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Lot # 635: 1950 Jackie Robinson Signed Barnstorming Tour Letter (PSA)

Starting Bid: $300.00

Bids: 26 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed
Lot / Auction Closed




This lot is closed. Bidding is not allowed.

Item was in Auction "Summer Classic 2022",
which ran from 8/28/2022 7:00 PM to
9/17/2022 10:00 PM



One-page typed letter, dated September 27, 1950, signed by Jackie Robinson. In his letter, written on his personal letterhead that features a small portrait photo him in the upper left corner, Robinson discusses his level of involvement with his upcoming postseason barnstorming tour. In full: "To whom it may concern: Ted Worner is hereby authorized to schedule barnstorming base ball games for me for thirty days after the season ends. The period being from October 9th to November 1st. He and Lestor Dorman are the promoters and I am not connected with the games in any way except as a player." Signed "Jackie Robinson" in blue fountain pen, with the signature grading 9/10. Although we do not know to whom this letter is addressed, its tone is legal in nature and makes clear that Robinson's only responsibility with regard to the tour is that of a player. Robinson took part in postseason barnstorming tours annually between the years 1946 and 1953. Robinson, of course, was the headliner and although most of the players on his team were African American, the roster also included white players. The tours usually took place in the South because of the warmer weather and the lack of Major League teams in the area at the time. The tours were always well received and helped to cement Robinson's popularity across all races. All items related to Robinson's barnstorming tours are scarce, especially correspondence, and this is one of the few examples we have seen. The letter (7.25x10.5") displays two horizontal folds and is in Excellent condition overall. Full LOA from PSA. 

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