2017 July-August Memorabilia Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/6/2017
Phil Mickelson Signed 1997 Ryder Cup Logo Golf Ball Full JSA Letter #Z39457-From Don Bobillo Collection
An authentic Phil Mickelson autographed golf ball is undoubtedly the most difficult to find of any major champion. Even though Tiger Woods has virtually never signed a golf ball since early in his first season as a pro, they remain far more common than signed Mickelson golf balls. The World Golf Hall of Famer perfectly centers his signature on this 1997 Ryder Cup logo golf ball in black Sharpie, approaching a gem mint ten for signature quality. Most collectors of golf autographs when they see this will shout, "How can this possible be, I have watched Phil sign countless times and he NEVER signs golf balls." Well this was his one exception to the rule, and those uninformed collectors who rightfully question the authenticity of any Mickelson signed golf ball, do not know the relationship of Phil and Don Bobillo. It dates back to Phil's days at Arizona State University, and his time as a college player at TPC Scottsdale. Over the years Lefty and later on his family was befriended by Bobillo who was known as "The 'Old' Caddy Master" for 38 years at the Phoenix Open prior to his passing. During his career the revered Bobillo was awarded with the "Volunteer of the Year" award by the American Golf Association in 1994 and was inducted into the Caddie Hall of Fame in 2003. Because of their close relationship, Phil signed a handful of logoed balls from significant events in his career for Bobillo. James Spence Authentication (JSA) has reviewed this lot and their full letter of authenticity will accompany this lot. The Mickelson signed golf ball continues to be a hole on the checklist for even the most sophisticated of autographed golf ball collectors, now is the time your collection rises above this significant challenge.
Please note: This auction will end at 7:00pm EST on Sunday, August 6th, with EXTENDED BIDDING to follow. All items in the auction will remain open until no items have received a bid within a 15 minute time period. All lots are free to be bid on until extended bidding has ended
Click above for larger image.