Heart and soul of the 1970s New York Yankees. On August 2, 1979, Thurman was practicing touch-and-go landings at the Akron-Canton Airport with his newly purchased Cessna Citation. The twin-engine jet fell 1000 feet short of the runway during an attempted landing and burst into flames. Munson was killed in the accident while two others were injured. Official Reach American League baseball signed in ballpoint on a side panel by Thurman Munson, and also signed by 19 members of the 1972 Yankees, including: Mel Stottlemyre and Fritz Peterson on the sweet spot, Bobby Murcer, Rusty Torres (2), Fred Beene, Ron Blomberg, Bernie Allen, Lindy McDaniel, Sparky Lyle, Roy White, Hal Lanier, Gene Michael, and Felipe Alou. Ball also bears a Ralph Houk clubhouse signature. In fine condition, with some signatures a shade or two light, a very light shade of toning to ball, and a trivial spot between first and last name of Munson’s signature. Auction LOA Steve Grad/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
