Mario Lemieux
NHL Hall of Fame Center and Owner · Ice Hockey - NHL
Pittsburgh Penguins
Era
Modern Era - circa 1990s-2000s
Item Type
Baseball
Condition
Very Good. The primary autograph is clear and bold with minimal fading, though the baseball shows slight general handling wear.
Rarity
Moderately common for a prominent star, though specific item combinations like a hockey legend on a baseball add a unique twist.
Overall Assessment
A great collectible piece for a hockey fan, featuring a clear signature from an all-time great on an unusual item medium.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic based on signature flow and standard player tendencies, though professional in-person review is recommended.
Signature Style
Flowing cursive featuring his distinct 'M' and the inclusion of his famous jersey number 66.
Signature Characteristics
Smooth fluid strokes, upward vertical slant on the capital letters, quick pen lifts, and proportional sizing of the double-six numeral.
Ink & Medium
Black ballpoint pen or fine-tip marker on leather baseball surface.
Item Description
Standard leather baseball with red stitching, featuring Mario Lemieux's autograph and jersey number 66 on the sweet spot/side panel, accompanied by faint traces of secondary signatures.
Estimated Value
150 to 300 USD depending on professional authentication
Comparison to Known Examples
Strong consistency with authenticated in-person Mario Lemieux graph exemplars from public signing events and game-used memorabilia.
Authentication Tips
Compare the distinct formation of the capital 'M', the looping middle letters, and the characteristic slant and shape of the '66' inscription.
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA or JSA (James Spence Authentication)
Red Flags
Slight smudging near the edges and presence of secondary faded signatures, but no overt signs of forgery or mechanical reproduction.
Provenance Notes
Obtained in-person at a sporting event context as noted by the user; keeping a detailed written record of the encounter will enhance value.
Historical Context
Mario Lemieux is widely regarded as one of the greatest hockey players in NHL history, leading the Pittsburgh Penguins to back-to-back Stanley Cups and saving the franchise from bankruptcy.
Market Trends
Stable demand for hockey legends, with prices remaining steady for authenticated pieces from top-tier Hall of Famers.
Investment Potential
Solid long-term hold due to his legendary status in the sport and enduring legacy as both player and owner.
Similar Autographs
Wayne Gretzky, Sidney Crosby, Jaromir Jagr
Display & Preservation
Keep out of direct sunlight in a UV-protected acrylic baseball cube to prevent fading of the ink and leather discoloration.
Interesting Facts
Though primarily known for hockey, athletes frequently sign various sports equipment when interacting with fans at multi-sport venues or casual settings.
Notes
Signed at a regular season Toronto maple leafs CBL baseball game