This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/29/2013
Offered is a red and blue stitched Mitchell's of Milwaukee "American League" baseball which has been signed on the sweet spot by Hall of Fame hurler and 2-time American League MVP Walter Johnson. Amazingly, our consignor had information that allowed us to approximate the dating of the baseball to the 1925 season. Although we will never know for sure, based on the fact the signed baseball which accompanied this lot dated to the 1925 season due to the manufactures stamping and these baseballs were thought to have been signed during the same baseball season, we are confident to offer 1925 as the likely dating.
The Ball remains in excellent overall condition and exhibits even, light toning. Very slight wear to the factory stampings, which remain clear and legible. Some fading present to the signature ink.
Although not specifically dated, the red and blue stitching is consistent with the 1925 Official American Baseballs of the period. Although marked as an independent supplier, "Mitchell's of Milwaukee", this ball may have been supplied by Reach, as it was a common practice of the company to supply baseballs under private label stampings. It only goes to reason that the process and threads used for the stitching would be similar if not identical. This signed baseball originated from the same collection/consignor that provided us the 1925 George Sisler signed baseball in this auction. Note the similarity in the color of the stitching. Upon review, the baseball is in the exact same condition as stored for the past 90 years. There are no traces of signature removal, thus making this a genuine, single signed baseball.
MEARS verified that the Washington Senators played the Chicago White Sox during several series during the 1925 season. Johnson may have signed the baseball during his off date, but it was verified that he appeared in 5 games at Comiskey Park.
5-11-25 (w)
6-6-25 (w)
7-28-25 (L)
7-29-25 (w)
9-20-25 (w)
Our consignor's grandmother worked in a Milwaukee bakery. A loyal customer made a trip to Comiskey park from Milwaukee during the 1925 season and was lucky enough to obtain this signature. (This date was determined based on the inclusion of the 1925 dating of the George Sisler baseball. The markings on the Sisler baseball were attributed to 1925 only.) A short time after, his sweet tooth was more dominant than his desire to collect, and the trade was made, this baseball for a doughnut.(54H0018)
(JSA Auction Letter)