Magic Johnson Larry Bird Signed 1979 NCAA Final Four Ticket BECKETT AUTO 10
Presented here is one of the most historically significant basketball collectibles ever offered: an original ticket from the 1979 NCAA Tournament – National Semifinal (Final Four), hand-signed by both Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. The ticket has been professionally authenticated and encapsulated by Beckett Authentication Services, receiving a perfect Autograph Grade of 10.
This is a true museum-level artifact from the game that launched the most important rivalry in basketball history and directly changed the trajectory of the NBA.
Game & Historical Significance
Event: 1979 NCAA Tournament – National Semifinal (Final Four)
Date: March 24, 1979
Venue: Special Events Center, University of Utah
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
The 1979 NCAA Final Four represents a defining moment in sports history. The Magic Johnson vs. Larry Bird rivalry, born during this tournament, revived national interest in basketball and later carried into the NBA, saving the league and ushering in its modern golden era.
Dual-signed tickets from this game are exceptionally rare, as both players went on to become top-five all-time legends, Hall of Famers, and global icons.
Autograph Details
Signers:
Magic Johnson
Larry Bird
Signature Medium: Blue marker
Autograph Grade: Beckett Auto Grade 10 (Gem Mint)
Authentication: Beckett Authentication Services
Encapsulation: Beckett tamper-proof holder
Ticket & Slab Details
Ticket Type: Original game-issued ticket (not a reprint)
Condition: Good condition with expected light handling wear consistent with age
Beckett Silver Flip Label Details:
Event: NCAA Tournament – National Semifinal
Autograph Grade: 10
This ticket originates from the actual game itself, making it far more desirable than later commemorative pieces.
Why This Piece Matters
Dual-signed by Magic Johnson & Larry Bird
From the single most important NCAA tournament in history
Perfect Beckett Auto Grade 10
Scarce combination of original ticket + dual Hall of Fame autographs
Direct link to the rivalry that saved and reshaped the NBA
Provenance – Steve Grad Autograph Collection
From the Steve Grad Autograph Collection.
Steve Grad has been a regular cast member on the History Channel’s Pawn Stars since 2013, is the Lead Authenticator at Beckett Authentication, and previously served as Principal/Lead Authenticator at PSA/DNA from 2002–2016. His expertise represents the highest standard in autograph authentication.
Free Shipping in the U.S. and U.S. territories! Yes, we do ship Internationally!
For any questions regarding this listing or help with orders email us at orders@gspawn.com or call 702-272-0006.
We appreciate your business and look forward to helping you bring home a piece of history!