Babe Ruth Auction to Benefit Babe Ruth Birthplace Museum
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/6/2016
It was probably 1924 or 1925, and Babe Ruth – always a generous soul, but undoubtedly even more so with respect to his teammates – saw fit to present the silver cigar case (offered here) as a special gift. The recipient was Wally Schang, catcher for the New York Yankees from 1921 through 1925. Schang and Ruth were close, and they'd even enjoyed the thrills of three World Series together. One can only imagine the excitement as Schang received this treasure, and then read the engraved inscription: "To a Grand Fellow + Pal / Wally Schang." A "Babe Ruth" facsimile signature appears in raised engraving upon the item's securely attached pocket clip. This bi-valve style, hinged cigar case is a remarkably well-kept survivor. It opens by means of a push-clasp on the right side to reveal a clean interior and a luxuriously shaped well that's designed to comfortably accommodate a single cigar. This is an amazing little artifact from a bygone era when smoking was a genteel activity, and stylish tobacco cases were commissioned and carried by the rich and famous. For Schang, this elegant case – engraved by the Bambino! – must have been the ultimate status symbol. Measures 5"x 1 1/4"x1". Goldin Auctions will be donating 5% of the winning bid price of this lot and all lots in this auction to the Babe Ruth Birthplace Museum.