Roger Maris
MLB Legendary Outfielder and 1961 Single-Season Home Run King · Baseball - MLB
New York Yankees / St. Louis Cardinals / Kansas City Athletics
Era
Post-Career / Retirement era - circa 1970s to early 1980s
Item Type
Signed Baseball
Condition
Excellent/Near Mint. The autograph is bold with minimal fading. The ball shows natural cream-colored toning/yellowing consistent with age.
Rarity
Very Rare. Maris was a relatively private individual who passed away at age 51 in 1985, limiting the supply of his autographs compared to peers like Mickey Mantle.
Overall Assessment
This is a premium example of a highly desirable and rare baseball legend's autograph. It represents a centerpiece item for any serious New York Yankees or baseball historian collector.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic; high confidence based on flow and historical consistency.
Signature Style
Classic cursive featuring a prominent 'R', a looped 'g', and a detached 'M' with a high-arching 's' ending.
Signature Characteristics
Strong fluid strokes, consistent upward slant, and specific letter formation including the 'M' which begins with a high, sharp stroke and the 's' that looks like an 'r' with a trailing tail.
Ink & Medium
Blue ballpoint pen on an off-white leather baseball. Ink shows slight natural aging and absorption into the hide.
Item Description
Single-signed baseball housed in a square plastic display cube. Appears to be an official league or high-quality souvenir ball from the late 20th century.
Estimated Value
$3,000 - $5,500 USD (higher if authenticated by PSA/DNA or JSA)
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches very closely with verified examples from his appearance at the 1980 World Series and other late-life signings.
Authentication Tips
Look for the specific 'break' between the first and last name and the distinct loop of the 'g' and 'M'. Check for the 'feathering' of the ink into the leather pores.
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA or James Spence Authentication (JSA). These are the industry standard for high-value vintage baseball signatures.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed. The ink flow is natural and lacks the 'jitter' of a tracer or the 'flat' look of a stamped ball.
Provenance Notes
Original owner history or a classic 'LOA' from a reputable auction house would provide maximum value security.
Historical Context
Roger Maris became a cultural icon in 1961 when he broke Babe Ruth's home run record with 61 in '61. His signature is essential for '500 HR Club' or 'Yankee Dynasty' collectors.
Market Trends
Maris's value has remained high and stable, seeing price bumps whenever single-season home run records are challenged (e.g., Aaron Judge's 2022 season).
Investment Potential
Excellent. As a key figure in baseball history whose supply is permanently capped, Maris autographs are a 'blue chip' memorabilia investment.
Similar Autographs
Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra, Hank Aaron, Whitey Ford.
Display & Preservation
Keep in a UV-protected 'Ultra PRO' cube. Avoid direct sunlight at all costs to prevent the ball from turning brown and the ink from disappearing.
Interesting Facts
Maris was known to be somewhat weary of the media and fans during his playing days, making his autographs from the 1960s particularly coveted.