One of only two authenticated Shoeless Joe Jackson pro model Louisville Slugger bats dating to his days as a big leaguer sold for $605,077 early Thursday. The circa 1919-1920 era Louisville Slugger model was the headline item in Hunt Auctions’ 4th annual February Premier catalog sale.
The bat includes the full “Joe Jackson” signature script impression on the barrel. Documented pro model bats used by Jackson after he was banished from the game by Commissioner Kenesaw Mountain Landis feature only the last name “Jackson” on the barrel. “Joe Jackson” pro model bats were not produced for use after the 1920 banishment date, according to research by PSA-DNA bat expert John Taube.
The price included a 15% buyer’s premium.
Also topping the six-figure mark was a 1969 Roberto Clemente Pittsburgh Pirates jersey that originated from the collection of retired relief pitcher Kent Tekulve. Donned briefly by Tekulve as a minor leaguer after being handed down within the organization, the jersey has been his possession since the early 1970s. The jersey sold for $113,651.
The auction featured the personal collections of seven former major leaguers including items from Bill Mazeroski, hero of the 1960 World Series. His presentational trophy from that series, offered for the first time, sold for $22,224.
Other pieces offered among more than 1,700 lots included a scarce 1903 World Series Game #1 ticket stub, selling for $48,145; a 1903 World Series original photograph which sold for $31,652; an archive of many never before seen 
photos of the Kennedy Family which sold for $23,000; and 1913 era uncut proof sheet of what appear to be baseball cards. Featuring images of Jackson, Ty Cobb and other stars of the day, it sold for $42,129.
“Our annual February Premier sale has become immensely popular with collectors and serves as a fine continuance to our original live auctions held in Pennsylvania over the last 23 years,” remarked David Hunt, President of Hunt Auctions. “The 2015 installment of this auction series was our strongest to date, with some outstanding prices realized for both rarities and unique items for collectors at every level.”
Hundreds of vintage baseball cards were also part of the sale including a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle (SGC 40) which sold for $17,006, a 1922 E122 American Caramel Babe Ruth ($17,014) and a 1907-09 Novelty Cutlery Honus Wagner graded PSA 5.5 ($15,088).
Results for the 2015 February Premier Auction event can be found at HuntAuctions.com until Monday, March 2. Additionally, Hunt Auctions is currently in preparations for their annual All Star Live Auction to be conducted in Cincinnati in conjunction with MLB All Star Fanfest. Consignments are being accepted at online or by emailing [email protected]
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