Sports Memorabilia, Trading Cards, and Americana May 16'26
Lot 125:
Description
BID PER WHAT YOU SEE IN THE PHOTO, NOT THE AI GENERATED TITLES AND DESCRIPTIONS! A Collection of 9 Signed Notre Dame and College Football Legend Photographs and 2 Information Cards
This collection consists of nine autographed black and white 8 inch by 10 inch photographs and two handwritten index cards, primarily focused on the history of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football program. The photographs feature several prominent figures in college football history, including 1953 Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Lattner, Vagas Ferguson, Bob Gladieux, Frank Tripucka, Jerry Groom, Creighton Miller, and Bob Williams. One photograph features Earl Morrall in his Michigan State Spartans uniform. Also included is a group photograph featuring legendary coach Frank Leahy with Jerry Groom and the mascot dog Clashmore Mike III, which includes notations of several national championship years. The signatures are executed in various black and blue inks. Several items feature personalized inscriptions, such as Johnny Lattner’s message to Kicker and multiple motivational inscriptions to Aimee. The photographs are high-quality black and white prints of vintage archival images. Two accompanying handwritten index cards on lined paper provide biographical details and career highlights for Vagas Ferguson and Bob Gladieux. No third-party authentication labels or certificates are present on the items.
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 and index cards appear to be in excellent overall condition. There are no visible creases, tears, or significant wear to the edges or corners. The signatures and inscriptions remain bold, clear, and highly legible with no signs of fading.
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