The first black player to make the New York Yankees team, was also the first black player to win the MVP award in the American League. Of course, we’re talking about the great Elston Howard. After a couple of years in the Negro League with the renowned Kansas City Monarchs, Howard spent the early ‘50s in the minors, and the military. In 1955, he broke through with the Yankees, and made his fair share of history during his 13 seasons in pinstripes. After retiring as a player, Howard also became the first black coach in the AL, and during his storied career as a player and a coach, he earned a total of 6 World Series rings. Heart failure claimed his life in 1980, when he was just 51 years old, making his autograph a fairly tough acquisition. Double your collecting pleasure, with these (2) Elston Howard signed magazine page photos. Published during his active playing days, these photos are: 1.) pictured from the knees up with (“9”) autograph; and 2.) head and shoulders shot with (“8”) autograph. Auction LOA from James Spence/JSA.

Opening Bid $50.