Baseball pitcher statue

[pcegizio]

I am writing to you because I need information on a metal baseball statue that was given to my husband from his father many years ago. We recently married at 65 and trying to combine two households into one. He had me list some things on eBay, including his baseball statue his father had given him about twenty years. It was originally listed on ebay for $80 or best offer. Within twenty five minutes we had 17 watchers, so I knew immediately something was wrong. I then read all eBay listings for metal statues and found that those with artist signatures were worth substantially more money. My husband looked and the base is signed “A C Rehberger 1929”. I then set out to learn everything I could about our statue. The only thing I came up with was on your forum. There are two statues, one with no base, and one with a base showing it to be a Wilson trophy.

What can any of you tell me about this statue? How many were made? Are they rare, as I am guessing because it has been so hard to find any information? I appreciate any help you baseball fans can give me.

Thank you,
Phyllis

[mjkm90]

While I know nothing of the artist, this figural is prized by baseball memorabilia collectors. It is most often found on a base from a trophy maker like Wilson. It is also found without the base. I have one without the base (shown here) and love it. There are also at least two finishes. One is flat and the other slightly more polished, but that has no bearing on value. They pretty rare, but at least a couple show up at auction each year. Regardless of what it is or isn't attached to, this is a $1050-$1350 (on avg) figural. I've never checked mine for a signature.

[perezfan]

Agree with Mike, but would value it a bit higher in today's market. This piece is coveted by Figural collectors and Walter Johnson collectors alike. It has often been referred to as "The Walter Johnson Trophy" because of its striking resemblance to The Big Train.

Here's a link to a "dull finish" example sold by Hunt Auctions, back in 2006...

http://huntauctions.com/live/imagevi...=851&lot_qual=

It sold for $1,725 (with the BP) against a pre-auction estimate of $2,000 - $3,000. Others in nice condition (with original base) have sold for $2,500 - $3,000. Yours appears to have a newer/replacement Oak Base. Still attractive and desirable, but takes off roughly 20% of the potential value.

As for the different finishes.... below are pics of the somewhat rarer polished gold and silver platings. All 3 versions are equally desirable.

[conor912]

I find it odd that no one pulled the trigger at 80 bucks.....