Jim Coates Yankees 1961 Game Used Bat?

[dashsports33]

Anyone know if this is real? Fits the era? This was obtained for a friend of Coates from his hometown...Any knowledge would be appreciated. Also signed "Best Wishes, Jim Coates"

If it's real, it has to be pretty rare since it's a pitcher's bat right?

http://i615.photobucket.com/albums/tt234/dashdot33/IMG_2226.jpg
http://i615.photobucket.com/albums/tt234/dashdot33/IMG_2227.jpg
http://i615.photobucket.com/albums/tt234/dashdot33/IMG_2228.jpg
http://i615.photobucket.com/albums/tt234/dashdot33/IMG_2229.jpg
http://i615.photobucket.com/albums/tt234/dashdot33/IMG_2230.jpg

[ironmanfan]

Yes, it has all the markings of a professional model bat. I think more importantly, Coates was a member of the famed 1961 Yankees team and there should be strong collector interest in it from people trying to obtain a bat from all players on that roster (though this particular bat style was last used in 1960).

Nice item!