Best-In-Class
1969 Hank Aaron Autographed 521st Home Run Bat PSA/DNA GU 10.. ...
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Description
1969 Hank Aaron Autographed 521st Home Run Bat PSA/DNA GU 10.
Best-In-Class Expert Analysis/Summary:
If there was ever an individual who embodied the "speak softly and carry a big stick" approach to life, it was Hank Aaron. Always the consummate professional, Aaron let his bat do most of the talking throughout his career, one defined by class under fire and consistency. Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier two decades before this bat was used, but Aaron would eventually break the most hallowed record in the entire sport when he slugged number 715 and passed Babe Ruth on the career home run list. This specific Aaron bat helped the slugger tie Ted Williams on the all-time list with his 521st career home run.
The bat is not only signed and inscribed by Aaron as such, but it also comes with additional documentation that helps establish how it was initially acquired. Harry Carlson was formally presented with the historic bat by Aaron at a Baseball Writers' dinner in Boston. In fact, a picture of Aaron with Carlson and the subject bat appears in an article about the recipient (a copy accompanies the bat). Furthermore, Aaron would later sign a prepared letter, confirming its use and connection to the home run.
Like the man himself, most Aaron bats in circulation are unassuming. For most of his career, Aaron wasn't known for employing distinctive-type modifications to his bats, and many lack exceptional eye appeal. Far more often, Aaron gamers exhibit a modest appearance. That is not the case here. From an aesthetic perspective alone, this is one of the finest Aaron bats ever discovered. The beautiful tone of the wood is further complemented by tremendous use and character, including a heavy coat of pine tar in the mid-handle and faded "44" (Aaron's uniform number) on the knob. The combination of this bat's attractive visuals, historical connection, and documented origin make it one of the best Aaron bats in the hobby.