CIRCA 1938

Louisville Slugger 125 model bat with bold and deeply impressed Lou Gehrig facsimile signature in the barrel measures 35" long and weighs 32.5 oz. Uncracked with evidence of outstanding use including ball marks and stitch impressions which cover the right hand portion of the hitting surface. This is consistent with a left handed batter whom was known to have gripped the bat with label facing up. As noted in the accompanying documentation from PSA, the finish largely maintains its original color and appearance suggesting that it was long stored in ideal conditions. The handle being a shade or two darker than the balance is likely accounted for by the rubbing of dirt on hands to aid in grip, common in the era before use of batting gloves. Through examination of player ordering records, and specific characteristics within the center brand markings present, it has been determined that this model G69L (L denoting the large knob) Gehrig small signature bat originates from one of two orders which were shipped in September of 1938. The later order, sent on September 28th, is referenced as "World Series" and noted expert John Taube, within the PSA documentation, states that "though not confirmed, it's very likely that bat was used by Gehrig during his final World Series." He had joined the Yankees mid-way through the 1923 season making his debut as a pinch hitter at age 19. Lingering on their bench for the better part of two years, Gehrig would make just 42 appearances before the Yankees long time first baseman Wally Pipp was sidelined by a headache on 1 June 1925. That day Gehrig would embark on a streak of consecutives games played which stretched until 30 April 1939 when the effects of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) would force a voluntary removal from the lineup. During those 2,130 consecutive games played, "The Iron Man" would win a pair of Most Valuable Player Awards leading the American League in home runs three times and RBI five times, earn the 1934 Triple Crown, and help lead the Yankees to six World Series titles. He ranks firmly among baseball's immortals and one the most celebrated players in the history of the game. Gehrig game bats are notably rare with the offered being among the very best of an extremely limited quantity to have been offered at auction. Dr. Espy held this Gehrig bat as one of his most cherished artifacts and it has been long regarded as one of the finest examples in private hands. Includes LOA from PSA/DNA (GU 10): EX