Lou Gehrig’s Final Yankees Jersey Fetches $2.7M at Auction

BREAKING: A historic piece of baseball memorabilia has just sold for an astounding $2.712 million. Lou Gehrig’s final home jersey, worn during his last appearance at Yankee Stadium in 1939, shattered auction records, making it the most expensive Gehrig item ever sold.

The jersey, which was donned by Gehrig during Game 2 of the 1939 World Series, was auctioned as part of Dr. G.B. Espy’s Collection, facilitated by Christie’s and Hunt Auctions. This significant sale marks a poignant moment in sports history, highlighting the enduring legacy of the baseball legend, who was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in the same year.

Gehrig’s health declined rapidly after his diagnosis, limiting him to just eight games in the 1939 season before his retirement. His remarkable streak of 2,130 consecutive games played ended, yet he remained with the Yankees in a supportive role, delivering lineup cards to umpires. The jersey sold was authenticated by MeiGray Authenticated and confirmed to have been worn by Gehrig on October 5, 1939, during his last home game.

“The jersey had been originally preserved by a dry cleaner tasked with cleaning uniforms for the Newark Bears,”

the auction lot description details. “Noticing that Lou Gehrig’s jersey was among those headed for Minor League use, the cleaner coveted the final home shirt worn by the Iron Horse and retained it for over 50 years.” This emotional connection to Gehrig’s legacy adds a profound layer to the jersey’s story.

Dr. Espy, a renowned collector of historic memorabilia, acquired this iconic jersey in 1991 for $115,000. Hunt Auctions president David Hunt praised Espy as “a pioneering collector during the formative years of the medium.” The auction also featured other significant items, including a bat likely used by Gehrig in his last World Series, which sold for $1.197 million, and Jackie Robinson’s Baseball Hall of Fame ring, fetching $693,000.

The auction’s record-breaking sale underscores the emotional and historical significance of Gehrig’s legacy, resonating with fans and collectors alike. With growing interest in sports memorabilia, this sale is poised to attract widespread attention and discussion among baseball enthusiasts and history buffs.

As the auction world continues to evolve, collectors are keenly watching for what historic artifacts may surface next. The sale of Gehrig’s jersey not only marks a milestone in auction history but also serves as a powerful reminder of the athlete’s enduring impact on the sport and society.

Stay tuned for further updates as the world reflects on the life and legacy of Lou Gehrig, a true icon of baseball.