In our Winter 2016 auction, we offered what remains one of the most incredible pieces we have ever handled: the original 1930 Boston Post Old-Timer's Game poster, created and signed by nearly 50 stars, Hall of Famers, and Boston sports dignitaries and delivered to former catcher Lou Criger, who was dealing with health issues and unable to attend the game. The enormous piece contained large, clear signatures from some of the greatest names in the history of the sport. The September 8, 1930 game was really the first "old timer's game," and the sheer number of the game's celebrities and superstars created outstanding opportunities for players to obtain souvenirs and mementos from their time in the game.

Such an item is presented here: a fantastic, multi-signed baseball containing the signatures of 25 participants in that day's festivities. Originating from the estate of infielder Steve Yerkes (who played with Boston between 1909 and 1914), the baseball is a gorgeous "Partridge League" ball produced by the Horace Partridge Co., a sporting goods manufacturer that produced equipment for the Red Sox and Braves. Signatures on the ball include Edd Roush (HOF), Jeff Tesreau, Candy LaChance, Fred Tenney, Bill McKechnie (HOF), Robe Oldring, Chief Bender (HOF), Jack Coombs, Duffy Lewis, Ed Walsh (HOF), Dick Hoblitzell, Bunny Madden, Clyde Engle (signed twice), Fred Mitchell, Smoky Joe Wood, Dode Paskert, Amos Strunk, Bil Dinneen, Les Mann, Hugh Bedient, Harry Hooper (HOF), Steve Yerkes, and Home Run Baker (HOF).

The ball remains in outstanding condition, with a few minor areas of foxing here and there. The stampings and signatures are quite well-preserved, one of the finer multi-signed baseballs from this era we have encountered. The Boston Post old-timers game is one of the earliest examples of fans coming to pay tribute to the greats of the game's past, a tradition that continues today. A tremendous example of that tradition and a player's preservation of the memories of his time in the game. Full LOA from James Spence Authentication.

Size: medium
Condition: yes