Does this Musial look OK?

[itjclarke]

I'd been watching this a few days and decided to pull the trigger tonight. Does it look OK? I've seen dozens of Musials sigs and own 2, and this one definitely looks different (especially that S) than others I've seen.. but the fact the card is graded (for what that's worth) and the seller takes returns made me feel OK giving it a shot. I am far from an expert, so wanted to see what some of you more seasoned autograph collectors think. Was it possibly a bad pen.. or did Musial have a different sig as he got older? Any thoughts are greatly appreciated.

[gashouse34]

His signature definately changed...I would bet this was signed shortly before his death.

[itjclarke]

Thanks Brandon, that's reassuring. Admittedly not the best looking sig, but I couldn't pass on opportunity to get one on this card. Seems like there are many many more of his Bowmans that come available as compared with the Leaf.

[7nohitter]

The sig is legit...Poor guy was signing stuff up until the last days...look at some of the certifies Topps issues...they look like scribbles...

[bender07]

Originally Posted by gashousegang_1

His signature definately changed...I would bet this was signed shortly before his death.

Agreed. Definitely a late in life signature.

As an aside, it's probably a glass half full debate, but I find those types of signatures sad while I'm sure others think it's admirable that he kept fulfilling autograph requests close to his death. Either way, a high class individual!

[itjclarke]

Originally Posted by bender07

Agreed. Definitely a late in life signature.

As an aside, it's probably a glass half full debate, but I find those types of signatures sad while I'm sure others think it's admirable that he kept fulfilling autograph requests close to his death. Either way, a high class individual!

Yeah, I guess I'd fall more on the "sad" side, but agree what a class act to the end. As a kid, he and Lou Brock (then Banks.. Though no sig, I just talked to him) were the nicest guys I met. When I got Musial (late '80s) there was a massive line but he took time with everyone. He was one of my dad's heroes so it was a great moment for him too. I feel fortunate to add this one to my collections.

Thanks for the input guys.