Babe Ruth’s autograph is a huge prize for any collector.
The Bambino is a legendary figure – even to non-baseball fans.
That’s a testament to his sheer force of personality.
Here’s what you need to know about his market.
Demand is through the roof
Signed photographs, letters, ephemera…
Hugely popular.
(Image: Wikimedia Commons)
But the real prize is a Ruth signed baseball.
They’re worth their weight in gold.
Over the years I’ve seen them sell for more than $600,000.
The appeal of this item is only partly due to Ruth’s baseball prowess.
It’s also a uniquely American rarity.
Ruth is emblematic of a moment in US history.
The economy was booming, the Empire State building was going up…
And baseball truly was America’s pastime.
Ruth signed thousands of autographs
Before Ruth, baseball players didn’t really sign all that often.
But Ruth’s popularity, combined with his garrulous personality, meant he was happy to hang out with fans and sign anything that was handed to him.
(Image: Wikimedia Commons)
Here’s the catch. Few have survived in mint condition.
It’s been well over a century since Ruth first stepped up to the plate.
Over time signatures have been lost or damaged.
For the rare few that survive intact, the demand is vast.
And that’s led to a major issue.
Ruth is a target for forgers
Babe Ruth is one of the most commonly forged names in the hobby.
Fraudsters know exactly how popular he is.
(Image: Wikimedia Commons)
They know his autographs go for thousands of dollars.
And they also mistakenly believe his signature (he often signed simply “Babe”) is easy to forge.
Fakes clutter up online marketplaces.
But any expert worth their salt can spot the difference.
I would always advise you to buy or sell through a qualified dealer.
That goes double for Babe Ruth.
Paul Fraser.
PS. Do you have a Babe Ruth autograph you’re looking to sell? I may be able to help. Get in touch today at info@paulfrasercollectibles.com.
PPS. Want insider information on the collectibles market and special deals on stock items? Sign up to my newsletter today.
