Auction Item Details
Lot 167
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Lot Number: 167
Description: Honus Wagner handwritten letter dated February 10, 1927 on "Wagner Sporting Goods" stationery and signed at the close "Yours Truly, J Honus Wagner." Written to an aspiring player it reads in part, "…I will do my best to land you on some good club when your college work is over. I could land you with some Minor League but they start to early. You sure are kept busy in athletic work..." The letter Pre-dates his Hall of Fame induction by nine years. After retiring from the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1917, Wagner floated around in semipro leagues, and incorporated his Honus Wagner Sporting Goods Co. It seemed to make excellent sense to use his name and presence in a sporting goods venture, but he was a better ballplayer than businessman. By 1929, the sporting goods company was in bankruptcy; its assets, and the rights to use Wagner's name and image, were purchased by E. Louis Braunstein. Signature and handwriting rate 8 out of 10 and there is some light toning/wear and typical fold lines. One of only a handful of substantive Wagner handwritten letters we have offered. Authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA: Sig. NMEstimated Price Range: ($5,000-$7,500)
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