Only the great Ty Cobb has won more batting titles than San Diego's Tony Gwynn. Winner of eight of the coveted single-season awards, Mr. Padre is tied with Honus Wagner for the number two slot in the record books. The most consistent hitter of the modern era, The Silver Bat Award is presented annually to the batting champions of the American and National Leagues. The award was first given to the Major League batting champs in 1949 - George Kell of the Detroit Tigers and Jackie Robinson of the Brooklyn Dodgers. Before that, the trophy was awarded to the Minor League batting champions from 1934 to 1948. At one time it was called the “Louisville Slugger Trophy”. Tony Gwynn won eight Silver Bats, more than any other player. This 1997 award was the very last one awarded to Gwynn. It is not uncommon for an additional award to be made on behalf of the team or the player to be used as a display piece or gifted to a friend or family member. The award is sterling-silver plated, 33 3/4" long and weighs 28.8 ounces. This striking bat is engraved just like an actual Louisville Slugger, with the center brand, Gwynn's facsimile signature and "Powerized" logo. The custom engraving reads: "Batting Champion 1997 - National League - B.A. .372.". Photos can't do justice to the quiet awe this award evokes, it's simply beautiful. Condition is Near Mint with but a few negligible scratches that take nothing from the display power of this trophy. Please note this was incorrectly titled 'Silver Slugger' in the printed catalog, which is a more common award given to the top hitting player at each position. This is the Batting Champion Silver Bat award, awarded to only the batting champ in A.L. and N.L.

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