Babe Ruth 100th Anniversary Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/12/2014
Any Willie Mays game used bat is exceedingly desirable, but an All-Star Game used bat dating from the sweet spot of his career? That's taking "game used" to a whole new level!
This beautiful custom bat was made specifically for the Giants' superstar by Adirondack for use in the 1961 mid-season classics (2 games were played that year - July 11 at Candlestick Park and July 31 at Fenway). In the first game in San Fran, Willie faced the likes of Whitey Ford and Hoyt Wilhelm and went 2 for 5 with 2 RBI and runs scored. In his second All-Star game Mays tagged Jim Bunning and his AL pals for a single and a walk.
While we don't know which one or both games he swung this particular bat in, it certainly did get a workout. It's a gorgeous piece of lumber, the flame burned finished ash wood has taken on that warm patina you like to see in a vintage bat and the Adirondack factory stampings are finished in an off-white, not the usual black. The bat shows heavy use by Mays, with several ball marks with stitch impressions visible on the barrel and slight checking from repeated contact on the back barrel area. The handle has a slight handle crack as well. The barrel has Mays' facsimile signature along with the special "FLAME TREATED" logo, beside which is the "1961 All Stars" stamped designation. The model number "M63" is stamped into the knob end. Green staining has been removed from both the front barrel and handle and the bat displays extremely well. PSA/DNA sticker number 1B04664 is affixed to the barrel end. Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA who have graded this exquisite bat GU 9.