Rare Topps Test Issues

[docpatlv]

Dave and Howard,

I'm not trying to rain on anyone's parade. It's just that I was burned on a couple of Clemente sigs early on, and I vowed never to let it happen again.

I remember the name of Clemente's "alleged" ghost-signer, it was Phil Dorsey. It's possible this item was signed in the late 1960's by Dorsey and then the test could have been produced. I don't have the knowledge on Topps test issues that the both of you do, my opinion was only on the auto.

Here are some more of mine to compare:



Here are some that are not mine, but I saved scans:



Note the differences in how Clemente formed the letter "T", also the "Best" in Best Wishes, the formation of "b" in Roberto, the legs in the "R" in Roberto,etc. I would not bet my life on it, but like I said I have seen A LOT of Clemente autos and although there are some variances in his legit signature, they still have the same characteristics.

Mike

[toppcat]

Here's a link to my blog post on the 67 Poster Sticker (scroll down near the bottom for back scan) and a front scan for reference.

http://toppsarchives.blogspot.com/se...Red%20Herrings

[hcv123]

Thank you to Mike and Dave for all the input trying to solidify an opinion. As much as I AM a self proclaimed expert on Clemente issued cards and memorabilia, I am NOT in the least bit qualified to offer an opinion on his signature. I decided years ago not to even try as the thought of forgeries was too scary. Scared to the point that I passed on an opportunity to purchase a 30+ year collection of over 100 signed Clemente items(about 18 years ago). That said, I am very familiar with Phil Dorsey ( A close friend of Clemente's )and the realtively universal thought that he signed many Clemente ghost signatures. I did not buy the pin up for the autograph. In fact, I bought it despite it. I wish it wasn't there - perhaps one day if I get a consensus of opinions that it is not good I will try to wipe it off
(Just kidding. Did I get you?) While some might disagree, imo the scarcity/potential unique status of the item far outweighs any value/added value the signature has. To end, a question, would there be some potential variation attributable to the style of pen and surface? And the conversation continues................

[tedzan]

Topps issued a limited production test issue designed in the style of their 1953 cards.





Only these 8 cards are in this set........

1......"Satchell" Paige
2......Jackie Robinson
3......Carl Furillo (picture actually Johnny Antonelli)
4......Al Rosen (picture actually Jim Fridley)
5......Hal Newhouser
6......Clyde McCollough (picture actually Vic Janowicz)
7......"Peanuts" Lowery
8......Johnny Mize

I will post the other 7 cards later.


TED Z

[ALR-bishop]

Ted
I have a set of these too. I have often wondered if there was not some sort of gag or joke involved in their production since 3 of 8 are wrong.
Al

[tedzan]

ALR

This test issue has always been a quite a mystery to me.

Why only 8 cards; and, (as you said said) how did they foul up on 3 of them ?

My understanding is that less than 200 sets were issued. Perhaps, some one on this forum
will chime in that has some knowledge of this issue.


TED Z

[sfmays24]

Here's a 1973 Test Jackie Robinson... Ted, I heard the same about the set and that it was issued at some type of luncheon/meeting with Management?

Mike

[toppcat]

I blogged this almost a year ago, based upon info from The Trader Speaks:

http://toppsarchives.blogspot.com/se...opps%20Reprint

[tedzan]

Thanks for posting the link regarding this 1972 Topps test issue......very informative.

I always thought this set was a 1972 issue. But, Krause's Standard Catalog identifies
it as a 1973 issue....

So, which year was it issued ? ?


TED Z