This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/6/2020
Be very careful when viewing this exceptional bat, you may need your snake bite kit, because the Cobra is about to STRIKE!
To our knowledge, this is the earliest signature model David Parker bat known to the hobby, and contains all of the personal player traits that would be expected, making it one of the finest examples known. Deep seam marks, measurable deadwood on reverse of barrel, medium pinetar, and heavy 22” handle crack that extends into the centerbrand. 3 nails remain in the crack. A medium application of pinetar is present. Parker’s very distinct uniform number 39 is applied to the knob in worn, vintage black marker.
The model number, K44, is factory stamped in the knob. Review of Parkers’ personal bat records do not show a K44 recorded model being recorded for Parker. To the authenticators at MEARS, this causes no concern, due to the over abundance of visible player traits. The bats length (36”) and weight (33 ounces), are exact to models ordered by Parker during the era. We have documented on numerous occasions of authentic game used bats that were not recorded via the factory records. Based on the totality of the evidence, and an actual inspection by Dave Parker himself, MEARS is 100% confident this is his 1973 game used bat.
When asked to autograph the bat, Parker spent about 10 minutes examining the stick. He recalled that it certainly was one of his earliest models, and he remembered it being used during his rookie season. To document the fact, he boldly signed bat in near mint black sharpie,
“Cobra, Dave Parker, Game Bat, 1973 Pirates, 4 HRs, .288 BA”
Three vintage autographs appear on the barrel, including pitcher Larry "Sapo" Demery & two others.
The bat received the final MEARS Grade of MEARS A9. 5 points were assigned as the base grade for the bat being consistent with length and weight from the era, 3 points were assigned for optimal, heavy game use, 2 points were assigned for the inscription/documented uniform number, minus 1 point for the heavy handle crack extending into the centerbrand and chip to centerbrand.
For 1970s Pittsburgh Pirates and Dave Parker fans, this is the finest example known. (41Q0125)
LOA Troy Kinunen / MEARS
(JSA Auction Letter)