(LOT 663)
c.1924 Babe Ruth, Walter Johnson & Christy Walsh Barnstorming Type 1 Photo – Pacific & Atlantic - Measures Approx. 6-1/2" x 8-1/2" - PSA Type I Encapsulation
Babe Ruth's hallowed presence on the mighty New York Yankees elevated his stature to unparalleled heights in the early 1920's. Having already clubbed 58 and 59 record-setting round trippers in two successive seasons, the "Sultan of Swat" was not only the toast of the town, but arguably the most celebrated individual in America! Capitalizing on his popularity and against Judge Mountain Landis's wishes (MLB's stern commissioner), Ruth's renowned agent Christy Walsh organized a barnstorming tour after the 1924 season that would see both Ruth and teammate Bob Meusel manage two teams that would tour the Western U.S. This was an ultra-special feature for avid baseball fans in the California state who had never had the opportunity of seeing the Bambino play. Major League baseball had yet to realize western expansion, with baseball enthusiasts geographically situated in those far western states only exposed to minor league professional games (e.g., the California Pacific Coast League).

At that point in time, this was the most the Babe's most successful barnstorming tour ever took place that fall. Both his and Meusel's two teams traveled 8,500 miles and played in 15 cities before 125,000 people. They played a single game in each of those 15 cities with Ruth's team winning every game (15-0), and the Babe slugging 17 dingers. We cannot even begin to over-emphasize the significance and popularity of these post-season tours. Over-anxious fans eagerly awaited the arrival of the sanctified George Herman Ruth to their small towns, with News Service photographers jumping on the bandwagon to take any possible photos of these extraordinary events. One such photo was this magnificent Pacific & Atlantic offering that just happens to include the immortal Walter Johnson, agent Christy Walsh, and the iconic George Herman "Babe" Ruth!

Indeed, this ultra-rare heirloom depicts Ruth in the classic Barnstorming uniform he donned during this 1924 Western U.S. tour, with all three individuals portraying stoic facial expressions. In fact, this is the exact uniform Ruth is wearing on his celebrated October 22, 1924 Dunsmuir, CA. real photo postcard that has previously sold for nearly $20,000. Measuring approximately 6-1/2" x 8-1/2", the image reflects absolutely awe-inspiring clarity and contrast, with no glaring flaws impeding its world-class aesthetics. The verso includes the critical Pacific & Atlantic credit stamp, the final exclamation point for one of the rarest and most significant
Babe Ruth barnstorming photos that just happens to include the majestic "Big Train" as an added superlative!

MIN BID $500
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