Summer Slam Collectibles Aug'26
Lot 79:
Description
BID PER WHAT YOU SEE IN THE PHOTO, NOT THE AI GENERATED TITLES AND DESCRIPTIONS! A Collection of Autographed Football Legend Photographs and Ephemera Featuring Notre Dame Heisman Winners and Hall of Famers
This lot comprises a collection of approximately 16 autographed 8 by 10 inch photographs and related documents focusing on American college and professional football legends, particularly those associated with the University of Notre Dame. Key signed photographs include 1964 Heisman Trophy winner John Huarte with a Heisman 64 inscription, and a dual signed image featuring Army Heisman winners Glenn Davis and Doc Blanchard. Pro Football Hall of Famers in the collection include Charlie Trippi, represented by two different signed images, Hugh McElhenny, and Stan Jones. Collegiate stars and coaches are represented by signed photos of Tyrone Willingham, Gerry Faust, Lee Corso, Tom Clements, Nick Eddy, Bob Williams, Dick Lynch, and Matt Senneca. The signatures are executed in various inks including black, blue, and purple felt tip. Ephemera includes a printed tribute poem signed by Notre Dame player and World War II survivor Mario Motts Tonelli. The lot also contains a Certificate of Authenticity from M.D.s Sports Connection dated August 21, 2009, identifying signatures from Sammy Baugh and Tom Fears, along with various handwritten player identification notes and a 2005 correspondence to Charlie Trippi.
Provenance / Authentication Note: This item originates from a single-owner collection assembled by a dedicated sports fan (with a strong focus on Notre Dame and New York Yankees memorabilia). The collector actively pursued autographs over many years through in-person events, including games, autograph shows, and visits to National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum during player events, as well as through direct mail requests to athletes and celebrities. The collection included supporting material such as handwritten correspondence sent to athletes (in some cases with payment enclosed), along with photographs of the collector with various signers. A portion of this same collection was featured in our March 21st auction, where multiple items were authenticated by James Spence Authentication (JSA). In regards to any items with signature(s): While this specific item(s) may not be individually submitted for third-party authentication, it originates from the same collection and shows consistency with previously authenticated pieces. As with many large autograph collections, there may be a small number of facsimile or clubhouse-style signatures present, but for the most part we have seen AUTHENTIC SIGNATURES within the collection. Based on the overall provenance and our review, we maintain a strong level of confidence in the authenticity of most items. Bidders are encouraged to review all photos carefully and bid according to their own level of comfort. No additional authentication documentation is included unless visible within the lot photos. Please reach out with any questions.
Condition report:
The photographs are in good to very good condition overall. Signatures are generally bold and legible. Minor signs of handling, including light edge wear or superficial surface marks, are present on some items. Ephemera items show typical minor creasing and toning consistent with age.
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