June 13th, 1948 “The Babe Bows Out” Nat Fein’s Original & Actual Wire Photograph Published in the NY Herald Tribune

The Iconic “Babe Bows Out” Photograph: A Moment Frozen in Time

A Historic Day at Yankee Stadium

On June 13th, 1948, Yankee Stadium, affectionately known as “The House That Ruth Built,” witnessed a poignant moment in baseball history. This day marked the 25th anniversary of the stadium and the retirement of Babe Ruth’s legendary number 3 uniform. The photograph, measuring 9-1/2” x 7-3/4”, captures Ruth standing on the third base line, using a bat as a cane, his hat held at his side, and his shoulders slightly stooped as he gazes towards right field, famously known as “Ruthville.”

Surrounded by sixteen of his Yankee teammates from the 1923 Championship Team, Ruth was saying goodbye to the scene of his greatest triumphs. This moment was immortalized by photographer Nat Fein, who used a 4×5 Speed Graphic camera without a flash, believing that natural light best captured the mood of the occasion. Fein’s intuition was spot on, as he captured the essence of a man who was not only a baseball icon but also a symbol of an era.

A Photograph That Made History

The photograph, titled “The Babe Bows Out,” first appeared on the front page of the sports section of the New York Herald Tribune on June 14, 1948. Its impact was immediate and profound, leading to its placement on the front page of subsequent editions. The Associated Press picked up the image, and it soon appeared in newspapers across the country, becoming a part of baseball lore. Fein’s work was recognized with a Pulitzer Prize, the first sports photograph to receive such an honor.

• Historical Significance: Captures the emotional farewell of Babe Ruth at Yankee Stadium.
• Photographic Excellence: Awarded the Pulitzer Prize, a testament to its impact and artistry.
• Limited Availability: Only eight vintage prints are known to exist, adding to its exclusivity.
• Provenance: This is the original print used by the newspaper for the June 14, 1948 issue.

A Legacy Preserved

This photograph is not merely an image; it is a piece of baseball history. It hangs in both the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown and the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C., a testament to its enduring significance. The print features impeccable contrast and clarity, with Nat Fein’s signature on the verso, dated “10-12-92.”

For collectors and enthusiasts, this photograph represents an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of baseball’s storied past. As part of our baseball memorabilia auctions, it stands as a testament to the legacy of Babe Ruth and the timeless allure of the sport. If you are interested in adding this iconic piece to your collection, or if you have your own treasures to share, consider our consignment services to bring your items to a wider audience.

Explore more about our offerings and discover the rich tapestry of sports history through our sports memorabilia auctions. Each piece tells a story, and this photograph is a chapter that resonates with the triumphs and tribulations of a baseball legend.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.