This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/14/2019
1973-75 Thurman Munson Game Used Bat, PSA/DNA GU 8.5. The August 2, 1979 news hit the Yankee faithful like the proverbial ton of bricks. Much like the Kennedy assassination, any Yankee fan who was active in his rooting that year remembers exactly where he was when he heard the news that Munson's plane had gone down and that their beloved team captain had not escaped the flames. The beating heart that had delivered his ballclub from its longest Championship cold streak since Babe Ruth led it to its first was suddenly stopped, and that year the second, even longer drought would begin. This was no coincidence. Despite an absence from Cooperstown, Munson remains one of the most significant Yankees in pinstriped history, and likewise remains the most sought after and valuable figure in the collectibles market of those players active within the past three decades.
Presented is a signature model Hillerich & Bradsby S44 from the center of Munson's brief but essential Major League career, exhibiting excellent game use in the form of ball marks, stitch impressions and green bat rack streaks. Handle is uncracked, and a vintage number "15" appears in marker on knob. Length is thirty-five inches (35"), weight thirty-two ounces (32 oz.). LOA from PSA/DNA, GU 8.5.