Official game-used Louisville Slugger H & B Model W 166 signed baseball bat from 1951, used by Ted Williams. Bat measures 35 inches long, weighs 32 ounces, and has the model number “W 166,” stamped on the knob. Knob also features a hand-painted number 9, with a line underneath, which was usually added by the Red Sox bat boy. Signed on the barrel in blue felt tip by Williams. This bat comes directly from the Ted Williams Museum in Tropicana, Florida, where it was previously on display. Originally presented to Red Sox first baseman Walt Dropo, who had Williams sign the bat later in his career. Bat was later purchased by a collector and Williams’ Museum board member, who donated it to the museum. Bat is accompanied by a letter of provenance from the Executive Director of the Museum, who notes that proceeds from the sale of this bat will benefit the Ted Williams Foundation Charity. Williams appeared in 141 games for the Red Sox in 1951, hitting 30 homes runs, 126 rbi, and and batting .318. In 1952, at the age of 34, he was recalled to active duty for service in the Korean War where he was assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 33 (MAG-33) in Korea. During a mission in 1953, a piece of flak knocked out his hydraulics and electrical systems, causing Williams to have to ‘limp’ his plane back to Air Force base K-13. For bringing the plane back he was awarded the Air Medal. In very good condition, with several vertical cracks to barrel, professional repair repair to a larger crack, lathe marks to both end of barrel and knob, and light wear from use. Williams’ game-used bats bats are amongst the most desirable examples in the hobby. Who wouldn't want a bat from baseball's most legendary hitter? Auction LOA Steve Grad/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
