New York Yankees presentational black bat, produced by Hillerich & Bradsby, issued to commemorate the club's 1941 World Championship season. This is not only an early New York Yankees black bat (the practice of issuing black bats began in 1934), but one of the most desirable because it dates from the year of Joe DiMaggio's legendary 56-game hitting streak. The bat is stamped "New York Yankees Worlds Champions 1941" on the barrel and features the gilt-lettered names (either in script or block letter, depending upon whether or not the respective player had an endorsement contract with H&B) of 29 team members, including DiMaggio, McCarthy, Rizzuto, Ruffing, Gomez, Dickey, and Gordon. All black bats are rare because they were issued only to team members and front-office personnel, but the Yankees 1941 example has always been especially scarce. The 1941 season is one of the most memorable in baseball history because of Joe DiMaggio's extraordinary feat of hitting safely in 56 consecutive games. The streak captivated a nation for nearly two months and even inspired a hit song. To date, few players have ever come close to matching it and DiMaggio's streak is generally regarded as one of the few records that will never be broken. DiMaggio's consistency that season earned him the MVP Award at season's end and also helped lead the Yankees to their fifth pennant in six years. The club then made short work of the Dodgers in the World Series to capture their ninth World Championship in franchise history. The bat (35" in length) remains in Excellent to Mint condition. An attractive and rare display piece commemorating one of the most historic seasons in New York Yankees franchise history.