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1991.84; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
1991.84; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
Johnny Unitas Autographed Football
1991.84; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
1991.84; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum

Johnny Unitas Autographed Football

Artifact ID1991.84
Object Type Football
Maker
Gifter
Date ca. 1976
Medium leather, paint, plastic, rubber, thread, ink
DimensionsOverall Diam 11 in (27.9 cm )
Physical DescriptionA brown football displays white stripes, black stitches, white laces, and two team members' autographs in black ink.


Historical NoteJohnny Unitas, who played football in the National Football League (NFL) for twenty years, gifted this football to President Gerald R. Ford on February 13, 1976. The NFL named Unitas, nicknamed “the Golden Arm,” the Most Valuable Player in 1959, 1964, and 1967. Unitas inscribed the football, “To President Ford / Best Wisdom / for a / Successful Tour” and autographed the ball in black marker.Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe general public gifted the item to President Gerald R. Ford during his term in office. It was received through the Executive Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in September 1981 for deposit with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.
National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)
National Archives Catalog SeriesPublic Gifts Given to President Gerald R. Ford (74639696)
Use Restriction Status Unrestricted
Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
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