While a compact swing and tape-measure home runs were Jimmie Foxx’ forte, finance management was not. Broke throughout his retirement thanks to lavish spending, poor investments and ultimately, alcoholism, Foxx heeded a friend’s advice and opened a restaurant in Galesburg, Illinois in 1959. This miniature baseball hails from that short-lived eatery and is autographed by the Hall of Fame slugger. Measuring approximately 6-1/4” in circumference, the tiny orb has stampings which read “JIMMY (sic) FOXX RESTAURANT – GALESBURG, ILLINOIS” and was undoubtedly a giveaway at the baseball-themed restaurant. On the sweet spot, Foxx’ blue ink penning projects (“6”) strength and clarity. While there was nothing “miniature” about Foxx and his achievements, this ball is an appropriate medium as Foxx grew up in rural Maryland and relished the prospect of establishing himself in the small Illinois town. Full photo LOA from JSA. This item has a reserve (estimated value: $1200-$3000). RESERVE MET
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