BREAKING: A signed program from the inaugural 1939 Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony has just sold for a record-breaking $315,000 at Lelands Auctions. This historic sale marks the highest price ever paid for a program, surpassing the previous record of $241,500 for a 1903 World Series program.
The program, which is believed to be the only one signed by all eleven living inductees at the ceremony, features legendary names such as Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb (notably signing it twice), Walter Johnson, Honus Wagner, and Cy Young. The ceremony took place on June 12, 1939, and the consignor’s mother, who attended with her fiancé, was able to secure the autographs of every living inductee present.
In a captivating twist, the consignor recounted how his mother managed to obtain Cobb’s autograph. According to the seller, “Ty Cobb was late and missed the famous photograph with all the other inductees.” After waiting, Cobb agreed to sign the program only after receiving a kiss from her. “She gave him a kiss on the cheek, but as she pulled away, he kissed her,” he explained. “Since I got two kisses, I’ll sign it twice,” Cobb reportedly said, leading to the unique “Double Ty” signature.
This remarkable program includes a letter of authenticity from the reputable Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), verifying the legitimacy of the signatures. The emotional connection to the history of baseball is strong here; the consignor’s parents were engaged at the time, creating a family legacy tied to one of baseball’s most cherished moments.
The sale of this program not only highlights the enduring value of baseball memorabilia but also showcases the deep human connections intertwined within the sport’s history. As collectors and enthusiasts eagerly watch the auction market, this sale sets a new precedent.
Stay tuned for more updates as the collectibles market continues to evolve, and keep an eye on what historic artifacts could hit the auction block next!