This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/9/2009.
From 1903 through 1918, the Boston Red Sox captured five World Series Championships, including the very first in 1903 when they were known as the Boston Americans. A long Championship drought ensued after Red Sox owner Harry Frazee's 1920 trade of Babe Ruth to the Yankees. Although the Red Sox came close many times, including the heartbreak of 1986, they were not able to reach the promised land. The 2004 Boston Red Sox "reversed" the "Curse of the Bambino" to capture their first World Championship since 1918. Down three games to none in the ALCS and trailing in the bottom of the ninth inning in Game Four, the Red Sox staged perhaps the greatest comeback in history to beat the Yankees in seven games. It would be their first pennant win in New York in 100 years. Already the stuff of legend after their ALCS victory, the Red Sox went on to sweep the Cardinals in the World Series and bring the World Series Trophy back to Boston. This 2004 Boston Red Sox World Championship size 10 ring is cast in 18K white gold. On the top of the ring is a perimeter channel containing 56 round brilliant cut diamonds. Inside this diamond bezel is "World Champions" in relief on a black background. Centered on the top of the ring is an inlaid Boston Red Sox "B" in 10 custom cut and fitted rubies, over four round brilliant cut diamonds which are themselves over 14 princess cut diamonds in the shape of a baseball diamond. This baseball diamond is set on a field of four custom faceted synthetic blue sapphires. On the left shank is "Greatest Comeback In History 2004" in relief on a black background. Beneath this is a pair of red enameled Boston Red Sox "socks," and beneath that an engraved banner that reads "8 Straight." On the right shank is a panel with the recipient's name “LANTIGUA” in relief on a black background. Beneath this is a depiction of Fenway Park, and beneath that is "BB OPS" in relief on a black background. "BB OPS" stands for "baseball operations," indicating a front office scout recipient. Beneath this is an engraved banner that reads "4-0 Sweep." On the inside of the ring is engraved "86 Years, 10-27-04, Jostens 18K." Ring is in NM condition. Also included is the original wood padded presentation box measuring 7 1/2" x 6 1/2" x 4" with glass top that reads "2004 World Champions." On the front of the box is an inlaid metal and enamel blue 2004 World Series logo. Box is in VG-EX condition.