Lot # 2331: Willie Mays Signed Limited-Edition 1953 Topps Artwork Lithograph

Limited-edition lithographic print of Willie Mays, numbered "407/2000," signed by Mays in blue Sharpie across his image. This print, which replicates Mays' 1953 Topps baseball card, was actually produced from the original 1953 Topps artwork of Mays' card. In 1989 the Marriott Corporation purchased the two original 1953 Topps baseball-card artworks of Mantle and Mays for a combined price of $209,000. The company then produced a set of 2,000 limited-edition signed lithographs made from each artwork. The print (11 x 15 inches) is in Excellent condition and is accompanied by a letter of provenance, dated October 23, 1989, signed by John W. Havron, vice president of food and beverage marketing for Marriott Hotels and Resorts. Auction LOA from James Spence/JSA.