Ideas on the value of this signed Joe DiMaggio piece?

BaltimoreYankee

...and the best way to sell it if I decide to?
It is an 8 page program for the Baseball Writers Association Inaugural Awards dinner from 1968. Approximately 9 X12 on thick paper stock. I know the addition of Jim Lemon probably hurts it (it's not even Jim Lemon the ball player - this Jim Lemon was a baseball executive who was presenting an award that night). The food menu looked good - interesting that Baked Alaska was a popular dessert at the time. All in all, this is a very nice piece.

1982FBWaxMemories

"Filet Mignon Rossini" (Tournedos Rossini) - That's the one with served w/slice of Fois Gras on top

Crisp fanned "Anna Potatoes".

Very very nice Last time I had either of those was 20 years ago at small French Bistro.

Since 2007 my diets is entirely low fat, high fiber, lean protein (Fish, White Meat Turkey, White Meat Chicken) but I do miss those old times...

P.S. Yes Baked Alaska was very popular from the end of the 1950s->beginning of 1970s

Ironmanfan

I'd estimate in the $200 range

IMF

Stone193

I pulled this off the net:

In 1968, the Washington, D.C. chapter of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA) launched their own award ceremony, in line with similar banquets hosted by other BBWAA chapters around the country (like New York and Boston). These events were designed to celebrate local baseball, recognize players’ achievements, and honor contributors to the game.

At that first Washington BBWAA dinner in 1968, Joe DiMaggio was given a special award, recognizing his legendary career and his continuing influence on the game—even though he had retired years earlier (1951). It was significant because:

Symbolic Respect: DiMaggio was one of the most iconic figures in baseball, and his presence and recognition at the dinner elevated the prestige of the event.
Boosting Local Baseball: The Washington Senators (the team at the time) were struggling both on the field and at the gate. Honoring a national star like DiMaggio added excitement and legitimacy to the banquet, which was important for promoting baseball enthusiasm in the D.C. area.
Historical Context: DiMaggio was still viewed as a symbol of baseball excellence, and giving him an award at the inaugural event underlined the BBWAA’s intention to make this a high-profile annual celebration.
So, while DiMaggio’s award wasn’t tied to any recent on-field feats (since he was retired), it was significant in highlighting the connection between baseball’s legends and the present-day game in Washington—a city that had always struggled to hold onto baseball success and identity.

I believe at the time this was a nice event and got some attention.

I'm with Bill $200 but if a couple of Joe D. collectors got excited? Might go for more for sure.

BaltimoreYankee

Thanks, Mike for that background.
I was figuring the item might be worth more since it's an unusual piece. I didn't know if this was something an auction house would handle but for that little amount of money, I don't know if there is one that I should reach out to. eBay has been hit or miss in terms of getting eyeballs on things lately.

Ironmanfan

It certainly is an unusual piece but keep in mind that DiMaggio attended a ton of banquets over the years and signed those programs as well.

I think that if it was from his playing days that would increase the value & I also think the Lemon signature unfortunately detracts from the value when it comes to overall eye appeal.

Just my two cents.

IMF

PS I'd reach out to Clean Sweep Auctions (who specializes in autographs) and ask their opinion.

ElMagoStrikeZone

I'm of the opinion it's worth more than $200. You might want to inquire with REA about placing this item in one of their catalog auctions.

BaltimoreYankee

Thanks for the mentions of Clean Sweep and REA. If this is truly a $200 item, it's definitely a keeper for me. I may reach out to Clean Sweep and REA with the photos to get an idea of what they think.