Visit Gordie Howe's NHL rookie era with these (2) circa 1940s signed flats. A rising star with the Detroit Red Wings at the time, Howe has signed both items with his full given name Gordon. These early examples of Howe's signature are a welcome find for autograph aficionados. One signature is located on the back of a postcard featuring the Norwalk General Hospital. This ("7.5") strength signature is consistent in style with Howe's circa 1946 NHL rookie-season signings. The other autograph ("7.5") is accompanied by a personalization, on a 3-1/2 x 6" photograph. Though there is no credit stamp on the back, this glossy black and white photo looks to be the same exact shot later used on Howe's 1948-1952 Exhibit card, his 1940s Beehive card, and other uses. Several certified postcard examples with this same image have also turned up, all with a J.D. McCarthy credit printed on the back. Auction LOA from James Spence/JSA. Opening Bid $100.