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Lot # 713: 1939 Inaugural Hall of Fame Induction Signed Baseball by 7 of 11 Original Members (PSA)

Starting Bid: $3,000.00

Bids: 13 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed
Lot / Auction Closed




This lot is closed. Bidding is not allowed.

Item was in Auction "2024 Summer Classic",
which ran from 6/9/2024 12:00 PM to
6/29/2024 10:00 PM



Baseball signed in black fountain pen by seven of the eleven inductees who attended the dedication of the Baseball Hall of Fame on June 12, 1939. The boldest of the signatures is that of Babe Ruth (grading 6/10), which adorns the sweet spot. The remaining signatures on the ball are those of Ty Cobb (5/10), Tris Speaker (4/10), Connie Mack (5/10), Honus Wagner (1/10), Walter Johnson (1/10), and George Sisler (1/10). As PSA notes in its accompanying LOA, there is evidence of additional writing on the ball that is too faint to read. The red-stitched baseball, which has no visible manufacturer's stampings, is moderately toned and soiled, with a few light abrasions. In Very Good condition. 1939 marked the 100th Anniversary of Baseball and the highlight of the yearlong celebration across America was the dedication of the Baseball Hall of Fame. At the time of the dedication, twenty-five players/managers/executives had been inducted, but only eleven were still alive. This incredible ball features the signatures of seven of those eleven and is missing only Nap Lajoie, Eddie Collins, Cy Young, and Grover Alexander. Balls signed by all eleven inductees present that day are exceedingly rare and often command exorbitant prices, as evidenced by the only such example we have ever sold, which realized $236,389 in our 2019 Spring auction. The offered ball is the second-most complete 1939 Hall of Fame induction ball we have handled, making it both a rare and significant souvenir from that historic day. Full LOA from PSA.

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