Mel Ott H&B 125 bat, Hickory, Louisville Slugger, circa 1934-35, vintage patina
This is a very rare hickory wood retail model 36 Mel Ott Hillerich & Bradsby 125 bat. The bat currently weighs 36.7 ounces. The Powerized next to the center brand is barely visible, but it is definitely there. Using Vince Malta's reference guide for Louisville Slugger bats, I believe the center brand type to be C5H, thus defining the bat as being produced in 1934-35. He is a member of the exclusive 500 homerun club, inducted into the MLB Hall of Fame in 1951 - the first year he was eligible for induction. He is widely believed to be one of the best power hitters of all time. Most bat collectors know that Mel Ott game used bats are among the rarest bats of any professional ballplayer. Of the 30 ballplayers listed in the PSA/DNA authenticated game-used bats population report (3,968 bats, in total), only Joe Jackson (13) has fewer authenticated bats than Mel Ott (22).
It should be noted also that Honus Wagner and Jackie Robinson are tied with Mel Ott at 22 authenticated game used bats. But, even store model Mel Ott Louisville Slugger 125 bats from during his playing career are nearly impossible to find. Please view each of the pictures and let me know if you have any questions.
