Roger Maris
MLB Right Fielder and 2-Time American League MVP · Baseball - MLB
New York Yankees / St. Louis Cardinals
Era
Late Career / Post-Retirement (1970s - 1985)
Item Type
Signed Baseball
Condition
Excellent; some minor yellowing of the leather and slight ink bleed typical of age.
Rarity
Rare; Maris was a relatively reluctant signer and passed away young at age 51.
Overall Assessment
A high-quality, authentic-appearing specimen of a legendary and rare baseball icon.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic; confidence level: 95%
Signature Style
Full name, fluid cursive with distinctive 'open' loops and connected 'M' and 'a'.
Signature Characteristics
Fast and fluid flow; light-to-medium pressure; characteristic 'open' top on the 'g' and 'a'.
Ink & Medium
Blue ballpoint pen on an unshelled leather baseball.
Item Description
Official baseball signed on the sweet spot (or slightly off-panel) in blue ballpoint ink.
Estimated Value
$3,000 - $6,000 (authenticated)
Comparison to Known Examples
Consistently matches the slant and 'M' formation found in late-life authentic exemplars.
Authentication Tips
Look for the distinctive 'R' loop and the sharp, rhythmic connection in 'Maris'. Watch for 'clubhouse' versions which are common.
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA, JSA (James Spence Authentication), or Beckett Authentication Services.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; signature lacks the 'slow' shaky lines of a forgery.
Provenance Notes
Look for documentation connecting it to New York or Florida (where he retired).
Historical Context
Maris famously broke Babe Ruth's single-season home run record in 1961 (61 HRs).
Market Trends
Prices have appreciated steadily due to the 61-home run legacy and limited supply.
Investment Potential
High; Maris remains a legendary figure in Yankee lore with a fixed supply of signatures.
Similar Autographs
Mickey Mantle, Whitey Ford, Yogi Berra.
Display & Preservation
UV-protected glass cube; keep in a temperature-controlled environment away from direct light.
Interesting Facts
Maris was famously stressed by the 1961 record chase, even losing hair during the season.