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Presented here is an exceptional dual-authenticated Mel Ott display, pairing a scarce full-name autograph with an original 1939–46 Exhibit Supply Company “Salutation” card—one of the most respected Exhibit sub-issues of the pre- and wartime era.
The autograph is a cut signature boldly signed “Melvin Ott” in black fountain pen, professionally mounted directly beneath the Exhibit card. The vast majority of Ott autographs encountered by collectors appear in the abbreviated “Mel Ott” form, making this extended, formal signature less common.
Above the signature is an authentic 1939–46 Exhibits Salutation card depicting Ott in a classic batting pose, featuring the facsimile inscription “Sincerely yours, Mel Ott” and the “MADE IN U.S.A.” designation at the lower right—key identifiers of the Salutation series.
On the Player
Mel Ott (1909–1958) ranks among the most important figures in baseball history and remains the defining power hitter of the pre-war National League. Spending his entire 22-year career with the New York Giants (1926–1947), Ott was a 12-time All-Star, six-time National League home run champion, and the first NL player to surpass 500 career home runs.
Ott retired with 511 home runs, a .304 lifetime batting average, and an extraordinary ability to combine power with patience—finishing his career with more walks than strikeouts, a rare achievement for a slugger of any era. His distinctive high leg kick became one of the most recognizable batting stances in baseball and influenced generations of hitters.
He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1951. Tragically, Ott’s life was cut short in a 1958 automobile accident at just 49 years old.
Full-Name Autograph Context
PSA’s AutographFacts notes that Ott often signed his full name “Melvin Ott” early in his career (until about 1933), later shortening his signature to “Mel.” The full-name style is therefore a desirable variation that is less commonly encountered than the abbreviated “Mel Ott” form.
The Exhibit Card
The Exhibit Supply Company produced oversized photographic baseball cards from the 1920s through the 1940s, distributed primarily through arcade and concession machines. Among these issues, the 1939–46 “Salutation” series is especially valued, combining real photographic images with facsimile autograph inscriptions.
Authentication (Dual Authentication)
This piece benefits from two independent, industry-leading authentications:
Beckett Authentication Services
Oversized encapsulation with autograph certified authentic by Beckett Authentication Services (BAS).
PSA/DNA Authentication Services
Full Letter of Authenticity dated January 2, 2026, certifying the Mel Ott autograph cut.
PSA Cert #: AS01867
Dual authentication of a mounted display is uncommon and provides an exceptional level of buyer confidence.
