This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/31/2010
This cap was made in conjunction with Spalding whose trade mark is burned in silver into the brown leather band and the Brooklyn Safety Cap co. whose cloth tag is sewn into back. On their label is printed "Patent Applied For" which indicates that the experimental hard panels that are constructed into the two panels on both sides had yet to get the patent approved. 7 1/4 along with B. Campbell is chain stitched in green on the side of the leather band. The hat shows only light wear overall which would leave one to believe that this very heavy experimental hat was not too popular with the players. This is the earliest example of this safety hat that we have ever seen or heard of. Given the patent was only applied for, it has to be the very first style of batting helmet ever made aside from the inflatable model endorsed by Frank Chance back in the teens.
Aside from the rarity of this hat in terms of style, the player, Bruce Campbell had a great season in 1940 as did the Tigers. In January 1940, the Indians traded Campbell to the Detroit Tigers for Beau Bell. The trade worked out for Campbell, as the Tigers won the American League pennant, and Campbell played all seven games of the 1940 World Series. Campbell had nine hits, four walks, scored four runs, five RBIs and a home run in the World Series, with a batting average of .360, on base percentage of .448 and slugging percentage of .520.
There you have it , one of the rarest hats ever offered for sale and from a season and a player that just adds to the history of this museum piece. Collection of MEARS staff. MEARS LOA. JSA AUCTION LOA. 01080.
(JSA Auction Letter)