Thurman Munson Signed Photograph with #15 Notation and Outstanding Provenance - PSA/DNA GEM MINT 10 and Beckett

Original photo signed by legendary New York Yankees catcher and former captain Thurman Munson, including a rare #15 notation. PSA/DNA has encapsulated the photo and graded the signature GEM MINT 10. This photo originates from the personal collection of Bill Hongach, who is the young man pictured in the photo posing with Munson! Hongach was a New York Yankees bat boy in the early 1970s and Munson took an instant shine to him. As Hongach recalls, Munson had great sense of humor, and the inscription he penned here reflects both that aspect of his personality, as well as his affection for Hongach: "To Hondo - The worst ball boy in N. Y. history. Hope to see you next year. '15' Thurman Munson." Both the text and signature have been scripted in blue felt-tip pen. Hongach remained good friends with Munson after Hongach "retired" as a bat boy and this photo has always been one of his most treasured keepsakes. As most collectors are aware, Munson was never known as a prolific signer during his playing career and normally shunned the attention of fans. That fact, combined with his untimely death in 1979 at the age of 32, has resulted in the scarcity of Munson-signed items today. What sets this photo apart from all other Munson-signed photos, besides its ironclad provenance, is Munson's #15 notation. This is the only instance that we can recall where Munson has included his uniform number next to his signature on a photo, making it one of the most significant Munson-signed pieces in the hobby. The photo (10 x 8 inches) remains in Near Mint condition. Full LOAs from PSA/DNA and Steve Grad and Brian Sobrero/Beckett Authentication Services.