(LOT 77)
1965 Topps #122 Joe Namath Rookie PSA 8 NM-MT
HOF JOE!!!... The hobby's most prestigious rookie cards are currently realizing record prices seemingly every passing day, and one of those renowned inaugural cards belongs to Joe 'Willie" Namath with his iconic 1965 Topps subject presented here in a breathtaking PSA 8 holder! Bested by only a meager 6 PSA encapsulated copies, this extraordinary "Broadway Joe" offering represents the pinnacle of card collecting, for every esteemed rookie card enthusiast highly covets Namath's initial Topps keepsake. While not achieving the finest lifetime statistics, Joe Namath's impact to the game itself secures his place in football history.

The legendary New York Jets Hall of Fame quarterback guaranteed Super Bowl III victory over the mighty Baltimore Colts changed professional football forever. Since his first appearance on an AFL football field, Namath gained the attention of the sports world via his flamboyant "off the field" lifestyle, dazzling white shoes and powerful right arm that produced a significant number of long touchdown passes. He forever earned a place in immortality when his upstart Jest pulled off the impossible; upsetting the virtually unbeatable Baltimore Colts 16-7 in Super Bowl III and ending the NFL's dominance over the then perceived inferior AFL. It was this sole victory that led to the eventual AFC and NFC conferences BOTH being part of a solitary National Football League.

True, other quarterbacks have thrown more touchdowns, completed more passes and compiled a significant higher number of passing yards, but Namath deserves a majority of the credit for two separate football leagues being united as one. Atypical for most Namath rookie cards is the extremely well-centered image that resides between four absolutely blinding white borders. Brilliant surfaces, razor-like corner tips, and vivid print registration complete this majestic offering that synonymous with "Broadway Joe's" immortal football stature, has only been bested by a handful of "Mint 9" specimens!

MIN BID $7,500

_