Memorabilia
1971 Mini Stanley Cup Signed by Conn Smythe Winner Ken Dryden
This was a shot in the dark as I had carried my 1971 Stanley Cup with me on many occasions. (usually in my vehicle). Because I have a collection of replica mini Stanley cups (8” tall) from 1965 to date., I get the Conn Smythe Winner from each year's Stanley Cup Final to sign their unique one. I know it would be tough to get Ken to sign at an event so always waited for the opportunity if it existed. Conn Smythe Trophy was only presented from 1965 so that is why I did not go back further.
Well, just a few years ago a number of Team Canada'72 payers were doing a tour and it happened to be at the Sony Centre on Front Street. My buddy and I quickly purchased tickets to attend but knew there would be so many people that autographs would not be possible. As it turned out, our seats had an after function which I thought was just going to be a beer but it looked like the 8 or so players were going to sign one item for the attendees. I actually had my 1971 Stanley Cup with me and my buddy Rick purchased a Team Canada hat. I was thrilled when Ken Dryden signed my 1971 Cup. Yes, he did personalize it to Wayne but that was fine with me as I knew that would be a tough one.
Still waiting for my 1985 and 1988 Stanley Cups to be signed by Wayne Gretzky which you will read about later.