(LOT 285)
c.1925-1929 Babe Ruth & Clarence "Doc" Spears Original PSA Type 1 Encapsulated Christy Walsh Syndicate Photo - Measures Approx. 8" x 10" – Includes PSA LOA
1920s BABE!!!... When the flamboyant George Herman "Babe" Ruth wasn't swatting baseballs far into the grandstands, he was certainly making his rounds with some of America's most distinguished sports and non-sports personalities. Having captured the hearts of millions of baseball fans in the early 1920s via his remarkable record-breaking assault on the fences as well as his unparalleled persona, Ruth was pictured with a seemingly infinite number of American icons, with this classic 8" x 10" offering portraying the Babe with the legendary college football coach Clarence "Doc" Spears. A Dartmouth player and graduate, Spears ultimately coached seven different college programs, and studied medicine at Chicago University and Rush Medical College during his coaching tenure.

Ruth actually took the time to don a football uniform for this obscure image with Spears, and since the verso has a pencil notation stating Spears is the coach at the University of Minnesota, we can only assume this photo was taken sometime between 1925-1929, the exact five-year tenure "Doc" Spears headed the Minnesota football program. Spears showcases a good-natured grin as he appears amused at the Bambino's gridiron uniform. As always, Ruth is looking directly into the camera, and although the illustration does reveal a somewhat dark contrast, the crystal-clear and lack of any glaring surface flaws on the critical central image steals the show. The only notable blemish is an upper right corner/edge chip, with the missing paper stock not impeding the imposing Ruth/Spears image whatsoever. The final superlative is the Christy Walsh Syndicate violet credit stamp situated within the verso's upper left quadrant. A super eclectic portrayal of the immortal King of Swat and renowned college coach Clarence "Doc" Spears, this possibly unique keepsake conjures up vivid memories of how Ruth consistently captured the hearts and imagination of all his ardent followers!

MIN BID $300
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