A baseball signed by Pope Francis is now up for auction following his recent passing — and it could bring in more than $15,000.
The former pontiff autographed a Rawlings Major League Baseball years ago, simply writing “Francisco” in black felt-tip pen. Now that he’s passed away, the unique item is being sold to the highest bidder.
The ball is being auctioned through RR Auction, where it’s expected to fetch at least five figures.
The autograph was obtained by Randy L. Kaplan, a government affairs expert from New York. Kaplan worked with the Vatican to secure signatures from both Pope Francis and his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, on baseballs.
Kaplan has been collecting signed MLB baseballs from world leaders and heads of state since 1996 — starting with President Bill Clinton — and now owns over 450 autographed balls.
According to the auction house, the winning bidder will also receive Kaplan’s correspondence with Vatican officials, documenting his efforts to get the Popes to sign.
One noteworthy letter comes from Cardinal Peter K. A. Turkson, who wrote: “Regretfully, I opened the boxes with the baseballs before reading your message. Not knowing they were from you, I signed them before reading your letter with instructions to have the Popes sign the two baseballs. Sorry about the oversight. If you have other baseballs, kindly send them.”
Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88 following a stroke and heart failure.