Extremely Rare "Joltin' Joe DiMaggio" Single Signed Baseball PSA NM-MT+ 8.5

Sold For:

$6,600

Year:

1988

Auction:

2017 Fall

Lot #:

1716

Category:

Autographed Baseballs/Flats/Photos

Graded NM-MT+ 8.5 by PSA/DNA (autograph grade of "9," ball grade of "8," resulting in a final grade of "8.5"). The extreme rarity of this Joe DiMaggio single-signed baseball becomes apparent as soon as one gazes upon DiMaggio's flawlessly scripted blue-ink signature on the sweet spot of this American League (Brown) ball. On this occasion, instead of simply signing the ball in his usual manner, DiMaggio has embellished it by writing "Joltin Joe DiMaggio." Despite the fact that that famous nickname has been immortalized in song and fans have been using it for nearly seventy years, DiMaggio never referred to himself as "Joltin Joe," and seldom signed his name in that manner. This is one of only four balls that we have ever seen or heard of so inscribed by DiMaggio, and it is the first that we have seen offered at public auction in a decade! Although we cannot state with certainty how many other examples exist, we're sure the number must be quite low. As most collectors know, DiMaggio was usually less than obliging when it came to adding special variations to his signature of any kind, unless, of course, the request was accompanied by a Brink's truck full of money. It is unfortunate that we don't know the exact circumstances of how, when, and where this ball was signed, because it would probably make for one incredible hobby story. Regardless of its history, it remains an extremely rare modern-day collectible and the only example of its type we have ever offered. Full LOA from PSA/DNA. Reserve $500. Estimate $1,000++.