Tom Brokaw
Network Television News Anchor and Author · Media - Broadcast Journalism
NBC Nightly News
Era
Modern Era - Circa 2010s
Item Type
Limited Edition Framed Charity Poster
Condition
Excellent; the signature is bold and vibrant with no visible smearing or fading. The item itself appears well-preserved under glass, though reflection suggests it is currently in a residential setting.
Rarity
Moderate; while Brokaw is a willing signer, this specific limited edition charity piece (3/150) is rare and more desirable than a standard 8x10 because of the association with his native South Dakota charities.
Overall Assessment
A high-quality, authentic, and attractive display piece. Its limited edition status (3/150) and specific ties to Brokaw's charitable work make it a 'choice' item for a collector of American media icons.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic; confidence level 95%. The signature displays the characteristic fluid speed and specific letter-shortening typical of Brokaw's verified later-career examples, perfectly matching the silver-pen era for this specific charity item.
Signature Style
Stylized script; partial first name ('Tom' often shortened to 'T' with a long lead-in) followed by a more legible 'Brokaw' featuring a prominent, arched 'B' and a fluid, looped 'w' tail.
Signature Characteristics
Fast execution with heavy pressure at the base of the 'B'. The 'T' in Tom is rendered with a quick upward flick. There is a distinct 'up-down-up' rhythm to the 'w' that is consistent with his hand.
Ink & Medium
Silver ink paint pen or metallic permanent marker on a dark, glossy photographic background.
Item Description
A promotional or commemorative poster for the 'McCrossan Boys Ranch' featuring a portrait of Tom Brokaw and the quote 'It's easy to make a buck. It's a lot tougher to MAKE A DIFFERENCE.' The item is numbered '3/150' in the bottom corner, indicating a very limited production run.
Estimated Value
$100.00 - $175.00 USD
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches high-end charity event signatures from the 2010-2020 period. The placement on the right side of the figure is consistent with how he signs commercial prints.
Authentication Tips
Look for the unique 'hump' in the 'B' of Brokaw and the way the 'm' in 'Tom' often merges into a single horizontal stroke. Avoid examples that show slow, shaky lines, as his genuine signature is very fast.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or PSA/DNA. JSA is particularly well-regarded for news and historical figures.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed. The natural flow and the metallic ink type are consistent with authentic signings from the McCrossan Boys Ranch fundraiser events.
Provenance Notes
This item was likely acquired at a benefit auction for the McCrossan Boys Ranch in South Dakota, an organization Brokaw has long supported. Documentation from the Ranch would provide peak provenance.
Historical Context
Brokaw is a legendary journalist who anchored NBC Nightly News for 22 years and authored 'The Greatest Generation.' This item highlights his philanthropic efforts in his home state of South Dakota.
Market Trends
Journalism autographs remain stable but niche. Brokaw is considered the 'elder statesman' of the Big Three anchors (alongside Jennings and Rather), making his signature the most sought-after of that era.
Investment Potential
Low to Moderate; primarily a blue-chip piece for a journalism or South Dakota history collection rather than a high-growth financial asset.
Similar Autographs
Dan Rather, Peter Jennings, Walter Cronkite, or Brian Williams.
Display & Preservation
Keep out of direct sunlight as metallic ink can flake over decades if exposed to extreme heat or UV. Frame with acid-free matting to prevent the photo surface from sticking to the glass.
Interesting Facts
Brokaw is known for being extremely gracious with fans in person but his signature has evolved from a very legible full-name script in the 1980s to this more efficient, stylized version in his later years.