1935 Babe Ruth Double-Signed Check

Sold For:

$4,500

Year:

1935

Auction:

2016 Fall

Lot #:

2301

Category:

Internet Only

This extraordinary double-signed Babe Ruth personal check, dated July 8, 1935, is made out to the “Hotel Hollenden” in the amount of $50.00, and has been signed “G. H. Ruth” in black fountain pen on both the front and the back (each signature grading “9/10”). The check, which is drawn on the Chemical Bank & Trust Company of New York, features Ruth's preprinted name along the left margin. The Hotel Hollenden was one of the premier hotels in Cleveland, Ohio, at the time and one that Ruth stayed at often when visiting the city. The reason for his stay on this date was to attend the All-Star Game, which was held at Cleveland's Municipal Stadium on the day this check was made out. Ruth had retired from baseball just one month earlier, on June 2nd, but he obviously couldn't resist making an appearance at what was just the third All-Star Game ever played. Checks have long been a favorite of autograph collectors due to their inherent authenticity and the fact that the signatures on checks are almost always very well executed. This is one of only a small number of Ruth double-signed checks we have ever handled, and its dating makes it especially desirable. The check (8.25 x 3 inches) displays normal bank cancellation stamps and holes, a moderate vertical center fold, and a pair of staple holes near the center. In Excellent condition overall. Auction LOA from James Spence/JSA.