MEARS Monthly Auction #11 ENDS Thursday, January 28th, 2010, 9:00 PM CST w/ 15-Minute Rule
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on:
1/29/2010
Offered here is one of the most sought after of all modern college game worn jerseys. Larry Fitzgerald was a college superstar and is regarded as one of the greatest wide receivers in Pitt’s history and one of the best active receivers currently in the NFL. His college awards, besides being the Heisman runner up, includes the Biletnikoff award, the Walter Camp award and All American. He is the current holder of numerous Pitt records.
The jersey itself is a home jersey manufactured by Nike. It is a size Large (Larry is 6-3, 217lbs) with his name on back and bearing his familiar number 1. The jersey shows good signs of evident use with team repairs on the shoulder as well as shoulder and number wear and abrasions wear to the heat transfers and scuffs. It is all-original with no restorations of any kind. The style is verified not only per Getty images (included) but comes with a program that shows Fitzgerald in this same style jersey.
Regarding final grade, MEARS A10, this jersey has two areas that are consistent with available photos, and appear to be a photo match. In the area of the reverse right shoulder yoke, immediately to the right of the FITZGERALD nameplate, near the seam, is a 1” diameter team repair. This repair can be seen in the 2005 Pitt College football program, which accompanies this lot. Additionally, the alignment of the 1 in conjunction to the FITZGERALD nameplate is quite consistent with the available photo.
Regarding additional game wear, there is piling and abrasions under the spandex seams in the underarm area. There is an additional team repair on the right shoulder. Scuffing and contact marks can be found on both the front and reverse body shell. There is an overall appearance of puckering to the shoulders, sleeves, body shell, and arm openings.
Given the rarity of college game worn jerseys, the short period in which players are on the squad and the degree of difficulty in obtaining jerseys that make it to the market in such limited numbers coupled with the future Hall of Fame status of Fitzgerald and you have what may be a once in a lifetime opportunity. Grade MEARS A10. Based on the supplier, amount of use, visible points of distinction including the appearance of a possible photo match to the team repair and consistent alignment of the numbering in conjunction with the nameplate, this jersey was awarded the perfect MEARS A10.
2002-03 Larry Fitzgerald Pittsburgh Panthers Game Worn Home Jersey (MEARS A10)
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