Blue sharpies were the norm for many autos back into the late 70s. In my mind, their rise to prominence coincides with both the rise in # of shows with signers as well as the prominence of the glossy photo as the autograph item of choice. At many of the shows in the early 80s, glossy photos and balls were the most common items signed.
The first show I can clearly recall was with Mantle in around 78 or so. He was signing all the photos in sharpies and balls in ball point. Other items were mixed.
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