Babe Ruth Signed Photo with Note from Ruth on the Reverse Mentioning His "Old Friend" Lou Gehrig!

Sold For:

$4,800

Year:

1947

Auction:

2015 Fall

Lot #:

849

Category:

Autographed Baseballs/Flats/Photos

Postcard-size photo of Babe Ruth in a classic batting pose as a member of the New York Yankees. Boldly signed by Ruth in blue fountain pen (grading "10"; slight hint of brushing) in the upper left-hand corner. It is interesting to note that Babe Ruth had these photos specially produced expressly for the purpose of fulfilling autograph requests (sometimes they are found with a postcard back). This one is unique in that the reverse features a typed note from Ruth as well! Apparently, the original recipient of this photo had sent Ruth a photo of Lou Gehrig as a gift and in response Ruth sent her this photo and note: "Dear Mrs. Loyne: Thank you for the snapshot. I am proud to have a nice picture like that of my old friend Lou Gehrig. Sincerely, Babe Ruth" [signed]. According to JSA, the Ruth signature on the reverse is secretarial. A handwritten notation below the note reads "Rec'd Nov. 30, 1947." As we noted earlier, this photo was Ruth's standard issue for autograph requests. He most likely signed hundreds of them at a time, and then left the actual mailing to that of his secretary and/or wife, hence the secretarial signature on the reverse. This particular example is new to the hobby and modern collecting world and was just recently discovered by our consignor in a large postcard collection that has been in her family for decades. The photo (3.5 x 5.5 inches) displays a few minor surface wrinkles (only visible when viewed at certain angles) and is otherwise Excellent in its overall appearance. LOA from James Spence/JSA. Reserve $500. Estimate $2,000++.