Roberto Clemente Signed Photo, Pittsburgh Pirates. PSA

An eye-catching early image of one of baseball’s most revered legends, this beautifully signed photo of Roberto Clemente captures the Hall of Famer in the formative years of a career that would become both historic and heroic.

Clemente’s flowing, unmistakable signature is boldly rendered across the image, presenting with clarity and strength that immediately commands attention. Early-period autographs of Clemente are especially desirable, as they predate the heavy volume of mail requests he would later receive during his peak seasons. The early 1960s signature reflects a deliberate, elegant hand — the full “Roberto Clemente” beautifully scripted, just as serious collectors hope to see.

What truly elevates this example is the impressive size of the autograph itself — a full three inches in length and approximately one-half inch in height. Unusually large and beautifully proportioned, it stretches confidently across the image, creating exceptional display presence. Large, early Clemente signatures of this caliber are decidedly scarce and highly coveted.

The photograph is a sharp black-and-white image dating to the early 1960s, measuring 4 x 5½ inches. Crisp and nicely focused, it captures Clemente in a thoughtful, almost pensive pose — a classic period image that reflects both his intensity and quiet dignity. The contrast and clarity of the photograph further enhance the boldness of the signature, making for a striking visual combination. 

As a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Clemente compiled exactly 3,000 hits, a .317 lifetime average, 12 Gold Gloves, 15 All-Star selections, two World Series championships, and captured the National League Most Valuable Player Award in 1966. He also claimed four National League batting titles, further cementing his status as one of the premier hitters of his era.

Yet his legacy reaches far beyond statistics. On December 31, 1972, at just 38 years of age, Clemente tragically lost his life in a plane crash while personally escorting desperately needed food and supplies to earthquake victims in Nicaragua during the holiday season. He was, quite simply, a humanitarian and a special human being whose character matched his extraordinary talent.

In his honor, Major League Baseball annually presents the Roberto Clemente Award to the player who best exemplifies sportsmanship, community involvement, and positive contributions both on and off the field — a lasting testament to the standard he set.

Clemente remains one of the most collectible figures of the postwar era, alongside Jackie Robinson. Signed photographs are, in a word, SCARCE — and coveted by hobby enthusiasts at every level. Attractive early examples such as this seldom surface on the open market.

We are proud to offer this exceptional piece. Do not miss this opportunity to secure a cornerstone artifact of one of baseball’s most revered and enduring icons — priced quite attractively for the quality and significance presented here.

The piece has been encapsulated and authenticated by PSA/DNA, preserving it for future generations and providing the confidence advanced collectors demand.