(LOT 529)
Jackie Robinson & Ralph Branca Autographed Stationary Letterhead from the "Jackie Robinson Show" Radio Broadcast - PSA/DNA Encapsulated & JSA LOA
Jackie Robinson spent five-plus seasons playing behind starting pitcher Ralph Branca for the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1947 to 1953 before Branca was released in 1953. In 1947, when Robinson arrived amidst controversy that would redefine professional sports from then on, Branca was ace of the Dodgers staff. Robinson and Branca would lead the Dodgers to two National League pennants in 1947 and 1949, only to fall short of a World Series title at the hands of the crosstown New York Yankees. But, the relationship between the two was far deeper than just being teammates as Branca was one of the few players to take Robinson at face value and accept him as an equal and a friend.

Offered here is an extremely unique piece inscribed and signed by the two teammates on letterhead from the "Jackie Robinson Show" radio broadcast from the 1950s. This 8-1/2" x 11" page featured a blue-violet head-shot of Jackie, the "Jackie Robinson Show" logo and a bat displaying the air-time "7:15-7:30" – "Monday through Saturday." Robinson has signed in black at left "To Mickey from Jackie Robinson" with "Best Wishes Mickey, Ralph Branca" penned in black at right of Robinson's inscription, each about "9" strength. The page presents with yellowish brown aging throughout with unobtrusive water damage at upper right with some paper loss. Minimal spotting is also visible. To Mickey? Do you think their soon-to-be crosstown rival stood in line awaiting the autographs of these to Brooklyn heroes? We can only imagine!

MIN BID $400
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