Auction Item Details
Lot 46
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Lot Number: 46
Description: Scarce 1914 "Shoeless" Joe Jackson Presentational Trophy: Issued for Outdueling Ty Cobb During Series (Joe Jackson Provenance)(Photo match) Classic two handled loving cup style trophy as presented to Joe Jackson as a member of the Cleveland Naps in 1914 by "Jean Bedini". Trophy is inscribed on the front with lettering remaining in fine condition free of any restoration or alterations. General overall condition is very fine with some minor separation presenting at the joint areas of the handles mentioned for accuracy only. Embossed hallmark affixed underneath the base, "Scribner & Loehr Co., Cleveland" appropriately to its region of origin given Jackson's team affiliation in 1914. Although not marked, the trophy appears to be sterling silver based upon construction and surface. Period news articles confirm that the trophy was given to Jackson by Jean Bedini who was a juggler, producer, and comedian for a troupe of entertainers in the 1910-20 period. He had a travelling show that included all manner of entertainment and were very popular during that time. Bendini is famous for giving Eddie Cantor his start in show business. The award itself was to recognize Jackson outdueling his rival of the day, Ty Cobb, during a series of games played against the Detroit Tigers on May 2-4 of 1914. Joe did totally outperform Cobb in that series collecting 7 hits in 13 AB's with a double and two triples. One of Joe's shots hit the top of the 45 ft fence in right field, almost going out. Sam Crawford returned it, holding Joe to only a single. As referenced at the time in a period publication: "General Joe Jackson by getting more hits than any other Nap player during the Tiger series wins a silver cup offered by Jean Bedini of the Mischief Makers, playing at the Empire Theater. The cup will be presented this evening during the performance." Subsequent news article from 1917 picturing Jackson holding both the offered trophy and another re-affirm its history as having been given to Joe for out hitting Cobb in a "critical series". Over 100 years after his controversial banishment from Major League Baseball, Joe Jackson remains one of the most revered and yet mysterious figures in the history of the game. Artifacts with direct provenance to Jackson number in the single digits with negligible few ever becoming available to the public. Exceptional Jackson presentational award of the highest scarcity. Includes several modern images picturing the offered trophy with Joe Jackson, News/publication copies referencing the trophy, and letter of provenance: EXEstimated Price Range: ($15,000-$25,000)