Incredible Christy Mathewson Single-Signed Heydler Baseball

• Sold For: $161,000
• Year: -
• Auction: 2007 March
• Lot #: 1
• Auction Category: Autographed Baseballs/Flats/Photos

Of the five members in the 1936 inaugural class elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame, Christy Mathewson is the most coveted and desirable signature among these greats of the game. It is not that a Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, Honus Wagner or Walter Johnson single-signed baseball is any less important; the fact is that Christy Mathewson left this world at such a young age. Matty, as his manager John McGraw often called him, is considered by many to be the game’s greatest pitcher. His accomplishments on and off the field are legend. Known as the Christian Gentleman, he was well-educated and kind to all those who knew him. On the mound, Mathewson was a fierce competitor during his illustrious 17-year career; he led the league in wins four times, won five strikeout titles, won 30 or more games four times and pitched four shutouts and ten complete games in World Series competition. Unfortunately for baseball and the world, Matty inhaled mustard gas during his service to his country during World War I and never fully recovered. Mathewson passed in 1926 and still ranks third on the all-time wins list with 373 victories. The presented ONL John Heydler red-and-blue stitched baseball has been signed beautifully on the sweet spot by this icon of the diamond. The signature (“7-8”) was scripted with a steel tip fountain pen in black ink. The “C” in Christy is mildly affected by light abrasions on the west panel as is the “n” in Mathewson but the overall aesthetic of the signature is marvelous. Each letter was crisply and purposely penned for optimal splendor. The ball does exhibit toning on the reverse sweet spot and south panels with light abrasions on the north, east and west panels. The sweet spot and signature displays the least amount of wear. A true Christy Mathewson single-signed baseball is among the scarcest of all autographed relics in the industry and the offered treasure will not disappoint as it is a brilliant piece. An opulent beauty that transcends all others, this Christy Mathewson baseball is for the collector determined to capitalize on a paramount opportunity. LOA from BOTH James Spence Authentications and PSA/DNA.