Summer Slam Collectibles Aug'26
Lot 280:
Description
BID PER WHAT YOU SEE IN THE PHOTO, NOT THE AI GENERATED TITLES AND DESCRIPTIONS! Bobby Shantz Autographed Official Major League Baseball with 1952 AL MVP Inscription
This Official Major League Baseball produced by Rawlings features the printed signature of Commissioner Allan H. Selig. The baseball is autographed on a side panel in blue ink by Bobby Shantz, a former Major League Baseball pitcher who played for the Philadelphia Athletics and the New York Yankees. Below the signature is a hand-written inscription reading 1952 A.L. M.V.P. commemorating his American League Most Valuable Player award season. Shantz was also a three-time All-Star and an eight-time Gold Glove winner. The ball is presented in a clear acrylic display cube.
Provenance / Authentication Note: This item originates from a single-owner collection assembled by a dedicated sports fan (with a strong focus on Notre Dame and New York Yankees memorabilia). The collector actively pursued autographs over many years through in-person events, including games, autograph shows, and visits to National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum during player events, as well as through direct mail requests to athletes and celebrities. The collection included supporting material such as handwritten correspondence sent to athletes (in some cases with payment enclosed), along with photographs of the collector with various signers. A portion of this same collection was featured in our March 21st auction, where multiple items were authenticated by James Spence Authentication (JSA). In regards to any items with signature(s): While this specific item(s) may not be individually submitted for third-party authentication, it originates from the same collection and shows consistency with previously authenticated pieces. As with many large autograph collections, there may be a small number of facsimile or clubhouse-style signatures present, but for the most part we have seen AUTHENTIC SIGNATURES within the collection. Based on the overall provenance and our review, we maintain a strong level of confidence in the authenticity of most items. Bidders are encouraged to review all photos carefully and bid according to their own level of comfort. No additional authentication documentation is included unless visible within the lot photos. Please reach out with any questions.
Condition report:
The baseball is in very good condition, featuring white leather with minimal toning near the stitching. The signature and inscription are bold and clearly legible. The acrylic display case shows minor surface wear. There are no visible authentication labels, holographic stickers, or certificates from third-party authenticators.
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