Joe DiMaggio's commitment to the protection of his privacy was legendary. This was never more apparent than with the relationship he shared with his wife Marilyn Monroe. DiMaggio strictly guarded their relationship from the press and shunned those who would violate his protocols. After Marilyn's tragic passing, Joe became even more strict in a number of ways including adding his signature to anything with relation to, or picturing, his late wife. Offered is a very unique exception in the form of a 1953 inaugural issue of Playboy magazine which pictures Marilyn Monroe on the front cover having been signed by DiMaggio in blue sharpie. Signature rates 9/10 out of 10 with the top of the "J" in Joe slightly leaking off the edge. The magazine itself exhibits moderate handling wear including vertical center fold line. The iconic interior color insert full page depiction of Monroe remains intact.
DiMaggio's relationship with legendary collector and New York Yankees minority owner Barry Halper is well documented with some of Joe's most unique items having been gifted, sold or signed for Barry. As recounted by Halper to the New York Times in a 1998 interview, "Joe said (he didn't look too thrilled) 'What do you want me to do with this, sign Best Wishes?' I said, 'No, but I'd love to have you sign it.' Joe said, 'O.K., but I don't want anyone to see it in my lifetime.' I promised I wouldn't, and I haven't."
Interesting and important signature piece combining significant icons from sports and popular culture on a uniquely American publication medium. Includes full LOAs from PSA/DNA and JSA: Signature: NM-MT, Magazine: EX