‘Two eras; one championship’ might be the theme of our RMY Auctions Photo of the Day. The 7×9” original news photo shows the 1937 New York Yankees enjoying some post-game smiles and libations after dispatching their crosstown rivals in the World Series.
A 4-2 win in Game 5 at the Polo Grounds handed the Bronx Bombers their second straight championship and sixth overall, setting a new record.
The 7×9” photo, taken October 10, includes a caption on the back. In addition to the date, it also carries a 1939 file stamp on the back when it was filed away.
In the photo, Lou Gehrig and Tony Lazzeri each hold a beer in their hands while owner Jacob Ruppert and Manager Joe McCarthy stand to their side. Below and center squats young superstar Joe DiMaggio. It’s no wonder they’re smiling. Their winner’s share checks of $6,471 would soon be written by Ruppert. It was big money in those days and a healthy complement to their annual salaries.
It would be Gehrig’s final great moment before ALS began to take its toll. His last World Series homer was struck in Game 4 and DiMaggio would soon become the new face of the franchise.
The photo is one of more than 300 up for bid at RMYAuctions.com. Bidding is set to close Tuesday night.