Opinions as to what would be the most valuable item if signed by GW Bush, UPDATE: Got it done!! Aw

thenavarro · November 22, 2010 1:01PM

I'll be going to a Bush signing tomorrow and am going to attempt to get an extra item signed as well as the books. I'm looking for opinions as to what item of the ones listed, would have the most market value dollar wise: (other items are NOT considered, if I could, I'd get a GW Bush signed rookie card for my collection, but unfortunately, I don't have the card, and other Bush items I have are too large that I can't hide them adequately to get past screening with them)

1. Official Major League Baseball (I believe would be an easy sale @ around $300.00)
2. A Desert Storm trading card of Saddam Hussein (would appeal to a variety of collectors that like irony and controversial Presidential items usually do very well, if I could get him to inscribe "Got 'em" or something like that, this would be the clear winner However, I'd probably end up getting it slabbed for my signed card collection)
3. An authentic ballot from Iraq's first free election (Bush fans would love this item due to it's historical significance, I'd send it to a major auction to auction off)

In writing this, I'm leaning toward number 3 due to the potential deep pocketed crowd that I believe would be interested in it and would like a unique item.

I know I don't have a hope in Hades of getting all 3 done, so I'm going to have to make one choice and run with it. #1 should be automatic if I can get it in front of him, but is harder to conceal than the others. #2 is easiest to conceal and would actually be nice to have for my collection instead of resale, however, if it ticks him off, I'll be SOL, and won't get anything and he might not do my books then either. #3 is large paper, but will ride underneath my shirt the whole time no problem and when I get close, I can simply untuck front of shirt and it will slide out or I can bend and put in pocket, however, again, this is an item that he might not potentially sign.

Of the choices listed, which would you try and why?

Mike

nightcrawler · November 22, 2010 1:05PM

Just for my own personal collection, I would pay more for the #2 choice than the others. A Desert Storm trading card of Saddam Hussein. But that's probably because I like collecting cards and not much else.

VitoCo1972 · November 22, 2010 1:10PM

I would rank them 2, 3, 1 in terms of which would be the coolest. That said, I would definitely go with #1. It's the least likely to make him pause - and pausing is usually the fastest way to get denied. I think a baseball wouldn't make him stop and think - or worse yet, the secret service.

Sean1125 · November 22, 2010 1:28PM

I want to see you smuggle something under your shirt

#3

jivan · November 22, 2010 1:36PM

have him sign his mothers bra.... what a hottie

Sean1125 · November 22, 2010 1:38PM

To be honest, you should make a mock check or something and have him sign it, that would be pretty cool.

Jmhockey23 · November 22, 2010 1:50PM

I think it hinges on how big of a risk you want to take. Personally, I think I'd go with the ball because it has the best chance of getting signed. I think the ballot would be my second choice because he would likely sign it, but because he might not easily identify it it may take too long and secret service might sabotage the effort. Lastly, it would be awesome if you could get the saddam card signed, but I have a feeling he would decline to sign it.

csmtampa · November 22, 2010 1:55PM

I would go 3,2,1 and that's because he will continue signing baseballs, but the ballot is something only a few would get signed, and the card with that inscription will also be a rare one.

MULLINS5 · November 22, 2010 1:58PM

I'd pay and get another Decision Points book signed.

csmtampa · November 22, 2010 1:58PM

Man if you can get item 2 or 3 signed, I would probably be interested depending on price. So much of a connection to both of those events. Good luck

Toro · November 22, 2010 2:00PM

Something flat, I see an issue with you pulling anything out from in your pocket or under your shirt. Something flat, they would see right away. Something that you have to grip....they might react right away.

BunchOBull · November 22, 2010 2:03PM

I think the D.S. Saddam card is a really bad idea psychologically. Secretly, G.W. might possibly get a chuckle, but at the same time, it's not an image of Bush and he may be leary of signing it as he himself had nothing to do with that conflict.

However, there is one Saddam card that would have both kitsch factor and historical value; his card from the deck of playing cards released early in the war. The inscription "Got 'em" would have significance, as the deck of cards was originally designed to help war efforts by educating individuals as to the physical characteristics of those on the wanted list.

The ball has been done...and done.

The ballot however, that's unique and I think auto hounds would eat that up. It appeals to historians, auto collectors, and historian auto collectors. Auto collecting historians may also like it.

frankhardy · November 22, 2010 2:09PM

Number 1 is too bulky.

Number 2, you have to do too much explaining, and he might not go for it.

Number 3 is what I would go with. I think it might bring a smile to his face. Plus, according to your analysis, it has the biggest upside.

By the way, where is the signing.

jeffcbay · November 22, 2010 2:11PM

I would have him sign Reading Mastery 2, which contains the story "The Pet Goat", which he was reading during the start of the 9/11 attacks. That one might make him pause a bit.

My real answer, I like the order of 3, 2, then 1. The third choice would be a cool item to get signed, and he might actually sign it. The second choice would likely not get signed. The first choice would make for a cool, but common piece.

thenavarro · November 22, 2010 2:22PM

I'm pretty sure I'm going to try the ballot, I've got it fitting perfectly in the pocket of a pair of shorts I have, will be very easy to get in to the signing area. Also, I think it has the most potential for value. Just worried that like a couple of you have indicated, that since it's in arabic, his initial reaction might be one to wonder what the heck it is and might not take the chance signing it. From my experience at the Dallas signing, I know I'll have a chance to tell him what it is, as he will carry on a short, short conversation. If he won't do it though, then I've screwed myself out of getting the signed ball cause I know he'll do that. We'll see, that's what makes it fun. I've nixed the idea of #2, I think that stands too much of a potential of irritating him. After pondering, I think the ballot will give me more satisfaction because of it's nature of not being very common, whereas the baseballs are not a dime a dozen, but they are a far stretch from hard to get. Might try to stuff a ball in my left pocket in case I get shutdown on the ballot though.

Mike

thenavarro · November 22, 2010 2:24PM

<< By the way, where is the signing. >>

Books-a-million in Waco, Texas. I have two wristbands so Maven is going with me, should be a fun daddy/daughter day. She's so excited!

Mike

eagles33 · November 22, 2010 3:06PM

I think that number 3 would be worth significantly more than the other 2.

storm888 · November 22, 2010 3:36PM

The ball is the easiest to get him to sign; less easy if it
has to be smuggled in and produced at the last minute.

.........

I, personally, would prefer the Saddam card. BUT, I am
not sure if he would go for it in public.

The line by Paul Bremer - Chief Admin in Iraq - "Ladies
and Gentlemen, We Got Him," could be shortened to "We
Got Him." Nifty inscription, IF he would do it.

He has been talking about and displaying Saddam's pistola -
found in the spider hole - so we know Saddam is on his
mind, but trying to "convince" him in public could be a
challenge. He does not like to say "no," but he might feel
he has to if too many folks are paying attention. There
is an element of arrogance in signing such a card; I would
be surprised if he would do it in public.

..........................

The authentic ballot is the best AND he would like the idea. It is,
obviously, worth the most to the right crowd.

I vote for the ballot.

melvin289 · November 22, 2010 4:27PM

Whatever you want signed should be in your hand, in plain sight, and not concealed. If you walk up to the former President reaching into your pocket or under your shirt you are apt to be confronted by Secret Service Agents. JMHO.

Ron

cubfan89 · November 22, 2010 5:32PM

My vote would be to get that card signed and probably add it to that great collection you got going.

72skywalker · November 22, 2010 9:56PM

I personally would be afraid to try and smuggle anything in front of an ex president. Even if it is a baseball. You never know what the secret service would do. If they saw something they might throw you out and then you would get nothing. I hope you can get something else signed except i would say be careful. I would hate to be watching the news and see you on there trying to explain to the secret service that "it was only a ball" as they are dragging you away.

byronscott4ever · November 22, 2010 9:56PM

I'd go with the ballot. If he doesn't have the right pen, the ball may be Sharpied and I'm not sure he'd sign the card (and if he does, the signature is going to be smaller) but with the ballot, he may give you a bigger signature.

DeutscherGeist · November 23, 2010 12:07AM

Don't do the Saddam card. It was not his era and may cause him to pause. If it was the Saddam card from the deck of playing cards by Hoyle, then that would be appropriate and he would immediately know what it was. He may even chuckle a bit and give you what you want. You know from past experience that you will get a short conversation out of him and you can use that time to tell him about that card and what to inscribe.

The ballot is an idea I never thought of before, but it makes sense. It is appropriate. I don't know how it looks like, but you can tell him briefly what it is and how you got it and he will sign because it is a benign item, really.

Will you have the books in hand before approaching him? If so, put the ballot in the book and when he opens it, you can start the conversation. My guess is Bush gives you the book after he signs and you pay for it at the cash register?

So, forget the card, go for the ballot. The baseball is good, but you do not want to look awkward pulling stuff out of your body like a magician and give the Secret Service pause.

HeritageAddict · November 23, 2010 12:19AM

I'd go with an 8 ball, pool that is.

Seriously though I'd go with #3.

jeffcbay · November 23, 2010 12:29AM

You should have him sign penny loafers! They would be easy to smuggle in, since you can wear them.

DeutscherGeist · November 23, 2010 12:57AM

someone mentioned having the same book signed that he read to the children while the 911 attacks were going on. I don't know if there is still time to get a copy of that book, but its one in which Maven can certainly get Bush to sign. It is of historical interest since he was holding that book while the attacks went on and could not abandon the children after finding out the news. He was very tactful in how he handled the situation.

thekid8 · November 23, 2010 1:20AM

I would go with the ball first
but if you can get your hands on some of these its worth a shot

thenavarro · November 23, 2010 3:51AM

Gw rocks as a signer. Just got out. Maven and I had a blast. Will update later when I get back home with my prize!!!!

thenavarro · November 23, 2010 7:16AM

What a fun day. Maven and I started the morning with a visit to her favorite breakfast place, Waffle House. After a fine meal, we headed south to Waco. We got there about 10:30 AM for the signing which was scheduled to begin at 1:00 PM. They arranged the line by our order from Sunday, so Maven and I were 48 and 49. It was kind of hot, so we were relieved when at about 11:40, they started shepherding us all inside. Once inside, they had us weaved around rows, so at least Maven had books to read along the route to help keep her entertained. Just like Dallas, GW Bush arrived about 40 - 45 minutes early and the singing was on. When we made it up to GW, he looked at Maven and stopped signing and tried to engage her in conversation. She acted really shy (she's not) and he told her that she was a "beautiful sweetheart" and then she smiled and started talking. He told her that she reminded him of his little girls, and he stuck out his hand and asked her if he could shake her hand. She did it beaming from ear to ear and told him that this was much better than going to school today. He thanked her for coming and started signing our books. He extended his hand to me and I shook it, and I asked him if he would mind autographing a ballot from the first free election in Iraq, and that I had it folded in my pocket. He said he'd be proud to sign it and for me to get it out and unfold it on his table. I took it out and put it in front of him, he turned and said something to the guy behind him, and he then proceeded to give me a nice, large signature on it. It turned out great. I told himj that because of him they were able to have that election, and he said, "No sir, not because of me, but because of us". Very cool experience and I left with 4 signed books, and an incredible Iraq signed ballot. Maven was so excited that he called her a "sweetheart". She told me he was so "handsome".

Great experience that dad will remember for a long time, and one that I hope Maven remembers for a while as well. I couldn't have asked for a better experience today.

Here's my haul:

And the big one:

cubfan89 · November 23, 2010 7:21AM

Wow. Talk about a nice day and a great experience. Something you guys will never forget. Very cool of him to sign that ballot.

123Slider · November 23, 2010 8:02AM

That makes for about a good a day as you and your daughter could ask for. I'd never have the guts to pull something out like that, but you seem to be a pro.

chaz43 · November 23, 2010 8:04AM

WHO CARES? A BUSH SIGNATURE WOULD BE THE LAST THING I WOULD EVER WANT BY THE WORST PRESIDENT IN MY LIFETIME. chaz

mrmint23 · November 23, 2010 8:16AM

<< WHO CARES? A BUSH SIGNATURE WOULD BE THE LAST THING I WOULD EVER WANT BY THE WORST PRESIDENT IN MY LIFETIME. chaz >>

Chaz, you missed the point. He got to experience a moment with his daughter that neither will forget and cherish for a LIFETIME.

Thanks for sharing. Got goosebumps reading about it.

VitoCo1972 · November 23, 2010 8:18AM

<< WHO CARES? A BUSH SIGNATURE WOULD BE THE LAST THING I WOULD EVER WANT BY THE WORST PRESIDENT IN MY LIFETIME. chaz >>

Mike didn't start this as anything political. Not sure why you needed to take it there. If you don't have anything nice to say...

twiley · November 23, 2010 8:18AM

That last item the "biggie" is a really cool document to own.

That signed piece is history no matter how you shake a stick at it.

Who cares if W was the best or worst president there ever was....

Chaz why you have to be such a bummer?

thenavarro · November 23, 2010 8:22AM

<< WHO CARES? A BUSH SIGNATURE WOULD BE THE LAST THING I WOULD EVER WANT BY THE WORST PRESIDENT IN MY LIFETIME. chaz >>

Dude, couldn't I have at least gotten a "PSA 6"

J/K, you're entitled to your opinion, I'm entitled to not take the bait.

Mike

hookem · November 23, 2010 8:23AM

Congrats & great story! Thanks for sharing

chaz43 · November 23, 2010 9:03AM

<< 

<< WHO CARES? A BUSH SIGNATURE WOULD BE THE LAST THING I WOULD EVER WANT BY THE WORST PRESIDENT IN MY LIFETIME. chaz >>

Dude, couldn't I have at least gotten a "PSA 6"

J/K, you're entitled to your opinion, I'm entitled to not take the bait.

Mike >>

Mike -So sorry, I did not read the whole thread, I take it back...hope you accept my apologies. Best, chaz

jimrad · November 23, 2010 9:05AM

Mike congrats on a great father daughter day!
GW may not be recognized as our best president, but I don't question for 1 second how much he loves our country and I respect him for that.

thenavarro · November 23, 2010 9:26AM

<< 

<< 

<< WHO CARES? A BUSH SIGNATURE WOULD BE THE LAST THING I WOULD EVER WANT BY THE WORST PRESIDENT IN MY LIFETIME. chaz >>

Dude, couldn't I have at least gotten a "PSA 6"

J/K, you're entitled to your opinion, I'm entitled to not take the bait.

Mike >>

Mike -So sorry, I did not read the whole thread, I take it back...

hope you accept my apologies. Best, chaz >>

No apology necessary Chaz. I still like ya

EAsports · November 23, 2010 9:32AM

And to further the "non-political" talk...

Whether you agree with a president (or his party's) view, every one of us would LEAP at the chance to meet any one of or former presidents. (Or the current one.)

'Grats, Mike.

Glad your daughter got to experience that.

jswieton · November 23, 2010 9:41AM

Mike,
That is a great story! Are you planning on hanging onto that one because that would be a cool item to get framed.

jeffcbay · November 23, 2010 10:22AM

AWESOME!

Jmhockey23 · November 23, 2010 10:36AM

Very cool story! Awesome item!

thunderdan · November 23, 2010 10:42AM

That's a really cool story, Mike. We can all leave our personal and political views of GWB aside and appreciate the really nice Daddy/daughter moment that you experienced. I would enjoy meeting ANY of our past presidents.

mknez · November 23, 2010 11:08AM

Very nice Mike!

rbdjr1 · November 23, 2010 11:16AM

.... darnit! too late!

72skywalker · November 23, 2010 11:19AM

Great story and great experience that you and your daughter will never forget. One day she would of forgotten what she would of done in school today if she went but this is one day she will never forget. Much better than a day at school. Chances of meeting the president don't come around too much. Also, good to hear the secret service did not jump at you for taking something out of your shirt in front of the president.

DeutscherGeist · November 23, 2010 5:15PM

Mike,

I was following this thread as you very well know. I was happy for you that you got autographs that last time and you generously shared your experience. This latest session made me empathize even more because you took your daughter with you. Getting up in the morning, waiting in line, seeing all those people, seeing the former president while in good health, having 4 books signed plus a bonus....those alone will serve wonderful memories for the both of you beyond your lifetimes, I suspect.

I wonder what Maven thought of all this. No doubt this was a nice moment with her father, but also educational because she actually gets to see a former president, making government something relevant and tangible to her life, not just something she hears or reads about. The lasting impact could be unmeasurable.

As to Chaz' outburst....I knew he did not mean any harm....he has been too much a of a good guy and I can easily give him the benefit of the doubt. He even caught his mistake and owned up to it. Class guy!

As some of you have stated already, this is not about politics, it was simply a special day for Mike and his daughter and also a once in a lifetime experience meeting a former president. My political leanings notwithstanding, I'd jump on the chance to go to a Bush book signing as well as a Clinton or Obama one. If Bush comes anywhere near California for a book signing, I am going to do everything to make that a good memory.

By the way, Mike, how did you end up doing all this? Getting 4 books signed, the conversation, the ballot, etc. When you have time, I would love to hear a narrative of how that whole moment went. I am sure others here would too.

Take care

melvin289 · November 23, 2010 5:49PM

I don't think I missed it in the thread, but how old is Maven?

Ron

DeutscherGeist · November 23, 2010 5:58PM

I read 6 years old. It sounds like she didn't give Mike any trouble and was a well behaved child. Waiting in line for hours and hours takes some nerve and I have a feeling Maven was brought up properly. Not being a parent myself yet, I like hearing stories like this because it lets me know that one can enjoy quality time with very young children and not have to wait till they are teenagers (probably by then, they have other interests than spending time with dad).

I still would like to hear how Maven approached Bush. I am sure Mike and her must have been together in front of him. Bush was probably really attentive to her.

Opinions as to what would be the most valuable item if signed by GW Bush, UPDATE: Got it done!! Aw

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