This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/14/2010
The 1938 Yankees team dominated the American League with a 99-53 record powered by Lou Gehrig in his last full season (29 HR's, 114 RBI) and the young Joe DiMaggio in his third season (32 HR's, 126 RBI). The Bomber’s then swept the Chicago Cubs 4-0 in the World Series as part of their four-year 1936-39 championship run. Measuring 11" by 19", this crystal-clear photo displays printed lettering along the bottom edge including the photography company ("Empire Photographers"), the photo caption ("1938 New York Yankees American League Champions"), and a listing of all 29 pictured team members. The top edge is hand-lettered in white ink, "WORLD CHAMPIONS 1938." Most significantly, every subject represented with the exception of Joe Glenn has signed the image. The mostly black fountain pen signatures average 7-8 out of 10 with an unobstructed Gehrig signature standing out among the best (8-9/10) and DiMaggio rating 6-7 out of 10. There are no clubhouse or secretarial signatures whatsoever, which is unusual for a piece such as this. Other signatures include McCarthy, Dickey, Ruffing, Gomez, Combs, Gordon, Crosetti, Henrich, et al. Even team doctor Doc Painter and bat boy Tim Sullivan have signed this impressive over sized image. The photo remains in a vintage matte and frame (overall 15" by 23"), with the visible area displaying minor creasing and two small sections of clear/amber tape at the bottom edge. Apparent VG/EX-EX condition. Includes a full LOA from PSA/DNA.