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

  • Date: March 24, 1979

  • Location: Salt Lake City, Utah

  • 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.