Lot # 12: c.1930 Lou Gehrig Signed Graduation Greeting Card – From the Paddy O’Connor Collection – Full PSA/DNA LOA

Category: Autographs

Starting Bid: $1,000.00

Bids: 8 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed
Lot / Auction Closed




This lot is closed. Bidding is not allowed.

Item was in Auction "Spring Rarities Auction 2020",
which ran from 5/6/2020 12:00 PM to
5/30/2020 7:00 PM



(LOT 12)
c.1930 Lou Gehrig Signed Graduation Greeting Card – From the Paddy O'Connor Collection – Full PSA/DNA LOA

The hallowed signature of Henry Louis Gehrig stands as one of the most sought-after autographs in the hobby. Due to his tragic passing at the tender ager of 37 from the deadly ALS disease, unlike his iconic teammate Babe Ruth, signed Gehrig artifacts are few and far between. Typically, you will find Gehrig signatures on cuts, baseballs or a handful of photos, justifying why this circa 1930 signed congratulatory card stands as one of his most obscure scripted keepsakes. Most significantly, it originated from the celebrated Paddy O'Connor collection that was publicly sold nearly a decade ago. A former professional baseball catcher, O'Connor played 6 years for the N.Y. Giants, Pittsburgh Pirates, Pittsburgh Rebels (1915 Federal League) and Yankees before finally calling it quits after the 1918 season.

Born in County Kerry, Ireland on August 2, 1879, after immigrating to the United States, Connor was immediately captivated with America's favorite pastime and commenced his MLB career in 1908 with the Pirates. While his "token" claim to fame was being a back-up catcher on Pittsburgh's 1909 World Championship team (playing in only 12 games), his legacy continues on-ward via his superb collection of baseball heirlooms he amassed over the years. One of those foremost heirlooms is this outstanding 1930 greeting card that Lou Gehrig sent to his daughter Elizabeth O'Connor as congratulations for her graduation. So the story goes, long before Gehrig met his lovely wife Eleanor, Elizabeth and Lou were a somewhat romantic item at one time. Remaining good friends thru the years, Lou certainly would not forget to offer his "congrats" for a very special moment in her life, signing in bold green fountain pen "The Gehrig's".

The prestigious PSA/DNA Authentication Company has deemed that Lou Gehrig scripted "The Gehrig's" in his own hand (a Full PSA LOA is included), with the signature conservatively presenting itself in "8/9" strength. The card itself is in outstanding condition, with the front cover revealing a brilliantly hued flower arrangement, a bold "GRADUATION CONGRATULATIONS!" text box and its original white ribbon. The typed inscription on the inside right page clearly reads in poetic-like style: "One of the greatest thrills in life, At last has come to you, For at your feet lie the untried paths, That stretch out fair to view. May every step bring nearer still – The goal of Great Success, Combined with everything in life – That makes up happiness!" Gehrig's classic signature directly follows this awe-inspiring poem that clearly tells us the affection Lou felt for Paddy's daughter Elizabeth. Unlike the standard baseball related Gehrig autographs we typically encounter, this unique greeting card offers the sophisticated enthusiast a rare "personal-side" memento from the Iron Horse, revealing his wonderful persona that forever stands as one of his most rewarding qualities! - FULL PSA/DNA LOA

MIN BID $1,000
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