This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/27/2014
High grade 1950s Ernie Banks game used bats are both extremely rare and quite valuable. In the rare occasions that they enter the market, those bats are quickly grabbed up by the most astute collectors.
Fresh to the hobby, the S2 model, measuring 35” and weighing 30.5 ounces are perfect for Ernie Banks game used bats from the 1959 era.
Played July 7th, 1959, Ernie Banks went 2-3, giving the National League a 5-4 victory over the American League. This was the last All Star game ever to be played at Forbes Field.
All Star bats often show signs of light to no game use. This bat is a RARE EXCEPTION. Upon examination, it reveals phenomenal game use. Numerous balls marks are deeply stamped above the facsimile Banks signature. At least 3 sets of deep stitch marks, (which have deeply penetrated the wood) are visible. This is certainly the finest game used Ernie Banks All Star bat ever examined by MEARS, and one of the finest Ernie Banks bats extant.
For this lot, please note the online image of Mal Goode, Hank Aaron, and Ernie Banks. Mr. Goode has the distinction of being the first African American TV journalist. As you examined the image, Hank Aaron’s bat is still in his possession. It is most likely that the bat Mr. Goode is examining is this exact bat! Close examination reveals the bat is indeed a 1959 Ernie Banks All Star game marked bat.
Our consignor’s father obtained this bat at Forbes Field shortly after the game. It has been in his family ever since, and has never been offered for public sale.
With perfect model, length, weight, and game use, this bat was awarded the perfect grade of a MEARS A10. A finer example of a Mr. Cub bat may be impossible to locate. LOA Troy R. Kinunen
(67U0366)