Dey, Jr., Joseph C. TLS on USGA Letterhead to Ben Hogan regarding 1953 Victory Balls. 1953
This lot consists of an original typed letter signed (TLS) on official United States Golf Association (USGA) Golf House letterhead, dated July 24, 1953. The letter is addressed from Joseph C. Dey, Jr., then the Executive Director of the USGA, Ben Hogan at his residence in Fort Worth, Texas. The primary subject of the correspondence is a formal expression of gratitude to Hogan for donating the golf ball used in his final victory at the 1953 British Open Championship at Carnoustie to the Association's Golf Museum. The text also acknowledges receipt of the ball from Hogan's 1953 U.S. Open victory at Oakmont, noting it was sent by Ralph Hutchison. The letter includes a mention of Hogan's wife, Valerie, and reflects on Hogan's significant contributions to the sport. The document features the USGA letterhead with the 40 East 38th Street, New York address. At the bottom of the sheet is a four-line handwritten postscript in blue ink that reads: Dear John — Thank you so much for your help in this. Joe. This note is a personal message from Joseph Dey to John Derr, a prominent sports journalist and broadcaster who likely facilitated the donation of the historic golf balls. James Spence Authentication (JSA) auction house letter of authenticity comes with this letter.
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