1920s Spalding Trophy ("Fielder - First Baseman")

Sold For:

$4,440

Year:

1920

Auction:

2023 Spring

Lot #:

2830

Category:

Post-1900 Baseball Memorabilia

Spalding baseball trophy, often identified as the "Fielder- First Baseman," dating from the 1920s. This is one of five different Spalding figural trophies issued during the 1920s, all of which are exceedingly rare today. The metal trophy features a first baseman in the act of stretching for a throw as he strains to keep his foot on the base. The metal stand is lettered "Spalding Trophy" on the front, with a crossed bat-and-ball motif displayed in the center. The top panel of the ball is lettered "Won By,” and the bottom panel displays the Spalding logo, both of which are displayed in relief. This particular example was issued to a specific organization, with a badge affixed to the center of the ball reading "American Legion." The trophy sits upon a black-painted wood base. Although these trophies were sold by Spalding in its catalogs, they were actually crafted by renowned jewelers Dieges & Clust, as indicated by a tiny plaque on the rear of the base that reads "Made by Dieges & Clust." As most collectors are aware, Dieges & Clust was also responsible for producing most of the World Series and All-Star Game press pins, and other various baseball awards, during the first half of the twentieth century. It should be noted that each of the five different Spalding trophies produced at the time are recognized as among the most majestic and stunning of all baseball figural displays. At the time, these trophies were very expensive, a fact that probably accounts for their rarity today. The trophy (approximately 11.5 x 4 x 11 inches) has moderate-to-heavy tarnishing and loss of its silver finishing in certain areas. A few tiny nicks to the wood base are also evident. The size/weight of this item requires that there will be an additional shipping charge for this lot. Opening Bid $1,500.