From 1927 to 1998, only two men had the distinction of owning the single-season home run record. Babe Ruth set the mark in the 1927 with 60 home runs, a tremendous feat back in the late 1920’s in an era where some teams didn’t even hit 60 home runs. Along came Roger Maris in the magical summer of 1961, when he battled it out with fellow teammate and Hall of Famer Mickey Mantle and were forever known as the “M & M Boys”. While Mantle fell out of the race towards the end of the season, it was Maris, who would tie and break Ruth’s record with 61 runs – a record that was eventually passed by Mark McGwire in 1998.

Presented here is an incredibly rare dual-signed Official 97 League baseball featuring the signatures of Babe Ruth and Roger Maris. Both baseball greats’ signatures are always in high demand and to have a baseball with both of them signed, is truly something special. Ruth’s blue ink signature has been penned in his traditional signing location – the sweet spot and is slightly off-center to the left. Ruth inscribed “Sincerely” and an additional inscription “April 1937” has been penned in an unknown hand. Maris signed this ball on the north panel above Ruth’s signature and also signed it in blue ink. The ball displays toning, chipping of the leather and spots, but is otherwise good condition, given its age. The signatures are bold and make this piece an incredible find for the avid collector. This comes with a LOA from JSA (Z67249) for the signatures.

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