This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/10/2004.
Elston Howard pioneered the use of the hinged catcher's mitt, leading to the modern "one-handed" catching style. Hitting over .300 three times, the first black Yankee was a nine-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove winner, and was respected as a team leader on the Yankees of the 1950s and 1960s. Replacing Yogi Berra behind the plate in 1960, he accumulated a .993 fielding percentage, one of the best in history. Howard passed away in 1980. This is his 1957 Uniform Player's Contract with the Yankees, paying him $14,000, signed by him and then AL President Lee MacPhail. This contract is in practically pristine condition. The signature would be a 10, except it is signed over print. Comes with a letter from PSA/DNA.