This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/31/2005.
Babe Ruth's signature is by far the most popular and sought after autograph in the hobby today. It is of course most prized on a baseball, exemplifying the game that made him a household name around the world. Having hit "only" 25 home runs in 1925, many in the press suggested that the Sultan of Swat was past his prime, but the Babe would soon change that opinion. His best years, apparently, had not yet arrived. In 1926, the Bambino batted an extraordinarily impressive .372 with an astonishing .516 on-base percentage. With 184 hits and 146 RBIs, he also managed to belt out 47 homers to lead the league, which he would do 12 times in his career. Further, Ruth hit three homers in Game Four of the World Series, a feat he would repeat two years later in Game Four of the 1928 Fall Classic. Though Ruth was famous for many things, his ability to hit homers is the most noted. Whether young or old, healthy or under the weather, Ruth could hit a homer practically on command. Though other players came before him and many came after him, not one has come close to approaching Babe Ruth's flair and panash in executing this very specialized task. This red and blue stitched OAL baseball is signed in black fountain pen on the sweet spot by "Babe" Ruth, who added the year "1926" in his own hand. There is some rubbing evident in the "26" of "1926," but still clearly legible. The quote marks around "Babe" are indicative of Ruth's signature during this period. The ball shows some toning, with the League and President's stamps having almost completely worn off, however the eye appeal of the spectacularly vivid and bold signature makes this ball a true standout. Coupled with rare date inscription, this magnificent orb is a rare specimen indeed. Signature grades an overall 9. Accompanied by a LOA from James Spence Authentication.