Auction Item Details
Lot 353
LOADING IMAGES
Lot Number: 353
Description: Important Ted Williams Presidential Medal of Freedom presented by George H.W. Bush with related material. Highly prestigious honor bestowed upon Ted Williams by President George H.W. Bush during a White House ceremony on November 18, 1991. The Presidential Medal of Freedom was first awarded by John F. Kennedy in 1963 and created to recognize people who have made "an especially meritorious contribution to (1) the security or national interests of the United States, or (2) world peace, or (3) cultural or other significant public or private endeavors." It remains the highest civilian award issued by the United States and is given solely at the discretion of the President. The included presentational certificate (11"x14" and signed "George Bush" in marker rating 9/10 out of 10, housed in original folio) offers a fine summation of Williams' qualifications reading, "Ted Williams - the Splendid Splinter - is perhaps the greatest hitter of all time...He won six batting titles, blasted 521 home runs, and half a century ago amazed America by becoming the last man to bat over .400. He also gallantly served his country in two wars and retired from baseball as only a hero could - with a home run in his final at bat..." The medal remains on the original blue and white silk ribbon with which Barbara Bush hung it from Williams' neck. Engraving on the back reads, "Theodore Samuel Williams, November 18, 1991. It comes in the original presentation style wooden box which has additional accoutrements (only issued to recipients with a history of military service) including a service ribbon (for wear on military uniform), miniature pendant (for wear on mess dress or civilian formal wear), and a lapel pin. Additional material to accompany the Medal include an 8"x10" color photograph taken during the ceremony which is signed, "Ted - This Medal of Freedom is so well deserved, Congratulations. Your Friend George Bush" and dated "11-18-91" (black marker, 8/9 out of 10); additional photo showing Williams holding the box (this and other photo are both marked "Official White House Photograph" on the back); and the original invitation sent to Williams by The President and Mrs. Bush with mailing envelope, response card, and White House entry card. Touch of light scattered wear. Includes letter of provenance from the Williams Estate and auction LOA from JSA (related to the two autographed pieces): EX-NMEstimated Price Range: ($25,000-$50,000)
Sold for Price: Login or Register