This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/31/2013
Jim Grabowski was 50% of the Million Dollar Backfield, Donny Anderson was the other half. Known as the Gold Dust Twins, Grabowski and Anderson were chosen by Lombardi to replace the aging Hornung and Taylor.
At 6’2” and weighing 220 pounds, Jim Grabowski played 5 years with the Green Bay Packers, and appeared in both Super Bowls.
Dating 1968-69: Per the style of the Sand Knit tag, this design is consistent with the style found on 1968-69 circa tags (MEARS database). Also, examination of the left sleeve shows the outline of removal of the 1969 NFL patch. The jersey may have been worn during 1969 exclusively or in addition to 1968.
Style: the jersey was issued as a green durene pullover with crew neck. The jersey is full sleeve with yellow, green/white, yellow, green/white, yellow sleeve striping. Non serifed block numbering is found on the front (9”), back (11”), and sleeves (3 5/8”).
Tagging: The size 46 appears in a simple block tag in the neck. It appears in red lettering and is consistent with Sand Knit tagging from the era.
On the bottom front is the Sand Knit tag. It reads, “Size 46, Sand Knit, Important: Use mild soap. Wash in luke warm water, do not dry in automatic dryer. Sand-Knit division, Medalist Industries” Tag is consistent with 1968 jerseys found in the MEARS database.
Wear: The jersey exhibits heavy game wear, consistent with multiple games of wear. Both the front and reverse numerals show heavy signs of puckering, and even, consistent wear to the sheen of the white numeral fabric. The reverse right three shows a team repair.
Left shoulder Yoke: There are two team repairs and five distinct areas of compressions to the fabric, or hit marks.
Right shoulder Yoke: Several visible areas of compression to the fabric, or hit marks.
Left front: Jersey has a 3” team repair.
Right reverse: Team repair, 1 ¾”
Overall, the jersey shows heavy game wear, consistent with extended period of game wear. This is a text book example of legitimate, heavy game use.
Final Grade (MEARS A9) 10 points were assigned for jersey being consistent with respect to proper style, manufacturer, size, tagging, wear, etc. Minus 1 point for missing 1969 NFL patch.
(D0146)
(MEARS Auction LOA; JSA Auction Letter)