The first ball that Babe Ruth hit for a home run at the outset of his dazzling career with the New York Yankees is set to highlight Goldin Auctions' sale celebrating 100 years since his major league debut.

The ball is signed and inscribed by Babe Ruth, though the years have taken their toll on the words

The auction is now open for bids and will close on July 12, with a stunning selection of Ruth memorabilia - a staple of the sports memorabilia market - up for grabs.

Described as "one of the most significant items of baseball memorabilia to ever come up for auction", the ball that Ruth hit for his historic first home run back in 1923 has opened at $50,000, but will surely reach a far higher price.

The contract shows Ruth was paid $5,000 for the season, after taking advantage of his growing fame and asking for a pay rise.

However, the highest bids in the sale are expected to go to Babe Ruth's own copy of the 1918 contact he signed with the Boston Red Sox, which is also the earliest known player's contract from the star.

Opening at $250,000, the contact is one of three that Ruth signed but is now the only one known to exist.

It's appeal is further boosted by the historical significance of 1918 to Ruth's career, with the season marking his change from an ace pitcher to one of the most successful sluggers the world has ever seen.

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