This lot (along with Lots 32, 34, 35 & 36 in this auction) holds a story that is almost too good to be true. In June 1933, a collector wrote a letter to Ty Cobb seeking his autograph on three special baseballs — two already signed by Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, among others, in the mid-20's and another having been signed by Walter Johnson, Tris Speaker and others around that time. The Georgia Peach responded with two handwritten letters in December 1934 and graciously signed his name to all three baseballs. The 1st Cobb letter presented in this lot agreed to comply and explained why there was such a long delay (outdated address). The collector (whose father-in-law founded Gilbert Chocolates in 1900, a popular chain of candy stores throughout the Midwest) then mailed the three baseballs to Cobb and enticed him with some Gilbert Chocolates candy. Cobb signed each ball and returned them with a 2nd letter (Lot 32) that thanked him for the candy and offered advice on how to preserve the signatures using Shellac. The collector took Cobb's advice and now, over 80 years later, his grandson has decided to consign the three immaculately preserved multi-signed balls (Lots 34-36) to this auction. Known for being brash and outspoken, Cobb showed a rare thoughtful side to his personality. Perhaps the history books need to add "sweet tooth" and "memorabilia preservation expert" to his list hobbies.
The letter, dated "Dec-3-1934" at the top, is handwritten by Cobb in beautiful penmanship. It comes in black ink on his personal 7 1/8" by 10 3/8" letterhead with a stamped header "TYRUS R. COBB - BOX 265 - MENLO PARK - CALIFORNIA." Cobb has signed his full name at the bottom in 8-9/10 boldness. The letter reads:
"Mr. J.S. Wickwire - Jackson, Mich. - Dear Mr. Wickwire: - Your letter dated June-28-1933 and directed to Atlanta, Ga, was forwarded to Augusta, Ga, my former house then out here where evidently it was received shortly after and recently in going over some old papers I found your letter and now answering though there has been a considerable delay but how it got misplaced I can't explain. If you still desire my signature on one of the three balls you have and there is room I will be delighted to add my signature and feel honored in so doing. My present address is as above and will attend to matter promptly upon receipt of the ball and return same. Yours sincerely, Ty Cobb."
Includes a detailed Letter of Provenance from John Wickwire, grandson of J.S. Wickwire who wrote to Ty Cobb in 1933 and originally received the letters and baseballs. A copy of the other Cobb handwritten letter (Lot 32) will also be included.
Full LOA from PSA.