Lot # 1508: 1957 Weeb Ewbank & Rookie Year Johnny Unitas Signed Baltimore "Tops in Sports" Banquet Program - Full JSA LOA

The Maryland Professional Baseball Players Association 4th annual “Tops in Sports” Banquet was held January 14, 1957, at the Lord Baltimore Hotel. The Special Awards Guests honored that night included Mickey Mantle, Gus Triandos, Billy Pierce and Sal Maglie. This 18-page program from the event (VG) includes a team photo of the 1956 Baltimore Colts featuring the young #19, Johnny Unitas, and coach, Weeb Ewbank. The rookie quarterback has signed the cover of the program, “John Unitas” (“8-9”), and the coach has signed as well, “Weeb Ewbank” (“8-9”). An incidental signature on the cover is by Mary Hill “Miss Baseball.” An advertisement of note on the inside features the famous farewell photo of Babe Ruth and his teammates with the caption “Baltimore’s Own.”

ALSO INCLUDED is a 5x6 Christmas card with Santa, his sack full of footballs, riding the Baltimore Colt above Memorial Stadium. The inside says, “Seasons Greetings from the Baltimore Colts” and features facsimile autographs of the players such as Alan Ameche, Alex Sandusky, Raymond Berry and Art Donovan. Excellent condition.

Full LOA from James Spence/JSA.