1923 Yankee Stadium Terra Cotta Figural “Corner Stone”

The Original Yankee Stadium Cornerstone: A Historic Treasure

An Iconic Piece of Baseball History

Step back in time to the golden era of baseball with this extraordinary piece of sports memorabilia, a terra-cotta decorative display that once graced the entrance of the original Yankee Stadium. Known affectionately as a “cornerstone,” this architectural marvel was a defining feature of the stadium, alongside its famous white façade. From its grand opening in 1923 until renovations in 1973, this piece welcomed millions of fans and legendary players to what is often hailed as the most revered stadium in baseball history.

A Testament to Legendary Moments

The original Yankee Stadium, often referred to as “The House that Ruth Built,” was home to some of baseball’s most iconic figures, including Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio, and Mickey Mantle. It was here that these legends contributed to an astounding twenty championship seasons between 1923 and 1973. The stadium also hosted the football Giants and other significant sporting events, such as the legendary Joe Louis/Max Schmeling heavyweight championship fight.

Preserved Through Time

This remarkable piece, measuring 16 x 19 x 3.5 inches and weighing approximately 50 pounds, has endured the elements for fifty years. Despite some natural wear and minor chips, it remains in excellent condition, a testament to its enduring legacy. The decorative design features two baseballs at the center of a scrolled pattern, with a yellow “sunrise” below, capturing the essence of the stadium’s grandeur.

• Historical Significance: A defining architectural element of the original Yankee Stadium.
• Iconic Design: Features two baseballs and a yellow “sunrise” in a scrolled pattern.
• Condition: Excellent, with minor chips from natural wear.
• Dimensions: 16 x 19 x 3.5 inches; Weight: Approximately 50 pounds.

A Collector’s Dream

Preserved as the ultimate souvenir of the most celebrated stadium, this piece was once part of Barry Halper’s esteemed collection. Halper, a revered collector, valued this piece so highly that he had a section of a wall removed in his home to display it prominently. While theoretically, a few additional original Yankee Stadium cornerstones could exist, only a handful have survived. One such piece was exhibited at the American Museum of Folk Art, and another sold for $52,875.00 at an REA auction in 2007.

For those passionate about baseball memorabilia, this cornerstone represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of history. As a collector, you can consign baseball jerseys and other items to Grey Flannel Auctions, where we celebrate the legacy of sports through our sports memorabilia auctions. Whether you’re looking to sell sports memorabilia or add to your collection, this piece is a testament to the enduring allure of the original Yankee Stadium.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.