7/18/1999 Yogi Berra Day Presentation Bucket Presented to Joe Pepitone Signed by Many NY Yankees with Signed Baseball
(2)(JSA)
A Commemorative Tribute to Yogi Berra: The Glass Ice Bucket and Signed Baseball
A Historic Day at Yankee Stadium
On July 18, 1999, Yankee Stadium was abuzz with excitement as fans and players alike gathered to honor one of baseball’s most beloved figures, Yogi Berra. This day was not only a celebration of Berra’s illustrious career but also a momentous occasion as David Cone pitched a perfect game, with Berra cheering from the stands. Among the memorabilia commemorating this historic day is a remarkable “William Barthman” glass ice bucket, a piece that encapsulates the essence of that unforgettable event.
The Glass Ice Bucket: A Unique Commemorative Piece
This exquisite glass ice bucket was presented to the New York Yankees on that historic day, originating from none other than Joe Pepitone himself. The front of the bucket is elegantly etched with the words “YOGI BERRA DAY JULY 18, 1999”, alongside the iconic “Twenty Four World Championships” logo. The reverse side features a likeness of Yogi Berra, meticulously etched into the glass, capturing the spirit of the legendary catcher.
- Signatures: The front of the bucket is adorned with the signatures of several Yankees legends, including Berra, Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto, Don Mattingly, Joe Pepitone, Bobby Brown, Whitey Ford, Joe Garagiola, and Gil McDougald. Each signature is rendered in black marker, collectively rating an overall 7 in quality.
- Condition: The bucket is in near-mint (NM) condition, a testament to its preservation and the reverence with which it has been maintained.
The Signed Baseball: A Testament to Yankees Legacy
Accompanying the glass ice bucket is a baseball, an Official American League (OAL) Budig ball, signed by the same eight Yankees, with the addition of Don Larsen and Bobby Richardson. The signatures on the baseball rate an overall 7-8, and the ball itself is in near-mint condition, with only light spotting to note.
This extraordinary lot is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA, further enhancing its value and appeal to collectors and fans alike. Such a collection is not merely a set of autographs but a tangible connection to the rich history of the New York Yankees and the indelible mark left by Yogi Berra on the game of baseball.
Why This Memorabilia Matters
For collectors and enthusiasts of baseball memorabilia, this lot represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of history from one of the most celebrated days in Yankees lore. The combination of the glass ice bucket and the signed baseball offers a unique glimpse into the legacy of Yogi Berra and the camaraderie of the Yankees legends who stood by him.
Whether you are looking to consign sports memorabilia or simply wish to add to your collection, this lot is a testament to the enduring allure of baseball’s golden era. It is a celebration of Yogi Berra’s remarkable career and a tribute to the timeless spirit of the New York Yankees. For those interested in exploring more, our sports memorabilia auctions offer a diverse array of items that capture the essence of sports history.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.