Auction Item Details
Lot 628
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Lot Number: 628
Description: Scarce Jim Thorpe professional model baseball bat c.1922. Louisville Slugger 125 model bat measures 35 1/2" long and weighs 39.8oz with "Jim Thorpe" facsimile signature stamping on the barrel end. Bat has excellent usage wear including ball markings on barrel, grain swelling on back of barrel, and cleat marks at end of barrel. Overall eye appeal is very strong presenting beautifully with light brown color and finish. Handle crack has been professionally restored as well as some surface restoration to the barrel end. Thorpe was signed by John McGraw of the New York Giants in 1913 shortly after dominating the 1912 Olympics but had to return his gold medals due to a semi-professional baseball contract that he had signed before the games. Mainly a gate attraction, Thorpe fared moderately well for a six year Major League career but did manage to bat over .300 in the last two years of his career. The importance of Thorpe to American sports cannot be overstated especially noting his success even in the face of significant social hurdles of the era such as his American Indian heritage. This particular bat is one of only two known Jim Thorpe professional model examples from Thorpe's short lived professional career and dating specifically to his 1922 season played with the Portland Beavers of the Pacific Coast League. The offered example was recently discovered on the West Coast with some other PCL related materials. The bat is consistent with the other known Thorpe example and Hillerich & Bradsby factory records. Exceedingly rare game bat with relation to the greatest pure athlete in sports history. Includes LOA from Hunt Auctions: EXEstimated Price Range: ($20,000-$40,000)
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