Babe Ruth’s “called shot” remains one of baseball’s most legendary moments. During the 1932 World Series, Ruth famously pointed toward the stands before hitting a home run, a gesture that has become an iconic piece of sports history. The “Called Shot” jersey has set a new benchmark in sports memorabilia. Recently auctioned for an astonishing INR 201.39 crore ($24.12 million) at the Summer Platinum Sports Auction, this iconic piece of baseball history has shattered previous records, proving that Ruth’s legacy remains as vibrant as ever.
During Game 3 of the series, Ruth famously pointed to the centre field bleachers before hitting a home run into that exact spot. This act of confidence and skill, now known as the “Called Shot,” has become a legendary part of baseball lore. The jersey that bore witness to this incredible feat was auctioned off by Heritage Auctions, setting a new world record for the most valuable sports collectible ever sold.
The jersey’s journey is as captivating as the legend itself. After Ruth retired, he gifted it to a friend in Florida. It stayed in the family until the 1990s when a sports memorabilia collector bought it for a six-figure sum. From there, the jersey changed hands a few times, fetching INR 7.7 crore ($940,000) in 2005. However, its recent auction has set a new benchmark, showcasing the enduring appeal of Babe Ruth and the myth surrounding his “called shot.”
The bidding for the jersey was fierce, with collectors vying for a piece of history. The final sale price, achieved after a late-night bidding war, shattered previous records, including the INR105.73 crore ( $12.6 million) sale of a 1952 Mickey Mantle card. Chris Ivy, Heritage Auctions’ director of sports, described the jersey as “the most significant piece of American sports memorabilia ever offered at auction,” highlighting its unmatched importance to collectors.
The jersey’s record-breaking sale comes at a time when sports memorabilia collectors are increasingly eager to acquire items with historical significance. The auction drew significant attention from collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, reflecting a keen interest in owning a piece of sports history. The “Called Shot” jersey’s sale is a testament to Babe Ruth’s enduring influence on the sport and his place in the hearts of baseball fans.
Heritage Auctions, which conducted the sale, has played a crucial role in setting and breaking records in the world of sports collectibles. The current auction ended with a total realised price of INR 519.68 crore ($61.9 Million). The auction house’s meticulous attention to detail and expertise in authenticating high-value items ensured that this sale went off without a hitch.
As the jersey enters one of the finest private collections in the world, it solidifies Ruth’s status as an American icon. His influence on baseball and pop culture remains unparalleled, and this jersey is a tangible reminder of his impact. The sale is a testament to the power of sports to create lasting memories, and it ensures that Babe Ruth’s legend will live on for generations to come.
