Topps Issues George W. Bush Autographed Cards, First Ever for a President

(Topps)

Could a President George W. Bush someday be worth more than a Honus Wagner?

The Topps Company, Inc. announced on Wednesday that its 2011 Topps Allen & Ginter product will include 200 limited edition autographed cards of the George W. Bush.

It’s the first time in history that a former United States President has provided an official signature to a baseball card.

“Our 2011 Allen & Ginter product will continue Topps’ historic tradition of chronicling heroes both on and off the playing field,” Topps VP, Mark Sapir, said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s set will include limited edition autographs of our country’s 43rd President, George W. Bush – marking the first time ever that a living President has made their autographs available in a trading card product.”

The limited edition autograph cards feature an image of Bush throwing out the first pitch at Game 3 of the 2001 World Series at Yankee Stadium, just weeks after the 9/11 suicide bombings of the World Trade Center.

Also included are 10 special cards signed in red ink, some with inscriptions next to the former president’s autograph, including “#43” and “U.S.A.”

In addition, the 440-card set includes 40 World Champion autograph subjects including Mickey Ward, Manny Pacquiao, Lou Holtz, John McEnroe, Kristi Yamaguchi and Annika Sorenstam.