In the world of sports memorabilia, few items carry as much weight as a baseball glove signed by Babe Ruth. And when that glove is not only signed once, but twice, and tied to the historic 1916 World Series, the anticipation and excitement surrounding its auction is palpable. Expected to surpass the million-dollar mark, this treasure from the collection of Joe E. Brown is set to become one of the most sought-after lots at Heritage Auctions.
The story behind this remarkable piece of memorabilia is as captivating as the game of baseball itself. Once owned by Joe E. Brown, a multitalented figure in the entertainment industry during the 1930s, this Spalding baseball glove carries with it the legacy of both Brown and the legendary Babe Ruth. Brown, known for his acting, comedy, and sports broadcasting, was an avid collector of sports memorabilia, and this glove was one of the crown jewels of his collection.
What makes this glove truly exceptional are the dual signatures of Babe Ruth. The first signature, dating back to 1916, was shared with his Red Sox teammates who played a crucial role in their World Series victory over the Brooklyn Robins. The second signature, accompanied by Ruth’s handwritten note confirming its use in the 1916 World Series, was added later, solidifying the glove’s historical importance. In addition to Ruth’s signatures, the glove also boasts the autographs of his teammates Harry Hooper, Duffy Lewis, Larry Gardner, and Tillie Walker, further enhancing its value as a piece of baseball history.
The early bidding for this rare artifact has been nothing short of fervent, surpassing $300,000 within the first day of the auction. Collectors from around the globe have shown immense interest, leading Heritage Auctions to project a final price well over $1 million. This auction follows the previous sale of another Babe Ruth-related item—a glove gifted to Jimmy Austin—which fetched an impressive $1.5 million. Such prices demonstrate the extraordinary market value attached to authentic Babe Ruth memorabilia.
The authenticity of the glove’s signatures has been duly verified by Beckett and PSA/DNA, and Steve Grad of Beckett has hailed the examination process as “the coolest thing I’ve ever seen.” The guarantee of authentication adds to the appeal for potential bidders, reassuring them of the glove’s historical significance and the genuine nature of Babe Ruth’s autographs.
Joe E. Brown’s collection, once devastated by fire, continues to make an indelible mark on the world of sports memorabilia through items such as this glove. Its upcoming auction not only presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors to own a remarkable piece of baseball history but also pays homage to the enduring legacy of Babe Ruth and the passionate collecting spirit of Joe E. Brown. With the auction date drawing near, enthusiasm and anticipation are mounting, paving the way for a historic sale that will undoubtedly be remembered for decades to come.
