Babe Ruth’s legacy transcends baseball, and cards produced during his playing days will always be sought after. The 1932 Sanella was a card issued in Germany during Ruth’s playing days.

Historical Context

The 1932 Sanella Babe Ruth card was part of the Sanella Margarine “Handbuch des Sports” set, a German multi-sport collection featuring 112 cards. The set showcased athletes from various sports, including boxing, tennis, ice skating, and baseball. Ruth’s inclusion reflects his immense global popularity at the time, as he was already widely regarded as the greatest baseball player in history.

The international background of the Sanella set is particularly intriguing, similar to the 1929 Churchman Babe Ruth, which was issued in the UK. Both cards highlight how Ruth’s fame extended far beyond American borders, cementing his status as a global sports icon even in the early 20th century.

Perception in the Hobby

While not as prestigious as his U.S.-issued cards like the 1933 Goudey or 1948 Leaf, the Sanella Babe Ruth card is highly regarded for its historical significance and accessibility.

For those looking to own a playing-era Babe Ruth card without paying tens of thousands of dollars, the Sanella is an appealing option that balances affordability, visual appeal, and historical importance.

Availability and Population Data

The Sanella cards were printed on thin stock and distributed with margarine products in Germany, making them more fragile than many U.S.-issued cards. Despite this, they are not considered rare by vintage standards:

• PSA Population: ~1500 graded copies
• Highest Grade: No PSA 10s exist; 4 PSA 9s exist

Compared to other cards, there is not as much variation in price between grades, with recent sales of ~$500 for a PSA 2, ~$900 for a PSA 5, and ~$1600 for a PSA 7

Potential Negatives

While the 1932 Sanella Babe Ruth card has its appeal, there are several factors collectors should consider before purchasing:

Price Trends: The card’s price has generally trended downward in recent years. This is partly due to increased supply as more collectors in Germany have recognized its value and started selling their copies internationally. While this makes the card more accessible, it also reduces its scarcity-driven appeal. Other cards from the Sanella set often sell for just a few dollars, which further diminishes its perceived exclusivity.

Not Technically a Card: The Sanella is closer to a small photograph than a traditional sports card, printed on thin stock without the typical dimensions or feel of vintage baseball cards. This distinction might make it less appealing to collectors who prefer conventional cards.

Better Ruth Cards Exist: While the Sanella is one of Ruth’s more affordable playing-era collectibles, it doesn’t carry the prestige or investment potential of grail cards like his 1933 Goudey or 1948 Leaf issues. For many collectors, its primary appeal lies in its low price rather than its historical significance compared to other Ruth cards.

Final Thoughts

The 1932 Sanella presents a reasonable entry point for collectors looking to own a Babe Ruth card from his playing days. However, if you have a bigger budget, there are other Ruth cards that are more sought after by collectors; in my opinion, it may be a better idea to try and buy these in a lower grade vs. buying a higher graded Sanella.