This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/1/2015
Based on available images and the website, HeritageSportsArt.com, this red jersey was worn by the Lions during the 1948 home games and some 1949 road games. The jersey style is described as a long sleeve pullover with crew neck. A special shoulder section connects the jerseys and sleeves and allows extra space for the shoulder pads. A 3-hole, 6 button (black) crotch piece was factory added.
Manufacturer (Sand Knit): Jersey was manufactured by Sand Knit and bears the proper 1940s style tag (MEARS database). The jersey was supplied by Lippmans Sporting Goods, Detroit, and has the additional tag to the left of the manufacturer. Lippman’s was a known supplier of Sporting goods and documented examples of period Detroit Red Wings jerseys have entered the marketplace.
Lippman’s was also verified as a supplier of Detroit Lions equipment. An example of a 1952 team jacket bearing the Lippman’s label is documented, (Lelands, 2011).
The jersey is numbered with 55 on both front (7”) and reverse (9.75”). The numbers are white cotton sans serifs and are horizontally thinner than typical numerals from the era.
Player Attribution: #55 was worn by Roger Harding in 1948 and Bap Mazini 1949. Without player id present on the jersey, specific attribution is impossible. Both played the center position and were similar in physical stature. Jersey is tagged size 44 and found on a flag tag on the Lippman’s label found on the crotch piece.
Jersey exhibits heavy game wear as evidenced by the heavy puckering, contact marks, and staining found on the numerals. The numeral anchor stitching shows stress but remain intact.
On the right sleeve is one hole, one team repair, and one heavy team repair near the underarm. The right underarm also exhibits a heavy team repair.
Final Grade (MEARS A10): The jersey was evaluated with respect to the five main categories of evaluation points. Repairs, tear, and wear were noted, but zero points were subtracted as they all seemed consistent with football wear. No points were subtracted for two player use, since it cannot be determined if one or two players wore the jersey. (74B9998)
LOA Troy Kinunen / MEARS