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Lot Number: 727
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Lot 727
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| Description: 1919 Joe Wilhoit 69 Consecutive Hit Game Streak presentational medal. While it is fairly common knowledge that Joe DiMaggio hit safely in 56 consecutive games during the 1941 season with the Yankees, it is often overlooked that DiMaggio also hit in 61 straight games while playing with the San Francisco Seals in 1933. Interestingly, neither of those incredible streaks is the longest in professional baseball history. During the 1919 Western League season, Joseph Wilhoit hit safely in an incredible 69 straight games. Wilhoit had played in the Major Leagues for several seasons before going to the Western League in 1919. His batting streak became national news as he destroyed the previous Minor and Major League marks of 44 and 45 games. The Wichita Eagle newspaper wrote, "The old town has baseballitis to the thirty-third degree with a temperature that is chasing the mercury out of the top of the tube. The morning greeting here has changed from `How do you do' to `Did Wilhoit hit?'"
The 1 3/4" shield shaped gold medal with ornate floral garniture on the edges and a single inset diamond at the bottom, is inscribed on the front, "Presented to Joseph Wilhoit Centerfielder Wichita, WI by Wichita Friends 1919". The back is inscribed, "Worlds Record Hitting Safely in 69 Consecutive Games June 14 to Aug. 19 1919". Overall condition remains very fine with light surface wear incl. a few minor scratches. While DiMaggio's Major League record may very well never be broken, the mark set by Joe Wilhoit is truly remarkable. In fact, it is interesting to note that DiMaggio himself was quoted several times in reference to his respect for Wilhoit's streak: EX-MT |
| Estimated Price: ($3,000.00-$4,000.00) |
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