Fall 2013 - Item detail

2004 Boston Red Sox World Series Ring in Original Box - The Reverse of the Curse!

Sold For:
$32,588
Year:
2004
Auction:
2013 Fall
Lot #:
13
Category:
Featured
2004 Boston Red Sox World Series ring, in its original wood presentation box, issued to minor-league manager Nelson Paulino. While all World Series rings are special, this example is one of the most significant from the modern era because it represents Boston's first World Championship since 1918, thereby freeing the club from "The Curse of the Bambino." The 18K gold ring employs a classic design. A large "B," made up of ten red stones, sits upon a baseball diamond motif, which is flanked on four sides by blue stones. Fourteen diamonds, of varying sizes, are incorporated within the front design. The lettering along the bezel reads "World Champions." Fifty-six smaller diamonds are mounted along the perimeter. The right shank reads "Greatest Comeback in History 2004," below which is a representation of two "Red Socks" and the engraved notation "8 Straight." The left shank bears the recipient's name, "Paulino," a depiction of the World Series trophy resting within Fenway Park, the letters "BB OPS," and the engraved notation "4-0 Sweep." ("BB OPS" stands for "baseball operations," denoting the recipient as either a front-office or minor league employee.) Engraved on the interior are "86 Years/10-27-04/Jostens 18K." Nelson Paulino was the manager of Boston's Dominican Summer League team in 2004 and is currently a hitting instructor with the club's Salem farm club. He has been a member of the Red Sox organization for sixteen years.

2004 Boston Red Sox World Series rings are seldom seen at public auction, and this is the first example we have ever handled. Of special note, this is an "A" style ring, the exact same style that was issued to players. Only players and key team employees received 18K rings with diamonds in this style, and the fact that so few have been offered for sale (and a quick search online will show how very few!) is further evidence of their great significance and desirability. In this modern age, with contracts being in the millions of dollars for most players, it is not surprising that such an important and historic ring would be kept and cherished (possibly forever) as a prized family heirloom. Any World Series ring from any year is noteworthy, but the 2004 Red Sox World Series ring is especially revered by its honored recipients. Few examples will ever see the marketplace. The offered ring is in outstanding Near Mint condition. The original presentation box (7.5 x 6.5 x 4 inches) features the name "Nelson Paulino" and the year, "2004," engraved on an interior metal plaque. The 2004 World Series logo is displayed on the front panel. "2004/World Champions" appears in frosted, white lettering upon the glass lid. The box displays a few minor nicks and is in Excellent condition overall. Size: approximately 10. Weight: approximately 75 grams. Reserve $10,000. Estimate (open). SOLD FOR $32,588