This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 9/10/2006.
Best known as the fellow Yankee who broke Babe Ruth's home run record with 61 home runs in the memorable 1961 season, unlikely hero Roger Maris was also one of the finest players of his time, appearing in more World Series than any other player of the 1960s. During his first year with the Yankees (1960), Maris was tops in the league with a .581 slugging percentage and beat out Mickey Mantle for the MVP. With "The Mick," Maris helped usher in a new Yankees dynasty of five consecutive pennants. Many believe that his Hall of Fame qualification is long past due. Bill Weaver was a sportscaster from Roger Maris' hometown of Fargo, ND, and followed the legend's career from his days in American Legion ball to the big leagues. Having become close friends over the years, Roger Maris gave this glove to his pal Bill at the 1961 World Series. The LOA from Bill's son Kevin reads in part "Dad went to New York for the 1961 World Series where Roger took one of his gloves from the dugout and gave it to him to take home. I have had it ever since." On the inside of this rare, well worn six finger glove is "Whitey Ford, Professional Model, Trap Pocket, E-Z Flex, 1105 Spalding, Made In U.S.A." The wrist strap reads "Wrist-Lock" with the Spalding manufacturer's tag sewn on, "Spalding" is faded due to heavy use and sweat. The glove shows game tremendous use, with all ties and stitching intact. Leather is cracked on the inside palm, with some of the padding showing through. The glove was manufactured in 1959-1960 and used in 1960-1961. As this historic glove was given by Maris during the 1961 World Series, it was likely used during Roger Maris' unforgettable 1961 season during which he belted his "61 in 61" record breaking 61st home run, elevating him into the heights of baseball immortality. Also included is a "1982 World Champions" St. Louis Cardinals baseball signed in blue ink on the sweet spot by Roger Maris, which Maris personally gave to Kevin Weaver at the first Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament in 1984 in Fargo, ND. Ball is very clean, signature shows some rubbing and grades a 5. The LOA from Kevin Weaver reads in part "I received this ball from Roger while playing in this tournament." Finally, there is a 35" x 28" framed blow-up of a black and white Roger Maris signed and inscribed photograph which reads "To my friend Bill Weaver, Best Wishes Always, Roger Maris," in NRMT condition. Roger appears to be wearing this glove in the photo. Accompanied by a LOA from James Spence Authentication and LOAs from Bill Weaver's son Kevin attesting to the provenance of the items.