Carney Lansford
MLB All-Star and World Series Champion Third Baseman · Baseball - MLB
Oakland Athletics
Era
1983-1992 (Peak career with Oakland Athletics)
Item Type
Felt Pennant
Condition
Very Good; the signature shows slight bleeding into the felt (feathering), which is common for this medium. The pennant fabric appears clean with minor texture wear.
Rarity
Moderate; Lansford was a consistent signer during his career and remains accessible through the mail and at appearances.
Overall Assessment
A genuine, nostalgic specimen of a key member of the Oakland A's dynasty. Ideal for a team-specific collector or fan of 1980s baseball.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic; confidence level: 85%. The signature displays the natural flow and specific letter-forms characteristic of Lansford's ink-on-fabric signings.
Signature Style
Cursive script with 'C' and 'L' as the primary anchors. Typically features a trailing 'd' and occasionally his jersey number #4, though no number is present here.
Signature Characteristics
Consistent baseline, rapid motion, lack of hesitation marks, and the characteristic tall 'l' and 'd' height in the surname.
Ink & Medium
Black felt-tip marker or Sharpie on white felt/polyester pennant material. Typical bleeding into the fabric fibers is visible.
Item Description
Vintage Oakland Athletics pennant featuring the circular 'A' logo and 'OAKLAND ATHLETICS' text in green and gold.
Estimated Value
$20 - $45 USD
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches known exemplars from the late 1980s, specifically those signed on team-issued souvenir items.
Authentication Tips
Look for the specific loop in the 'C' and the jagged, hurried transition between 'n' and 'e' in Carney. The 'L' in Lansford usually has a sharp downward stroke.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or Beckett Authentication Services (BAS), as they specialize in 1980s/90s baseball memorabilia.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the ink absorption is consistent with period-correct markers on vintage felt.
Provenance Notes
Often these were signed at 'Athletics Fan Appreciation' days or at the stadium. Documentation of the specific game or year of purchase adds context.
Historical Context
Lansford was the 1981 AL Batting Champion and a key leader of the 1989 World Series-winning 'Battle of the Bay' team.
Market Trends
Stable; Lansford is a fan favorite in Oakland, though values for his solo signatures generally remain accessible for collectors.
Investment Potential
Low; primarily a nostalgia piece for Athletics fans rather than a high-growth financial asset.
Similar Autographs
Mark McGwire, Jose Canseco, Dave Stewart, and Dennis Eckersley (1989 'Bash Brothers' era teammates).
Display & Preservation
Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent the ink from fading into the felt; use a pennant holder or acid-free frame.
Interesting Facts
Despite playing for the Angels and Red Sox, his legacy is most firmly rooted in Oakland where he served as a captain-like figure for the power-hitting teams of the late 80s.