Bruce Lee
Martial Arts Icon, Philosopher, and Actor · Martial Arts and Film & Television
Jeet Kune Do / Green Hornet (ABC) / Golden Harvest
Era
Circa 1966-1967
Item Type
The Green Hornet (1966) Donruss Trading Card
Condition
Good to Very Good; signature is clear but card shows edge wear and mounting scratches on protector.
Rarity
Extremely rare; Lee was a prolific writer but his life was short, limiting supply.
Overall Assessment
A high-stakes item that requires expert physical inspection to confirm 1960s ink age and flow.
Authenticity Assessment
Uncertain - requires professional authentication. High risk due to value.
Signature Style
Cursive script with characteristic sharp 'B' and elongated terminal 'e'.
Signature Characteristics
Fluid motion, slight right-leaning slant, distinctive 'B' loop that intersects the stem.
Ink & Medium
Blue ballpoint pen on paper card stock.
Item Description
Vintage 1966 Donruss 'The Green Hornet' trading card featuring Bruce Lee as Kato.
Estimated Value
$5,000 - $12,000 (authenticated); significantly less if unverified.
Comparison to Known Examples
Consistent with 'Green Hornet' era signatures which were often more legible than his late-career rush.
Authentication Tips
Check for the 'flick' at the end of 'Lee' and consistent pressure without pauses.
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA, JSA, or Beckett (BAS).
Red Flags
High volume of 'Green Hornet' forgeries exist; check for 'drawing' movements vs fluid writing.
Provenance Notes
Look for documentation trace back to fans from the 1960s or official studio appearances.
Historical Context
Signed during his breakout US role as Kato, which redefined Asian representation in media.
Market Trends
Rising sharply; martial arts memorabilia has reached blue-chip status at major auctions.
Investment Potential
Excellent; as a global cultural icon, demand consistently outstrips supply.
Similar Autographs
Chuck Norris (early), Brandon Lee, Jackie Chan (early).
Display & Preservation
Must use UV-protective museum glass; ballpoint ink is highly susceptible to fading.
Interesting Facts
Bruce Lee often signed with his Chinese name 'Lee Jun Fan' in personal correspondence.