Carl Yastrzemski game used rare W166 model bat from 1964-65 Boston Red Sox (HOF)

Description

Up for bid is the pictured Carl Yastrzemski game-used bat. This one is a beauty. It's uncracked and measures 35 inches. This is a rare Yaz bat. The Hillerich & Bradsby labeling and factory records date this one specifically to late 1964 or early 1965. Yaz ordered this W166 model, the same one used by Ted Williams, in only those two seasons -- in July, August and September of 1964 and February of 1965, according to bat expert John Taube. With Hillerich & Bradsby removing the "REG. U.S. PAT. OFF." from under its center-oval branding late in the 1964 season as is the case with this bat, he surmised this one came from either the September or February order. Considering Hillerich & Bradsby changed its labeling likely after the second of his three W166 orders that season, this W166 model with this labeling makes this Yastrzemski bat even rarer. The knob has Yaz's No. "8" written in vintage marker along with the factory notation "33 1/2" written in ink/pencil and W166 stamping. I'm going to be conservative and characterize the use as game-ready to light. There are a number of marks on the bat including on the barrel, though I can't say which, if any, came from a baseball. However, to me, the giveaway that this bat was used is the handle. There are a number of markings made against the grain on the handle that look as if it was gripped tightly and squeezed around it while batting. I'm guessing this bat hasn't been "in the hobby" previously as I acquired it in a non-sports auction lot with a game-used bat from Yaz's teammate from 1963-'65, Felix Mantilla. (I sold the Mantilla bat on eBay. It could also be similarly pegged to either late 1964 or 1965.) The sweet spot of this bat is begging to be autographed...Please check my feedback and buy confidently...The buyer will add for shipping with signature confirmation...Thank you for looking!