**Presents**
1963 Jello #16 Roger Maris
1962 Post Cereal #6 Roger Maris (cut from cereal box)
The Roger Maris Page!
Roger Maris had the misfortune of breaking Babe Ruth's "unbreakable" single-season Home Run record in 1961. Of course it was a "career year" for Maris and he could
never repeat that sensational season. So he was vilified in New York and the media and is ignored by the Hall of Fame today. This page is a tribute to Roger Maris and his
family. I had the privilege of meeting Roger in 1980 and I will never forget it. His record may be broken by tainted sluggers since, but Roger was a great baseball player,
family man, and person. Enjoy! Tim
never repeat that sensational season. So he was vilified in New York and the media and is ignored by the Hall of Fame today. This page is a tribute to Roger Maris and his
family. I had the privilege of meeting Roger in 1980 and I will never forget it. His record may be broken by tainted sluggers since, but Roger was a great baseball player,
family man, and person. Enjoy! Tim
| 1962 Bazooka Gum Box 3-card Panel (Joey Jay, Roger Maris, Frank Howard) |
| 1968 Topps #330 Roger Maris "blacless" (left) and regular card (right) |
This 3-card panel was cut from the bottom of a Bazooka Bubble Gum box. These cards are
usually found cut into "singles" as intended. They are great to collect because they usually
feature different poses than appeared on their Topps cards. They are also less expensive,
probably because of their smaller size and the fact that the backs are blank. But these are a
very fun issue to collect!
usually found cut into "singles" as intended. They are great to collect because they usually
feature different poses than appeared on their Topps cards. They are also less expensive,
probably because of their smaller size and the fact that the backs are blank. But these are a
very fun issue to collect!
If you can see the difference between these two 1968 Topps cards, then you should be
a printer. The one on the left is missing the black ink. Very rare card. The 1968 Topps
#330 card is Maris' last regular issue card, though he was pictured on a World Series
highlight card the following year (See 1969 Topps #164 below)
a printer. The one on the left is missing the black ink. Very rare card. The 1968 Topps
#330 card is Maris' last regular issue card, though he was pictured on a World Series
highlight card the following year (See 1969 Topps #164 below)
Here is every one of Topps baseball cards featuring Roger Maris during his playing career. Click on an image to see a larger scan of the card!
1958 #47 1959 #202 1960 #377 1960 #565 AS 1961 #2 1961 #44 1961 #478
Rookie card All-Star 1960 AL HR Leaders 1960 MVP
Rookie card All-Star 1960 AL HR Leaders 1960 MVP
1961 #576 1962 #1 1962 #53 1962 #234 1962 #313 1962 #401 1963 #4
All-Star 1961 AL HR Ldrs 1961 World Series Gm 3 Maris Blasts 61st AL & NL HR Kings 1962 AL HR Ldrs
All-Star 1961 AL HR Ldrs 1961 World Series Gm 3 Maris Blasts 61st AL & NL HR Kings 1962 AL HR Ldrs
1963 #120 1963 #144 1964 #225 1964 #331 1965 #155 1966 #365 1967 #45
1962 World Series Gm 3 AL Bombers (w/ Mantle)
1962 World Series Gm 3 AL Bombers (w/ Mantle)
1968 #330 1969 #164
(last regular card) 1968 World Series Gm 3
(last regular card) 1968 World Series Gm 3
1959 Armour Bacon Kansas City A's Roger Maris
1959 Armour Bacon Kansas City Athletics Roger Maris (hands on knees pose) Courtesy of Larry Stauss
1959 Armour Bacon Roger Maris (photo to waist pose) Courtesy of Jon Craig
This is a very, VERY scarce Roger Maris issue. In 1959, various Kansas City Athletic
players made public appearances at local markets to promote Armour meat products (see
wire photo, left). Only 4 different "cards" are known, and two of them feature Roger
Maris (see above). Armour provided the players with this very thin paper issue, which was
issued in notepad form. They also issued the players a mechanical wooden pencil shaped
like a baseball bat to sign autographs. The above "photo to waist" issue is of a thicker
paper stock than the thin notepad "cards." You can see the difference in paper stock
between the two examples above. Possibly, this may be the cover of the notepad itself. If
you know any more on this please send us an Email .
BTW, the owner of this card (above right) obtained it in person in 1959! The SCD
Standard Catalog Of Baseball Cards says that "To date, all known specimens have been
found autographed"; however there is one currently on eBay that is NOT autographed and
I have another example that is not signed myself, so the SCD Catalog is going to need to
make some corrections for the 2007 edition...
players made public appearances at local markets to promote Armour meat products (see
wire photo, left). Only 4 different "cards" are known, and two of them feature Roger
Maris (see above). Armour provided the players with this very thin paper issue, which was
issued in notepad form. They also issued the players a mechanical wooden pencil shaped
like a baseball bat to sign autographs. The above "photo to waist" issue is of a thicker
paper stock than the thin notepad "cards." You can see the difference in paper stock
between the two examples above. Possibly, this may be the cover of the notepad itself. If
you know any more on this please send us an Email .
BTW, the owner of this card (above right) obtained it in person in 1959! The SCD
Standard Catalog Of Baseball Cards says that "To date, all known specimens have been
found autographed"; however there is one currently on eBay that is NOT autographed and
I have another example that is not signed myself, so the SCD Catalog is going to need to
make some corrections for the 2007 edition...
1959 Wire Photo (Roger Maris signing autograph for fan)
>>>This is a postcard for Aamco Transmissions featuring Roger Maris near the end of his
career as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals. On December 8, 1966 the Yankees traded Roger
Maris to the Cardinals for Charlie Smith. The Yankees treated Maris badly; when he was traded they
didn't tell him in person but sent a telegram stating he had been traded and "thank you very little."
Pretty bush league of the Yankees to do that. The New York press and fans also never forgave Roger
for his incredible 1961 season so it was a bad divorce. However the trade was very good for Maris
and the Cardinals. Roger enjoyed his last two years in St. Louis and was a fan favorite. He really put
on a show in the 1967 World Series against Boston where he batted .385 with 10 hits (including a
HR) and 7 runs batted in. You can see by Maris' smile that he was happy in St. Louis. Check out the
1963 Topps #120 baseball card of him (above) and I think that picture of Maris sums up his
experience in New York.
I am not sure of the issue date of these postcards, but they would have to be either 1967 or 1968.
The backs have information about Aamco Transmissions. This issue is now listed in the 2006 Edition
of the Sports Collectors Digest Standard Catalog Of Baseball Cards by Bob Lemke. Of course SCD
fails to list me as a contributor, but hey I am just happy to see more Roger Maris items documented!
Thanks Bob.
career as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals. On December 8, 1966 the Yankees traded Roger
Maris to the Cardinals for Charlie Smith. The Yankees treated Maris badly; when he was traded they
didn't tell him in person but sent a telegram stating he had been traded and "thank you very little."
Pretty bush league of the Yankees to do that. The New York press and fans also never forgave Roger
for his incredible 1961 season so it was a bad divorce. However the trade was very good for Maris
and the Cardinals. Roger enjoyed his last two years in St. Louis and was a fan favorite. He really put
on a show in the 1967 World Series against Boston where he batted .385 with 10 hits (including a
HR) and 7 runs batted in. You can see by Maris' smile that he was happy in St. Louis. Check out the
1963 Topps #120 baseball card of him (above) and I think that picture of Maris sums up his
experience in New York.
I am not sure of the issue date of these postcards, but they would have to be either 1967 or 1968.
The backs have information about Aamco Transmissions. This issue is now listed in the 2006 Edition
of the Sports Collectors Digest Standard Catalog Of Baseball Cards by Bob Lemke. Of course SCD
fails to list me as a contributor, but hey I am just happy to see more Roger Maris items documented!
Thanks Bob.
1968 Aamco Transmission Postcard Roger Maris
1962 Venezuela Topps #1 Roger Maris (back view)
1962 Venezuela Topps #1 Roger Maris
This 1962 Venezuela Topps Roger Maris card is similar to the regular Topps card with the exception of the
card back, which is written en espanol. The Venezuela Topps cards are much more difficult to acquire than the
regular Topps cards and are especially rare in high grades. This is PSA's highest graded example of this card.
card back, which is written en espanol. The Venezuela Topps cards are much more difficult to acquire than the
regular Topps cards and are especially rare in high grades. This is PSA's highest graded example of this card.
This is a card (above, left) you don't see every day. While it looks like a regular 1967 Topps #45 Roger Maris card, it is actually a "proof" card that was never issued in gum packs. It is
rumored that the surviving copies made their way into the hobby through long-time Topps man Woody Gelman. The difference is "YANKEES" on the card front, while the regular Topps card
features "CARDS" as Maris was traded in 1966 (see example, above right). The picture definitely shows Maris in Yankee pinstripes with Yankee Stadium in the background, so most likely the
picture was taken in 1966. The back of the proof card is blank with no statistics. But the BIGGEST difference is the price tag. A regular 1967 Topps #45 Roger Maris sells for around $30 in
NM while this example here recently sold on eBay for over $900! That's not a typo folks! Along with the 1953 Fargo/Moorehead Twins minor league cards of Maris (spelled "Maras" as this
was the original family name before Maris changed it around 1955), 1959 Armour Bacon Maris issues, and 1961 7-11, this is one very tough Maris to find!
rumored that the surviving copies made their way into the hobby through long-time Topps man Woody Gelman. The difference is "YANKEES" on the card front, while the regular Topps card
features "CARDS" as Maris was traded in 1966 (see example, above right). The picture definitely shows Maris in Yankee pinstripes with Yankee Stadium in the background, so most likely the
picture was taken in 1966. The back of the proof card is blank with no statistics. But the BIGGEST difference is the price tag. A regular 1967 Topps #45 Roger Maris sells for around $30 in
NM while this example here recently sold on eBay for over $900! That's not a typo folks! Along with the 1953 Fargo/Moorehead Twins minor league cards of Maris (spelled "Maras" as this
was the original family name before Maris changed it around 1955), 1959 Armour Bacon Maris issues, and 1961 7-11, this is one very tough Maris to find!
A very tough Maris card is this 1961 #25 7-11 card. 7-11 (a chain of convenience markets - "oh thank
heaven for 7-11") produced this somewhat crude set in 1961. They feature a small black picture and
previous season's highlights, printed on pink cardboard. The backs are blank. According to the 2006
SCD Standard Catalog of Baseball Cards, these 2-7/16" x 3-3/8" cards were a "crude attempt which
was abruptly halted." The cards were sold seven for 5 cents in vending machines. I have had this card
on my want list for a few years (since I first found out about these cards) now and recently this one
popped up on eBay. I got outbid on it and it sold for a bit over $200. Nuts.
heaven for 7-11") produced this somewhat crude set in 1961. They feature a small black picture and
previous season's highlights, printed on pink cardboard. The backs are blank. According to the 2006
SCD Standard Catalog of Baseball Cards, these 2-7/16" x 3-3/8" cards were a "crude attempt which
was abruptly halted." The cards were sold seven for 5 cents in vending machines. I have had this card
on my want list for a few years (since I first found out about these cards) now and recently this one
popped up on eBay. I got outbid on it and it sold for a bit over $200. Nuts.
| 1961 7-11 #25 Roger Maris (very rare!) |
| 1959 Topps original negative photo Roger Maris 1960 Topps #377 Roger Maris |
1966 Topps Charlie Smith 1966 Topps #365 Roger Maris
Who is Charlie Smith? Well on December 8, 1966 the New York Yankees traded Roger Maris to the St. Louis Cardinals for third sacker Charlie Smith. No other players were involved
and no cash either. Just a straight up trade. Roger Maris for Charlie Smith. A guy who had won two A.L. MVP Awards, a Gold Glove, broken Babe Ruth's unbreakable single-season
Home Run Record, and helped the Yankees to 5 straight World Series for Charlie Smith. No offense to Charlie Smith, but he was no Roger Maris. Smith went on to hit .224 and .229 in
his two seasons as a Yankee. Of course Maris went on to help the St. Louis Cardinals to 2 straight World Series including the 1967 Cardinals Championship team. The Yankees didn't
return to the World Series until a decade later in 1976. While the Yankees showed little respect for Roger Maris at the time, they later made amends to Maris by retiring his uniform
number (#9). Roger Maris passed away on December 14, 1985. While he is not enshrined in Cooperstown, he may as well be. His baseball legacy is ensured by that one spectacular
season in 1961. Click HERE to see Roger's complete baseball statistics (courtesy of Baseballreference.com)
Note: The 1966 Topps #365 Roger Maris card is an uncorrected (UER) error card. While not listed in the catalogs as such, Topps incorrectly listed Maris' birth year
as "1931." Roger Maris was actually born in 1934.
and no cash either. Just a straight up trade. Roger Maris for Charlie Smith. A guy who had won two A.L. MVP Awards, a Gold Glove, broken Babe Ruth's unbreakable single-season
Home Run Record, and helped the Yankees to 5 straight World Series for Charlie Smith. No offense to Charlie Smith, but he was no Roger Maris. Smith went on to hit .224 and .229 in
his two seasons as a Yankee. Of course Maris went on to help the St. Louis Cardinals to 2 straight World Series including the 1967 Cardinals Championship team. The Yankees didn't
return to the World Series until a decade later in 1976. While the Yankees showed little respect for Roger Maris at the time, they later made amends to Maris by retiring his uniform
number (#9). Roger Maris passed away on December 14, 1985. While he is not enshrined in Cooperstown, he may as well be. His baseball legacy is ensured by that one spectacular
season in 1961. Click HERE to see Roger's complete baseball statistics (courtesy of Baseballreference.com)
Note: The 1966 Topps #365 Roger Maris card is an uncorrected (UER) error card. While not listed in the catalogs as such, Topps incorrectly listed Maris' birth year
as "1931." Roger Maris was actually born in 1934.
1960 Topps Tattoos Roger Maris
In 1960, Topps produced a baseball "tattoos" series. You would moisten your skin, hold the tattoo in place, and wa-la, you were a stud. Needless to say, these tattoos are quite scarce today.
Included in the series was Roger Maris, who had been traded in late 1959 by Kansas City for Hank Bauer, Don Larson, Norm Siebern, & "Marvelous" Marv Throneberry. Bauer was near the end of
his career playing just 2 more seasons; Larson, well, he was famous for that one World Series game in 1956 (when he pitched a perfect game) but never won over 11 games in a season; Siebern
had a respectable career, batting .272 with 132 home runs and 636 RBIs in 12 seasons; Marv Throneberry was to gain fame as an inept first sacker for the early Mets team and later in Miller Lite
TV commercials. Maris, on the other hand, went on to become a legend. So it was a pretty damn good deal for the Damn Yankees.
Included in the series was Roger Maris, who had been traded in late 1959 by Kansas City for Hank Bauer, Don Larson, Norm Siebern, & "Marvelous" Marv Throneberry. Bauer was near the end of
his career playing just 2 more seasons; Larson, well, he was famous for that one World Series game in 1956 (when he pitched a perfect game) but never won over 11 games in a season; Siebern
had a respectable career, batting .272 with 132 home runs and 636 RBIs in 12 seasons; Marv Throneberry was to gain fame as an inept first sacker for the early Mets team and later in Miller Lite
TV commercials. Maris, on the other hand, went on to become a legend. So it was a pretty damn good deal for the Damn Yankees.
"Safe At Home" lobby card featuring Mickey Mantle & Roger Maris
Here is a pretty unique item, a 1959 Topps original negative photo of Roger Maris (above, left). According to Topps, these original color negatives were shot by official Topps photographers
but, for reasons unknown, failed to make the cut, and thus, never appeared on a Topps card. However you can see that in 1960 Topps used a 1959 picture of Maris (above right), probably
taken from the same photo shoot. You can see the background on the card is the same, as is Roger's Kansas City Athletics uniform. Topps used to take photos with players wearing their
caps and without, in case of trades. In 1960 Roger was traded by the Athletics to the Yankees, so Topps obviously chose to use the capless photo of Maris instead. Very cool Maris piece.
but, for reasons unknown, failed to make the cut, and thus, never appeared on a Topps card. However you can see that in 1960 Topps used a 1959 picture of Maris (above right), probably
taken from the same photo shoot. You can see the background on the card is the same, as is Roger's Kansas City Athletics uniform. Topps used to take photos with players wearing their
caps and without, in case of trades. In 1960 Roger was traded by the Athletics to the Yankees, so Topps obviously chose to use the capless photo of Maris instead. Very cool Maris piece.
1957 newspaper clipping of Roger Maris of the Cleveland Indians
Roger Maris autographs are highly coveted and very expensive, usually fetching $400 or more. I thought this was an interesting piece so I copied it from eBay. This is a terrific newspaper
clipping of Roger Maris in his rookie season (1957) while a member of the Cleveland Indians. There was a book written awhile back called "The Curse Of Rocky Colavito" but a very good
case could be made for a book entitled "The Curse Of Cleveland's GM." Why would Cleveland trade a young Roger Maris, who had hit 14 HR's in only 358 at-bats his rookie year? The next
season Roger was traded early in the season along with two other players to Kansas City for Woodie Held & Vic Power. Maris went on to hit 28 home runs in 1958. Now Held and Power
both had some terrific seasons, but did either have similar seasons to Maris' 1960 & 1961 seasons? Worse, why in the world, if you are Cleveland, would you trade away an outfield of
Roger Maris, Rocky Colavito, and Jim Piersall? Maris was traded in 1958, Colavito in 1960, and Piersall in 1961. Can you imagine those three in Cleveland's outfield? Cleveland
couldn't.
I thought the comparision to Mickey Mantle at the very end of this piece was very interesting. Note the cartoon depiction of Mantle (#7) looking up to the larger image of Maris. I can't make
out the artist's name (the drawings are terrific), but the cartoon images of Maris sure looks like the artwork on the back of Topps baseball cards (especially in 1958 and 1959). Maybe it is
the same artist. Regardless this is a great Roger Maris piece and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! UPDATE: The artist's name is LOU DARVAS of the Cleveland Press. Thanks to TJ Horak
for the info!
clipping of Roger Maris in his rookie season (1957) while a member of the Cleveland Indians. There was a book written awhile back called "The Curse Of Rocky Colavito" but a very good
case could be made for a book entitled "The Curse Of Cleveland's GM." Why would Cleveland trade a young Roger Maris, who had hit 14 HR's in only 358 at-bats his rookie year? The next
season Roger was traded early in the season along with two other players to Kansas City for Woodie Held & Vic Power. Maris went on to hit 28 home runs in 1958. Now Held and Power
both had some terrific seasons, but did either have similar seasons to Maris' 1960 & 1961 seasons? Worse, why in the world, if you are Cleveland, would you trade away an outfield of
Roger Maris, Rocky Colavito, and Jim Piersall? Maris was traded in 1958, Colavito in 1960, and Piersall in 1961. Can you imagine those three in Cleveland's outfield? Cleveland
couldn't.
I thought the comparision to Mickey Mantle at the very end of this piece was very interesting. Note the cartoon depiction of Mantle (#7) looking up to the larger image of Maris. I can't make
out the artist's name (the drawings are terrific), but the cartoon images of Maris sure looks like the artwork on the back of Topps baseball cards (especially in 1958 and 1959). Maybe it is
the same artist. Regardless this is a great Roger Maris piece and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! UPDATE: The artist's name is LOU DARVAS of the Cleveland Press. Thanks to TJ Horak
for the info!
1953 Fargo Moorhead Twins Roger Maras
1953 Fargo Moorehead Twins Roger Maras (Roger Maris)
Probably the rarest baseball card of Roger Maris is this 1953 Fargo Moorhead Roger Maras issue. This pre-dates Maris' first Topps baseball card (1958 Topps #47) by 5 years. The
Fargo Moorhead Twins were an Indians minor league team. Roger's surname was originally spelled "Maras" but he changed it in 1955 to "Maris." This is a rare card; one of two featuring
Maris. The other features Maris batting. The cards in themselves are rare; imagine how rare this early autograph (spelled "Maras") is. Time will tell; this item is currently listed on eBay by
Heritage Auction house (April 2008). Minimum bid is $1000. This will sell for much more than that. The card without the autograph lists for $1250 (either pose) in NM, $625 in EX. Maris
autographs fetch a few hundred dollars and being this is a very rare and early autograph, should fetch a significant amount. If I wasn't in debt already, I would GO back into debt for this
piece!
Fargo Moorhead Twins were an Indians minor league team. Roger's surname was originally spelled "Maras" but he changed it in 1955 to "Maris." This is a rare card; one of two featuring
Maris. The other features Maris batting. The cards in themselves are rare; imagine how rare this early autograph (spelled "Maras") is. Time will tell; this item is currently listed on eBay by
Heritage Auction house (April 2008). Minimum bid is $1000. This will sell for much more than that. The card without the autograph lists for $1250 (either pose) in NM, $625 in EX. Maris
autographs fetch a few hundred dollars and being this is a very rare and early autograph, should fetch a significant amount. If I wasn't in debt already, I would GO back into debt for this
piece!
1947-66 Exhibits Roger Maris
Exhibit cards were issued by the Exhibit Supply Company of Chicago in vending machines. They are large size, about postcard size, and feature black & white or sepia toned photographs.
This Roger Maris Exhibit was actually issued between 1960 and 1966. The photo used for this card was also used for the 1962 and 1963 Statistic Back Exhibits. The difference is the backs.
The 1962-63 Statistic Back Exhibits feature full stats on the card back, while this 1947-66 Exhibit Roger Maris has a blank back. Reasonably priced today (because they are not as colorful or
popular as the other cards of the era), this Maris card lists for only $25 in NM condition, $12.50 in EX, and $7.50 in VG (according to the 2009 Sports Collector's Digest Standard Catalog of
Baseball Cards). A real bargain either way; Topps cards from the same period will run closer to 3 to 4 times that amount. Of course the bigger bargain was when these cards were issued.
They originally cost one penny!
This Roger Maris Exhibit was actually issued between 1960 and 1966. The photo used for this card was also used for the 1962 and 1963 Statistic Back Exhibits. The difference is the backs.
The 1962-63 Statistic Back Exhibits feature full stats on the card back, while this 1947-66 Exhibit Roger Maris has a blank back. Reasonably priced today (because they are not as colorful or
popular as the other cards of the era), this Maris card lists for only $25 in NM condition, $12.50 in EX, and $7.50 in VG (according to the 2009 Sports Collector's Digest Standard Catalog of
Baseball Cards). A real bargain either way; Topps cards from the same period will run closer to 3 to 4 times that amount. Of course the bigger bargain was when these cards were issued.
They originally cost one penny!
1967 UPI wire photo Roger Maris takes a time out to talk to the fans 9/27/1967
What a great photo this is. Taken on September 27, 1967, this vintage UPI wire photo shows the great Roger Maris signing autographs for fans. Note the caption on the back of the photo
(above right), "Maris, playing his first season with the Redbirds, has endeared himself to old and young fans alike." The above photo shows exactly that. With a rejuvenated Roger Maris, the
Cardinals won the pennant in 1967 and 1968. Meanwhile the Yankees went into a sad decline (for Yankees fans), and did not reach a World Series again until 1977.
(above right), "Maris, playing his first season with the Redbirds, has endeared himself to old and young fans alike." The above photo shows exactly that. With a rejuvenated Roger Maris, the
Cardinals won the pennant in 1967 and 1968. Meanwhile the Yankees went into a sad decline (for Yankees fans), and did not reach a World Series again until 1977.
Questions, comments? Please email me at nowbatting19@yahoo.com. Also, if you enjoyed my Roger Maris Page, please visit our other player pages:
Fred Lynn
Jim "Jimmy" Piersall
Carl Yastrzemski
Fred Lynn
Jim "Jimmy" Piersall
Carl Yastrzemski
1961 Nu-Card Scoops #416 Maris Nips Mantle For MVP
Among the many issues of Roger Maris in 1961 is this 1961 Nu-Card Baseball Scoops #416 Roger Maris card (Maris Nips Mantle For AL MVP Award). These black & white
cards have a mock newspaper front with a write up on the card backs. The Nu-Card Baseball Scoops cards were issued in 1960 and 1961 and while not as popular as say Topps cards,
they are very affordable. You can pick up this card in ungraded NM condition for less than $20 (compare to Maris' 1961 Topps #2 card at around $150 in ungraded NM). If not for
Maris, Mickey Mantle would have won 5 AL MVP Awards in his career. Mantle came in 2nd to Maris in both 1960 and 1961 and won the MVP Award in 1956, 1957, & 1962. But
contrary to some folks in the media, there was no animosity between the two Yankees. Both were friends & roommates, and Mantle even was quoted as saying that Maris' 61 home runs in
1961 was the greatest baseball feat he had ever seen. I think that Mantle also appreciated the fact that during Maris' 7 years with the team, the Yankees went to the World Series 5 times
cards have a mock newspaper front with a write up on the card backs. The Nu-Card Baseball Scoops cards were issued in 1960 and 1961 and while not as popular as say Topps cards,
they are very affordable. You can pick up this card in ungraded NM condition for less than $20 (compare to Maris' 1961 Topps #2 card at around $150 in ungraded NM). If not for
Maris, Mickey Mantle would have won 5 AL MVP Awards in his career. Mantle came in 2nd to Maris in both 1960 and 1961 and won the MVP Award in 1956, 1957, & 1962. But
contrary to some folks in the media, there was no animosity between the two Yankees. Both were friends & roommates, and Mantle even was quoted as saying that Maris' 61 home runs in
1961 was the greatest baseball feat he had ever seen. I think that Mantle also appreciated the fact that during Maris' 7 years with the team, the Yankees went to the World Series 5 times
1962 Topps Baseball Bucks Roger Maris 1963 Topps #120 Roger Maris
(click on picture for larger image)
(click on picture for larger image)
Issued in their own packs in 1962, Topps Baseball Bucks were very innovative but they must have not been too popular as this was the only year Topps produced them. They are much
smaller than a regular bill, and feature a black & white image of the top stars of the day. The baseball bucks came in $1, $5, & $10 denominations, with the $10 being the top players of the
game. Topps thought highly of Maris and rightfully so as he was included on this $10 Baseball Buck. Note the image of Maris, which was the same image Topps used on his 1963 Topps
#120 card (above right).
smaller than a regular bill, and feature a black & white image of the top stars of the day. The baseball bucks came in $1, $5, & $10 denominations, with the $10 being the top players of the
game. Topps thought highly of Maris and rightfully so as he was included on this $10 Baseball Buck. Note the image of Maris, which was the same image Topps used on his 1963 Topps
#120 card (above right).
Please note that these are Topps cards only; there are many more issues of Roger Maris including Sohio Gas, Armour Bacon, Nu-Card Scoops, 7-11, Jell-O, Post Cereal, Auravision, Atlantic Oil,
Venezuela Topps and many more. Some of these issues are shown below.
Venezuela Topps and many more. Some of these issues are shown below.
1964 Auravision Records Roger Maris
Issued on thick card stock with a super glossy finish are these Auravision Records. They are actually 33-1/3 rpm records that were meant to be played on your phonograph (this is way
before CD's for those of you who do not know what records or phonographs are). The above example does not have the spindle hole punched out (see center of card) which means it was
never played. The pictures are beautiful and to me these are very undervalued today, which translates to a great bargain for a vintage Roger Maris issue!
before CD's for those of you who do not know what records or phonographs are). The above example does not have the spindle hole punched out (see center of card) which means it was
never played. The pictures are beautiful and to me these are very undervalued today, which translates to a great bargain for a vintage Roger Maris issue!
Roger Eugene Maris
September 10, 1934 - December 14, 1985
September 10, 1934 - December 14, 1985
Roger Maris Venezuela Topps cards are probably his toughest to acquire from the 1960's. Topps printed cards for the Venezuelan market in 1959, 1960, 1962, 1964, 1966, 1967, and
1968. Maris was included in the 1962, '64, '66, '67, and '68 Venezuela Topps sets. So if you collect Roger Maris cards you are going to need to pick up these very tough cards. Because the
Venezuela Topps cards are extremely scarce, expect to pay a premium for them. Most of these cards are in lower grades do to the practice of pasting or gluing the cards in scrapbooks. The above
1966 Venezuela Topps #365 Roger Maris is a typical example; creasing and some paper missing on the back where it was removed from a scrapbook. The 1966 Venezuela Topps are nearly
identical to the 1966 Topps cards with the exception of no gloss on the front and more of a "red" color in the back compared to the "pink-orange" color of the regular Topps cards. Paper stock is
also different, while you can find 1966 Topps cards with snow white borders, the Venezuela Topps cards appear much more aged or "dirty." The 1966 Topps and Venezuela Topps Roger Maris
card are his last to picture him as a Yankee. Both cards are uncorrected error cards; note the year of his birth is "1931" when actually Maris was born in 1934.
1968. Maris was included in the 1962, '64, '66, '67, and '68 Venezuela Topps sets. So if you collect Roger Maris cards you are going to need to pick up these very tough cards. Because the
Venezuela Topps cards are extremely scarce, expect to pay a premium for them. Most of these cards are in lower grades do to the practice of pasting or gluing the cards in scrapbooks. The above
1966 Venezuela Topps #365 Roger Maris is a typical example; creasing and some paper missing on the back where it was removed from a scrapbook. The 1966 Venezuela Topps are nearly
identical to the 1966 Topps cards with the exception of no gloss on the front and more of a "red" color in the back compared to the "pink-orange" color of the regular Topps cards. Paper stock is
also different, while you can find 1966 Topps cards with snow white borders, the Venezuela Topps cards appear much more aged or "dirty." The 1966 Topps and Venezuela Topps Roger Maris
card are his last to picture him as a Yankee. Both cards are uncorrected error cards; note the year of his birth is "1931" when actually Maris was born in 1934.
1966 Venezuela Topps #365 Roger Maris (back view)
1960's Hartland Plastics Roger Maris complete box 1960's Hartland Plastics Roger Maris (original statue)
1968-69 Roger Maris Postcard (Autographed)
Hartland Plastics issued some very cool baseball figures in the 1950's thru 1960's. Featuring many of the games greats, these figures are prized collectibles today. The figures included
Hank Aaron, Yogi Berra, Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, Babe Ruth, Ted Williams and more. The original figures (Hartland released an Anniversary set in the 1980's or 1990's) are very scarce
today and the complete boxes and plastic name tags that came with the statue are even rarer. This is a terrific Roger Maris collectible.
Hank Aaron, Yogi Berra, Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, Babe Ruth, Ted Williams and more. The original figures (Hartland released an Anniversary set in the 1980's or 1990's) are very scarce
today and the complete boxes and plastic name tags that came with the statue are even rarer. This is a terrific Roger Maris collectible.
Here are a couple photos showing Roger Maris feeling the pressure of Babe Ruth's single season Home Run Record. With everyone wanting a piece of him, including the
media and fans, Maris was showing signs of strain. Check out these pictures- does Maris look like he's having a good time? When Mark McGwire "broke" Maris' HR record
in 1996, all McGwire got was love and adoration. The opposite for Roger Maris and he didn't use steroids! In my opinion (and hopefully MLB will someday recognize this
as well) Roger Maris is still the All-Time Single Season Home Run Champ!
media and fans, Maris was showing signs of strain. Check out these pictures- does Maris look like he's having a good time? When Mark McGwire "broke" Maris' HR record
in 1996, all McGwire got was love and adoration. The opposite for Roger Maris and he didn't use steroids! In my opinion (and hopefully MLB will someday recognize this
as well) Roger Maris is still the All-Time Single Season Home Run Champ!
Oct. 26, 1960 Poloroid photo Roger Maris signing autographs at Elks Club
How cool is this photo, taken on October 26, 1960 at an Elk's Club. First, it depicts a happy Roger Maris signing autographs for some kids (check out all the crew cuts). This was taken after
the 1960 World Series, in which the Yankees lost to the Pittsburgh Pirates. However Maris won the AL MVP Award in 1960 and he was about to have one of the most memorable seasons
ever in 1961. Terrific piece of Roger Maris memorabilia.
NOTE: This autographed Roger Maris photo recently sold for $202.50 (eBay auction, November 2009).
the 1960 World Series, in which the Yankees lost to the Pittsburgh Pirates. However Maris won the AL MVP Award in 1960 and he was about to have one of the most memorable seasons
ever in 1961. Terrific piece of Roger Maris memorabilia.
NOTE: This autographed Roger Maris photo recently sold for $202.50 (eBay auction, November 2009).
1960-61 Wiffle Ball complete box with Roger Maris
October 1, 1961 Sport Magazine Wire Photo (Roger Maris hits 61st home run for record)
Oct. 1, 1961 New York Mirror Final Edition "61 FOR ROG"
| 1967 Topps #45a Roger Maris (Proof) 1967 Topps #45b Roger Maris |
1972 Sport Magazine Wire Photo Roger Maris at Busch Stadium
I always assumed Roger Maris kept his crew cut. I met him in 1980 and he was still looking good with that short cropped hair. But I came across this photo by Sport Magazine and it shows Roger
with a different "doo" in 1973. If not for injuries, and the fallout of his 1961 season, Maris might still have been playing in 1973. He was only 39 years old here. Check out the plaid sports
jacket. You have to remember the 1970's was a different decade to say the least. I like this photo because it shows a different side of Roger Maris. He is "retired" and looks content. The Yankees
later came to their senses and invited Maris back to Yankee Stadium as a Yankee legend. His uniform number (#9) was retired by the Yankees in 1984, so thankfully Maris was able to see that
both the Yankees and baseball fans everywhere had finally understood what he had accomplished.
Billy Crystal produced a very good movie about Roger Maris and the 1961 season called "61*." It is available on DVD so if you get a chance you should check it out.
with a different "doo" in 1973. If not for injuries, and the fallout of his 1961 season, Maris might still have been playing in 1973. He was only 39 years old here. Check out the plaid sports
jacket. You have to remember the 1970's was a different decade to say the least. I like this photo because it shows a different side of Roger Maris. He is "retired" and looks content. The Yankees
later came to their senses and invited Maris back to Yankee Stadium as a Yankee legend. His uniform number (#9) was retired by the Yankees in 1984, so thankfully Maris was able to see that
both the Yankees and baseball fans everywhere had finally understood what he had accomplished.
Billy Crystal produced a very good movie about Roger Maris and the 1961 season called "61*." It is available on DVD so if you get a chance you should check it out.
1961 "Shooting For 61 in '61" (Mickey Mantle, Roger Maris, Babe Ruth) Pinback
(courtesy of Ben Weingarten)
(courtesy of Ben Weingarten)
August 13, 1961 Wire Photo "Each Has 45 Homers" (Mantle & Maris)
Early 1960's Roger Maris "Bobble Head" Statue with original box
1962 Post Cereal Roger Maris & Mickey Mantle baseball cards
In 1962 Post cereal issued a 200 card baseball set on the backs of it's breakfast cereal boxes. You had to buy a lot of boxes to get a complete set. As a promotion, Post issued a 2 card panel in
LIFE Magazine featuring both Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle. These cards are printed on a thick paper stock, unlike the regular cardboard stock used on the cereal box cards. Also on the backs
of these particular cards is an advertisement stating "Start with these two- they're free- Get 200 top stars in all on Post Cereals!" along with the Post logo. Another difference is the absence of lines
separating the statistics on the LIFE magazine Mantle & Maris cards. The cereal box cards all have lines separating the statistics. The Mantle was inserted close to the magazine binding so it is very
susceptible to creasing and wear; the Maris card can still be found in high grades. One of the best values on a baseball card is the 1962 Post #6 Roger Maris (either the cereal box or magazine
version) as they list for around $25 in ungraded NM condition. You can still find the LIFE magazine with the cards intact but expect to pay around $75-$125.
LIFE Magazine featuring both Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle. These cards are printed on a thick paper stock, unlike the regular cardboard stock used on the cereal box cards. Also on the backs
of these particular cards is an advertisement stating "Start with these two- they're free- Get 200 top stars in all on Post Cereals!" along with the Post logo. Another difference is the absence of lines
separating the statistics on the LIFE magazine Mantle & Maris cards. The cereal box cards all have lines separating the statistics. The Mantle was inserted close to the magazine binding so it is very
susceptible to creasing and wear; the Maris card can still be found in high grades. One of the best values on a baseball card is the 1962 Post #6 Roger Maris (either the cereal box or magazine
version) as they list for around $25 in ungraded NM condition. You can still find the LIFE magazine with the cards intact but expect to pay around $75-$125.
1962 Post Sugar Crisp cereal box front w/ Roger Maris advertisement
Oct. 3, 1960 Maris Tunes Up For Series Oct. 5, 1960 AP Wire photo ("Welcome Home" Roger Maris World Series HR)
In 1968 Atlantic Oil issued these baseball player game cards at their gas stations. You could win cash prizes but even if you didn't (which was more likely), you got to keep these cool cards.
Featured in the set is one of the last cards of Roger Maris as an active player. These cards are very affordable, much more so than a similar condition 1968 Topps #330 Roger Maris
baseball card (his last regular card as a player).
Featured in the set is one of the last cards of Roger Maris as an active player. These cards are very affordable, much more so than a similar condition 1968 Topps #330 Roger Maris
baseball card (his last regular card as a player).
1962 Jell-O #6 Roger Maris 1962 Post Cerea #6 Roger Maris
The 1962 Jell-O cards were issued in the mid-west and are very scarce today. They are very similar to the regular 1962 Post Cereal cards but there are some distinct differences. Check out the
above 1962 Jell-O (above left) and the 1963 Post Cereal Roger Maris (above right) cards. The Jell-O card has the same photograph but the image is a bit smaller and cropped differently than the Post
issue (note the "New York" on Maris' uniform compared to the Post). The Jell-O card does not have the red and white "Post" logo near the middle of the card. Also notice the blue border surrounding
the statistics area on the regular Post card. The borders around the Jell-O stats are simply white. The ink used on the Jell-O is more like a very dark blue while the card number on the Post card is red in
color and "Roger Maris" is in blue ink. The Jell-O cards could only be obtained by purchasing Jell-O brand dessert packages (1 per card), while the Post cereal cards were issued several at a time on
the backs of the various Post cereal boxes. Another big difference between these two issues is availability. The 1962 Post cereal cards are easily available with the exception of several short prints
and printing variations. The 1962 Jell-O cards are, in comparison very tough to find. Also the Jell-O cards are much more difficult to find in higher grades. This is because the single Jell-O baseball
card took up nearly the entire back of the Jell-O box. So most examples you find today are cut a bit short (note the lack of a black border around the Jell-O card, while the Post cereal Maris has most
of it's black line border intact. Either way you can't go wrong with any vintage Roger Maris baseball card (in my humble opinion).
above 1962 Jell-O (above left) and the 1963 Post Cereal Roger Maris (above right) cards. The Jell-O card has the same photograph but the image is a bit smaller and cropped differently than the Post
issue (note the "New York" on Maris' uniform compared to the Post). The Jell-O card does not have the red and white "Post" logo near the middle of the card. Also notice the blue border surrounding
the statistics area on the regular Post card. The borders around the Jell-O stats are simply white. The ink used on the Jell-O is more like a very dark blue while the card number on the Post card is red in
color and "Roger Maris" is in blue ink. The Jell-O cards could only be obtained by purchasing Jell-O brand dessert packages (1 per card), while the Post cereal cards were issued several at a time on
the backs of the various Post cereal boxes. Another big difference between these two issues is availability. The 1962 Post cereal cards are easily available with the exception of several short prints
and printing variations. The 1962 Jell-O cards are, in comparison very tough to find. Also the Jell-O cards are much more difficult to find in higher grades. This is because the single Jell-O baseball
card took up nearly the entire back of the Jell-O box. So most examples you find today are cut a bit short (note the lack of a black border around the Jell-O card, while the Post cereal Maris has most
of it's black line border intact. Either way you can't go wrong with any vintage Roger Maris baseball card (in my humble opinion).
(back view)
1975 O-Pee-Chee #198 1960 MVPs 1979 Topps #413 All Time HR Leaders 1986 Topps Tiffany #405 Turn Back The Clock 1961
Here are a couple Roger Maris Topps issues from the 1970's-1980's. In 1975, Topps issued a special subset dedicated to previous Most Valuable Award Winners from 1951 (Topps' first
year) to 1974. So Roger Maris is included twice, as the 1960 and 1961 American League MVP (card #'s 198, 199). Topps also issued a "Mini" set in 1975, which are identical to the regular
Topps cards except the "Mini" cards are a bit smaller in size. And Topps' counterpart in Canada, O-Pee-Chee (above left) also released a similar card set with the exception of different
card stock, plus the OPC cards have write ups in both English and French on the reverse. So if you are working on a Roger Maris "Master Set" you are going to need 6 different Maris
cards from 1975: Topps (2), Topps Mini (2), and O-Pee-Chee (2). There is one other Topps Roger Maris issue from the 1970's and that would be 1979 Topps #413 All Time Home Run
Leaders (above center). It features All Time HR King Hank Aaron, plus the single season HR record holder, Roger Maris. Even though Maris' record has been broken several times over by
tainted sluggers, most fans consider Aaron and Maris as still the All-Time HR Leaders. I agree. In 1986, Topps also issued a Maris card, reproducing the 1961 Topps #2 Roger Maris for a
special "Turn Back The Clock" subset (above, right). There is also a Topps "Tiffany" set the same year, which is basically a Topps set with better quality card stock and high gloss finish.
The Topps "Tiffany" cards were printed in limited quantities compared to the regular Topps cards (the 1985 Topps Tiffany set had a production run of 5,000 sets) and are of much better
quality. I recommend picking one of these up as it is very inexpensive. You can probably pick one up for around a buck, compared to an original 1961 Topps #2 Roger Maris which lists for
$145 in ungraded NM condition).
year) to 1974. So Roger Maris is included twice, as the 1960 and 1961 American League MVP (card #'s 198, 199). Topps also issued a "Mini" set in 1975, which are identical to the regular
Topps cards except the "Mini" cards are a bit smaller in size. And Topps' counterpart in Canada, O-Pee-Chee (above left) also released a similar card set with the exception of different
card stock, plus the OPC cards have write ups in both English and French on the reverse. So if you are working on a Roger Maris "Master Set" you are going to need 6 different Maris
cards from 1975: Topps (2), Topps Mini (2), and O-Pee-Chee (2). There is one other Topps Roger Maris issue from the 1970's and that would be 1979 Topps #413 All Time Home Run
Leaders (above center). It features All Time HR King Hank Aaron, plus the single season HR record holder, Roger Maris. Even though Maris' record has been broken several times over by
tainted sluggers, most fans consider Aaron and Maris as still the All-Time HR Leaders. I agree. In 1986, Topps also issued a Maris card, reproducing the 1961 Topps #2 Roger Maris for a
special "Turn Back The Clock" subset (above, right). There is also a Topps "Tiffany" set the same year, which is basically a Topps set with better quality card stock and high gloss finish.
The Topps "Tiffany" cards were printed in limited quantities compared to the regular Topps cards (the 1985 Topps Tiffany set had a production run of 5,000 sets) and are of much better
quality. I recommend picking one of these up as it is very inexpensive. You can probably pick one up for around a buck, compared to an original 1961 Topps #2 Roger Maris which lists for
$145 in ungraded NM condition).
1964 Challenge The Yankees Roger Maris game card
The 1964 "Challenge The Yankees" issue were individual game cards used to play a simulated baseball game. They are fairly scarce, you will see more 1964 Topps Roger Maris
cards than a 1964 Challenge The Yankees Roger Maris card. However because these game cards are not as popular as the Topps cards, they can be had for pretty cheap. A recent
ungraded (graded by the seller as "EX") example sold for $10.99 (plus $3.75 postage) in a February 2010 eBay auction.
cards than a 1964 Challenge The Yankees Roger Maris card. However because these game cards are not as popular as the Topps cards, they can be had for pretty cheap. A recent
ungraded (graded by the seller as "EX") example sold for $10.99 (plus $3.75 postage) in a February 2010 eBay auction.
1960's Photo Roger Maris "on deck" with MIckey Mantle batting at old Tigers Stadium
| 1958 Topps #158 Cleveland Indians Team (with Roger Maris) |
Roger Maris' first regular baseball card, 1958 Topps #47 (see Topps Gallery of Roger Maris cards at the top of this page) is considered his "rookie card." It is also pretty expensive, ranging
from $85 in (ungraded) VG to $285 in (ungraded) NM condition (2009 Sports Collector's Digest Standard Catalog of Baseball Cards). Graded examples, especially high grade ones will
bring even higher prices (PSA SMR lists a PSA 7 NM Maris at $375, PSA 7.5 NM+ $500, and PSA 8 NM-MT $825; Nov 2009 SMR). Maris also appears on the Indians Team card that
same year (1958 Topps #158; see above). He is pictured in the 3rd row, third from the left. This card I saw on eBay for around $8. I already have one; otherwise I would have bought it.
Eight dollars? Not only does the card feature Roger Maris his rookie card year, but it also features fan favorites Rocco "Rocky" Colavito, Herb Score, Bobby Avila, Chico Carrasquel, Gene
Woodling plus Hall of Fame pitchers Bob Lemon and Early Wynn. See if you can spot them. Another inexpensive Topps card featuring Maris would be 1968 Topps #497 Cardinals Team
which has a great picture of Roger sitting in the front row, clearly visible on the very right. I will post an example soon. Most of the other Topps Team cards have some pretty lame photos that you
can't even make out the individual players.
from $85 in (ungraded) VG to $285 in (ungraded) NM condition (2009 Sports Collector's Digest Standard Catalog of Baseball Cards). Graded examples, especially high grade ones will
bring even higher prices (PSA SMR lists a PSA 7 NM Maris at $375, PSA 7.5 NM+ $500, and PSA 8 NM-MT $825; Nov 2009 SMR). Maris also appears on the Indians Team card that
same year (1958 Topps #158; see above). He is pictured in the 3rd row, third from the left. This card I saw on eBay for around $8. I already have one; otherwise I would have bought it.
Eight dollars? Not only does the card feature Roger Maris his rookie card year, but it also features fan favorites Rocco "Rocky" Colavito, Herb Score, Bobby Avila, Chico Carrasquel, Gene
Woodling plus Hall of Fame pitchers Bob Lemon and Early Wynn. See if you can spot them. Another inexpensive Topps card featuring Maris would be 1968 Topps #497 Cardinals Team
which has a great picture of Roger sitting in the front row, clearly visible on the very right. I will post an example soon. Most of the other Topps Team cards have some pretty lame photos that you
can't even make out the individual players.
1968 Topps #497 Cardinals Team card (with Roger Maris)
Ok, here is the 1968 Topps #497 Cardinals Team card that features Roger Maris in his final season. Maris is seated in the front row to the extreme right. Also pictured on this pennant
winning team is Curt Flood, Tim McCarver, Lou Brock, Steve Carlton, Orlando Cepeda, Bob Gibson and Red Schoendienst (Manager). The final Topps card to picture Maris as an active player
is 1969 Topps #164 '68 World Series Game 3 "McCarver's HR Puts St. Louis Ahead." Roger Maris is pictured along with Curt Flood greeting McCarver at home plate (see
Topps Gallery of Roger Maris baseball cards at the top of this page).
winning team is Curt Flood, Tim McCarver, Lou Brock, Steve Carlton, Orlando Cepeda, Bob Gibson and Red Schoendienst (Manager). The final Topps card to picture Maris as an active player
is 1969 Topps #164 '68 World Series Game 3 "McCarver's HR Puts St. Louis Ahead." Roger Maris is pictured along with Curt Flood greeting McCarver at home plate (see
Topps Gallery of Roger Maris baseball cards at the top of this page).
| 1968 Baseball Marbles Roger Maris (back view) |
I don't know anything about these player marbles but I saw this one on eBay. They were made in Japan and sold here in blister packages with other player marbles. These are somewhat
similar to the baseball rubber balls that also featured ball players. There probably are not many of these around as most got lost, tossed or bounced into a storm drain (I know I lost some
of those high bouncing rubber balls that way). The above Roger Maris marble had a listing price of around $50 (Feb. 2010). I think that's a bit steep for something made in Japan.
similar to the baseball rubber balls that also featured ball players. There probably are not many of these around as most got lost, tossed or bounced into a storm drain (I know I lost some
of those high bouncing rubber balls that way). The above Roger Maris marble had a listing price of around $50 (Feb. 2010). I think that's a bit steep for something made in Japan.
1968 All-Pro Cereal Box featuring Roger Maris
1968 Atlantic Oil Roger Maris
Billboards tout the 61 in '61 clubbed by Maris, "Fargo's golden boy"
A North Dakota billboard company has erected a pair of signs in Fargo honoring local hero Roger Maris, whose record 61 home runs in 1961 have long been clouded with an asterisk.
By BOB VON STERNBERG, Star Tribune, February 5, 2010
Take that, Mark McGwire. And, for that matter, Babe Ruth, too. A North Dakota billboard company has erected a pair of signs in Fargo honoring local hero Roger Maris, whose record 61
home runs in 1961 have long been clouded with an asterisk. Because he clubbed the homers in more games than Babe Ruth's record 60, the baseball Hall of Fame has never
recognized his feat, much less admitted him to Cooperstown. And the "61 in '61" (his epitaph in a Fargo cemetery) accomplishment was eclipsed in 1998 when McGwire hit 70 dingers.
Owners of Newman Outdoor Advertising decided to rectify what they see as a historical disservice to Maris, a Hibbing native who died in 1985. "He's our boy -- Fargo's golden boy," said
company executive Russ Newman, who got to know Maris in the early 1980s "and became really enamored of him. He was such a gentleman." The billboards feature a picture of Maris
during his days as a New York Yankee and the slogan, "Fargo's Maris 'Legitimate' Home Run King." Newman said he decided to erect the billboards in the wake of McGwire's recent
admission that he used steroids during his home run binge. "With all these players coming out of the closet about steroids, when McGwire admitted it, it really pushed me over the edge
to do this," he said. Newman, son of the firm's owner, hopes the billboards will serve as a kind of public lobbying campaign to get Maris into the Hall of Fame. Some national attention
wouldn't hurt, either, he added. "We haven't given up hope on the Hall of Fame," he said. Maris, famously troubled during and after his home run feat, already has been honored in
Fargo, where he grew up. The Roger Maris Museum at a Fargo shopping mall is a "permanent shrine to a reluctant hero" and features artifacts from his career. In addition, at North
Dakota State University's ballfield, Maris' Number 8, dating from his stint with the Fargo-Moorhead Twins in the 1950s, has been retired. And in 2005, the North Dakota Legislature
passed a resolution stating that baseball could start cleaning up its image by electing Maris to Cooperstown. Newman said more billboards may be in the offing, with more pointed
messages, along the lines of "who really belongs in the Hall of Fame?"
A North Dakota billboard company has erected a pair of signs in Fargo honoring local hero Roger Maris, whose record 61 home runs in 1961 have long been clouded with an asterisk.
By BOB VON STERNBERG, Star Tribune, February 5, 2010
Take that, Mark McGwire. And, for that matter, Babe Ruth, too. A North Dakota billboard company has erected a pair of signs in Fargo honoring local hero Roger Maris, whose record 61
home runs in 1961 have long been clouded with an asterisk. Because he clubbed the homers in more games than Babe Ruth's record 60, the baseball Hall of Fame has never
recognized his feat, much less admitted him to Cooperstown. And the "61 in '61" (his epitaph in a Fargo cemetery) accomplishment was eclipsed in 1998 when McGwire hit 70 dingers.
Owners of Newman Outdoor Advertising decided to rectify what they see as a historical disservice to Maris, a Hibbing native who died in 1985. "He's our boy -- Fargo's golden boy," said
company executive Russ Newman, who got to know Maris in the early 1980s "and became really enamored of him. He was such a gentleman." The billboards feature a picture of Maris
during his days as a New York Yankee and the slogan, "Fargo's Maris 'Legitimate' Home Run King." Newman said he decided to erect the billboards in the wake of McGwire's recent
admission that he used steroids during his home run binge. "With all these players coming out of the closet about steroids, when McGwire admitted it, it really pushed me over the edge
to do this," he said. Newman, son of the firm's owner, hopes the billboards will serve as a kind of public lobbying campaign to get Maris into the Hall of Fame. Some national attention
wouldn't hurt, either, he added. "We haven't given up hope on the Hall of Fame," he said. Maris, famously troubled during and after his home run feat, already has been honored in
Fargo, where he grew up. The Roger Maris Museum at a Fargo shopping mall is a "permanent shrine to a reluctant hero" and features artifacts from his career. In addition, at North
Dakota State University's ballfield, Maris' Number 8, dating from his stint with the Fargo-Moorhead Twins in the 1950s, has been retired. And in 2005, the North Dakota Legislature
passed a resolution stating that baseball could start cleaning up its image by electing Maris to Cooperstown. Newman said more billboards may be in the offing, with more pointed
messages, along the lines of "who really belongs in the Hall of Fame?"
