2015 September Memorabilia Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/27/2015
Classic Masters View Finder with Vintage Ben Hogan Autograph
From the early 1950's time frame when Ben Hogan and Sam Snead dominated the Masters scene alternating in the green jacket presentation ceremonies with Ben Hogan the champ in 1951, Sam Snead in 1952, Hogan again in '53. With the excitement of this duo, and the post World War II feel good fifties in full swing crowds swelled at the Augusta National for the Masters. With this influx of patrons came poorer and poorer sight lines of tournament action. The solution came with this periscope giving fans five rows back the same view as patrons in the first row. An official souvenir of the Masters as sold by the Augusta National Club. This creatively decorated display piece shows block lettered listing of each of the Masters champs from the origin in 1934-Horton Smith through the 1952 champion Sam Snead (similar 1954 item will show Hogan's name last on list). These optic dandies were often discarded or mangled at the end of tournament play. For this example to survive some 60 years later with mirrors still intact containing only a scant damage to the lower portion is a true anomaly. A true treasure of early Masters marketing efforts. This item steps to even a higher plateau with the pencil signature of Ben Hogan the 1951 Masters Champ and soon to be 1953 Champ on one of the side panels. James Spence Authentication (JSA) provides a letter of authenticity for this vintage Hogan signature.
Both mirrors are in original condition on this magnificent display piece which measures 16" x 4" x 3"
Please note: This auction will end at 7:00pm EST on September 27th with extended bidding to follow. All items in the auction will remain open until no items have received a bid within a 15 minute time period. All lots are free to be bid on until extended bidding has ended
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