AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a full-size souvenir football manufactured by Rawlings, specifically designed for autographs with its smooth white synthetic leather panels. The front panel prominently features the iconic 'ND' monogram logo in navy blue and gold, with the 'NOTRE DAME' text block printed below it. The ball is multi-signed by several individuals, likely former players or coaches from the university's football program, in bold black and purple permanent markers. Notable markings include jersey numbers such as '#50', '#22', and '#9' accompanying various signatures. The item is currently housed in its original Rawlings cardboard display box and is wrapped in a protective clear plastic film, which has some minor creasing but helps preserve the ink quality. The white panels appear clean with no significant scuffing or light-induced yellowing visible in the photo. A 'COLLECTIBLES' holographic QR seal is visible on the side of the box, serving as a manufacturer’s authentication mark for the base product. The stitching and laces are white, maintaining a clean aesthetic typical of modern sports memorabilia. The presence of multiple signatures suggests this was likely obtained at a team event or through a private signing session within the last 10 to 15 years.

I have completed my visual examination of this multi-signed Notre Dame Fighting Irish souvenir football. The item is a Rawlings white-panel ball, which is the industry standard for displaying high-contrast autographs. Based on the signatures present, including '#50' and '#22', this appears to be a multi-signature piece from a specific team era or a regional autograph show. The condition of the ball is excellent; the white panels show no signs of 'sapping' or yellowing, and the ink remains crisp without bleeding into the synthetic grain. The presence of the original box and QR holographic seal confirms the authenticity of the licensed substrate, which provides a solid baseline for value. However, the secondary market for multi-signed items is heavily dependent on the clarity and identification of every signer. While 'ND' memorabilia enjoys a robust national market, value is currently capped because these signatures lack third-party authentication from firms like PSA/DNA or JSA. My valuation reflects the current demand for modern era team-signed items in the Midwest market. Please note that this appraisal is based solely on digital images. A physical inspection is required to verify ink depth and to check for hidden defects like bladder leaks. For a definitive identification of all signers and a substantial increase in marketability, I recommend submitting this piece to a major authentication service. Without a formal Certificate of Authenticity (COA) or documented provenance linking it to a specific team event, the item is valued as 'collector grade' rather than 'investment grade'.