This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/4/2015
Offered by the Louisville Slugger company via their deal catalogs, this full size, 34" retail Shoeless Joe Jackson Decal Bat is an offspring of the professional model Louisville Slugger bats that were used by the players starting in 1905.
With the center brand bearing the 40JJ factory stamping, surviving H&B dealer catalogs document the fact this bat was offered to the general public. A prize for those that acquired one, eager young ball players could not wait to emulate their favorite player on the ball diamond, causing instant destruction to the colorful player decal.
On the barrel end of this bat is the official Louisville Slugger Joe Jackson full color portrait. Jackson is depicted wearing his high collar uniform and short brimmed cap, inspired by his career with the Cleveland Naps. His portrait is surrounded by a green background. Finishing off the 3”x5” overall decal design is gold framed that borders his image, with “Joe Jackson” facsimile signature found underneath. “Louisville Slugger” is found on both the left and right of Jackson’s image n white with black shadow font.
Regarding the condition, the bat remains in excellent overall condition and the handle remains uncracked. The black Betsy finish is complete and retains much of its original gloss. There is slight wear to the finish to various portions of the upper barrel.
Regarding the condition of the actual Shoeless Joe Jackson decal, it remains 100% intact and maintains much of its original color and gloss. Approximately 98% of the decal survived, with the only noticeable flaw some surface scratching to the area left of Jackson’s face. Additional areas of flaking to the Louisville Slugger lettering. Examples of this quality are becoming increasingly harder to find. LOA MEARS Auctions. MB $500
(73A0283)
LOA Troy Kinunen / MEARS