Normally I comment/give advice in the Memorabilia Forum. But since the thread resides here, I'll chime in...
If you want to maximize its value, try to find a photo-match. Scour through photos of Reds/Cubs games that took place in the 80s. There should be plenty, if you just do the homework.... Getty Images, Vintage Stock Photos, etc.
It's cool that it's autographed by 4 legends of the Big Red Machine. But none of those autos are rare, and even though it's great that they signed it, the true value is that it's a Wrigley Field artifact. It will have cross-over value between Reds and Cubs collectors.
I'm a lifetime Reds fan and collector. Most of my stadium artifacts are from Crosley Field, so I am very familiar with this type of thing. Here are the pros and cons...
Pros:
* Rare and somewhat vintage artifact from a legendary stadium
* Presumably stepped and knelt on by many Reds' greats during games
* Signed by 3 (really 4) HOFers
Cons:
* Not many collectors would have enough room to display (or even store) it
* Not many auction houses would be willing to take it on
* Shipping would be a nightmare, and might cost half as much as the piece itself
* Since shipping is not a good option, you will probably need to sell as "pickup only"
* And if it is "pickup only", you are limited to buyers who reside somewhat close to wherever you live.
So there are obstacles, and even though many people will love and admire it, the realistic customer base is pretty limited.
I know that you want to know the value.... but given the fickle nature of auctions, it could range anywhere from $1,000 - $3,500 (I know that's a big range, given all the variables).
Assuming you live in the Chicago area, I do suppose that someone from greater Cincinnati would be willing to take a pickup truck out there to get it. I know that I would for a piece like this (especially if I was only 5 hours away).
There are a number of Cincinnati Reds + Chicago Cubs Collector Groups on Facebook. That and FB Marketplace would probably be your best bets for pickup only, as opposed to eBay or catalog auction. So I would proceed as follows....
Find a photo-match as described above
Locate the numerous Reds/Cubs Collector forums on FB.
Post the item at your price, but be flexible, as it's a high-maintenance piece
It's unique/desirable enough that I bet you get some good responses on Day 1.
Best of luck,
Mark
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