Dan Reeves Signed Typed Letter on Rams Stationary (1947) (Graded PSA/DNA 7)

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This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/5/2018

This full-page typed letter is on Los Angeles Rams stationary and signed by legendary owner and Hall of Famer Dan Reeves concerning defensive tackle Carl Samuelson. The letter reads, "Our head scout, Eddie Kotal, has been in touch with you and I am writing you at this time to let you know that the Rams are definitely interested in you as a potential member of our team in 1947 or in the future." Samuelson was drafted by the Rams in the 10th round in the 1947 NFL Draft, but wound up playing his only four NFL seasons for the Steelers from 1948-1951. Reeves was founder of Dan Reeves Co. Inc., an investment firm, from which he began to build his financial fortune, which would include the Rams' franchise. In addition to the controversial move of the Rams from Cleveland to Los Angeles, Reeves is remembered for being the first NFL owner to sign an African-American player in the post World War II era (halfback Kenny Washington, Woody Strode also signed the same year) and the first to employ a full-time scouting staff. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1967 and died in 1971. The letter has been removed from an album and has most of the back still affixed. His signature is among the most rare of any NFL HOFer and this one is authenticated by PSA/DNA with a full LOA and graded PSA/DNA 7.