1936 George McQuinn & Irving Hadley Cincinnati Reds & New York Yankees Player Contracts

Historic Baseball Contracts: George McQuinn and Irving Hadley

A Glimpse into Baseball’s Past

In the realm of baseball memorabilia auctions, few items capture the imagination quite like the contracts of legendary players. These documents not only represent the financial agreements of the time but also offer a window into the rich history of America’s pastime. Among such treasures are the contracts of George McQuinn and Irving Hadley, two figures whose careers left an indelible mark on the sport.

George McQuinn’s Cincinnati Reds Contract

The cover of George McQuinn’s contract reads, “NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAYER’S CONTRACT – The CINCINNATI BASE BALL CLUB COMPANY Of CINCINNATI, OHIO WITH GEORGE McQUINN of BALSTON, VA.” This historic document is adorned with the signatures of both the National League president Ford Frick and the American League president William Harridge, dated “FEB 20 1936.” Within its pages, the contract stipulates McQuinn’s salary at an aggregate of $3,000, a sum reflective of the era’s economic landscape.

On the second-to-last page, the contract bears the signatures of the Reds Vice President in black ink and McQuinn in blue ink, dated February 3rd, 1936. In our expert opinion, these signatures rate a combined 9, underscoring their exceptional preservation and authenticity.

Irving Hadley’s New York Yankees Contract

Turning to the American League, the contract of Irving Hadley is equally compelling. The cover states, “AMERICAN LEAGUE PLAYER’S CONTRACT – The American League Base Ball Club of New York WITH IRVING HADLEY OF LYNN, MASS.” Signed by the American League president William Harridge and dated “APR 10 1936,” this document outlines Hadley’s salary of $7,500, a testament to his value to the team.

The second-to-last page features a secretarial Jacob Ruppert signature alongside Hadley’s own in black ink, dated January 23rd, 1936. These signatures, in our opinion, rate a combined 8, further enhancing the contract’s allure. Accompanying this piece is a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA, adding an extra layer of credibility to this remarkable artifact.

Why These Contracts Matter

• Historical Significance: These contracts provide insight into the financial and administrative aspects of baseball during the 1930s.
• Iconic Players: George McQuinn and Irving Hadley were influential figures in their respective leagues, contributing to the rich tapestry of baseball history.
• Preservation and Authenticity: The high rating of the signatures and the accompanying LOA from JSA underscore the contracts’ authenticity and condition.

Conclusion

These contracts are more than mere documents; they are a testament to the enduring legacy of baseball and its players. For collectors and enthusiasts, they represent a unique opportunity to own a piece of history. Whether you are looking to consign baseball jerseys or explore other sports memorabilia auctions, Grey Flannel Auctions offers a gateway to the past, where each item tells a story of triumph, dedication, and the timeless appeal of the game.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.