(LOT 1588)
1919 Chicago Cubs Charles Bidwell Endorsed Check Signed by Bill Veeck Sr. PSA/DNA Authentic
Charles Bidwill was a titan in the early years of the NFL, but before he began his ventures into professional football, he was a successful businessman and wealthy attorney in Chicago, with ties to organized crime boss Al Capone. He had many ventures including ownership of a racing stable, president of the Chicago Stadium Operating Company, and owner of the printing company Bentley, Murray and Co. This check was paid by the Cubs to Bentley, Murray & Company, likely for their printing services. The check is endorsed by Charles Bidwill as "Bidwill and Murray," which is somewhat prophetic in that his grandson and current owner of the Arizona Cardinals, Michael Bidwill, has teamed with Kyler Murray as the team's quarterback over 100 years later. Charles Bidwill would go on to be a part owner of the Chicago Bears along with George Halas and served as the team's vice president before purchasing the Chicago Cardinals, which would later move to St. Louis and then Arizona.

The check is from 1919, making it one of the earliest signatures of Bidwill that we have ever seen, predating the existence of the NFL! The check is signed on behalf of the Cubs by William Veeck Sr., who was in his first year as the president of the Chicago Cubs. Under Veeck's leadership, the Cubs won two pennants, and he helped transform Wrigley Field into its present look, with ivy-covered walls and concrete bleachers in the outfield. Veeck passed away in 1933. Bidwell's autograph is one of the toughest in the hobby, making this a tremendous piece of both football and baseball history.

MIN BID $500
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