1960s Roberto Clemente Signed Batting Photograph. Rare Issue. BAS, Beckett Auth.
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$5,495.00 - Regular price
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- Sale price
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$5,495.00
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Roberto Clemente Signed Batting Photograph. Beckett Authenticated.
One of the most popular players in history, Roberto Clemente (1934-1972), died suddenly in a plane crash on July 31, 1972 during a humanitarian aide mission of food and supplies to Nicaragua after their devastating earthquake. He was just 38 years old and still one of the best players in baseball at the time, having just hit his 3,000th hit on the last day of the season.
His extensive community service through years later resulted in his posthumously receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom and Congressional Gold Medal, among others. In his honor, the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award is given each year to the major league player who best exemplifies community service.
Of course his autograph in any form is sought after by the sports memorabilia collecting world. They're not easily found as the supply every year seems to dry up. It's important to remind ourselves that he passed at a rather early age, and at a time before autograph collecting became as popular as it is today. There were no "card shows" at the time, nor mass private signings.
Offered is the scarce Pirates team issue photograph of "The Great One", as he was known. He signed it large and beautifully in blue ballpoint across the white portion of his home uniform, showing wonderful contrast. Theses were issued only by the team and usually in what is known as team "picture packs". Interestingly, Roberto would occasionally sign these for fans in or near the clubhouse on a folding table before a game. (we have seen actual snap shots of him doing so).
There were two versions of these types of photos, a close-up which is seen most often, and this in-action batting photo. This one, by far is the scarcer one, which is why we made certain to obtain it.
The photo itself unsigned is tough to locate and now regularly sent in for "slabbing" and grading, with high grade examples being offered (at this year's National) in the $1,000.00 range. This example is simply gorgeous and rare. The autograph easily grades Near Mint/Mint and has that "eye-appealing look". We think it's a great item to salt away for the future--it's that important!
The thick stock photo measures 4"x5.5" inches and is white and crisp with four square corners. No foxing whatsoever, no rips or tears, this is a high grade piece. Authenticated by Beckett.
Ships FedEx with Insurance and Signature.
Questions?5514863768.
