Exceptional 1935 Lou Gehrig Single-Signed Ball - Sweet-Spot Signature!

Sold For:

$32,588

Year:

1935

Auction:

2014 Spring

Lot #:

914

Category:

Autographed Baseballs/Flats/Photos

Official American League (Harridge) ball signed by Lou Gehrig across the sweet spot. Gehrig's signature has been scripted in black fountain pen and grades "6." This ball dates from the 1934-1939 manufacturing period, however, it is accompanied by a VHS tape, produced in 1998, that features the original owner describing how he obtained it in 1935. According to his account, he was awarded the ball (along with a Babe Ruth signed bat) as first prize for being the best baseball player in his group. The dating of the ball is important because it directly relates to its most appealing and rare feature: a sweet-spot signature. Gehrig, like most other Yankees players in the 1920s and early 1930s, normally signed his name on a side panel when autographing a ball (the sweet spot was always reserved for Ruth). It was only after Ruth left the Yankees following the 1934 season that Gehrig's signature began appearing on the sweet spot of Yankee team balls. However, as nearly all collectors are aware, Gehrig single-signed balls, in any form, are exceedingly rare and far scarcer than Ruth singles. Those featuring a sweet-spot signature are rarer still, and are absent in even the most advanced collections. The ball displays light toning and evidence of minor handling wear. In spectacular Excellent condition overall. Full LOA from James Spence/JSA. Reserve $5,000. Estimate $10,000+. SOLD FOR $32,588