1939 Inaugural Hall of Fame Induction Class Signed First-Day Cover Signed by Ruth, Cobb, Wagner, Young, and Others - PSA/DNA

Sold For:

$105,000

Year:

1939

Auction:

2019 Fall

Lot #:

1910

Category:

Autographed Baseballs/Flats/Photos

The 1939 Baseball Centennial, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the "birth" of baseball, was a yearlong celebration highlighted by the dedication of the Baseball Hall of Fame on June 12th. Of the 25 players who were being inducted into the Hall of Fame on that day, only 11 were were still alive, all of whom were able to attend the ceremony. This remarkable 1939 Centennial of Baseball first-day cover has been signed by on the front by each of those 11 inaugural inductees. Encapsulated by PSA/DNA, with the signatures all certified as "Authentic." This is one of fewer than ten 1939 first-day covers we have seen featuring the signatures of all 11 inaugural inductees. The piece is highlighted by a beautiful blue fountain pen Babe Ruth signature grading "8/9." The remaining signatures, scripted in either blue, black, or green fountain pen, are those of Ty Cobb ("7"), Honus Wagner ("6/7"), Cy Young ("8"), Larry Lajoie ("6/7"), George Sisler ("6/7"), Walter Johnson ("6"), Tris Speaker ('5") Eddie Collins ("8/9"), Grover Alexander ("8"), and Connie Mack ("7/8"). Postmarked "Cooperstown N. Y. Jun 12 1939 9-AM." Four Baseball Centennial 3-cent stamps are affixed in the upper right corner and bear a "First Day of Issue" cancellation stamp. The envelope bears a typewritten address. The envelope (6.5 x 3.75 inches) displays light wear in the corners and is in Excellent condition overall. Opening Bid $10,000. Estimate (open).