Auction Item Details
Lot 174
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Lot Number: 174
Description: Rare and desirable 1910 Christy Mathewson handwritten letter with choice baseball content. July 23, 1910 handwritten letter to D.A Fletcher on "Planters Hotel" stationery. Reads in full, "Dear Sir: I enclose signature of Koentchy. Roger Bresnahan assures me that he will go, but does not wish to put himself upon record in ink at this time. You can depend on him keeping his word and signing later in the season." Signed at the close, "Yours Truly, Christy Mathewson." By 1910 Mathewson was a veteran in his 10th year with the New York Giants and one of the most respected players in the game. The letter was written with regard to his involvement in an "All-Star Series" of games which were to be played that fall. His involvement in the Series was surely a boost to both the legitimacy and financial viability. Here, Mathewson was evidently working as an ambassador for Fletcher as his New York Giants were in St. Louis for a four-game series against the Cardinals. Christy had his sights set on two of the opposing team's stars: first baseman Ed Konetchy and catcher-manager Roger Bresnahan. It seems that July 23rd was an especially productive day for Mathewson—he started for the Giants, surrendering just two runs over nine innings to earn his 17th win of the season. On top of that, he signed Konetchy to a contract for Fletcher, and received assurances of Bresnahan's participation. Upon hearing of the games to be played, and notable players involved, the National Commission cited concerns over potential injuries and fearing that the high caliber of play would tarnish the glamor of the World Series they banned stadiums from hosting Fletcher's games. Additionally, the National Commission threatened to ban any player that participated in Fletcher's series from participating in the World Series. Notably rare with this being one of only a handful of Mathewson letters we have handled. Very light consistent age toning with incidental scattered edge/corner wear. Typical folds from mailing with minute edge tear along one mentioned for the sake of accuracy. Handwriting/signature rate 8/9 out of 10. Authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA: Sig. NM, Letter EX/MTEstimated Price Range: ($25,000-$50,000)
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