Auction Item Details
Lot 101
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Lot Number: 101
Description: Superb "Shibe Park Rooftop" Babe Ruth professional model baseball bat c.1918-22 (PSA/DNA GU 9.5). During the 1900-30 period the mighty Philadelphia Athletics reigned as one of most accomplished and respected franchises in American sports. During that time period they captured the American League pennant for seasons 1902, 1905, 1910, 1911, 1913, 1914, 1929, 1930 and won the World Series in 1910, 1911, 1913, and 1929. Their roster of players include Eddie Plank, Frank Baker, Rube Marquard, Eddie Collins, Tris Speaker, Joe Jackson, Chief Bender, Lefty Grove, Jimmie Foxx, Mickey Cochrane, and Ty Cobb to name a few. Their burgeoning popularity coupled with the immense baseball following in the city of Philadelphia made Shibe Park among the most sought after destinations of the region. Overflowing crowds caused enterprising fans (and homeowners) to seek out other methods to watch the A+s battle their American League foes which famously included make shift seating on top of row homes. The practice became so popular that the Athletics eventually raised the outfield fence to prevent these fans from seeing the games. Lehigh Avenue, where Shibe was located, was one of the focal points for these out of stadium seating locations including the home of Edward N. Quinley. Born in 1911, Quinley moved with his family from Lansdale, PA to a home on West Lehigh Avenue behind Shibe Park around 1915. Growing up in the shadow of the majestic Shibe, young Quinley became a devout fan of the hometown A+s. However, like most American youth at the time he idolized none other than Babe Ruth. Quinley frequented A+s games and also roamed the grounds of the stadium where he became friendly with staff and players alike. Although the very specific details of acquisition are lost to history, it was at this time which Quinley obtained the offered Babe Ruth professional model bat quite possibly from the Babe himself. Imposing Louisville Slugger "dash dot dash" 125 model bat measures 35.75" long and weighs an incredible 44 ounces. Very fine evident use is found in the form of ball marks to the left barrel, cleats marks encircling the end of the barrel, and small shadow of a tape ring on the handle. Condition presents as outstanding including bold trademark and signature stampings with a uniform light brown patina. Small chip on the knob end was expertly repaired and there is a faint vestige of some lettering including "V O..." seen near the centerbrand area the notability of which is unknown. Knob end exhibits a deeply impressed original lathe mark. The dating period is from 1918-22 indicative of an intriguingly desirable dual possibility. Based on dating, the bat was either used by Ruth either in his prime years with the Boston Red Sox or his inaugural campaigns with the New York Yankees. Babe Ruth professional model game bats with specific provenance dating to this early career period are exceedingly rare. This particular specimen was only recently discovered within the Quinley family and is being presented for the first time publicly. Museum quality artifact with impeccable primary source provenance and specifications of Ruthian proportions. We are proud to present the "Shibe Park Rooftop" Babe Ruth professional model bat. Includes LOA from PSA/DNA (GU 9.5), LOA from Hunt Auctions, and a letter of provenance from the Quinley family: EXEstimated Price Range: ($100,000-$200,000)
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