Winter 2014 Auction Closing Feb 7
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/8/2014
Known to many today by his T206 baseball card, the most expensive and desired trading card in the world, Honus Wagner was the game's greatest shortstop and most feared hitter in the turn of the century National League. After his long and record-making career as a player, Wagner periodically returned to the majors as a coach with his beloved Pittsburgh Pirates. However, as popular and accommodating as he was, single-signed Wagner balls are few and far between. This one has the added bonus of being on a "Honus Wagner Official League Ball". The baseball great operated a sporting goods store in downtown Pittsburgh where these baseballs were sold. Most importantly, Wagner not only signed the ball but dated it as well. Bearing the personalization "With Best Wishes to Daniel E Bennett", Hans then thoughtfully added the date "Oct 9-28". Coincidently, 1928 is the year Wagner ran unsuccessfully for sheriff of his hometown Pennsylvania county of Allegheny. The Hall of Famer's signature is in strong black fountain pen and is an 8/10. The ball has taken on an attractive warm tone through the years with only a small amount of scuffing is visible on a panel that does not interfere with the signature. The red stitching is tight. and the ball displays very well. A rare single-signed ball from one of the most collectible and recognizable figures in the game's history. Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA.