Bob Feller
MLB Hall of Fame Pitcher / World War II Veteran · Baseball - MLB
Cleveland Indians
Era
Post-retirement, likely late 1990s to early 2000s based on signature flow
Item Type
Baseball
Condition
Good to Very Good. The signature shows moderate fading/bleeding. The ball exhibits some surface yellowing (toning), common for autographs from this era not stored in UV-protected environments.
Rarity
Very Common. Feller signed extensively at shows and through the mail for decades up until his passing in 2010.
Overall Assessment
A classic, authentic example of a Hall of Fame legend's signature. While not rare, it is a staple of baseball history and a great 'starter' piece for any sports memorabilia collection.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic. The signature displays the natural flow, letter formation, and rhythmic "looping" characteristics consistent with thousands of certified Bob Feller signatures from his later years.
Signature Style
Cursive script featuring his classic looping 'B' and 'F'. It is a standard full-name signature without an inscription.
Signature Characteristics
Consistent baseline with a slight upward slant. The letter forms show fluid movement with no hesitation marks, indicating a naturally executed signature.
Ink & Medium
Blue ink, likely a ballpoint pen or felt-tip marker, showing slight fading and bleeding (toning) into the leather/synthetic surface.
Item Description
A 'Cushioned Cork Center' RO-N (Official National League) style baseball, contained in a square acrylic display case.
Estimated Value
$30 - $60 USD. Values for Feller are relatively low because he was one of the most prolific signers in sports history.
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches standard post-1990 Feller exemplars perfectly, specifically the way he connects the 'o' and 'b' and the exaggerated loop of the 'L's.
Authentication Tips
Look for the distinct 'loop' at the bottom of the 'B' and the sharp upward stroke of the 'F'. The 'eller' usually trails off into a series of rhythmic peaks.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or PSA/DNA. However, given the high supply and low market value, the cost of certification may exceed the value added to the item.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed. The ink aging and stroke speed are consistent with an authentic hand-signed item.
Provenance Notes
No specific provenance provided, but Feller was known to sign at every opportunity, making 'in-person' stories very common for this specific signer.
Historical Context
Bob Feller ('Rapid Robert') was one of the greatest pitchers of all time and famously enlisted in the Navy the day after Pearl Harbor, missing nearly four seasons in his prime.
Market Trends
Stable but low. Feller's market is saturated due to the volume of his signatures, making them the 'entry-level' Hall of Fame autograph for many collectors.
Investment Potential
Low. Because there is such a massive supply, this item is best enjoyed as a piece of history rather than a financial investment.
Similar Autographs
Nolan Ryan, Stan Musial, or Brooks Robinson (other prolific Hall of Fame signers).
Display & Preservation
Recommend moving to a UV-protected glass or acrylic cube and keeping out of direct sunlight to prevent further ink fading.
Interesting Facts
Feller was known for being one of the most accessible legends in baseball history, often claiming he would sign for anyone who asked as long as they were polite.