Chuck Klein Signed Original Photograph - PSA/DNA Type I with MINT 9 Signature

Sold For:

$3,360

Year:

1934

Auction:

2020 Spring

Lot #:

1544

Category:

Autographed Baseballs/Flats/Photos

Original news photograph of Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Chuck Klein, beautifully signed by Klein on the front in blue fountain pen. Encapsulated and certified as a Type I photograph by PSA/DNA, with the signature graded MINT 9. The photo captures Klein as he crosses the plate after hitting the first home run of the 1931 season in the Phillies home opener against the New York Giants at Baker Bowl. Klein's signature has been scripted vertically on his image, with the blue ink contrasting exceptionally well against the white background of his uniform. Chuck Klein signed photos are scarce because he passed away prematurely in 1958 at the age of fifty-four. Klein wasn't elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame until 1980; therefore many early Hall of Fame autograph collectors had neither the desire or the foresight to acquire his signature his signature. This is only the second Chuck Klein signed photo we have ever offered and one of the finest we have seen. The original Associated Press paper news caption, dated "4/14/31," appears on the reverse. As noted in the caption, Klein's home run was the first of two he hit during the game, but it wasn't enough as the Giants defeated the Phillies 9-5. The photo (10.5 x 7 inches) displays a few light surface wrinkles and is in Very Good to Excellent condition overall. Reserve $500. Estimate (open).