This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/2/2012
On 8/14/47 Yogi Berra signed his endorsement contract with Louisville Slugger. The first signature model bat that he requested was the R43 model. Throughout his 18 years Yankee career, Berra regularly ordered this exact model bat.
Examination of Yogi Berra’s personal bat records verify he ordered the R43 model, measuring 35” and within the 30 ounce range during 1962-63, his final seasons with the New York Yankees. This bat would have been available for Yogi to use during his final World Series season, 1963, and for his last career homeruns, 1962 (10), and 1963 (8).
Bat exhibits heavy game use, with ball marks concentrated above and below the barrel signature. In the area above the barrel are 14 or more ball mark clusters, with distinct seam marks present. Below the barrel signature is an equal number of ball mark clusters with distinct seam and stitch marks present. A red bat rack mark can be found above the barrel stamping. The handle remains uncracked.
Final Grade (MEARS A8): Base grade of 5 points is assigned for bat matching factory records, 3 points assigned for heavy game use. LOA Troy R. Kinunen / MEARS
(Z0313)
LOA Troy Kinunen / MEARS