In a momentous event for sports memorabilia collectors, the jersey worn by Babe Ruth during his legendary “Called Shot” in the 1932 World Series has sold for a staggering $24.12 million, setting a new record as the world’s most valuable sports collectible. The auction, hosted by Dallas-based Heritage Auctions, witnessed an intense bidding war that lasted over six hours before the iconic piece of baseball history found its new owner.
The jersey, adorned with the road gray No. 3, holds a special place in baseball lore. During Game 3 of the 1932 World Series against the Chicago Cubs, Ruth famously pointed towards center field before launching a fifth-inning home run into the bleachers. Though debated for decades, this moment, known as the “Called Shot,” remains one of the most celebrated and mysterious events in sports history.
“This jersey is not just a piece of clothing; it’s a symbol of American sports culture and history,” said Chris Ivy, Heritage’s director of sports auctions. “Nearly a century later, we’re still captivated by that iconic gesture.”
The auction also featured other notable items, including a Michael Jordan “Last Dance” Chicago Bulls jersey and a signed bat from Jackie Robinson. However, it was Ruth’s jersey that stole the spotlight, surpassing previous records held by a 1952 Mickey Mantle baseball card and a Jordan jersey.
The jersey’s value was further solidified through meticulous authentication, with photo evidence linking it to Ruth’s time in the dugout with fellow Yankee legends Lou Gehrig and Joe McCarthy. The sale not only cements Ruth’s enduring legacy but also highlights the continued fascination with moments that transcend sports and become woven into the fabric of American culture.
Babe Ruth’s career spanned 22 seasons, during which he hit 714 home runs and won seven World Series titles. Although most celebrated for his time with the New York Yankees, Ruth began his illustrious career with the Boston Red Sox, where he secured three of those championships. His induction as one of the five inaugural members of the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936 further solidified his status as a baseball icon.
As sports collectibles continue to rise in value, Ruth’s “Called Shot” jersey stands as a testament to the timeless nature of legendary sports moments and the stories that keep them alive.
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