In the world of baseball memorabilia, there are certain items that stand out for their historical significance and the stories they hold. One such piece is a recently discovered signed photograph of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, taken by renowned photographer Arthur Hull. Authenticated by PSA as a Type 1 original, this meticulously preserved photograph is a testament to the legendary status of these two baseball icons.
Arthur Hull, known for his work with The New York Times and The Associated Press, captured this iconic moment during the Yankees’ spring training camp between 1927 and 1931. The photograph showcases not only Ruth and Gehrig’s undeniable camaraderie but also the joy they found in the game. Their autographs, carefully inscribed on the photograph, reflect both Hull’s artistry and the players’ mutual respect for each other.
Keith Breitweiser, an acquisitions specialist at Lelands, praises the exceptional quality of the autographs and the photograph itself. He emphasizes the significance of this piece, stating, “These are the two most iconic players who ever played the game on the most iconic team. The autographs are some of the nicest you’ll find.”
The journey of this photograph to the auction block is a captivating tale of historical preservation and serendipity. After Arthur Hull’s passing in 1969, his collection, including this signed photograph, was bought by Karl Allison and a friend from Hull’s widow. This acquisition, made for a nominal amount, uncovered a wealth of negatives and photographs spanning Hull’s fifty-year career. Among these treasures was the signed photograph of Ruth and Gehrig, which Allison chose to safeguard by storing it away from light and creating a duplicate for display purposes.
The significance of this photograph goes beyond its visual appeal. It presents a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a tangible piece of sports history. Signed photographs of Ruth and Gehrig, especially those authenticated as Type 1 originals and in excellent condition, are highly sought after. As a result, the upcoming auction, set to begin on February 25, is expected to attract significant interest from those eager to acquire this remarkable relic from baseball’s illustrious past.
This auction not only highlights the enduring fascination with Ruth and Gehrig but also emphasizes the importance of meticulous preservation and the role of photography in immortalizing the legends of sports. As this iconic photograph looks for a new home, it continues to celebrate the indelible legacy left by Ruth and Gehrig. Arthur Hull’s lens captured a moment that will forever be etched in baseball history, and through the years, this photograph has stood as a testament to their monumental impact on the game and American culture as a whole.
