This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/4/2014
Advanced collectors know that the Cincinnati Reds were one of the first teams to gather game worn items and sell in their team gift shop, the 580 store. The beloved Big Red Machine of the 1970s had legions of fans, and the passion for the team led to some the hobbies first game used bat collectors.
Our consignor purchased this bat directly from the rack at the 580 store, after asking permission from his father. It has been in his possession ever since, offered to the public via this auction for the very first time.
Specifications: A99 C, 34 ¾”, 31.5 ounces, flame burned
Measuring just short of 34 ¾”. This bat is consistent with Johnny Bench’s following order:
A99C (cupped), FB (flame burned), 35”, 33 ounce, A12.
This the only time Bench ordered this model at the 35”. Although slightly shorter that the listed length, based on the source, finish, and Bench’s number on the knob, MEARS is confident to attribute this bat to that exact order. The process of cupping the bat at the manufacture may have resulted in excess sanding, thus the shorter than specified length.
Weight 31.5 ounces: Currently weighing 31.5 ounces, the bat is listed in Bench’s records at 33 ounces. This deviation of current weight versus recorded weight is acceptable to be considered for that order.
Finish: As noted, this bat possesses a flame burned finish, and requested by Bench during the order.
Game Use: Bat exhibits heavy game use. There are no less than 8 black ball marks (National League Feeney Baseball) located above the barrel stampings. At least 10 scattered remnants of black ball marks are found below the facsimile barrel stamp. Deep clusters of seam marks are found above the barrel stampings, with additional seam marks below. The handle has a 12” application of pine tar on the handle, a noted Bench trait for the era. A 5” handle crack, which runs perfectly along the handle grain, is present, and was the reason for the bat’s retirement and transfer to the 580 gift shop.
Personal Trait: Examination of the knob reveals and underscored “5”. The number, Bench’s uniform number, is applied in vintage, original black marker.
Final Grade (MEARS A9.5): A base grade of 5 points was assigned for bat matching perfectly to one order of Johnny Bench’s personal H&B records, 3 points were assigned for heavy game use, 2 points for player traits, pine tar and #5 on knob, minus ½ was subtracted for bat having 5” handle crack. LOA Troy R. Kinunen / MEARS
(62P0262)
(MEARS Auction LOA)