Nick Pietrosante Autograph and the Nov. 10, 1962 “Sports Illustrated” with His Image.
Lot 442. Nick Pietrosante Autograph and the Nov. 10, 1962 “Sports Illustrated” with His Image. The autograph of the Notre Dame and NFL star fullback is mint 9 to gem mint 10 on an unlined index card. Frank Mullins created the “SI” cover art. A magazine and book illustrator and reporter-artist who combined bold colors with an impressionist style, Mullins (1924-78) helped to shape the image and style of “Sports Illustrated” in the mid to late-1960s with his color illustrations. The magazine is ex with a mailing label. Pietrosante was a first-team All-American at Notre Dame in 1958 and, with the Detroit Lions, the NFL Rookie of the Year in 1959 and a two-time Pro Bowl selection. With Detroit from 1959-65, he rushed for 3,933 yards, a team record. After the 1965 season, the Lions released him, and he saw limited action in two seasons with Cleveland. He retired at age 30 and succumbed to cancer at the age of 50 in 1988. As the “SI” cover indicates, Pietrosante was regarded as “the complete fullback.” He was a fan favorite in South Bend and Detroit. His autograph is relatively difficult to find, and this example is extremely strong. Minimum Bid $35.
