(LOT 1238)
Possibly Unique c.1930's Bakelite Hank Greenberg Ring
Extremely rare to say the least, this circa 1930's Hank Greenberg Bakelite ring, to the best of our knowledge, is the only one known in the hobby! Remarkably retaining a majority of its original factory issued qualities, the ring portrays a classic black & white Hank Greenberg portrait image beneath its luminescence plastic, with the photo exhibiting a nearly silver gelatin-like quality. The remainder of the ring is composed of the popular "Bakelite" plastic material that stands as one of the inaugural plastics comprised from synthetic components.

Developed in 1907, Bakelite material was utilized for its heat-resistant properties in electrical insulators, radio and telephone casings. Its popular substance extended to creating additional products such as jewelry, children's toys and firearms, just to mention a few. Presenting itself as an almost gold-like element, Bakelite goods emanate a superb "retro" eye appeal, making them highly collectible in various hobby niches. This Hank Greenberg ring has miraculously managed to elude any notable flaws and is completely intact. Representing the Hall of Fame immortal "Hammerin" Hank Greenberg, it stands as one of his most eclectic relics, with any high-end Greenberg artifact highly coveted by the collecting community.

Playing only 9 full seasons in the Major Leagues (he lost almost a full 4 years due to WWII), while Greenberg's lifetime statistics aren't record setting, they were surely productive. Winner of 2 MVP awards, he averaged over 35 homers and a 'staggering' 140+ RBI's, with 1938 being his greatest season when he chased Babe Ruth's legendary 60 home run mark, finishing at 58. Along with Jimmie Foxx and Lou Gehrig, he will forever be considered one of baseball's greatest 1st baseman sluggers ever to step into the batter's box. All of these superlatives substantiate his legendary stature, with this possibly "one of a kind" Bakelite ring one of his most outstanding relics!

MIN BID $200
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