This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/5/2020
This Official American League baseball bears 25 period blue ballpoint pen signatures of the 1972 New York Yankees, including an attractive signature of beloved young Yankee catcher Thurman Munson on a side panel. However, what makes this particular 1972 Yankees ball special and unlike any other that we have seen, is the signature of Yankees legend Mickey Mantle, neatly signed on the sweet spot above the American League imprint. Whitey Ford appears on the ball as well. Mantle and Ford probably appeared during Spring Training to lend their coaching assistance in hitting and pitching; and add their signatures to add some high power star quality to make this baseball such a special prize for the choice collector. Additional signatures include: Sparky Lyle, Mel Stottelmyre, Fritz Peterson, Ralph Houk Felipe Alou, Ron Blomberg, Gene Michael, Ron Swoboda, Roy White, Horace Clark and Bobby Murcer. Thurman Munson was the 1st catcher to ever win the American League Rookie of the Year Award. Munson achieved many other honors during his 11-year career that ended tragically in a fatal plane crash in 1979. The Yankees have since honored Munson with the retirement of his number "15." Excellent condition. Guaranteed to pass James Spence Authentication (JSA). Comes with a Gotta Have Rock and Roll Certificate of Authenticity.