This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/13/2019
This lot features an amazing Ted Williams 1947-48 Louisville Slugger signature model W155 bat used by "The Splendid Splinter" during his 1947-48 seasons with the Boston Red Sox, the absolute pinnacle of the legendary Hall of Famer's career. This historic bat exhibits outstanding overall use with deeply embedded ball marks, ball stitch impressions, cleat marks, small handle crack, bat rack marks, grain swelling and pine tar. The bat measures 35 inches and weighs 32 ounces. The labeling period is 1943-1949 with the vintage notation pinpointing this treasure to the 1947-48 seasons. The 1947 season was one of Ted's best as he achieved one of baseball’s most elusive achievement in winning “The Triple Crown”. The 1948 was equally incredible in that he won his 4th of 6th AL Batting Titles by hitting an amazing .369 for the season. The bat was recently acquired from the estate of Arthur McAvoy (1933-1982). McAvoy was a passionate Baseball enthusiast and collector of memorabilia. From his early childhood, he was a fixture on the New England sports scene. A fan of Ted Williams, they became close and kept up a steady correspondence throughout their lives (Williams would even request certain items from McAvoy that he did not have access to). A successful business career as the Owner of Boston Screen and Sash Company allowed McAvoy to pursue his autograph and collectible seeking quest. His passion, collecting time frame and close relationships with a number of sports luminaries, truly make this a one of a kind offering. The bat looks to have possibly been inscribed on the back by Ted Williams though time has cause the inscription to fade. The bat has been authenticated and graded an A7 by MEARS with the only deduction do to the small handle crack that could easily be repaired and move the grade to a "perfect 8". The graded of A8 is the highest attainable grade from MEARS without supporting player or team provenance. Important war club from the prime of Ted’s career. Absolute treasure and must-have for any vintage Ted Williams or game used bat collector.
(MEARS)