Willie Mays Personally Owned Luggage Tag from AA Ex. Mays Estate / Hunt Auctions

Title:
American Airlines AAdvantage Executive Platinum Luggage Tag Issued to Willie Mays – 1999 – From the Willie Mays Personal Collection (With COA)

Description:
Offered here is an original American Airlines AAdvantage Executive Platinum luggage tag issued in 1999 to Willie H. Mays, one of baseball’s most celebrated icons. The black aluminum tag features engraved text:

• American Airlines AAdvantage Executive Platinum™

• WILLIE H MAYS

• 1999

The reverse reads: “If found, return to any American Airlines location.” The tag includes a rectangular cutout for attachment to a bag and remains in excellent condition, showing only minor surface handling wear consistent with gentle use.

Historical Context:
Willie Mays (1931–2024) was not only one of the greatest baseball players of all time but also a revered American cultural figure. With a career spanning from 1951 to 1973, primarily with the New York and San Francisco Giants, Mays was a 24-time All-Star, 2-time MVP, and 12-time Gold Glove winner, finishing with 660 home runs. His influence extended well beyond the diamond. This item reflects the high regard and VIP treatment Mays received later in life, with American Airlines awarding him Executive Platinum status—its highest elite tier, typically reserved for top frequent flyers and prominent individuals. This tag offers a unique glimpse into the personal life of an athlete who transcended sport.

Authentication:
Includes a copy of the printed Certificate of Provenance from the official Willie Mays Collection, distributed by Hunt Auctions.

• The certificate confirms this item was part of a lot originating directly from the personal collection of Willie Mays.

• COA includes a facsimile signature of Mays and the Hunt Auctions logo.

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
This personalized 1999 American Airlines Executive Platinum luggage tag is a rare and distinctive memento from the private life of Willie Mays. With direct provenance from the Willie Mays Collection, it bridges the world of elite travel and sports greatness. For collectors of athlete ephemera, airline memorabilia, or Hall of Fame legends, this is a uniquely personal piece from one of America’s most enduring sports heroes.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.