Auction Item Details
Lot 435
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Lot Number: 435
Description: Significant Lou Gehrig autographed letter with relation to his illness. Dated July 3, 1939 one page typewritten letter was sent by an ailing Lou Gehrig to the U.S. Postmaster General James Farley. Farley was a noted baseball fan and developed relationships with several notable players during the 1920s-30s era. Letter is typed on Gehrig's personal stationary with a Larchmont, New York address just one day before he delivered his famed farewell speech at Yankee Stadium. July 4, 1939 had been proclaimed "Lou Gehrig Day" at the stadium with dozens of dignitaries in attendance, including Farley himself, who spoke before the standing room only crowd at Yankee Stadium. Farley concluded his remarks with a poignant message, "For generations to come, boys who play baseball will point with pride to your record." The offered letter speaks to the succinct quality of character possessed by Gehrig. This very tenacity and strength had been the hallmark of Gehrig's playing career and the record he established of consecutive games played. The letter reads, "Dear Jim: Your words of encouragement have meant a great deal to me. It gives a fellow added strength to know he has a booster of your caliber, and I hope I shall always prove worthy of your friendship. I am going to give the germ a real fight, and although it sneaked over a few fast ones, I feel it has only a 3-2 count against me. In the game you speak of against Dizzy Dean you will remember he had the same count on me. I shall keep your letter and always remember the thoughtful gestures you made during my active career. Cordially Yours, Lou". The black fountain pen signature remains very bold rating 9 out of 10. The letter has been archivally matted and framed with a fine 4"x5" sepia tone portrait of Gehrig wearing a Yankees uniform c.1920s which is stamped on the reverse by Acme News Pictures (1920s stamping). Condition of the letter itself is very fine with slight vestiges of a paper clip at top left. The letter has been stamped "Received Jul 6 1939 Postmaster General" at the top right (light). Incredibly poignant and rare Gehrig signed letter dating to the day before one of the most historic moments in the history of American sport. Includes LOA from JSA (autograph): NMEstimated Price Range: ($15,000-$25,000)
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