Auction Item Details
Lot 468
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Lot Number: 468
Description: Significant President John F. Kennedy single signed baseball c.1961-63. Official J.Cronin American League baseball is signed and inscribed, "To Mickey Best Wishes, John F. Kennedy" in blue ink. Salutation and signature remain in very fine condition rating 7/8 out of 10. The ball was signed by President Kennedy for Mickey Vernon during the Washington Senators opening day games between 1961 and 1963. Kennedy attended the Senators' opening day home games in 1961, 1962, and 1963, throwing out the ceremonial first pitch each time. As manager of the Senators, Vernon was afforded the opportunity to meet the President prior to the start of the game, as evidenced by period photography (see accompanying image). The ball itself shows minor surface soiling, having possibly been rubbed up for game use. As several baseballs were handed to Kennedy before the first pitch, it is unclear whether this particular ball was the actual first pitch thrown. The offered baseball is one of a scant few signed by President Kennedy with direct provenance, and was one of Mickey Vernon's most cherished pieces from his personal collection. Includes LOA from Hunt Auctions (ball), LOA from JSA (autograph), original photograph of Kennedy with Mickey Vernon (holding three baseballs) c.1961 by Don Wingfield, and letter of provenance from the Vernon family: Ball: EX, Signature: EX-MTEstimated Price Range: ($15,000-$25,000)
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