After signing with the Detroit Tigers for the ample sum of $9,000 and with one at bat in the 1930 season, Hammerin' Hank Greenberg became the youngest player in the major leagues. Originally scouted by the Yankees the year prior, he decided to wait-as they already had a well known first baseman at the helm. His first full year in the majors came in 1933 when he hit a respectable .301 with 12 homeruns as a rookie. The 1935 season catapulted him to stardom as he led the league in homeruns and RBIs, collecting his first of two MVP awards. The baseball Hall of Fame inducted Greenberg in 1956 knowing full well his numbers were limited due to his heroic wartime efforts in WWII.

The offered item here is a marvelous letter, written entirely in Greenberg's hand, dated July 21, 1936. Part of the letter reads "I received the cookies you sent and appreciate them along with the spirit in which they were tended. I want to thank you...for your support and hope to have the opportunity of thanking you in person. Cordially yours, Hank Greenberg." Only a few letters from Greenberg, written in his hand and dated to his playing days, have surfaced over the years. This immaculate rendition is certainly near or at the top of them all. Written on Detroit-Leland Hotel stationary, the letter displays typical mailing folds in NearMint condition or better. Hank's writing and signature are both very strong and rate '9' or better. Accompanied by a full Letter of Authentication from James Spence Authentication(JSA).