Historical Hockey and Sports Memorabilia Auction April 2024
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/30/2024
The principal owner of the Toronto Maple Leafs for over 30 years and the builder of Maple Leaf Gardens, Conn Smythe first won the OHA championship with the University of Toronto in 1915 before serving with the Canadian Armed Forces during The Great War, and later serving again, during World War II. The longtime head of Maple Leaf Gardens Ltd. and appearing on the Stanley Cup a total of eight (8) times, the National Hockey League honoured the builder with the introduction of the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1965, to be presented to the Most Valuable Player in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Offered here, we present this letter from Smythe that was sent to Bobby Baun's wife, Sallie after Baun was fined $2800 for his role sticking up for teammate Eddie Shack in a penalty affair with the Chicago Black Hawks on December 7th, 1963. Typed on his personal letter head, with his name and "Maple Leaf Gardens - Toronto" underneath, the letter, dated December 19, 1963, heaps praise on to Baun for his role in the altercation, stating that "Men must stand up and be counted if the future is going to be safe for our children". Starting the letter off by talking about how Baun exhibited the "All for one and one for all" spirit that made the "Maple Leafs name a proud one for more than thirty years", the letter finishes with Smythe encouraging Mrs. Baun to use the accompanying $2800 cheque (the same amount that Baun paid to the league for his fine) that was included to buy something for the house and wishing the family a lovely Christmas and "a most happy and prosperous New Year". Measuring approximately 7 1/4" x 10 1/2" and remaining in excellent condition overall with no obscene flaws other than the expected fold lines, Smythe has signed the letter with a bold blue ballpoint pen ink signature that displays beautifully despite its age.
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