Tyson Hilinski
Quarterback for the Washington State Cougars · Football - NCAA
Washington State Cougars
Era
2010s
Item Type
White panel football
Condition
Excellent condition with clean ink and minimal wear on the leather panel.
Rarity
Extremely rare due to his tragic and untimely passing in 2018, which permanently capped the supply of authentic signatures.
Overall Assessment
A poignant and highly desirable piece of college football memorabilia. The inclusion of his personal Bible verse inscription adds immense character and validation, making it a prized item for a dedicated fan or specialized collector.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic based on signature form, common inclusion of jersey number #3 (or #4 contextually) and distinct religious inscription 'Deut 6:4-9', which was characteristic of his personal signing habits.
Signature Style
Flowing cursive signature featuring initials at the top, full last name running vertically downwards, accompanied by his jersey number and a custom Bible verse inscription.
Signature Characteristics
Strong, fluid upward loop for the initials followed by a sharp, descending diagonal baseline for the surname, executed with consistent natural pen pressure.
Ink & Medium
Black fine-point permanent marker or felt-tip pen.
Item Description
A smooth white commemorative or autograph-panel football, specifically designed to showcase signatures clearly.
Estimated Value
$100 - $300
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches known exemplars from his college playing days, particularly items featuring his characteristic religious inscriptions.
Authentication Tips
Look closely at the distinctive script of the last name 'Hilinski' and the specific handwriting of the Bible reference 'Deut 6:4-9', as his unique inscriptions are strong indicators of authenticity.
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA or JSA (James Spence Authentication)
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the ink flow appears natural with no hesitation marks or signs of mechanical reproduction.
Provenance Notes
Direct-from-team or in-person acquisition documentation significantly boosts the value and confidence for tragedy-era college player autographs.
Historical Context
Tyson Hilinski's legacy extends beyond the gridiron as his passing brought national attention to mental health awareness among student-athletes through Hilinski's Hope.
Market Trends
Stable to gradually appreciating niche market driven by college football memorabilia collectors and fans honoring his memory through the Hilinski's Hope foundation.
Investment Potential
Strong sentimental and niche collector investment potential, largely safe from market saturation due to the finite supply of his authentic pieces.
Similar Autographs
Other Washington State Cougars notable player autographs or tragically short-lived college athletic memorabilia.
Display & Preservation
Keep away from direct sunlight in a UV-protected acrylic football display case to prevent fading of the black marker on the white leather panel.
Interesting Facts
Hilinski frequently included specific Bible verses like Deuteronomy 6:4-9 alongside his signature, making pieces with this exact inscription highly recognizable and sought after.