Lot # 985: 1950s Willie Mays Rio Display Co./Sport Magazine Point-of-Sale Sign

The great Willie Mays is seen the New York Giants jersey he wore as a rookie in 1951, in this point-of-sale retail display signed. This cellophane wrapped sign measures 16” x 20” and has overlays that read “Rio Display Co. GL 2-3550”, and “As Seen in Sport Magazine”. The Rio overlay has migrated from bottom-right to upper-left, and the Sport overlay has shifted at bit from its original position at bottom-left.

Mays is depicted from the waist up, with bat on shoulder. The patch on Mays left sleeve is an NL 75th anniversary red glove patch worn in 1951. There’s a gilt gold overlay between the photograph and the white field at bottom, which is printed with “Willie Mays” in ornate font.

Mays’ first appearance in an issue of Sport is reported as June, 1956 and the Giants relocated to San Francisco after the 1957 season. While the actual date of production for this vintage advertising piece is not confirmed, it seems reasonable to believe the period of origin is circa 1956-1957.

Adhesive residue at bottom indicates the original positions of the overlays mentioned above. A 4” crack extends in from the right edge at bottom, heading towards, but not contacting the Mays lettering. Moderate staining is noted, with little detraction from the tremendous period appeal of this visual delight.

The size/weight of this item requires that there will be an additional shipping charge for this lot.