Arnie Risen
NBA Hall of Fame Center · Basketball - NBA
Rochester Royals / Boston Celtics
Era
Retired Era - Dated 1998/1999
Item Type
Apparel (T-shirt or jersey)
Condition
Good; the ink shows some bleeding/feathering due to the porous nature of the fabric. The signature remains legible.
Rarity
Moderate; Risen was a frequent signer at shows and through the mail before his passing in 2012.
Overall Assessment
A solid, authentic-looking example of a 1950s legend's signature on a casual medium.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic; the flow and specific letter construction of the inscription match known examples from this period.
Signature Style
Cursive script signature with a 'Bball HOF' and '1998' or '1999' inscription. Typical of his later signing sessions.
Signature Characteristics
Fluid motion with heavy pen pressure, consistent with felt-tip markers on fabric. The 'A' in Arnie is large and rounded.
Ink & Medium
Black felt tip / Sharpie marker on white fabric (likely a T-shirt or jersey).
Item Description
A white fabric item, possibly a souvenir T-shirt or replica jersey, signed and inscribed by the Hall of Famer.
Estimated Value
$40 - $75 USD
Comparison to Known Examples
The 'Bball HOF' inscription is a match for verified examples signed by Risen in the late 90s.
Authentication Tips
Look for the specific looping of the 'A' and the disconnected 'sen' in the surname. His date inscriptions are usually very precise.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or Beckett Authentication Services (BAS).
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the feathering of the ink is natural for permanent marker on cotton.
Provenance Notes
Inscribed with a date, suggesting it was signed at a public appearance or show around 1999.
Historical Context
Arnie Risen was a 4-time All-Star and 2-time NBA Champion, inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998.
Market Trends
Stable; demand is primarily from Hall of Fame set collectors.
Investment Potential
Low; Risen is an essential but common HOF signature.
Similar Autographs
Bob Cousy, George Mikan, Dolph Schayes.
Display & Preservation
Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent fading on fabric. Frame using acid-free materials.
Interesting Facts
Risen was known as 'Stilts' and was a key member of the Rochester Royals' only championship team in 1951.