(LOT 81)
c.1920's Lou Gehrig PSA Type I Original Times Wide World Photos – Measures 8" x 10" - PSA Type 1 Encapsulation
This superb 8" x 10" Lou Gehrig "throwing" image was taken by Times Wide World Photos during the 1920's, depicting the "Iron Horse" during the prime of his unparalleled career. Encapsulated as a PSA Type I photo for ironclad authenticity, one look at this seemingly "timeless" image can literally send a shiver down ones' spine. The incomparable legacy of Henry Louis Gehrig can be traced back to his Columbia University playing days where Gehrig dominated as both a standout pitcher and slugging first baseman. Catching the attention of renowned New York Yankee scout Paul Krichell, on April 28, 1923 Gehrig hit one of the longest home runs ever seen at Columbia's South Field; a mammoth 450-foot blast that sailed completely out of the ball park.

One of many Lou Gehrig wallops, it was that particular round tripper that "sealed the deal" for Krichell as the prominent scout signed Gehrig to a Yankee contract only two days later. It would be the 1925 season that the "Iron Horse" would enjoy his first breakout season, batting .295 and walloping 20 home runs in nearly 500 plate appearances. Considered one of the game's fearsome sluggers, Gehrig would now embark on one of the most formidable careers in baseball history. This substantiates why original collectibles of Gehrig are widely sought-after within the collecting community, let alone one that stands as one of his pre-1930's keepsakes. Tragically, Gehrig's incredible career was cut short by the deadly "ALS" disease (now more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease) that took his life at the tender age of 37.

Yet, with all of his batting achievements, he will always be best remembered for his 2,130 consecutive-game streak, accounting for his sacred "Iron Horse" nickname. Furthermore, his incomparable farewell "Luckiest Man on the Face Of The Earth" speech at Yankee Stadium on July 4, 1939 will forever be regarded as our National Pastime's Gettysburg Address. We cannot imagine a finer testament to Gehrig's iconic legacy than a world-class pre-1930's image of the immortal Cooperstown inductee and this offering does not disappoint.

Most likely taken at a Florida spring training site, Gehrig is captured in a classic throwing pose donning his spring wind-breaker jacket with the entire image exhibiting virtually pristine resolution and clarity. Relatively clean surfaces and a verso that reveals the Times Wide World Photos credit stamp complete this museum worthy masterpiece that truly merits a final resting place in any esteemed photographic collection! - PSA Type I Encapsulation

MIN BID $500
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