This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/1/2017
Life & culture back in the late 1950’s was vastly different than today, where many P.A. announcers & media members looked at a name such as “Roberto” as toxic in nature. Printed on cards & many publications, the player most know as Roberto Clemente was labeled as “Bob” in an attempt to increase his public image. Clemente would go on to kick the “Bob” label in the 1960’s for the most part, but given his preference to his birth name, Roberto, seeing him sign as Bob is extremely scarce. Offered here is a tremendous example of such a signature, featured on a near complete 1956 Pirates team-signed ball boasting 24 autographs — Roberto Clemente (signed "Bob Clemente"), Bill Mazeroski, Bobby Bragan, Roy Face, Bob friend, Nellie King, Vern Law, Cholly Naranjo, Laurin Pepper, Fred Waters, Jack Shepard, Dick Cole, Dick Groat, Dale Long, Eddie O'Brien, Johnny O'Brien, Frank Thomas, Jerry Lynch, Bob Skinner, Bill Virdon & Lee Walls. Authenticated by PSA/DNA with a full Letter of Authenticity.