"Because of the proximity to Yankee Stadium many of the Henry Repeating Arms staff are great fans of the accomplishments of Roger Maris," said Imperato. "We are proud to produce this special tribute to honor his achievement and to recognize him as the great gentleman and sportsman that he was. We are also delighted that this special edition Golden Boy will support the Roger Maris Cancer Center."
An active participant in the tournament auction since 2006, Henry Repeating Arms auctioned 50 limited edition rifles last year in honor of the 50th anniversary of Maris breaking Babe Ruth's record with 61 home runs in 1961. The special auction raised $43,000, and the company contributed an additional $18,000 for a $61,000 gift.
"Henry Repeating Arms has been a great supporter of the Roger Maris Tournament for the past number of years," said Jerry Rostad, auction chairman. "Their beautiful rifles have consistently been the marquee items at the auction and they always bring top dollar to the tournament's charities. Henry's effort last year---to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Roger's 61 homeruns in 1961--- was unbelievable. What a great tribute to a great man by a great company!" The Henry Golden Boy 'Roger Maris 50th Anniversary 61 in 61' was a special edition, manufactured specifically with proceeds donated to the Roger Maris Cancer Center. Only 50 rifles were built, each with a nickel plated receiver, extensive engraving commemorating the historic feat and a custom serial number 61RM001 to 61RM050.
The right side of the receiver featured a likeness of Maris with the Yankee Stadium façade in the background and the inscription '61 in 61.' The left side depicted Maris in a fielding position in recognition of his 1960 Gold Glove Award, and his historic pinstriped number nine, retired by the Yankees in 1984.
A companion engraving features Maris in full home run swing with his simulated signature and recognition of his American League MVP Awards in 1960 and 1961. The special Golden Boy .22LR caliber rifle featured the legendary Henry lever action, genuine fancy American walnut stock and 20 inch octagon barrel.
The rifle has been engraved on both sides of the nickel plated receiver cover with a laser etch. On the left side of receiver within a baseball type stitched border is the slugger with his eyes aloft watching another homerun bound baseball. Included in the front panel are a copy of Roger Maris' signature and a banner in honor of his back to back Most Valuable Player seasons.
