Jim McMahon
NFL Quarterback and Super Bowl Champion · Football - NFL
Chicago Bulls
Era
1990s
Item Type
Trading card - 1990 Fleer
Condition
Card appears to be in clean, well-preserved condition with strong contrast of the blue signature against the card background.
Rarity
Common; Jim McMahon signed frequently throughout his career and retirement.
Overall Assessment
A great, affordable piece of 1990s NFL memorabilia ideal for casual collectors and fans of the 'Punky QB'.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic based on signature form and flow, though professional third-party certification is always advised for high-value items.
Signature Style
Free-flowing cursive script showing his standard legible initials and surname styling.
Signature Characteristics
Strong upward slant, smooth looping initial 'J', and consistent speed indicating a genuine signed hand rather than a stamped facsimile.
Ink & Medium
Blue ballpoint pen ink directly on the glossy surface of a trading card.
Item Description
A 1990 Fleer football trading card featuring Jim McMahon in his San Diego Chargers uniform, signed across the glossy picture area in blue ballpoint pen.
Estimated Value
$15 to $30
Comparison to Known Examples
Consistent with authenticated examples of Jim McMahon's signature from the early 1990s trading card era.
Authentication Tips
Look for fluid stroke lines, natural pen pressure, and characteristic looping letter formations typical of McMahon's signature style.
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA or JSA (James Spence Authentication)
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed in the visible image, though in-person inspection is required to definitively rule out ghosting or printed facsimiles.
Provenance Notes
Sourced via secondary online marketplace (Depop); typical collector-to-collector provenance requiring careful verification of seller reputation.
Historical Context
Jim McMahon was the charismatic starting quarterback for the legendary 1985 Chicago Bears, famous for their historic dominant defense and flamboyant team personality.
Market Trends
Stable market for vintage 1980s and 1990s NFL star autographs, particularly iconic personalities like the 1985 Chicago Bears quarterback.
Investment Potential
Modest, stable long-term value; primarily a nostalgic piece for football fans and Chicago Bears collectors rather than a high-end financial asset.
Similar Autographs
Walter Payton, Mike Ditka, William Perry, and other members of the 1985 Chicago Bears Super Bowl XX championship team.
Display & Preservation
Store in a protective semi-rigid card holder or UV-protected top-loader away from direct sunlight to prevent ink fading.
Interesting Facts
McMahon famously wore a headband with the word 'PUNK' or brand names during games, defying NFL uniform regulations, and won two Super Bowl rings.