This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/6/2015
A fabulous token of Ruth's undying love for children, this OAL (Harridge) baseball bears Ruth's warm inscription which reads: "Merry Xmas to Tommy Wilson - From Babe Ruth - 1947." An accompanying copy of an 8-3/8" by 8-1/8" photo reveals a beaming Ruth in a Santa Claus suit, embracing one youngster on his lap, while others look on, awed as though they're aware of the legend at hand—despite their youthful ages. The image was captured and published in December 1947. Unbeknownst to Ruth, he had been diagnosed with cancer in the spring of '47. Ruth was initially unaware of the seriousness of his condition, and nobody told him. Said biographer Bob Considine, "If he knew he had terminal cancer, it would destroy him." Thus, as the image shows, Ruth carried on--living life to fullest extent his failing health would allow. Sadly, the Christmas of 1947 would be Ruth’s last. He passed away in August the following year. The entirety of Ruth’s inscription is beautifully rendered on this clean, mildly toned ball, rating 7-8/10. Ball itself is EX-MT to NM.
Full LOA from PSA/DNA.