Lot # 449: Early 1930s Len Koenecke Gme-Used Side Written Bat (PSA)

Category: Baseball

Starting Bid: $250.00

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This Hillerich & Bradsby Pro Model bat is uncracked and exhibits heavy use attributed to the promising National League player who is as much known for the curious circumstances of his death as his aborted career in Brooklyn. The ash bat is 35 inches and weighs 39.8 ounces, showing some checking (grain swelling) from repeated ball contact on the back barrel, which has been repaired with nails. Many ball marks and ball stitch impressions are visible on the right, left and back barrel, and cleat marks are visible on all sides of the barrel. Cream-colored bat rack streaks are visible on the back barrel. Also visible on the barrel are the pencil notations "44 /2 oz 35" 37 oz." The handle had been taped with a single tape ring to enhance the grip, the the tape has been removed. Visible on the barrel in vintage grease pencil is the factory side writing "Len.Koenecke 8-13-31." After a solid season for the Dodgers in 1934, Koenecke's on-field performance declined and he was cut late in the season in 1935. Reportedly drunk on two chartered flights attempting to return home, he is said to have attempted to take over the controls of the second flight when one of the pilots struck him over the head with a fire extinguisher. After an emergency landing, it was found that Koenecke died of a cerebral hemorrhage, and the two pilots, though charged with manslaughter, were ultimately exonerated. This bat is properly marked, presented to us as game-used and in our opinion shows excellent use. PSA sticker affixed to the top barrel: 1B03351.