This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/2/2011
Fergie Jenkins put the finishing touches on his Hall of Fame career in 1983. Although he was a shell of his former self, Jenkins was still no pushover on the mound.
It is our guess that Jenkins donned this jersey for the majority of his home contests during the 1983 season. Conceivably, this could be the final jersey Jenkins donned during his Hall of Fame career. A Cubs team emblem is proudly emblazoned over the left side of the chest of this pinstriped beauty.
A team patch resides on the left sleeve. "31" is placed on the verso in single-color royal blue. Sewn in the collar is a Wilson size "48" label and a "31 83 1 48" swatch. The tail features a lone "83" year tag.
The use is exemplary with consistent puckering on the numbers on back and team emblem and patch.
This jersey was compared to a 1983 Keith Moreland found in the MEARS database. The strip tag, "31, 83, 1, 48" (Jenkins uniform number 31, 1983 year of issue, set 1, size 48), appears sewn through the collar and is consistent the referenced Moreland.
Wilson is the correct supplier, and the dating of the tag is verified via the MEARS database.
As a size 48, this is the largest size found to be worn by Jenkins. His previous 1981 Rangers jersey was issued as a size 46, and based on examination of 1983 dated photos, Jenkins appears heavier, so a larger size is reasonable.
Jenkins chipped in with a signature on front with "H.O.F. 7/21/91" inscription. Overall, a great Jenkins representation, from the twilight of his remarkable career.
j0030
MEARS LOA/Troy R. Kinunen
(MEARS LOA; JSA Auction Letter)