This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/29/2012
Basic in design and color scheme, this cap is nothing but ordinary and represents a great technical
advancement. Although the game had been around for over 80 years, equipment advances were slow
to develop as the game’s tradition often overlooked common sense safety improvements. Pitches to
the head had proven to be career ending, so protective head gear had to be developed. Although not
designed like today’s modern batting helmet, this Spalding manufactured cap was fitted with a hard
shell composite material. Inserted into the interior of the cap, this was in effect the game’s first batting helmet.
When looking at the cap’s exterior while on the head of the player, all you noticed was the solid blue, 6 panel construction with 8-stitch brim and blue crown button resembling the standard issue cap. The team identifier “A” is a sewn on logo. The interior leather head band sports the Spalding manufacturers tag (made in Canada version), “Mitchell & Ness” supplier tag, and the size 7 ¼ flag tag. A composite shell is neatly tucked into the band. “Majeski” is neatly painted in vintage black paint. Cap remains in remarkably excellent overall condition. A great item representing a major technical advancement in America’s Pastime. (N0574)
MEARS LOA / Troy Kinunen
Collection of MEARS Staff
(MEARS Auction LOA)