This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/1/2016
Without exception, Babe Ruth is still the king of sports memorabilia. Autographs, cards, advertising signs, and especially his game worn bats are desired by collectors across the world. As collectors continue to hoard the ash trophies used by the Bambino, opportunities to own a game used Babe Ruth bat are becoming quite rare.
The expert staff of MEARS has evaluated this bat and are proud to offer our findings:
Length (34 ¾”): Measuring 34 ¾”, the bat is within an acceptable range for bats that would have been ordered as 35” during Ruth’s career. Both Ruth’s H&B bat records and documented examples which have entered the hobby support 35” as a length ordered by Ruth during the late 1920s.
Weight (36.2 ounces): Currently weighing 36.2 ounces, this bat is consistent with Ruth’s H&B bat records with respect to weight. Examination of his bat records reveal Ruth ordered bats generally weighing 36-46 ounces during the 1920s and this bat falls within that accepted weight range.
Game Use: Bat exhibits heavy game use with the majority found on the left side of the barrel (directly above the facsimile signature), which is a highly desirable Ruth trait. This bat was originally graded and authenticated by bat expert Dave Bushing who noted, “Bat exhibits use on all sides with a noticeable dip above the barrel stamp (known Ruth trait).” The handle remains uncracked.
The presence of heavy cleat on the barrel end is not a common Ruth trait. Although they do appear vintage (and very well may have been applied by Ruth), there is also the possibility that the bat may have been used after Ruth. The heavy use above the barrel is consistent with the finest known Ruth bats and a very desirable Ruth trait.
The “h” in Ruth has a light factory stamp and there is some grain separation on wide grain portion of the knob. High quality professional finish with otherwise deep factory stampings.
Final Grade (MEARS A7.5): Due to a combination of light factory stamping of the “h” and the heavy cleat marks, a ½ point was subtracted from the final grade.
A very fine example of a mid-grade Babe Ruth bat possessing many desirable traits of a game used Babe Ruth bat.
(89R0520)
(MEARS LOA)