This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/20/2018.
Extremely rare and significant World Series medallion issued to Larry Gardner of the Boston Red Sox in commemoration of the club's 1912 World Championship season. This was the award given to players on the 1912 Boston Red Sox following their four games to three victory over the New York Giants. This award declared recipients as honored members of the World’s Champions. This award played the same role as the World Series rings of today. The same style award was manufactured by the same company (F. H. & Co.) and presented to the World Champions each year from at least 1909 though 1919. Before 1922, World Series champions normally received pendants, pins, or some other type of special jewelry item, sometimes more than one. In modern times, of course, the tradition is the presentation of a ring. But in 1912, this finely crafted 14k gold pendant served this purpose. The .75 inch diameter 14K gold circular medallion features a baseball diamond with a single small real diamond in the center. Lettered around the baseball-diamond in a circular pattern is "WORLD’S CHAMPIONS 1912." A floral pattern adorns the outer perimeter. Engraved on the reverse is the name of the recipient, "W.L. GARDNER". Properly stamped "14K" and the hallmark of the jeweler, "F. H. Co." A small ring is attached to the top so that the piece can be worn as a pendant. Larry Gardner enjoyed his finest season as a major leaguer in 1912, finishing 14th in MVP voting. Gardner hit .315, driving in 86 runs and belting 24 doubles. During his tenure with the Red Sox, Gardner also was roommates with Babe Ruth. This medallion was directly from the Gardner family and is accompanied by a LOA from the Gardner family.