Summer Premier Auction 2018
Wed, Jul 25, 2018 04:00PM EDT - Sat, Aug 11, 2018 11:00PM EDT
Timed Auction
Lot 17
1926 GEORGE KELLY TLS ON NEW YORK GIANTS LETTERHEAD TO HILLERICH & BRADSBY PRAISING LOUISVILLE SLUGGER BATS
Sold for
$264
Sold Price includes BP
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $10 |
| $200 | $25 |
| $500 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $3,000 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $30,000 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $10,000 |
| $300,000 | $25,000 |
| $500,000 | $50,000 |
In the years before Lou Gehrig made a name for himself, George Kelly was the best first baseman in New York. Called “High Pockets” because of his giant 6’-4” frame, Kelly was an important part of the New York Giants team that won four consecutive pennants. Kelly set a record by hitting seven home runs in six consecutive games and had four straight seasons of 100 or more RBI. With a track record like that, it was no wonder bat maker Hillerich & Bradsby was keen to make a signature model bat bearing the name, George Kelly.
This letter, originating from the company archives in Louisville, features the great Giants first baseman giving Hillerich & Bradsby his ringing personal endorsement. It is typewritten on wonderful New York Giants letterhead and dated June 12, 1926. Kelly writes in part, “You ask me if I can recommend Louisville Slugger bats. I certainly can. I have not only used your bats myself with great success but I have noticed practically every Major League player of importance uses them, They tell me how good they are. I know they are not kidding me, because of my experience with them.”
Kelly has signed this ringing endorsement in 7/10 black fountain pen. The letter shows overall toning from age and some light edge wear and staining, particularly near the top edge. A terrific behind-the-scenes look at the how a ballplayer’s signature appeared on the barrel of the most famous brand of bat in history.
Pre-certified by PSA/DNA.
Payment for your invoice must clear in full prior to shipping. All items will be shipped from SCP Auctions’ Laguna Niguel, CA office in the order that payments are received. Please allow up to three business days following clearance of payment for items to ship. All items will be shipped UPS/FedEx Ground unless you contact us to discuss an alternative shipping method. If you would like your items shipped in a different method, such as UPS/FedEx Next Day or UPSFedEx 2-Day, you must contact our Post Sale Services Manager Veronica Rodriguez by emailing customerservice@scpauctions.com to discuss alternative shipping instructions. Prior to bidding, please be aware of estimated shipping costs, especially for large or heavy lots. You may contact SCP Auctions for any shipping estimates lots you are bidding on or interested in bidding on. If you intend to pick up your items in person at the SCP Auctions office, please call us to schedule. Payment must clear prior to items being available for pick-up.
