Lester Hayes
Retired NFL Cornerback / 5-time Pro Bowler · Football - NFL
Oakland / Los Angeles Raiders
Era
Modern (Signed post-retirement, circa 1990s-2010s)
Item Type
Multi-signed Raiders logo football
Condition
Excellent. The ink is dark and bold with no significant bleeding into the synthetic leather; the ball itself appears clean with minor shelf wear and tight stitching.
Rarity
Common. Lester Hayes is a prolific and willing signer at NFL conventions, fan events, and through the mail.
Overall Assessment
This is a classic, authentic example of a Lester Hayes signature on a Raiders team-themed football. It is an excellent piece for a Raiders fan or a collector of 1980s NFL legends.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic. The signature displays the characteristic fluid strokes, specific loop of the 'L', and the 'L-plus-number' shorthand common in his fan signings.
Signature Style
Stylized shorthand with jersey number. It features a prominent, looped 'L' followed by a dash and his number '37'. Typical of his high-volume signing style.
Signature Characteristics
Fast, rhythmic flow with no hesitation marks. High pressure on the downward strokes of the number 37. The 'L' shows a consistent lean to the left, which is a common trait in his hand.
Ink & Medium
Black permanent marker (Sharpie) on white synthetic leather football panel.
Item Description
A white 'signature series' style football featuring the Oakland Raiders shield logo. The ball appears to be a commemorative item designed for team autograph sessions.
Estimated Value
$40 - $75 (as part of a multi-signed ball). Individual Lester Hayes signatures are common and usually retail in the $20-$40 range on smaller items.
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches known retired-era exemplars perfectly. The shorthand 'L-37' is his standard signature for multi-signed items where space is limited.
Authentication Tips
Look for the unique 'L' that often resembles a cursive 'Z' or a number '2', followed by a sharp horizontal strike. His number 37 is almost always present and written in a consistent, blocky style.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or PSA/DNA are the industry standards for NFL memorabilia.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed. The ink saturation and stroke speed are consistent with a genuine Sharpie-signed memorial item.
Provenance Notes
Since this is a multi-signed team ball, documentation from a specific Raiders alumni event or 'Fan Day' would be the ideal provenance.
Historical Context
Hayes is a legendary figure in NFL history, known for his 1980 DPOY season and his famous use of 'Stickum' before it was banned.
Market Trends
Stable. As a member of the 1980s All-Decade Team, his signature remains a staple for Raiders collectors, though supply is high.
Investment Potential
Low. Because he signs so frequently, the value is tied more to the sentiment of the team ball rather than individual investment appreciation.
Similar Autographs
Collectors of this item would also seek Mike Haynes (his defensive partner), Ted Hendricks, or Howie Long signatures.
Display & Preservation
Keep in a UV-protected acrylic football case. Avoid direct sunlight which will cause the black marker to turn brown/yellow and the white football to tan.
Interesting Facts
Hayes's 13 interceptions in 1980 is the second-most in a single season in NFL history. He often signs with 'The Judge' or 'Stickum' inscriptions upon request.