In November 1934, the ultimate baseball team was assembled to play exhibition games on foreign soil. Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Jimmie Foxx headlined a loaded squad of American major leaguers selected to barnstorm against Japanese college all-stars in 12 cities. Not surprisingly, the Americans won all 17 games they played. Matsutara Shoriki, an influential owner of a popular Japanese newspaper, was largely responsible for bringing the tour to Japan. Amazed by the overwhelming fervor of Japanese fans, he promptly established Japan's first professional team that December.

This iconic photograph from the 1934 Tour of Japan features Ruth in his All Americans uniform  following the ball in flight after making what looks like solid contact. Babe has boldly signed and inscribed the sepia tone image in jet black ink, “To My Ham & Cabbage Pal - Jim Dawson - Sincerely – Babe Ruth - Mar 31 1935.” Measuring 8.75” by 10.5”, the photo appears to be an original, either first or second generation based on its constructs. Aside from its rounded and evenly torn corners, the vintage black and white shot remains in terrific condition with a few small creases from handling that do nothing to detract from its overall aesthetics and gorgeous presentation. Includes an LOA from PSA/DNA with the autograph and inscription graded a nearly perfect Mint 9.