What is value of card signed by Babe Ruth in hospital shortly before he died also envelope signed by his wife?

Answer 1

Signatures will vary in price based on condition, the type of authenticity that accompanies the signature, the item signed, and how well the item displays the signature.Baseballs are the most common, and preferred by collectors because of it's connection to the game, low cost, availability and it displays the signature well. The signed Baseball represents the average price for a signature, and by deducting or adding from this price for the Item signed accordingly will give you a good idea on value.

The lowest priced signed item would be for a "cut Signature." A cut signature is a signature on a piece of paper, or "cut" from a larger piece. Index cards are the next step up, and both sell at a fraction (about 10%-20%) the price of an autographed baseball. Autograph photos typically sell at about 40-60 percent the price of a baseball with bats, uniform Jersey's and equipment selling at a higher price due to the higher cost of the item, rarity and display.

In general if an autographed baseball is worth $100. the same autograph on a 8 x 10 photo $50. a cut signature $20. on a bat $150. The percentage of the price could also vary based on the popularity of the player, and how sought after the signature is.

In the case of Babe Ruth, his signature is one of the most prized signatures in the hobby. A Babe Ruth single signed baseball in general is worth about $6,000.-$10,000. As with the signed picture value may vary based on condition, and the type of authenticity that accompanies the signature. The size, composition, and quality of the photograph signed and how well it displays the signature will effect the price. A Babe Ruth signed card will fit into the cut signature, index card category, and could be worth about $2,000.- $3,000. In a recent auctions a Babe Ruth cut signature sold for $3,107.50. I do not have information on the signature of his wife but could be in the $100.-$200. price range. The signature "signed shortly before he died" will not effect the price unless it can be proved. Strong provenance would be needed.

The signature should be bold, strong, 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.

If the signature is not properly authenticated the signed picture could sell at half the market value or less.