Early 1890s Charles “Kid” Nichols Rookie Era Boston Beaneaters Single-Signed Baseball
(Full JSA • Family Provenance • Earliest Known Example)
Charles “Kid” Nichols Signed Baseball: A Rare Gem from the Early 1890s
A Legendary Pitcher’s Legacy
Charles “Kid” Nichols, a name etched in the annals of baseball history, is celebrated for his remarkable achievements on the mound. Over 17 illustrious seasons, Nichols dazzled fans and opponents alike with his exceptional skill and tenacity. His tenure with the Boston Beaneaters, St. Louis Cardinals, and Philadelphia Phillies saw him amass an astounding 361 wins, securing his place as the seventh all-time winningest pitcher. Notably, Nichols was the youngest pitcher to join the prestigious 300-Win Club, a testament to his early dominance in the sport.
In his rookie season, Nichols posted a formidable 27–19 win-loss record, a 2.23 ERA, and 222 strikeouts, setting the stage for a decade of consistent excellence. He achieved the extraordinary feat of seven 30-win seasons, with a career-high of 35 wins in 1892. Remarkably, throughout his career, Nichols was never replaced by a relief pitcher, underscoring his endurance and reliability. His contributions to the game were immortalized with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1949.
The Exceedingly Rare Signed Baseball
Among the treasures of baseball memorabilia, this “Spalding” manufactured “ASSOCIATION BALL” stands out as a rare and precious artifact. Signed by Charles “Kid” Nichols himself, this baseball dates back to the early 1890s, a period when Nichols was a dominant force with the Boston Beaneaters. The “Spalding” stamp on the ball is one of the earliest examples of the original hand-drawn design, adding to its historical significance.
- Signature Quality: The signature, executed in black fountain ink, is rated a near 7 in our opinion, reflecting its clarity and preservation.
- Condition: Despite being over 115 years old, the ball is in EX condition, featuring tight up-and-down stitching. A grouping of three small holes on one panel does not detract from its displayability.
- Provenance: Accompanied by a Full LOA from JSA, the ball also comes with provenance from the extended Nichols family, as well as newspaper clippings from the family scrapbook.
A Piece of Baseball History
This signed baseball is not merely a collectible; it is a tangible connection to the golden era of baseball and the legendary career of Charles “Kid” Nichols. As the earliest known example of a Nichols signed baseball, it holds immense value for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its rarity and historical significance make it a coveted addition to any baseball memorabilia collection【4:0†source】.
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In acquiring this extraordinary baseball, one is not just obtaining a piece of sports memorabilia but a fragment of baseball history, a symbol of Charles “Kid” Nichols’ enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on the game. If you have your own piece of history, feel free to send it to the MLB jerseys consignment experts at Grey Flannel Auctions【4:0†source】.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.