This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 7/8/2004.
"The Sultan of Swat," "The Bambino," "The Colossus of Clout" or simply the "Babe." These are the nicknames attached to the greatest figure in the history of sports, George Herman "Babe" Ruth. The name is magic and no other figure in sports history, past or future, will have the impact on their game the way Ruth did. More important than his many slugging records is the fact that he single handedly saved the National Pastime which was still reeling from the disgrace of the "Black Sox" scandal in 1919 -- the year Ruth was sold to the Yankees.
Offered is an outstanding example of a Babe Ruth game-used bat, with pristine provenance, that is "Ruthian" in every respect. This Hillerich & Bradsby pro model 125, circa 1928 to 1930, is uncracked (It must be noted, that over the years, the bat has developed a very slight surface grain separation, from drying, on the back of the barrel), and shows evidence of outstanding game use and is accompanied by a November 21, 1981 letter from ex-major leaguer Tony Cuccinello who was given the bat by the "Babe" in 1936. This is one of a handful of Ruth gamers, documented by factory ordering records, as being made of hickory with a rich dark "Hornsby" finish. Measuring 35.25 inches and weighing (today) 40 ounces, the left barrel has a defined hitting zone that is peppered with ball and ball stitch marks. Ball marks on the left barrel are perfect for Ruth, in that numerous vintage photographs of his mighty swing document the fact that he turned the centerbrand down when batting. This use is characteristic of him, in our opinion, and places the bat directly in the hands of Ruth at the plate. Factory records also confirm the barrel, handle and knob dimensions as being specified for bats manufactured for Ruth during the referenced labeling period. This incredible Ruth gamer appears to be one of his favorite weapons because he kept it in his personal collection for over five years before giving it to his buddy Tony Cuccinello. Legend has it that Ruth's early idol was "Shoeless" Joe Jackson. This beautiful dark finish bat reminded The Babe of "Shoeless Joe's" "Black Betsy."
The bat's age places it at the summit of Ruth's career. From 1928 to 1930, the "Babe" averaged 49 HRs, 150 RBIs and batted .342. This was one of the sticks he used during three of his greatest seasons, this great bat is a true ten in every respect with incredible provenance to match. Truly a weapon befitting a king, this is one of the finest Babe Ruth game-used bats ever offered.