With the majority of his longball and World Series exploits still ahead, Babe Ruth had already transcended the game by 1923. Ruth all but invented the home run and complied with millions of adoring fans in their pleas for autographs and heartfelt interactions. This OAL Johnson ball is home to an early Ruth signature. The orb shows use (perhaps in the big leagues or subsequently, on a sandlot or two). On a side panel, Ruth’s black-ink fountain pen scripting projects (“2-3”) quality. Just below, “April 24, 1923” and “Toronto 8 New York 1” is penned in an unknown hand, suggesting the sphere was obtained at an exhibition between the Yankees and International League's Maple Leafs. Full photo LOA from JSA.
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