This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/31/2010
Originally obtained from Barry Halper sale, this Spalding road jersey was issued to McCosky in 1940. We have included several pictures dating to the 1940 World Series era(vs Reds) in which Barney appears to be wearing this very shirt or one of same style. It has the date, 40, in the rear tail chain stitched in red. McCosky is stitched in red in the collar. The shirt has a box tag on inside of collar marked 42. The shirt is autographed in blue sharpie in the collar. In addition to the photographs from the 1940 series showing McCosky wearing this style shirt, it comes with a hand written card signed by McCosky that reads: To my friend Barry, I am very pleased to know that my 1940 Detroit uniform is the furst uniform you ever collected whey you ------it from Lou Nourbeff sp?. Glad it is in your collection."
As to condition, it is all original with no alterations of any kind. There was a repair to the left elastic underarm and a 3/4" tear in the collar (we had this professional repaired before listing) . There are a few small holes on top shoulder and lower back. The original piping shows light wear and some fraying. The shirt exhibits overall toning. It comes with a pair of Wilson pants with "Shea" chained stitched in band. (Merv Shea 1939 Tigers) and are also signed in blue by McCosky. With use during the 1940 season and probable wear in the World Series , this is a great example. MEARS has never evaluated another 1940 Tigers jersey and this one, with great game wear, grades an A8.5 with 10 base points and minus 1 for the repairs and -.5 for the couple of small holes and toning. McCosky was a key player in the 1940 series playing in all seven games with 5 runs and 7 hits batting for .304 on the series.
Collection of MEARS staff.
00586