Rare Thomas H. Connolly Double-Signed Black and White HOF Plaque Postcard - SGC/JSA Authentic

• Sold For: $0
• Year: -
• Auction: 2017 May
• Lot #: 3
• Auction Category: Autographed Baseballs/Flats/Photos

The Father of American League Umpiring, Tom Connolly grew up a cricketer in England and wasn"t introduced to baseball until he immigrated to the U.S. at age 15. From that point on he devoted his life to our national pastime. Among many milestones are his umpiring at the first A.L. game, the first World Series, and the inaugural games at Fenway Park and Yankee Stadium. There were eight World Series in all during his five-decade career, plus three no-hitters and one perfect game (Addie Joss). Connolly also mentored young umpires and young players alike. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1953, just eight years before his death at age 90. No doubt due to this small signing window—not to mention the then-lower demand for umpire autographs—only about a handful of Connolly signed plaque postcards are known to exist. This double-signature example features "6-7" script strength on front and "9" on the reverse. Condition of the 1953-55 Artvue postcard is GD/VG. This item has a reserve (estimated value $10,000-$12,000).