Babe Ruth 1948 wirephoto

[Rob D.]

I'm typically not a fan of "What is this worth" posts, but because I'm out of my element on this and have tried and failed to research it, I'm going to give myself a pass and ask.

About 20 years ago at a newspaper at which I worked, I picked up this original International News photo of Babe Ruth's last appearance at Yankee Stadium. There were two originals of this in our photo morgue, and the librarian was nice enough to let me have this one. I wanted it only because of the Indians connection.

The original teletype paper is attached to the back with this description:

The Bambino retires the 'Big 3'

New York .... Before the start of the game between the New York Yankees and Cleveland Indians, at New York's Yankee Stadium, the world of baseball paused to pay homage to one of its all-time greats, Babe Ruth. The Bambino is shown, (above), doffing his hat to the crowd as he makes an appearance in his famous number 3 Yankee uniform, thus making him the last Yankee ever to be allowed to wear the number 3 suit. Immediately after the Bambino takes off the uniform it will be turned over to Paul S. Kerr, secretary of baseball's Hall of Fame. It will be placed in the Cooperstown, N.Y., museum along with other mementoes of the Babe's great days. In the dugout behind the Babe, are members of Cleveland's team.

6/13/48 Photo by Harry Hirsch

The photo measures 8 x 10 inches, has an International News rubber stamp on the reverse and has no problems as far as condition goes (the small imperfections above and below Ruth are glares from scanning).

I keep my eyes open when I see Ruth photos at auction, and I've not seen his one. But then again, I'm not a Yankees collector, so it'd be easy for me to miss it. My guess is because this has historical significance, it might be a desirable photo.

I'd welcome any thoughts regarding its value.

Thanks,

Rob

[drc]

Ordinarily I'd price it in the $100-200 range. However, if that pictures the last time the number was ever worn by a Yankee, the price might double. There is no price guide for photos and auction prices vary, so I'm giving a conservative idea.

I haven't seen the photo before either.

[sports-rings]

I have no idea what it is worth, but I just wanted to say, what a great picture. It's teriffic to see the admiration of the Indian players and the fans. You can feel the warmth of the moment.

A picture truly is worth a thousand words.

Mike