October Legends Closing November 1
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/2/2014
After returning from the Korean Conflict, Ted Williams continued hitting just as he continued hitting after returning from service in World War II. During the time period this bat was manufactured, William averaged 30 home runs and 84 runs batted in, and winning another batting title in 1957 with a .388 average. This Hillerich & Bradsby W183 signature model Ted Williams bat exhibits evidence of light use, including a restored lower handle crack which originally had 1/3 of the knob missing. A few ball marks are visible on the left barrel, and the model number “W183” is stamped into the knob. The bat is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from former Boston Red Sox General Manager Richard H. O’Connell detailing his acquisition of the bat from Williams in 1957. We know this bat is from 1955-1957 defined by the center brand and the slight flaw that appears on the oval. According to page 30 of Vince Malta’s book “A Complete Reference Guide Louisville Slugger Professional Player Bats” the bat features a C-15A center brand which appeared on Louisville Slugger professional model bats between 1950 and 1960. Additionally, there is a small dimple at 10 o’clock on the center oval, which is a branding flaw previously cataloged in our database and appears on some Louisville Slugger professional bats between 1955 and 1957. Ted Williams' gamers are some of the most desirable and sought after bats in the hobby. This bat is an excellent example of a late career Williams bat, with solid provenance. Full LOA from PSA/DNA, cert number 1B08476, graded GU 8.