AMAZING Wagner photo...

[GKreindler]

It would be amazing if an Austin/Cobb signed copy existed. I feel like every time I've ever seen an action shot autographed from that era (or even the 20s), there would more often than not have just the main protagonist penning his name (that is, if it were done during that period). And, considering that this is the most famous photo in baseball history, having it signed by both would surely make a kingly gift...

[BillyCoxDodgers3B]

Although he was always a willing signer, not many fans seemed to write to Austin for an autograph following his retirement. This is evidenced by the lack of examples when compared to the surviving items signed by non-HOF players of his era who passed away around the same time (mid-1960's). Interestingly, most of those other men had careers that paled when placed side-by-side to Austin's accomplishments. Most surviving Austin autographs can be found on cuts or multi-signed album pages, with a few 3X5s and GPCs in the mix.

Also, I would say that Austin's signature ties with those of Chief Meyers and Canadian George Gibson as being the most difficult of the men featured in TGOTT. While not incredibly rare, they can at times pose a bit of a challenge to procure (especially if one is picky about quality).

[Bob Lemke]

who's the first baseman?

[Rich Klein]

Also, I would say that Austin's signature ties with those of Chief Meyers and Canadian George Gibson as being the most difficult of the men featured in TGOTT. While not incredibly rare, they can at times pose a bit of a challenge to procure (especially if one is picky about quality).[/QUOTE]

1) I believe Austin passed on before the publishing of GOTT. If so; then the people who discovered his life story would not have been able to contact him

2) George Gibson passed early in 67; again I suspect he was not able to reap any benefits of GOTT

3) The Chief certainly stayed active for at least a few years after the publishing of GOTT; wonder why less signed items on him.

Regards
Rich

[BillyCoxDodgers3B]

Actually, my statement would still hold relevance even if the book had never been published. For instance, there are far more Hugh Bedients out there (1910's BoSox, died the same year as Austin). That baffles me. I could compose a list of similar instances which would do nothing except leave us to scratch our heads in puzzlement as to why somebody like Austin was virtually ignored by collectors.

Many decades ago, The Sporting News used to run a "Where are they Now?" column featuring the current status of the players of yesterday. In those friendlier, simpler times, TSN apparently did not think it unwise to be listing the players' home addresses at the bottom of each column! Consequently, these men were sent many autograph requests. I beleive Austin was featured in one of these columns, so it makes me wonder why more 3X5s and GPCs aren't out there. There is a core group of about 25-50 non-HOFers who all passed away in the 1950's-60's whose autographs turn up with much more frequency than the majority of their contemporaries. It's those TSN articles that we have to thank for the extra autographs of guys like Jack Warhop, Ed Abbaticcio, Howie Camnitz, Sox Seibold, Vean Gregg, etc.

I think there are fewer Gibsons because he lived up here in Ontario. Therefore, he was out of reach to many (although he would courteously reply to autograph seekers). To add to your thoughts, keep in mind that Gibson's chapter in TGOTT actually didn't make the first cut; his section was added in much later printings (I think the revamped edition published in 1984 was his first appearance).

Strangely, Sad Sam Jones died only a year after the book's publication, yet collectors wrote *him* throughout his life. For somebody who died 43 years ago, his is a very common autograph. Both Jones and Austin had very respectable, storied careers. Why, then, was one flooded with fan mail and the other all but forgotten?

[terjung]

Graig:

I just went to your website for the first time. Outstanding paintings! You are quite gifted!

Brian

[milkit1]

wow! awesome paintings! stick with prewar! And do a Hal Chase!

[GKreindler]

There will certainly be a lot more pre-war stuff, and certainly at some point, a Hal Chase to boot!

I'm hoping to post a few more paintings on here before the National comes around, one of which is Conlon's Cobb...