In the world of baseball memorabilia, there are certain items that truly stand out for their historical significance and the stories they tell. One such artifact has recently been discovered – a photograph of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, signed by the iconic duo themselves. This remarkable piece, authenticated as a Type 1 original by PSA, was taken by renowned photographer Arthur Hull and serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of two of baseball’s greatest figures.
Arthur Hull, well-known for his work with The New York Times and The Associated Press, captured this photograph during the Yankees’ spring training camp between 1927 and 1931. The image portrays the camaraderie and joy shared by Ruth and Gehrig, showcasing a glimpse into the golden age of baseball. The level of care put into the signatures by both players reflects Hull’s dedication to his craft and his ability to capture the essence of his subjects.
Keith Breitweiser, an acquisitions specialist at Lelands, the auction house handling the sale, emphasizes the exceptional quality of both the autographs and the photograph itself. He states that, “These are the two most iconic players who ever played the game on the most iconic team. The autographs are some of the nicest you’ll find.”
The journey of this photograph to the auction block is a fascinating tale of historical preservation and serendipity. After Hull’s death in 1969, Karl Allison and a friend acquired his collection, including this signed photograph, from Hull’s widow for a nominal price. Allison recognized the significance of the piece and took great care to preserve it by storing it away from light. He even created a duplicate for display purposes.
Beyond its visual appeal, this photograph represents a rare opportunity to own a tangible piece of sports history. Signed photographs of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, especially those authenticated as Type 1 originals and in excellent condition, are highly sought after by collectors. With the auction set to begin on February 25, it is expected to garner significant interest from both collectors and enthusiasts alike.
This upcoming auction not only showcases the enduring fascination with Ruth and Gehrig, but also highlights the importance of meticulous preservation and the role of photography in capturing and commemorating the legends of the sport. As this signed photograph prepares to find a new home, it continues to celebrate the legacy of two of baseball’s most revered figures. Arthur Hull’s skillful lens immortalized Ruth and Gehrig, and the preservation efforts throughout the decades serve as a testament to their monumental impact on the game and American culture as a whole.
