ERNIE DAVIS Autograph Football Heisman Winner 1961 Signed x11 * Bell HOF * PSA
Guaranteed Authentic
HEISMAN TROPHY WINNER and CLEVELAND BROWNS recruit who shockingly died at just 23 years old – without ever playing a professional game!
Ill-fated Heisman Trophy winner ERNEST R. ("ERNIE") DAVIS scarce, authentic autograph vintage 1961 MacGregor "All American" football signed by 10 more standouts including Bobby Bell (Minn.), Roman Gabriel (NC State), Gary Collins (Maryland), Bob Mitinger (Penn State), Joe Romig (Colorado), Jimmy Saxton (Texas), Alex Kroll, Roy Winston, and Billy Neighbors (Alabama), and Bob Ferguson. Davis prominently signs in the "sweet spot" in black ink pen just below the laces.
Footballs signed by Davis are exceptionally scarce, the first African American player to win the Heisman Trophy in 1961. Davis was selected first overall by the Washington Redskins in the 1962 NFL draft but was almost immediately traded to the Cleveland Browns. Tragically, Davis was diagnosed with leukemia that same year, and died shortly after at age 23 without ever playing in a professional game. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1979 and was the subject of the 2008 film, "The Express: The Ernie Davis Story".
Bobby Bell went on to become a Pro Football HOF inductee from the Kansas City Chiefs – widely considered one of the greatest outside linebackers in football history.
The b&w photograph of Davis with the All-American autograph footballs is provided FOR REFERENCE ONLY and is NOT included in the purchase.
CERTIFIED AUTHENTIC BY PSA/DNA EXPERT EXAMINATION. Purchase includes full PSA/DNA Letter of Authenticity. UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED GENUINE.
Condition is as shown with typical signs of wear, consistent with the age, use, handling and display of a nearly 65 year old football. Laces are dirty. Leather remains pliable, football is partially inflated and has not been tested to hold air. Please review photos carefully for exact condition.
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Sold as is, as shown.