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Addendum: This incredible bat has been conclusively photomatched by Resolution Photomatching since the printed catalog was published. It represents the first and only photomatched bat the company has ever evaluated. Matched to an October 1923 benefit game in which Ruth hit a home run, this bat is made ever more special by this incredible discovery. A complete copy of theirs findings is available in the images accompanying this lot. Extraordinary Babe Ruth H&B signature-model bat (predating model numbers) dating from the 1922 to 1924 manufacturing period. Graded GU 10 by PSA/DNA. The uncracked bat, which measures nearly 36 inches in length and weighs a Ruthian 41.9 ounces, displays evidence of outstanding use along its entire length, including numerous ball marks and ball-stitch impressions on the left barrel, grain swelling from repeated ball contact, and cleat marks. The handle has been scored for an enhanced grip. As noted by PSA/DNA in its accompanying letter, both the left barrel contact area and the scored handle are known Ruth characteristics: This Babe Ruth professional model bat displays two notable Ruth characteristics, a left-barrel contact area and a scored handle. Throughout his 22 year Hall of Fame career, from his first at-bats with the Red Sox to his last at-bat with the Boston Braves, Ruth gripped the bat with the center brand turned away from him (see attached-Item 1), resulting in the left barrel (above his branded name) contacting the ball. The left barrel of the subject bat is the primary contact area. The presence of the left barrel contact area, together with the scored handle unquestionably place this bat in Ruth's hands during the referenced labeling period. Despite the fact that H&B did not assign model numbers to bats during this period, PSA/DNA has been able to determine that the knob, handle, and barrel dimensions of this bat are easily recognized as "His Model," which was later assigned the model number R2. An examination of Ruth's H&B Professional Bat Ordering Record (PBOR) shows that he ordered this particular model bat six times during the labeling period. The dating of this bat conforms to the general manufacturing period of 1922 to 1924, as indicated by the center brand. However, through an analysis of Ruth's H&B ordering records for that period, PSA/DNA concludes that "The length and weight of the subject bat are consistent with bats ordered by Ruth during the labeling period. Ordering records for all professional players begin with the 1920 season. At 41.9 ounces today, the weight is consistent with orders appearing on Ruth's post 1920 PBOR between March 14, 1922 and August 29, 1923 (records for the 1924 season are not available). During that time, the majority of orders call for bats weighing 42 ounces. A single order references bats from 42 to 51 ounces. At 35.875 inches in length, the bat is consistent with R2 models order by Ruth during the labeling period. We should note the ordered length of the subject bat was 36 inches. During the era, it was common for the small differential in ordered and finished length." Babe Ruth pro-model bats, by their very nature, represent one of the most desirable objects in the hobby. To hold a bat that was once used by Ruth is tantamount to holding history in the palm of one’s hand. The three-year period 1922 to 1924 was especially productive for Ruth, as he registered batting averages of .315, .393, and a league-leading .378 during that time, while also averaging 41 home runs and 117 RBI. This is one of the finest Babe Ruth bats we have ever offered and one that would be a highlight of an advanced Hall of Fame bat collection. Length: 35.875 inches. Weight: 41.9 ounces. Full LOA from John Taube of PSA/DNA. The size/weight of this item requires that there will be an additional shipping charge for this lot. Opening Bid $100,000.