On August 1, 2001 Barry Bonds returned to Pittsburgh where his career began. The Giants slugger slapped around Pirates pitching that day hitting a double and then a solo home run off Joe Beimel. This is the bat attributed by Bond's signature and inscription to being used to add home run 540 to his surging career total. Quality high definition photography was not available to PSA to be able to confirm a photo matcgh to the home run.

     The Original Maple Company SAM Bonds 2K1 model bat is un-cracked and shows moderate use. Several ball marks (one of which is career homer 540!) can be seen on the barrel along with blue ink transfers and white leather scuffs. Cleat marks are on the left barrel and the handle has been taped to approximately 13 1/2" in a spiral and criss-cross pattern to enhance the grip. Additionally there is a light coat of pine tar applied over the tape. The length "34", weight "32oz", date of manufacture "04 30 01", model "Bonds" and his initials "B.B" are hand written on the barrel end in black marker. A "25 BONDS" hologram is affixed to the barrel. Bonds has signed the barrel in silver pen and inscribed "8-01-2001 #540" in gold. A very attractive Bonds gamer used on his way to the top of the career home run list. This bat comes with a Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA (1B11582) who have graded this bat a “GU 9”. The Signature is authenticated by the Bonds hologram.