Steve Avery
MLB Pitcher and 1991 NLCS MVP · Baseball - MLB
Atlanta Braves
Era
Peak fame period - circa 1991-1993
Item Type
Spiral-bound notebook page
Condition
Good; the paper shows slight yellowing/toning at the top edge. The signature is bold with no fading, though the medium is non-traditional for high-end collecting.
Rarity
Common; Avery was a prolific signer during the 1990s Braves dynasty and remains accessible at card shows and through the mail.
Overall Assessment
A classic, authentic example of a 1990s pitching star's signature. High sentimental value for a Braves fan, but modest financial value due to the medium.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic; the signature exhibits the fluid, rapid motion characteristic of an in-person stadium signature from his prime era.
Signature Style
Stylized 'S' followed by a loopy 'Avery' that tapers off. This is his standard 'quick' signature used for fans during his time with the Braves.
Signature Characteristics
Strong vertical slant, continuous flow between first and last name, and a distinctive 'loop-back' on the terminal stroke of the 'y'.
Ink & Medium
Black felt-tip marker (likely a Sharpie) on lined spiral notebook paper. The ink shows natural absorption into the paper fibers without bleeding.
Item Description
A single page from a vintage small spiral notebook, positioned next to what appears to be NFL-related graphics, suggesting a multi-sport autograph collection.
Estimated Value
$10.00 - $25.00 USD
Comparison to Known Examples
Consistent with 1991-1992 era exemplars found on Topps cards and official NLCS programs from that season.
Authentication Tips
Look for the large, circular loop of the 'S' and the specific height of the 'v' and 'e' in Avery. Forgeries are rare due to the relatively low market value.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or PSA/DNA; however, the cost of certification may exceed the current market value of the item.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the natural speed and pressure variations suggest an authentic hand-signed origin.
Provenance Notes
Likely obtained in person at a stadium or hotel during the 1991 Postseason based on the user-provided context of '1991 NLCS'.
Historical Context
Signed during the 'Worst to First' season of the 1991 Atlanta Braves; Avery was dominant in the NLCS against the Pirates, throwing 16.1 scoreless innings.
Market Trends
Stable; interest in early 90s Braves memorabilia remains steady among nostalgic fans, though paper slips represent the entry-level tier of the market.
Investment Potential
Low; notebook pages are generally considered 'filler' items. A signed baseball or 1991 rookie card would have higher growth potential.
Similar Autographs
Tom Glavine, John Smoltz, Greg Maddux (The Big Four of the Braves rotation).
Display & Preservation
Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent the felt-tip ink from fading; store in a PVC-free plastic sleeve or acid-free frame.
Interesting Facts
Avery was once considered the 'can't miss' phenom of the Braves staff, even appearing on the cover of Sports Illustrated before age 22.
Notes
1991 NLCS mlb