Mid-Summer Classic Auction 2013

Capitalizing on the unrivaled popularity of Babe Ruth in the 1930’s, "Old Gold Cigarettes" produced this rare tri-fold advertising display, which survives as one of the great baseball player endorsed advertising pieces of the era. The highly visual large format store display features a full-body pose of Ruth in his New York Yankees uniform with his testimonial statement and facsimile signature to the side. No other display piece can rival this rare survivor in terms of importance. But its sheer size invites damage and destruction, and most of the few known examples have not weathered well. The offered showpiece, however, has been restored to a marvelous approximation of its former glory. Comprised of three panels, the piece measures a combined 38"x52" when fully unfolded. The panels, once separated at the hinges, have been reattached as part of an expert restoration and conservation project. Written and photographic documentation for all steps of treatment conducted by the conservator are included in an accompanying “conservation report” (viewable here). These steps include in-painting and structural repairs that have returned the piece to a fine level of eye appeal. This is an outstanding opportunity to obtain the grandest Ruth display of all, and one of the very best items of its kind ever created. Tremendous visual appeal!