Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner & Others Autographed Baseball
(JSA)
A Legendary Baseball Artifact: The Reach OAL (Harridge) Baseball
Introduction to a Piece of Baseball History
In the realm of baseball memorabilia, few items capture the imagination and reverence of collectors like a baseball signed by the legends of the game. The Reach OAL (Harridge) baseball, adorned with the “U.S.N.” stamp, stands as a testament to the golden era of baseball, featuring signatures from over 30 superstars and Hall of Famers.
Signatures of the Immortals
This extraordinary baseball is graced with the autograph of the legendary Honus Wagner, who has dedicated an entire side panel to inscribe, “To Joe Fallon – Doni-Tony from Honus Wagner – Pirates 45.” The ball is further elevated by the exceedingly rare signature of Jimmy Collins, a highlight for any collector. Other illustrious names include Babe Ruth, Cy Young, Mel Ott, Hugh Duffy, Joe DiMaggio, and Johnny Mize, among others.
- Honus Wagner: A bold inscription and signature, grading a 9.
- Babe Ruth: Signature grading between 7 and 8.
- Jimmy Collins, Cy Young, Mel Ott, Joe Louis: Signatures averaging a grade of 6.
- Joe DiMaggio: Signature grading a 4.
A Journey Through Time
The signatures on this baseball were collected over a period in the 1940s, a fact underscored by the presence of Jimmy Collins’ signature, who passed away in 1943, and Wagner’s dated signature from 1945. This historical context adds a layer of intrigue and significance to the ball, making it a coveted piece for any sports memorabilia enthusiast.
Condition and Preservation
The baseball is preserved with a coating of shellac, maintaining an overall EX-EXMT condition. While the Wagner signature remains bold, other signatures have faded over time, with approximately eight being faint or illegible. This preservation effort ensures that the ball remains a cherished artifact, capturing the essence of baseball’s storied past.
Conclusion: A Collector’s Dream
This Reach OAL (Harridge) baseball is more than just a collection of autographs; it is a bridge to the past, a tangible connection to the legends who shaped the game. Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from JSA, this baseball is a rare opportunity for collectors to own a piece of history. Whether you are looking to sell sports memorabilia or expand your collection, this baseball represents an unparalleled addition to any consignment of baseball jerseys or memorabilia.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.