This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/20/2012
NOTE: This photo last sold at auction in 2011 for $83,650 plus agents fee.Babe Ruth was a man who did things on a grand scale. It should come as no surprise then that his famed "called shot" in the 1932 World Series puts Ruth is at the center of one of the greatest and most enduring controversies in World Series history. Tipping the scales of grandeur in corresponding fashion is the offered Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig photograph capturing the legendary Yankees duo in the midst of their epic contest against the Chicago Cubs.
The image shows Ruth whispering some unknown anecdote in Gehrig’s ear that’s prompted a playful smile from the Iron Horse. The lighthearted scene belies both the weight of the occasion as well as the nature of Ruth and Gehrig's relationship, which was often described as strained throughout their tenure together.
This magnificent oversized (9.5 by 11.5") photo derives from the personal collection of Ruth and Gehrig's former agent Christy Walsh. This provenance likely explains the uniquely inspired notations each player has added to their signature. Ruth's inscription makes reference to the occasion, noting "World Series 1932" below his bold fountain pen signature. The Iron Horse takes a more good-humored turn with his notation, writing "In one ear and out the other" in jocular reference to Ruth's whispered secret. Both black ink signatures and inscriptions rate 8 out of 10. Only a dime-sized loss of photographic emulsion at Gehrig's right foot requires mention in a discussion of condition. Otherwise the photo survives splendidly as one of the most impressive and important Ruth/Gehrig signed photos the hobby has ever seen.
Includes full LOAs from both JSA and PSA/DNA and an additional photo LOA from PSA/DNA (TYPE I).