Very rare single-signed index card bears the autograph of a name familiar to many hockey fans, Bill Masterton. Index card measuring 3x5" is signed in blue ballpoint pen on the unlined side, with the reverse bearing pencil notations in unknown hand with his name and the word "Deceased." He carries the dubious distinction of being the only player in NHL history to date to die as a direct result of game play, as he sustained severe injuries as a result of a body check in a January 13, 1968, game featuring Masterton's Minnesota North Stars hosting the Oakland Seals. He never regained consciousness and passed two days later at age 29. Though it took 11 years from the incident, Masterton's tragic death is considered by many as the impetus for the NHL requiring all players to wear helmets starting in the 1979-80 season, and an annual league-wide award bears his name to this day - the Bill Masterton Trophy for dedication and perseverance, won this year by Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang. Encapsulated by PSA/DNA with an auto grade of NM-MT 8, hard to find at all, especially in this condition.