Dave Parker
MLB 7-time All-Star and 1978 National League MVP · Baseball - MLB
Pittsburgh Pirates / Cincinnati Reds
Era
Modern / Late Career (Retirement Era - 2010s to Present)
Item Type
Baseball Glove
Condition
Good. The signature is slightly distressed due to the material's texture, and the glove appears minimally used. Overall Grade: 7/10.
Rarity
Common. Dave Parker is a prolific signer at autograph conventions and through private signing agents.
Overall Assessment
A solid, authentic example of a 1970s superstar's autograph. Ideal for a Pirates fan or a collector of '70s MVPs, despite the lower-tier quality of the glove itself.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic with moderate-high confidence. The signature matches Parker's known 'retired' style, which is more abbreviated than his 1970s script.
Signature Style
Stylized shorthand; the 'D' and 'P' are prominent with a flowing loop. It is a common 'hurried' version often seen at card shows or private signings.
Signature Characteristics
The signature shows a fast baseline with high pressure on the initial loops. The trailing letters of both names are compressed into wavy lines, a hallmark of his later years.
Ink & Medium
Silver paint pen on black synthetic leather. The paint shows minor surface skipping due to the texture of the glove but is consistent with modern silver markers.
Item Description
Promotional black synthetic baseball glove featuring the 'Matchup Promotions' logo on the thumb side. This is a non-game-spec, promotional-grade item.
Estimated Value
$40 - $75 USD. Value is limited by the fact that the item is a promotional glove rather than a high-end leather model or an official MLB licensed product.
Comparison to Known Examples
Consistent with authenticated Dave Parker silver ink autographs from 2015-2022. The letter 'k' formation in Parker is the most distinctive identifier present here.
Authentication Tips
Look for the large, loopy 'D' that transitions quickly into the 'P'. Authentic examples typically show a smooth, rhythmic flow despite his tremor in recent years.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or PSA/DNA. JSA is highly recommended for baseball autographs found on regional promotional items.
Red Flags
The skipping of the ink on the synthetic leather is a minor concern, but it appears to be a factor of the medium rather than a slow, forged hand.
Provenance Notes
Likely obtained at a promotional event or minor league 'appearance night' given the Matchup Promotions branding on the glove.
Historical Context
Dave Parker, known as 'The Cobra,' was one of the most feared hitters of the late 70s. This item represents the lingering popularity of 1970s baseball stars.
Market Trends
Stable. As a member of the '70s Pirates 'Family' and a consistent Hall of Fame candidate (via Era Committees), his market remains solid for nostalgic collectors.
Investment Potential
Low. While Parker is a legend, the promotional nature of the glove makes it a 'personal collection' piece rather than a high-growth investment asset.
Similar Autographs
Willie Stargell, Steve Garvey, George Foster, or Jim Rice.
Display & Preservation
Keep out of direct sunlight as silver paint pen on synthetic surfaces can flake over time. A UV-protected acrylic glove case is recommended.
Interesting Facts
Parker was the first player in MLB history to average $1 million a year in salary. He is known for having a very consistent but rapidly evolving signature style.