What is the price for Babe Ruth 714th home run ball signed by him?

Answer 1

A Babe Ruth single signed baseball in general is worth about $6,000.-$10,000. Value may vary based on condition, and the type of authenticity that accompanies the signature. If the signature is not properly authenticated the signed picture could sell at half the market value or less.

The signature should be bold, strong, and stand out in contrast to the photo. A weak, and faded signature will sell for less. Most autographs in Ruth's day was signed with a fountain pen. A signature with the quotation marks around "Babe" typifies his pre-1928 autograph and will sell at a higher value.

Unlike today where baseballs are marked to identify a record breaking home run in the days of Ruth this was un thought of. Baseball Memorabilia was not the Multi-billion dollar business it is today. If Babe Ruth's 714 home run ball was recovered it would be sitting in the hall of Fame. Strong provenance would be needed. Other noted (unsigned) Home run balls (year sold) sold for as follows: Babe Ruth 1933 All Star Game - $805,000 (2006)

Hank Aaron 755th - $650,000 (1999)

Barry Bonds 73rd of season - $450,000. (2001)

Mickey Mantle 500th - $144,000. (1996)

Barry Bonds 700th - $102,000 (2005)

Barry Bonds 70th of season - $14,400 (2007) NOTE: This ball previously sold for $60,000 and it was recently valued at about half that amount. Steroid suspicions are hampering the value of collectibles from more recent years.

Ken Griffey Jr. 500th (2004) - Frank Thomas 500th (2007) $0 (both given back to player by fan)