Card of the Day: Arnold Palmer 2001 Upper Deck Golf Gallery Auto

Pin Highlight: 2002 U.S. Open Bethpage Black, New York Golf Tournament Logo Pin

The 2002 U.S. Open Golf Tournament was played in Farmingdale, New York on the Bethpage State Park, Black Course.  Logo pins for the event began to surface well in advance (a good 9+ months prior).  A major change was made that make earlier versions of the pin much more desirable.

At first, the pins initially released featured the skyline of New York City in the background.  Both of the World Trade Center Twin Towers can be seen.

After the events of September 11, 2001 the decision to stop selling this pin was made.  A new pin emerged which lacked the city skyline.

Earlier pins that contain both World Trade Center Twin Towers carry a hefty premium.

Card of the Day: 1993 Collect-A-Card American Bandstand Dick Clark Gold Foil Auto

Card of the Day: Tiger Woods 2001 Upper Deck SP Authentic Golf – Authentic Stars Auto

Card of the Day: Fuzzy Zoeller 1981 Donruss Golf #46

Card of the Day: Jim Nantz 2004 Upper Deck SP Authentic Golf #60

Card of the Day: Johnny Miller 1981 Donruss Golf #30

Card of the Day: Sergio Garcia 2001 Upper Deck Golf #3

“Pin-Up” of the Week: Arnold Palmer’s Multi-Colored Golf Umbrella Logo Pin

Arnold Palmer’s multi-colored golf umbrella is one of the most recognized logos in the world.  Throughout the 50’s and 60’s his golf career really began to take off.  From a business point of view, it made sense to setup Arnold Palmer Enterprises, Inc.  After much discussion and legal consultation, they landed on using a multi-colored golf umbrella as the company’s logo.  You could easily say that Arnold Palmer was the first globally known golfer.  His brand stands for pure excellence.

You can find the classic umbrella logo on all kinds of merchandise.  Among all of the items, simple lapel pins are the most popular.  Its not uncommon for employees of ‘APE’ to carry pins in their pockets to hand out during events.  Even Arnold Palmer himself use to throw a few in his golf bag to giveaway.  You would think that his official shop would have pins for sale, but I don’t see any.  I believe the pins are used for promotional purposes.  They usually come affixed to a black piece of cardboard.  Underneath the pin it says “With Compliments” followed by an Arnold Palmer facsimile signature.

Mr. Palmer was a true classy guy.  He enjoyed interacting with his fans “Arnie’s Army” as much as possible.  When signing his autograph, he always made sure it was legible.  Many other professional athletes could learn a lesson or two from him.

Card of the Day: Ben Crenshaw 1982 Donruss Golf #20