2002 Fleer Fernando Tatis #398 (Hand-Signed Autograph)
Fernando Tatis (Sr.) · Fleer · Base Card with Aftermarket (IP/TTM) Autograph
Player
Fernando Tatis (Sr.)
Set
2002 Fleer Base Set
Year
2002
Card #
#398
Condition Grade
Estimated PSA 7-8 (NM) for card grade; centering is favoring the left, edges show light white chipping, and slight corner softness is visible. The autograph is bold in blue ink.
Category
Base Card with Aftermarket (IP/TTM) Autograph
Manufacturer
Fleer
Demand Level
Moderate. Demand is primarily driven by Expos team collectors, Tatis family completists, and 'Two Grand Slam' record enthusiasts.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$10.00 - $25.00
Graded Value
PSA 8 (Dual Grade/Authentic): $40.00-$60.00; PSA 9: $75.00-$100.00; PSA 6 or lower: $20.00-$30.00.
Comparable Sales
Raw base cards sell for $1.00-$2.00. Authenticated signed cards of Tatis Sr. generally sell in the $20-$40 range depending on the set year and signature quality. Signed 2002 cards specifically often trend lower than his 1998/1999 rookie-era cards.
Description
This 2002 Fleer card features Fernando Tatis Sr. in his Montreal Expos uniform, capturing a classic batting stance. The card is hand-signed in blue permanent marker across the center of the image. The design features the iconic Fleer crown logo and an Expos team banner at the bottom.
Key Features
Hand-signed autograph by the only player in MLB history to hit two grand slams in one inning. There is increased secondary interest due to the superstardom of his son, Fernando Tatis Jr.
Authenticity Indicators
The signature matches known Tatis Sr. exemplars from the early 2000s, specifically the looped 'F' and the distinct 'Tatis' script. High confidence in signature authenticity, but should be sent to PSA/DNA or JSA for certification. Card stock and printing patterns are consistent with 2002 Fleer production.
Flaws to Note
Significant left-to-right centering bias (thicker right border). Mild chipping on the dark blue edges of the internal frame. The autograph is an 'In-Person' (IP) or 'Through The Mail' (TTM) signature, not a pack-certified auto, which requires third-party authentication to reach max value.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for this specific card, as it has the largest audience for player-specific collectors and autograph hunters.
Selling Tips
Get the autograph authenticated (PSA/DNA or JSA) to significantly increase buyer confidence and price. In the listing, use keywords like 'Signed', 'Expos', and 'Tatis Jr Dad' to capture relevant search traffic. Always ship in a penny sleeve and top loader inside a bubble mailer.