor explains in "...May 1946 Babe Ruth was presenting a batting exhibition game in the former 'Parque Delta' in Mexico City. After a few attempts, Ruth hit a single home run. My father had the luck to catch Babe Ruth's home run hit and was fortunate enough to move amongst the crowd and have Babe Ruth sign his ball..." The consignor also supplied a photocopy of a June 2, 1946 New York TImes article that quotes Ruth as saying, "They gave me a wonderful time and I enjoyed every minute of it. I went fishing, I played golf, I took in a bull fight and in my farewell appearance in Mexico I poked a couple of home runs for them."

The consignor further explained that the ball survived a Mexican river flood that robbed the ball of some of its beauty but none of its historical significance. We can find no evidence of any manufacturer's stamping on this important sphere, but the Babe's side panel signature continues to resonate at a strength of 5/10.

Surely it must have felt good for the Babe, his health already fading, to watch one last baseball--this ball--drop over an outfield wall the way so many hundreds had in his glory years. The opportunity to own the piece that symbolizes the very end of the Babe Ruth home run era is not one to be taken lightly. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19378 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $7,170.00
2003 Derek Jeter Game Worn Jersey. The most beloved Yankees star since Thurman Munson, and the first team captain since him as well. This road grey gamer packed the fans into every ballpark the star shortstop visited during the Yanks' thirty-ninth American League Championship season, with "New York" announced in navy and white tackle twill on the chest and number "2" in similar design on verso. The Yankees Centennial patch announces one hundred years of history on the left sleeve. Tail tagging is "Russell Athletic Authentic Collection," with flap tags affixed at bottom reading "48 100% Polyester" and "+2" Extra Length." A "2003" year tag is at lower right. Use is light to moderate, and certainly acceptable for a player of Jeter's stature. While Jeter's numbers alone should be sufficient to earn him an eventual home in Baseball's Hall of Fame, the tenacity of play seen in moments of brilliance so captivating that they are known simply as "The Flip" and "The Dive" proves that not every multi-millionaire athlete is by definition a prima donna. Derek Jeter is one of the last "old school" ballplayers, and for that he should be celebrated by those of us who collect baseball memorabilia out of nostalgia for the purity of the game. Acquired directly from "Yankees-Steiner Collectibles," the official hobby outlet for game used Yankees gear, with a Brandon Steiner signed letter of provenance and matching holographic stickers. LOA from Lou Lampson.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19460 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $7,170.00
1930's Babe Ruth Signed Baseball. A magnificent sweet spot signature from the greatest Yankee of them all gives this Pacific Coast League ball the look of a $30,000 single, though side panel signatures from fellow Yanks Harry Williams (1913-14) and Jimmie Reese (1930-31) will make the sphere far more affordable for those seeking a top-flight Ruth autograph on a baseball. One shouldn't turn up his nose at the signers who share space with the Bambino however, as Williams carries strong appeal for his early service to the New York Americans, and Reese gained some degree of fame as the Babe's roommate for his oft-quoted remark regarding Ruth's hard-partying ways: "I don't bunk with the Babe. I just bunk with his suitcase." Each of these autographs are equal in strength to the Babe's 8/10 offering. The ball itself shows light, even toning with just a hint of foxing well clear of the all-important Ruth. A fine playing days Ruth autograph for the serious collector. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19024 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $6,871.25
Early 1970's Bobby Orr Game Worn Skates. The most unmistakable footwear in the history of the NHL. One of the most beloved sports figures in a town that also gave birth to the legends of Ted Williams and Larry Bird, Orr is remembered perfectly in the leather and steel of these "CCM Tackaberry Prolite" skates, each bearing his magical number "4" in its proper style and degree of wear. Each skate shows the stresses and strains of many icy miles, clearly having served their master for the entirety of a season, and perhaps even more. Thrillingly, these date from the era of Orr's greatest moment, the Superman dive captured for eternity in the photo snapped an instant he netted the sudden death 1970 Stanley Cup-winning goal. Each is imprinted with the proper size "7 1/2" on the underside, and show the remnants of the sealing treatment used to keep Orr's feet dry. The left skate is missing the white plastic protective knob, placed in that position to avoid cutting oneself in high-kicking sprints. Originally sourced from the collection of a noted Orr expert, with LOA to verify. LOA from Dave Bushing.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19317 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $6,572.50
1969-72 Roberto Clemente Game Used Bat. Few baseball players have earned as much respect of the general public as a star player and a humanitarian than Roberto Clemente. His tragic death in a plane crash while trying to provide aid to others keeps that image in peoples minds forever. His game used equipment is widely sought after by collectors, especially bats with good game use like the one we offer here. It is a Hillerich & Bradsby signature model U1 bat. Its length is thirty-six inches and weight is thirty-seven ounces. It shows outstanding use with a handle/barrel crack that has been glued. Many ball and stitch marks are visible on the right, left and back barrel. Black, green and brown bat rack streaks are also visible. There is a light coat of pine tar on the handle.. The model number is stamped on the knob and Clemente's number (21) is on the knob in black marker. The weight is also on the knob written in pencil. It has a PSA grade of GU7. LOA from Taube & Malta.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19398 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $6,572.50
1999 Tony Gwynn Hit #2,998 Game Used Uniform, Cap, Helmet, Cleats, Bat & Baseball. He's the only man on the top twenty list for career batting average that did not play before the Second World War, one of the most skilled batsmen in the game's long history. With the uniform and equipment offered in this lot, Gwynn moved within two steps of the elite 3,000 Hit Club and assured baseball immortality. Package includes:

1) Road blue jersey and matching grey pants. Jersey sports "Padres 19" upon chest, with "Gwynn 19" on verso. Thirtieth anniversary team patch on left sleeve. "Russell Athletic Diamond Collection [size] 50" label in tail, with "100% Polyester" flap tag. Handwritten notations on tags helped document the shirt in the locker room after the game, with details later embroidered on rear tail. Pants have similar handwritten notations on interior tagging. Jersey and pants are signed in 10/10 blue sharpie on rear numeral and interior waistband respectively. Light wear is proper for single game's use.

2) Cap provides number "19" in black marker inside dome and "New Era [size] 7 1/8" tagging. Notated for event under the visor, and signed in 10/10 silver sharpie on top.

3) Batting helmet with "American Baseball Cap [size] 7 1/8" label inside is notated for the event on label and interior padding. Signed in perfect silver sharpie on visor.

4) Batting gloves and wristbands. The former show fine wear, with Gwynn's unique finger tape. Each is notated for the event and signed in somewhat hazy blue sharpie. Wristbands have no notations or signatures.

5) Cleats are "Nike" size eleven and exhibit light wear. No notation to event, but each tongue is signed in 10/10 silver sharpie.

6) Signature model Louisville Slugger B267 shows nice use, with solid ball marks, bat rack marks, pine tar and original handle tape. Handwritten notations on knob address all relevant information about style, length, weight and jersey number: "B267c, 33-30.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19453 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $6,572.50

Make Offer to Owner
$12,679 or more
1940's Jimmie Foxx Single Signed Baseball. Absolutely exceptional specimen is on a million want lists for collectors of all stripes--Hall of Fame, 500 Home Run Club, Philadelphia Athletics, Boston Red Sox. We expect quite a battle between these warring factions for this magnificent single, featuring a 10/10 black fountain pen sweet spot signature below a side panel inscription from Foxx that reads, "To the Bartons, My Best to the best." The recipients were a rather noteworthy celebrity couple in their day. Mrs. Barton was a Ziegfeld Follies dancer, and Mr. Barton was an old vaudeville actor and owner of a minor league franchise out of New Hyde Park, New York called the Barton Nighthawks. Our consignor worked in a restaurant that Mrs. Barton owned late in her life, and was given the ball by her personally. The "Official League" baseball is moderately and evenly toned, adding that highly desirable vintage patina to the proceedings. An expertly applied coating of shellac is to thank for the ball's astounding quality. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19040 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,975.00
1957 Ty Cobb Single Signed Baseball. The seventy-one year old terror of the Dead Ball Era has never looked better than he does here upon this "Reach Official League" ball signed for a fan in Kansas City, Missouri. Cobb's side panel blue ink autograph rates a magnificent 9+/10, and is underscored by the date of "6/6/57" in his hand. Just beneath, the original owner used the same pen to note the location, "K.C., MO," and reassert the date of the signing, though these factors do nothing to diminish the tremendous visual appeal. While Cobb checks and letters are fairly readily available in the collecting community, single signed baseballs such as this are far more scarce and desirable, particularly such high-grade specimens as the one we present here. Just the slightest bit of surface wear is noted purely for accuracy's sake, and our catalog imagery should illustrate just how insignificant these concerns are. Certainly this ranks very close to the top of the small heap of available examples, and deserves a home in the finest of private collections. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19057 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,975.00
1948 Babe Ruth Signed Photograph. Signed just three months before his passing, this classic 8x10" image pictures the Babe during happier and healthier times, training with the Yanks at their St. Petersburg, Florida spring training home. The black fountain pen inscription, reading "To My Pal Danny, From Babe Ruth, 5-5-48" rates an impressive 8.5/10, and contrasts wonderfully against the pale background of sky. The photo itself is free of any noteworthy condition issues. The "Danny" in question is Danny Goodman, a prominent and long-serving front office figure in the Dodgers organization. Consigned by a member of Goodman's family along with the Honus Wagner signed photograph also found within this auction. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19171 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,975.00
1934 Babe Ruth & Moe Berg Signed Baseball. The cast of characters residing upon this "International Special" horsehide suggests 1934 vintage quite convincingly, as each of the four signers were participants in that year's famous Tour of Japan. The great Bambino claims his rightful sweet spot position in 8/10 black fountain pen ink, with government spy Moe Berg positioned to the east at a strength of 9/10. To the north is the pairing of Detroit Tigers Hall of Famer Charles Gehringer and Philadelphia A's veteran Bing Miller, each 7/10. Artifacts from this historic tour, which continues to pay dividends today in the form of superstars like Ichiro, Matsui and Matsuzaka, carry tremendous collecting interest and should be pursued aggressively when offered at auction. In global baseball terms, there are few pieces more significant. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19031 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,676.25
1961 Ty Cobb Single Signed Baseball. The fearsome fury of the Dead Ball era would be laid to rest in July of this year, though his side panel signature, dated "1961" in his hand, still exhibits the strong and steady hand that helped him to earn 4,191 career hits. It appears in 9/10 blue ink on the side panel of an attractively toned "Ted Kluszewski" model baseball, making for a moving testament to the fascinating life of the Hall of Fame's first resident. An inch below, and in a much lighter ink, is a brief personalization in another hand, though the catalog imagery will confirm that this does little to detract. How fitting that the Peach would choose to part ways with the world during a baseball season dominated by the hated home run blast, with which his rival Babe Ruth had "ruined the game of baseball" many decades earlier. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19065 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,676.25
1912 Frank "Home Run" Baker Home Run Baseball from the Baker Family. It's difficult to imagine in the modern age, when ballplayers like Pujols, Howard and Bonds have turned outfield bleachers into veritable hard-hat zones with their endless long balls, that a man could merit the nickname "Home Run" when he managed to hit fewer than one hundred in his entire thirteen-season career. It shows us just how much this game has changed from the Dead Ball era that saw the Hall of Fame third baseman as one of the most menacing batters in the sport's history. The arrival of Babe Ruth on the scene, just as the physical make-up of the horsehide spheres changed, and the balls "came to life," was lamented by players like Ty Cobb, who believed that the national fascination with the home run that Ruth inspired in baseball fans was an affront to the very nature of the game. But before the Babe and the lively ball began their historic partnership, there was Frank "Home Run" Baker, rising to the top of the home run charts every season from 1911 through 1914 with eleven, ten, twelve and nine respectively.

To be historically correct, even though Baker was the Home Run Champ four straight seasons, it was actually game-winning home runs against Hall of Fame pitchers Marquard and Mathewson in the 1911 World Series that earned him his famous moniker. As a member of Connie Mack's famous $100,000 Infield, Baker was certainly expected to perform at a high level of expertise, and his efforts were largely responsible for four pennants and three World Series Championships during his days in Philadelphia. And there likely would have been more had not the competition of the newly founded Federal League raised ballplayer salaries, causing Mack to sell off his precious team, and Baker to sit out the 1915 season before being sold to the Yankees in 1916 for $35,000. There he remained until the end of his career, briefly sharing a dugout with the Babe after his arrival in 1920. And it was there that the torch wa
Auction 707 | Lot: 19372 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,676.25
Circa 1932 Babe Ruth Signed Original Artwork. Skillfully rendered watercolor portrait of the game's greatest figure, complete with pen and ink cartoon figures for added charm, is signed by the Babe in the boldest of blue fountain pen ink after his handwritten greeting of "Sincerely." The artwork is applied to a 5.5x8" sheet of medium weight card stock, which exhibits no condition flaws to note. A wonderfully evocative piece of an era when the game was pure. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19103 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,377.50
1933 Goudey Lou Gehrig #160, Signed. Late career signature from the brave and tragic Iron Horse finds the perfect home on a card from one of the hobby's most beloved issues. The black fountain pen autograph projects at a wonderful 9/10 on this solid specimen from the Goudey set, featuring terrific color and centering, with just the typical edge and corner wear and a very light wrinkle well clear of the signature. The authenticity and safety of both the card and the autograph are assured with encapsulation by the trained experts of PSA/DNA.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19113 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,377.50

Make Offer to Owner
$300,000 or more
1990's Jack Nicklaus Tournament Used Golf Bag. Our consignor, a member of Ft. Worth, Texas' Colonial Country Club golf staff, explained to us that this unmistakable leather bag, decorated with a sloth of Golden Bears (yes, a group of bears is called a "sloth" apparently), was produced only in a very limited run of 250 for the most particular of golfers. This one, however, is unnumbered, and with good reason--it is the personal, used bag of the legend himself. The bag shows light but definite action from this iconic figure, and was acquired by our consignor directly from a Nicklaus staffer. Worth a mint just as a rare collectible style, the Bear's personal ownership renders this beauty practically priceless.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19358 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,377.50
1914 Frank "Home Run" Baker Home Run Baseball from the Baker Family. The scene was Philadelphia's Shibe Park, a warm summer's day in late June, just two days before the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo would set Europe on a collision course with the first World War. The Senators were visiting the Philadelphia Athletics, and on the mound was Washington's number two ace Yancy Ayers, better known around the League as "Doc." As the greatest power slugger in the American League, a man who would top the home run chart for the fourth consecutive season in 1914, stepped to the plate, Ayers cradled this OAL (Johnson) ball in his right hand. Baker dug in, his mighty bat cocked above his left shoulder. In an instant, this ball and Baker's bat met in a tremendous collision, sending the former into the record books as one of a League-best nine homers that the Hall of Famer would hit this A.L. Championship season.

Somehow, the game's first great long ball slugger was able to retrieve this ball after his round trip of the bases, and he quickly scribbled the details of the event on the side panel for posterity. The quite light but legible script reads, "Home Run off Doc Ayres (sic), June 26th, 1914." This style of notation matches exactly the scant few other Baker home run baseballs to reach the market. The ball shows tremendous use from that day but still presents wonderfully over nine decades later as one of the earliest documented home run baseballs in the hobby. This fact, and the identity of the man that sent this ball on its wild ride, makes it a piece worthy of the Baseball Hall of Fame, or of the finest game used memorabilia collections in the world. The ball is accompanied by a notarized letter of provenance from the family of Frank Baker. LOA from Dave Bushing.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19373 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,377.50
1970's Arnold Palmer Tournament Used Golf Bag. If Bobby Jones is the Babe Ruth of golf, then Arnold Palmer is the Mickey Mantle. Few figures in the history of the sport could compare to Palmer in iconic status, and every player in the professional game today owes a debt of gratitude to Arnie for the marketability (read: million-dollar purses) of the modern game. Here we offer a piece that should thrill even the casual links enthusiast, a red and white leather bag actually owned and used by Palmer in 1970's tournament play. The bag shows fine wear, and is emblazoned with Palmer's name on back and sides. The bag was acquired by a staffer at Ft. Worth, Texas' Colonial Country Club, where this bag was left by the legendary linksman after a round of golf. A letter of provenance from that staffer is included with the lot. A very special opportunity to take your golf collection to the next level.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19350 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,228.13
Circa 1924 Walter Johnson & Muddy Ruel Signed Baseball. An absolute dream piece for the serious 1920's baseball collector, especially those with a fondness for the defunct Washington Senators franchise. This astounding rarity celebrates the esteemed battery that earned the long-suffering ballclub from our nation's capital its one and only World Championship in 1924. Though Johnson is clearly the more recognizable figure of the two in baseball lore, the Hall of Famer was very vocal in crediting Ruel with his rebirth as a top-tier pitcher when everyone, including himself, thought his best days were behind him. And in fact, it was the diminutive catcher who plated the winning run in the bottom of Game Seven's twelfth inning to secure for Johnson his only Series victory. As such, these two will be forever linked, as they are here upon the side panel of a "Partridge Official Major League" baseball. Each has signed in the same bold black fountain pen ink, rating nothing less than 9/10 eight decades after their application. A thin coating of ancient shellac is largely to thank for the remarkable condition of the autographs, and has supplied the sphere with an attractive vintage patina. Certainly a one-of-a-kind artifact, destined for the finest of private collections. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19006 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,078.75

Make Offer to Owner
$7,618 or more
1932 Babe Ruth Single Signed Baseball. One of the Babe's definitive moments would come less than nine months after he signed this OAL (Harridge) ball for a fan, as he would point to the center field wall of Wrigley Field in the third game of the World Series and then proceed to deliver the next pitch to a location well beyond it. A black ink side panel inscription from the year of the mythic "Called Shot" reads, "To Dick Rasberg, From Babe Ruth, Jan 20 - 1932." The quality of Ruth's writing is just fantastic, rating an impressive 8.5/10. The ball shows even toning and scattered foxing, but the latter doesn't dare to encroach upon the panel occupied by the Babe's greeting. A marvelous high-grade playing days single! LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19028 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,078.75
1934 Babe Ruth & Lou Gehrig Signed Baseball. A September, 1934 vintage notation on this OAL (Harridge) sphere dates this important artifact to the final month of their troubled partnership. Almost as if to punctuate the issues that kept these Yankee legends at arm's length from one another, the Babe fails to take his traditional sweet spot position, placing his black fountain pen autograph at the opposite pole from Gehrig's. Ruth's autograph has suffered from a degree of surface abrasions which has resulted in some loss of the bold ink and a conservative rating of 5/10. Gehrig's autograph has fared better, staying clear of the worst of the scuffing. He rates 8/10 in boldness. The printed date in an unknown hand under Ruth's signature is joined by more writing on the sweet spot, but this is largely lost to wear. It is clear, however, that no other signatures ever resided on this ball, maintaining the status of a highly coveted Ruth and Gehrig duo. LOA from PSA/DNA. LOA from James Spence Authentication.
Auction 707 | Lot: 19033 | May 5, 2007

Sold For: $5,078.75

Make Offer to Owner
$7,618 or more

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