UPDATE: A piece of baseball history has just shattered records! Lou Gehrig’s final home jersey, worn during his last appearance at Yankee Stadium, has sold for an astonishing $2.712 million at auction—a record for Gehrig memorabilia. The auction, conducted by Christie’s and Hunt Auctions, featured this iconic uniform from Game 2 of the 1939 World Series and included a buyer’s premium.
This momentous sale underscores the enduring legacy of Gehrig, who was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 1939. He played only eight games that season before his forced retirement, ending a then-record streak of 2,130 consecutive games. Despite his illness, he remained with the Yankees, delivering lineup cards to umpires, showcasing his unwavering spirit.
The auctioned jersey was authenticated by MeiGray and confirmed to have been worn by Gehrig on October 5, 1939, marking the last time he donned a Yankees uniform at home. Notably, Gehrig passed away on June 2, 1941, making this piece even more significant.
According to the lot description, the jersey was preserved for decades by a dry cleaner who recognized its value while cleaning uniforms for the Yankees’ minor league affiliate, the Newark Bears. The cleaner kept it for over 50 years, a testament to the jersey’s historical importance.
Dr. G.B. Espy, a renowned collector described by Hunt Auctions president David Hunt as “a pioneering collector of historic memorabilia,” purchased the jersey in 1991 for $115,000. This latest sale marks a remarkable return on investment, highlighting the growing interest in sports collectibles.
In addition to the jersey, the auction featured other high-value items, including a bat believed to have been used by Gehrig during his final World Series in 1938, which sold for $1.197 million, and Jackie Robinson’s Baseball Hall of Fame ring, fetching $693,000. Both prices included buyer’s premiums.
As the sports memorabilia market continues to surge, collectors and fans alike are reminded of the emotional connection and lasting impact of baseball legends like Lou Gehrig. With records being broken and prices soaring, the world of sports collectibles is more vibrant than ever, making it an exciting time for both collectors and enthusiasts.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and what it means for the future of sports memorabilia.
