Circa 1910 Miller Huggins Spalding Gold Medal Autograph Pro-Model Bat - PSA/DNA

Sold For:

$240

Year:

1912

Auction:

2025 Spring

Lot #:

2736

Category:

Post-1900 Baseball Memorabilia

Miller Huggins Spalding "Gold Medal Autograph" signature-model bat (predating model numbers) dating from the circa 1910 manufacturing period. The barrel stamping features the words "Spalding" and "Autograph" in block letters, between which is Huggins' facsimile signature. According to the accompanying LOA from PSA/DNA, the "Spalding Gold Medal Autograph model bat is un-cracked. The condition of the barrel prohibits our determination of game use." It goes on to say that "[b]all marks are visible on the right barrel." The Spalding "Gold Medal Autograph" series bats were produced for the professional players whose name appears on the bat, but they were also available to other Major League players and sold on the retail market. The initials "J.T." are carved into the front barrel. PSA/DNA notes that the Spalding catalog lists available Huggins models at 32 inches in length, weighing between 39 and 45 ounces. As the current measurements are outside of those parameters, it "could signal a request from Huggins or another player." The bat finish is weathered with water damage at the top of the barrel as well as several areas of wear into the barrel of the bat, most notably at the top of the bat.

Huggins, nicknamed "The Mighty Mite" due to his diminutive stature (he was five feet six inches tall and weighed 140 pounds), was noted both for his fine defensive play and his baseball acumen. Possessing good speed and a knack for getting on base, he was also considered the ideal leadoff man; however, it was his managerial skill that eventually got him elected to the Hall of Fame. As the main architect of the Yankees fabled 1920s baseball dynasty Huggins won six pennants and three World Championships in his twelve seasons in pinstripes (1918-1929). Unfortunately, Huggins passed away prematurely in 1929 at the age of fifty. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1964. Length: 31.5 inches. Weight: 34.1 ounces. Full LOA from John Taube of PSA/DNA. The size/weight of this item requires that there will be an additional shipping charge for this lot.