So, you’re looking at a Roger Staubach signed jersey. Maybe you found one on eBay for $200 and thought, "Score!" or perhaps you’re staring at a $1,200 Mitchell & Ness authentic and wondering if you're being taken for a ride. Honestly, the world of Staubach memorabilia is a bit of a minefield if you don't know the difference between a "custom" jersey and a "licensed" one.
Roger "The Dodger" isn't just another retired QB. He’s the guy who coined the term "Hail Mary." He’s a Heisman winner, a two-time Super Bowl champ, and a Vietnam veteran. That kind of legacy means his autograph stays expensive. While some guys’ prices tank the minute they stop playing, Captain America’s signature has basically become a blue-chip stock for Dallas Cowboys fans.
The Massive Price Gap: Custom vs. Authentic
Here is the thing most people miss: you aren't usually paying for the autograph alone. You’re paying for the fabric it’s written on.
If you see a Roger Staubach signed jersey for under $250, it is almost certainly a "custom" jersey. In the hobby, "custom" is basically code for "unbranded knockoff." These don't have Nike or Reebok logos. They’re made specifically for autograph signings because they're cheap to produce. They look fine in a frame from five feet away, but they have zero resale value as a piece of clothing.
On the flip side, an authentic Mitchell & Ness throwback—the kind with the heavy stitching and the "HOF 85" inscription—can easily clear $700. If it’s professionally framed with UV-protective glass? You're looking at $1,000 plus. It’s a lot of money. But for a center-piece in a man cave, most collectors prefer the higher-end licensed stuff.
Why Inscriptions Change Everything
A signature is cool. An inscription is better. Staubach is pretty generous with his pen, but certain additions to his name jack up the price:
- "HOF 85": His Hall of Fame induction year. This is the most common and standard.
- "SB VI MVP": A nod to his performance against the Dolphins.
- "Captain America": A rarer nickname inscription that collectors go nuts for.
- "Heisman 63": Reminds everyone he was the best in college, too.
Basically, more ink equals more money. A jersey with three or four of these "stats" is going to be worth significantly more than a "naked" signature.
Spotting the Fake (Don't Get Burned)
I cannot stress this enough: do not buy a Staubach jersey unless it has a COA (Certificate of Authenticity) from one of the "Big Three." That’s PSA/DNA, JSA (James Spence), or Beckett (BAS).
Staubach has a very fluid, legible signature. It's beautiful, really. But because it’s so clean, it’s also a target for forgers. Lately, Beckett has moved toward QR code stickers instead of physical paper cards. If you buy a jersey and it doesn't come with a paper "COA" but has a Beckett Witnessed sticker, don't panic. You just scan the code on your phone to verify it in their database.
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Expert Tip: Look for the "Witnessed" designation. This means an actual representative from the authentication company was standing right there while Roger signed the jersey. It is the gold standard of proof.
Real-World Market Value in 2026
Prices fluctuate, but here is what the market looks like right now:
- Signed Custom Jersey (No brand): $215 – $280
- Signed Mitchell & Ness Replica: $450 – $550
- Authentic Mitchell & Ness with Inscriptions: $650 – $900
- Framed "Deluxe" Displays: $950 – $1,400
Is it a good investment? Well, Roger is in his 80s. Historically, when legendary Hall of Famers pass away, their memorabilia sees a temporary spike, but Staubach’s market is already so "baked in" that it’s more about stability than a quick flip. You buy this because you love the Cowboys or you respect the history of the game.
What to Look for Before You Buy
Check the signature's "boldness." Pens dry out. If the blue ink looks streaky or "faded" on the white fabric, walk away. A "10" grade signature should look like it was painted on—vibrant and thick. Also, pay attention to the jersey color. The navy blue Cowboys jerseys are notorious for making signatures "disappear" over time if the athlete uses a black Sharpie. If you're going navy, make sure he used a silver paint pen.
If you’re ready to pull the trigger, start by checking reputable dealers like Steiner Sports, Fanatics, or Pristine Auction. They handle the authentication legwork for you. If you go the eBay route, stick to sellers with 10,000+ feedback and always cross-reference the certification number on the authenticator’s website before hitting "Buy It Now."
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Your Next Steps:
- Decide on your display goal: If it’s going in a frame, save money and buy a high-quality "custom" jersey with a Beckett Witnessed sticker.
- Verify the Cert: Use the PSA or Beckett "Cert Check" tool online to ensure the serial number matches a Roger Staubach jersey and not a signed 8x10 photo.
- Check for silver ink: If you want a navy blue jersey, only buy ones signed in silver or gold paint pen for maximum visibility.