Circa 1929 Lou Gehrig New York Yankees Professional Model Side-Written Bat

The Legendary Lou Gehrig: A Bat with a Story

An Icon of Baseball History

The legacy of the immortal Hall of Fame first baseman, Henry Louis Gehrig, is eternally etched in the annals of baseball history. Revered by baseball purists, Gehrig’s iconic status transcends his remarkable hitting achievements. As one of the most prolific run producers in Major League Baseball history, Gehrig’s legacy is further immortalized by his record-breaking 2,130 consecutive games played and his poignant “Luckiest man on the face of the earth” speech at Yankee Stadium. This speech, delivered in the wake of his ALS diagnosis, marked the premature end of his illustrious career and ultimately his life two years later.

The Bat: A Testament to Gehrig’s Era

This extraordinary piece of baseball memorabilia is a professional model bat crafted by Hillerich & Bradsby. With a length of 34.5 inches and a weight of 34.2 ounces, this hickory wood bat boasts a standard finish. The bat exhibits evidence of outstanding use, including a handle crack and a missing 1″ x .5″ piece from the barrel. Numerous ball marks adorn the left barrel, while mounting holes have been drilled into the knob and top of the barrel. An area on the right barrel has been planed and sanded to receive factory side writing, with the return date “8-6-31” faintly visible.

A Glimpse into Gehrig’s Playing Days

During the period between February 1929 and April 1931, Gehrig’s Louisville Slugger bat ordering records reveal a 26-month gap. During this time, Gehrig utilized bats manufactured by Hanna Manufacturing Company. It was a common practice from the teens to the early 1940s for players to send their preferred model back to the factory to request replicas of the same type. Upon receipt, an area on the barrel was planed and inscribed with the length, weight, player’s name, date received, and team affiliation. Although the return date is faint, it reads “8-6-31” or “32”.

Unraveling the Mystery

• Historical Context: The bat was manufactured during Gehrig’s two-year departure from Louisville Slugger.
• Provenance: Presented to us as game-used, this bat is accompanied by a PSA/DNA Letter of Authenticity.
• Unconfirmed Use: Due to the inconsistent length of the bat and the lack of definitive evidence, PSA/DNA considers it a pro model Lou Gehrig bat but cannot confirm its use by Gehrig.

This bat is not merely a piece of wood; it is a tangible connection to an era when baseball legends like Lou Gehrig graced the diamond. As a cherished artifact, it holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike. For those interested in acquiring a piece of baseball history, explore our sports memorabilia auctions and discover the allure of owning a fragment of the past. Whether you’re looking to consign baseball jerseys or sell MLB items, Grey Flannel Auctions is your trusted partner in preserving and celebrating the legacy of baseball’s greatest players.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.