This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/21/2017
By the mid-1950’s the Pittsburgh Pirates had begun to pull themselves out of the National League’s second division. Branch Rickey had re-vamped the Pirates farm system and youngsters such as Elroy Face, Dick Groat, Bob Friend and Vern Law brought youthful energy to the team. The final piece of the Pirates puzzle was put in place when the Dodgers left a young Puerto Rican outfielder named Roberto Clemente unprotected in the off-season draft. This Spalding Official National League (Warren Giles) ball collects a rookie Roberto Clemente along with 25 other members of the 1955 Pirates, including manager Fred Haney, Frank Thomas, Elroy Face, Dick Groat, Bob Friend and Vern Law. The signatures are in blue ball point pen ranging 6-8/10 with the Clemente being among the boldest at 7-8 in our opinion. The Spalding ball shows some even toning with age. Any piece signed by Roberto Clemente is a desired item, but to find a rookie year signature from this beloved Hall of Famer is a true gem.
Full LOA from PSA/DNA.