When a Yankees away jersey allegedly worn by Babe Ruth during his iconic “called pitch” in Game 3 of the 1932 World Series surfaced in the 1990s, it quickly became a prized possession for collectors. However, a recent photomatching controversy has cast doubt on its authenticity, potentially impacting its value at an upcoming auction.
Experts in the field of photomatching, a technique used to verify the authenticity of memorabilia, are divided over the shirt's origins. While several companies have confirmed that it matches match photos, Resolution Photomatching, a leading company in the field, has issued a verdict of “no match.” The discrepancy has sparked heated debate among collectors and experts.
The shirt's potential value has skyrocketed in recent years, with estimates reaching more than $20 million. The auction house handling the sale remains confident in its authenticity, citing evidence provided by other photomatching companies. However, the controversy has raised questions about the reliability of photomatching techniques and the potential for errors in such risky valuations.
As the auction date approaches, the fate of the Babe Ruth jersey remains uncertain. The outcome of the sale could have significant implications for the sports memorabilia market and the future of photomatching technology.