This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/1/2012
The greatest homerun hitter’s career wound down at Milwaukee County Stadium at the conclusion of
the 1976 season. It was fitting, as 22 years earlier; a young 19 year old Henry Aaron began his career in this very stadium while playing for the Milwaukee Braves.
When it was all over, Hank Aaron owned many batting titles. During 1976, this exact bat would have
been available for Aaron to use to tally his final hits, which would have added to these final career records:
6,856 Total Base Hits
2,297 RBI’s
1,477 Extra Base Hits
755 HR’s
3,771 Total hits (3rd All Time)
Hank Aaron’s personal bat records verify this exact Louisville Slugger Bicentennial model bat was sent to him during the 1976 season. Although none of these achieves are documented via accompanying
provenance (the stories were lost to time), it probable this bat aided in achieving those final milestones.
Measuring 35” and weighing 32 ounces, this bat perfectly matches Aaron 1976 H&B per bat records.
Game used is measured as medium+, not quite enough to be considered heavy, but close. Over 14
distinct ball marks are found above the barrel. 6 ball marks are found below. On the end of the barrel is blue and red bat rack marks, meaning the stick traveled with Henry to at least on city on the road. As was the custom for Aaron during parts of 1976, 14” of medium pine tar is found on the middle of the handle.
I have personally examined dozens of Hank Aaron game used bats that have originated in Milwaukee.
When examining the knob, the open “44” is consistent with most Aaron bats that I have examined which
bore a uniform number.
Finally, as a classy gesture, Aaron signed the bat for the original recipient simply, “Best Wishes, Hank Aaron”. The signature appears in black marker and appears to have been signed circa 1976.
Final Grade (MEARS A9). Base grade of 5 points were assigned for bat matching factory records, 2 points were assigned for medium game use, 2 points were assigned for player traits (pine tar, pinpoint factory record, documented 44 on knob).
With its perfect “Henry Aaron” barrel signature, proper application of handle pine tar, documented
open “44” ‘s on the knob, and vintage autograph, a finer example does not exist. Presented is a rare
chance to obtain a bat used in the record setting final season of Hank Aaron’s illustrious career.
LOA Troy R. Kinunen / MEARS Auctions
(W0442)