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 |
|---|---|
| $200 | $25 |
| $500 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $3,000 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $2,000 |
| $30,000 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 | $20,000 |
| $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.
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