Mel Ott Signed Autograph Display

This vintage photograph was sourced from a prominent collection where it resided for decades. Taken in 1946 at the Polo Grounds during his N.Y. Giants playing career, it measures 7.5" x 9" and is in pristine condition, free of any creasing, marks, tears, rips or other imperfections. Moreover, the photo is sharp with a clear image of that famous and unique "step-in-the-bucket", high-leg swing of Mel Ott. This is an original photograph printed during his career, and in all likelihood the only example of this image known to exist. Collectors of rare, original black and white photographs search long and hard for such examples, and routinely bid liberally in auctions to obtain them.

It's paired with an exceptionally large and dark, black fountain pen signature of this 500 Home Run Club Member, who passed away quite early in life, age 49, the result of an automobile accident in 1958. Ott played right field for the N.Y. Giants from 1926 to 1947. He was so admired by fans and his players that Leo Durocher once said of him, "nice guys finish last".