This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/5/2023
Hall of Fame hurler Jim “Catfish” Hunter’s career accolades are numerous. The five-time World Series champion made eight All-Star Games, led the majors in wins twice, won an AL Cy Young in 1984, and pitched a perfect game in 1968. He was considered baseball’s first big-money free agent in 1975 coming off three straight World Series victories (1972-74) with the Oakland Athletics. He became not only the highest-paid pitcher in history, but also the highest-paid player when he signed a five-year contract with the Yankees worth $3.35 million. He went on to win two more World Series titles 1977 and 1978 wearing the famed pinstripes. Tragically, Hunter passed away in 1999 at the young age of 53 from Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS).
Presented here is Catfish Hunter's 1987 National Baseball Hall of Fame induction ring. The face of the 10-karat gold ring, made by Balfour, has a silver baseball on top of a black Onyx stone surrounded by “Baseball Hall of Fame.” On the left shank is “Pitcher” and “Elected 1987” flanking crossed bats over an infield. The right shank features “HUNTER” above a relief rendering of Cooperstown and the words “The National Baseball Hall of Fame.” Hallmarked inside the band is "LGB 10K." The ring remains in terrific overall condition with light wear. It comes in size 9.5 and weighs 28 grams. Included is a letter of provenance from Jim's oldest son.