Circa 1961 Roger Maris, Tracy Stallard & Sal Durante Autographed Baseball

A Legendary Baseball Artifact: The Roger Maris, Tracy Stallard, and Sal Durante Signed Ball

An Iconic Piece of Baseball History

In the annals of baseball memorabilia, few items capture the imagination quite like this Reach AOL (Cronin) baseball. Signed in blue ink on the side panel by the legendary Roger Maris and Tracy Stallard, the pitcher who famously surrendered Maris’ record-breaking 61st home run in 1961, this ball is a testament to one of the most celebrated moments in Major League Baseball history. Adding to its allure, the bottom panel bears the signature of Sal Durante, the 19-year-old fan who caught that historic home run ball, making this piece a trifecta of baseball lore.

Significance of the Signatures

The signatures on this baseball are not merely autographs; they are a narrative of a pivotal moment in sports history. Roger Maris, whose 61 home runs in a single season broke Babe Ruth’s long-standing record, is immortalized in the annals of baseball. Tracy Stallard, forever linked to this moment, and Sal Durante, the young fan who became part of baseball folklore, complete this extraordinary piece.

• Roger Maris: His signature is a symbol of breaking barriers and setting new standards in baseball.
• Tracy Stallard: Known for his role in one of the most memorable pitches in MLB history.
• Sal Durante: The fan who caught the 61st home run ball, adding a personal touch to this historic event.

Condition and Authenticity

This remarkable baseball is presented in its original condition, with a natural patina and some spotting that speaks to its age and authenticity. The Maris and Stallard signatures are graded an impressive 8, while Durante’s signature holds a grade of 6, reflecting the ball’s journey through time. Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from JSA, this artifact offers a tangible connection to a legendary moment in baseball history.

A Unique Opportunity for Collectors

For collectors and enthusiasts, this baseball represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of history. Its provenance, featuring signatures from all three key figures of Maris’ 61st home run, makes it an invaluable addition to any sports memorabilia collection. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate fan, this baseball is a testament to the enduring legacy of one of baseball’s most iconic achievements.

Explore more about this and other exceptional items in our baseball collectibles for sale and discover the stories behind the artifacts that have shaped the world of sports. If you have your own piece of history, consider our appraisal services to understand its value and significance.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.