1967-68 Roger Maris St. Louis Cardinals Game-Used Bat
(PSA/DNA GU10 • Fantastic Example)
Roger Maris Game-Used Bat: A Testament to Baseball History
Introduction to a Legendary Artifact
In the realm of baseball memorabilia, few items capture the imagination and reverence of collectors like a game-used bat from a legendary player. The bat in question, a Hillerich & Bradsby model A92, is a remarkable piece of history, once wielded by the iconic Roger Maris during the 1967-68 seasons. This bat is not merely a tool of the game; it is a symbol of Maris’s indelible impact on the sport.
Specifications and Unique Features
This exquisite bat measures 35 inches in length and weighs 33.5 ounces, crafted from the finest ash wood. The labeling period of 1967-68 places it squarely in the era when Maris was an integral part of the baseball landscape. The bat remains in uncracked condition, a testament to its durability and the care with which it was preserved.
- Player Number: The number “9,” Maris’s iconic jersey number, is inscribed on the knob in black marker.
- Weight Indications: The weight “33 ½” is noted in pencil, alongside a partially obscured “33 ?”.
- Game Use Evidence: The bat exhibits numerous ball marks, stitch impressions, and cleat marks, indicative of extensive game use.
- Handle Taping: The handle features a spiral tape pattern, a distinctive characteristic of Maris’s bats, enhancing grip and control.
Historical Significance and Provenance
The bat’s provenance is further solidified by the accompanying Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from PSA/DNA, which grades the bat a perfect 10. This grading underscores the bat’s exceptional condition and authenticity. Additionally, a photograph of Maris with a similarly taped bat, bearing the same cleat impressions, accompanies this artifact, adding a visual confirmation of its historical significance.
Presented to us as game-used, this bat is a tangible connection to Maris’s storied career. Known for his remarkable achievements, including breaking Babe Ruth’s single-season home run record in 1961, Maris’s legacy is celebrated through artifacts like this bat. It serves as a testament to his prowess and enduring influence on the game.
Why This Bat Matters
This bat is not just a piece of wood; it is a fragment of baseball history, a relic from a time when Maris captivated fans with his extraordinary talent. For collectors and enthusiasts, owning such an item is akin to possessing a piece of the sport’s soul. It is a rare opportunity to hold in one’s hands a bat that once played a role in the storied career of a baseball legend.
As part of our MLB items consignment, this bat is a highlight of our sports memorabilia auctions. It stands as a testament to the enduring allure of baseball and the timeless appeal of its greatest players. For those looking to sell baseball memorabilia, this bat exemplifies the type of extraordinary items that capture the hearts and minds of collectors worldwide.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.