(LOT 143)
Babe Ruth Autographed 1947 Letter w/Original Mailing Envelope – PSA Authentic/Encapsulation
One of the wonderful aspects of Babe Ruth's personality was his willingness to sign virtually anything for anyone, with the Babe relentlessly catering to his captivated fan base. While scripted baseballs and paper cuts/index cards are plentiful, finding signed letters is a more challenging task, justifying why this autographed Babe Ruth letter merits serious attention from any advanced collector. Encapsulated by PSA for ironclad authenticity, the Babe Ruth letterhead is dated April 7, 1947 and addressed to Mr. John Van Dine, with Ruth thanking him for sending a Major Leaguers baseball bat pen and pencil set. Most significantly, the end of the typed letter includes a bold black fountain pen "Babe Ruth" signature that conservatively presents itself in "8 NM-MT" condition.

Also included is the original mailing envelope made out to Mr. Van Dine, postal canceled on April 9, 1947, and including the iconic Thomas Jefferson violet three cents stamp. Other than two negligible horizontal mailing folds that do not impede the hallowed Ruth autograph, no obtrusive flaws are evident. The complete letter reads as follows: "My dear Mr. Van Dine - Thank you so very much for your thoughtfulness and generosity in sending me the Major Leaguers baseball bat pen and pencil sets. They really do make a wonderful appearance and are so greatly appreciated." Some 16 months later, the Sultan of Swat would ultimately succumb to the tragic effects of throat cancer, with this autographed letter serving as a world-class collectible to forever keep the Bambino's unparalleled spirit alive and kicking!

MIN BID $1,500
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