(LOT 172)
1968 Topps #150 Signed Roberto Clemente PSA 5.5 EX+ Card Grade; PSA 8 NM-MT AUTO GRADE - "Pop 1"; Highest Graded Example!
Total Autographed Pop: 4; Total "Unsigned" Pop: 3,925; Var.% (Signed vs. Unsigned Pop): 0.10%
Similar to Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente's magnificent accomplishments comes along this 1968 Topps #150 signed Clemente keepsake that just happens to be the finest of its kind! The PSA population report only lists a paltry four scripted '68 Topps Clemente's, with this PSA 5.5 EX+ "Pop 1" offering proudly besting the other three inferior specimens and standing alone at the top of the charts! Furthermore, the four autographed Clemente 1968 Topps Cards authenticated by PSA represent a fractional 0.1% of the total 3,900+ subjects handled by the PSA card graders. The timeless ink signature has been graded a PSA 8 NM-MT, boldly reading "Best Wishes - Roberto Clemente", with the tough to find "Best Wishes" non-personalized inscription adding further popularity to this Cooperstown worthy marvel.

Although the 1968 campaign would see Clemente slip below the .300 batting mark for the first time in nine seasons, he would win his eight consecutive Gold Glove Award, and his .291 average was certainly nothing to sneeze at. Likewise, the PSA 5.5 EX+ card grade is extremely formidable, with 54-year-old scripted cards rarely achieving solid mid-grade assessments. The ballpoint pen autograph is neatly placed alongside the left of Clemente's brilliant batting pose, as he appears ready to smack another sizzling line drive into the gap for extra bases. Atypical fine centering, sparkling hues and relatively clean surfaces combine with the world-class signature to place this "best of the rest" offering as one of Clemente's most formidable signed Topps cards!

MIN BID $2,500