Winter Auction 2015 closing February 7
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/8/2015
Gil Hodges was the silent back-bone of the Brooklyn Dodgers of the 1950's. The first baseman was a giant of a man, but his gentle demeanor and natural kindness made him extremely popular with young Dodger fans. This modest "GIL HODGES AWARD" is a testament to his good name and tireless work with the community. Awarded to an as-yet unnamed member of the Newburgh, N.Y. Little League, it is type-written on a stunning piece of Brooklyn Dodgers stationary and dated 1951. Hodges has signed the award in unbelievably flawless blue pen. The 8 1/2" x 11" page has taken on a slightly warm tone from age but has been carefully stored away for decades, preserving Hodges signature. As Hodges passed away suddenly at the age of 47 in 1972, his signatures are relatively scarce compared to his other Brooklyn teammates - this example from the prime of his career as a beloved Bum being one of the better examples you will find. Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA who have graded this signature a 9.