(LOT 164)
1961 Topps #388 Signed Roberto Clemente PSA 8 NM-MT AUTO GRADE - One of Only Two Examples on the PSA "Pop" Chart!
Total Autographed Pop: 2; Total "Unsigned" Pop: 5,212; Var.% (Signed vs. Unsigned Pop): 0.04%
One of the scarcest of all autographed Roberto Clemente cards is his ultra-elusive 1961 Topps #388 subject, with the illustrious PSA census report listing only two meager examples! Incredibly, PSA has handled roughly 5,200+ '61 Topps Clemente cards, with only a fractional 2 specimens or 0.04% reflecting his highly coveted signature. One of those two near-impossible signed '61 Clementes just happens to be presented here reflecting an imposing PSA 8 NM-MT autograph grade, with the blue penned "Roberto Clemente" horizontal signature situated directly beneath his chin. The card itself exhibits fine "VG+" aesthetics, with the obverse side surface eluding any glaring flaws.

For full disclosure, the verso does reveal a surface blemish in the lower right quadrant, but as collectors truly realize, the flipside's technical attributes for a signed card offer minimal significance. Coincidently, the 1961 campaign would stand as a bona fide "break-out" season for the great Clemente, with the star right-fielder leading the Senior Circuit with a sensational .351 batting average, while blasting 23 homers, knocking in 89 runs and posting an outstanding .949 OPS. Obviously, one of the toughest of all Clemente signed cards to capture, its 'Pop 2" status truly merits serious attention from the most meticulous of all autograph enthusiasts!

MIN BID $2,500