Babe Ruth’s Iconic ‘Called Shot’ Jersey Breaks Auction Records with £18.1 Million Sale

The legendary jersey worn by Babe Ruth during his famous “called shot” in the 1932 World Series has shattered records, fetching an astounding £18.1 million ($24.12 million) at auction. This remarkable sum surpasses the previous record for sports memorabilia, set in 2022, when a 1952 Topps baseball card featuring Mickey Mantle sold for £9.53 million ($12.6 million).

Before this latest sale, the highest amount ever paid for a jersey at auction was £7.64 million ($10.1 million) for Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls shirt from the 1998 NBA Finals, which was also auctioned in 2022.

Chris Ivy, Director of Sports Auctions at Heritage Auctions, described the sale as “the most significant piece of American sports memorabilia ever offered at auction.” He compared the jersey’s historical significance to owning the Mona Lisa, emphasizing its unparalleled value in the world of sports collectibles.

The jersey in question is infamous for its association with Ruth’s dramatic performance during Game Three of the 1932 World Series, where he played for the New York Yankees against the Chicago Cubs. Ruth, who had been traded from the Boston Red Sox to the Yankees in 1920, is remembered for his bold prediction in this game. During his at-bat, Ruth famously pointed to center field, signaling where he intended to hit the ball. True to his prediction, he delivered a home run off Cubs pitcher Charlie Root, a moment that has become a legendary part of baseball lore.

This remarkable display of confidence helped secure the Yankees’ 7-5 victory in the game and contributed to their sweep of the series, winning 4-0. Ruth’s home run in this game was his last in a World Series, adding to the historical significance of the jersey.

Babe Ruth, often hailed as the greatest baseball player of all time, accumulated seven World Series titles over his storied career. He retired from professional baseball in 1935 and passed away in 1948 at the age of 53. His legacy endures through moments like the “called shot,” which remains a defining episode in the annals of sports history.

The record-breaking sale of Ruth’s jersey underscores the enduring allure of sports memorabilia and the profound impact of iconic moments in sports. This jersey not only represents a pivotal moment in Ruth’s career but also a cherished piece of American sports history, reflecting the continuing fascination with baseball’s golden age.