1981-1983 Johnny Bench Cincinnati Reds Signed Game-Used Bat PSA/DNA GU 9

Sold For:

$3,840

Year:

1980

Auction:

2023 Fall

Lot #:

3158

Category:

Autographed Baseballs/Flats/Photos

Johnny Bench Louisville Slugger signature-model bat ("S216") dating from the 1981-1983 manufacturing period. Graded GU 9 by PSA/DNA. The bat displays evidence of excellent use, including ball marks (with black-ink transfers), ball-stitch impressions, red bat rack streaks, cleat marks, and a light coat of pine tar on the cracked handle. Bench's uniform number ("5") appears on both the knob and cupped-barrel ends in black marker. Bench has signed the barrel in blue Sharpie marker, adding "HOF 89" directly below his signature. Bench is considered by many to be the greatest catcher in baseball history. A two-time home-run champion and winner of two MVP Awards and ten consecutive Gold Glove Awards, Bench was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1989, his first year of eligibility. In 1999 he received his final honor when he was named as one of two catchers to baseball’s All-Century Team. Length: 35.5 inches. Weight: 33.2 ounces. Full LOA from John Taube of PSA/DNA (for the bat only). Auction LOA from James Spence/JSA (for the signature only). The size/weight of this item requires that there will be an additional shipping charge for this lot. Opening Bid $500.