Auction Item Details
Lot 10
LOADING IMAGES
Lot Number: 10
Description: Highly significant and Unique Lou Gehrig autographed photograph inscribed to Babe Ruth by George C. Burke c.1932 (PSA/DNA Mint 9). Magic and Kareem, Mantle and Maris, Montana and Rice, Brady and Gronkowski, Jordan and Pippen, Mays and McCovey. All legendary duos within their respective sports. At the beginning, middle, and end of that list are Ruth and Gehrig. No duo in the history of sport accomplished more and changed the way in which we think about superstar status within a team. It was largely believed that Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig did not enjoy a pleasant relationship which is grossly overstated. Did the two icons have their differences? Yes. Did they each have a different sense of style and personality? Absolutely. However, there was clearly an absolute unique mutual reverence between the two men that lasted throughout their relatively brief lifetimes. No better evidentiary moment of this relationship exists than the embrace that Ruth gave to Gehrig during ceremonies honoring Lou's retirement at Yankee Stadium. Tears trickled down the faces of both men as they came to grips with the grave disease that Lou Gehrig was battling. The complex nature of their relationship creates an inert desire for materials relating to the two Yankee greats. In as much, we were simply astounded when the Ruth family presented the offered Lou Gehrig signed photograph for inclusion in this historic auction. Classic sepia tone 4"x6" portrait image in matte finish of Gehrig by Chicago photographer George C. Burke remains in nearly pristine, as issued condition. The photo is signed on the front, "Babe-May I always prove deserving of your friendship, Cordially, Lou Gehrig". Blue fountain pen salutation and signature are markedly bold ranging from 9 to 10 out of 10 having no mentionable flaws. Lou Gehrig autographed items of this caliber are highly sought after and rarely offered to the collecting public. This particular piece may well be the finest non-game used Lou Gehrig signature item extant and will take its place among the great icons in its collecting medium. Includes letter of provenance from Ruth Family: NM-MTEstimated Price Range: ($100,000-$200,000)
Sold for Price: Login or Register