#44 Wishes #24 Happy Birthday!

Presented here is an exceptionally rare handwritten and signed personal birthday letter from President Barack Obama to Willie Mays from the Say Hey Kid's Birthday in 2022. Penned in bold black ink on Obama’s personal card stock stationery. Obama letters are notably scarce; throughout his presidency and beyond, he very seldom wrote out full messages by hand, making genuine handwritten examples among the most sought-after of all modern presidential materials. The incredible letter came directly from Willie Mays's Estate as a prized possession in his personal collection.

In this note, President Obama offers warm birthday wishes to Mays on his 91st birthday, writing in his own hand:

“Willie, Happy 91st Birthday! I hope you had a great celebration, and that you feel all the love that folks around the world continue to have for you. Warm Regards, Barack Obama.”

The sentiment is heartfelt and direct - one American icon honoring another.

The significance of this piece extends beyond rarity. Willie Mays stands as one of the greatest baseball players of all time, and a defining figure in the history of sport - a cultural touchstone whose influence transcended baseball. President Obama has frequently spoken of Mays with admiration, referencing him not simply as a Hall of Famer, but as a symbol of excellence, dignity, and inspiration. This handwritten expression of respect captures that connection directly and personally.

A remarkably important intersection of American history, sport, and civic legacy, and a rare chance to acquire a true one-of-one personal exchange between two of the most celebrated icons of their eras!

Comes with a Letter of Provenance from the Mays Estate as well as being professionally slabbed by PSA/DNA.