This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/29/2012
Of all collectables, game worn helmet create the most difficult of authenticity challenges. To be frank, helmets of big name stars are the most commonly forged item in most people's collections. For this lot, we are offering a game worn helmet of football legend that is 100% documented as being sourced directly from the 49ers. Scott Waters association with the Green Bay Packers may have been highlighted by this very lot. It is common knowledge equipment managers exchange helmets to complete collections and build on existing ones.
Well, a 49ers equipment staffer gifted this Jerry Rice game used helmet in exchange for one of Walters'.
This isn't just any Rice gamer, mind you. Rice donned this helmet when he was at the absolute height of his popularity - circa 1986-88.
Decent use is shown on the gold shell with a few scuff marks from NFL contact. Both sides are adorned with 49ers decals - minimal peeling. White/red/white stripes run from front to back, and match the placement of photographs from the time period. The side facemask clips read "86" while the front are "87" and "88".
The reverse features a lone transparent warning sticker. Sometimes simpler is better. "80" is written on both sides of the ear hole in period black marker. A blue bladder air system is incorporated into the inside and a red dot is placed on the inner crown. Rice's familiar cupped chinstrap is also secured on front.
The helmet was created in 1985 as "12 85" is stamped into the back. It would have been used in subsequent seasons as well.
Waters presented this helmet to the iconic receiver to sign and pledged he had received it from the team, assuring Rice it wasn't stolen. Rice, after giving a "how did you get this" stare obliged the staffer's autograph request.
The term Canton worthy is used to describe football's finest relics. If there was ever a time this was appropriate, it would be for this once-in-a-lifetime headgear.
Employed by the Green Bay Packers from 1984-2000, Scott Waters had on field access for each game, and mingled along the sidelines with the players. Several candid photos document his presence on the field. This lot originated directly from the Scott Waters collection. Detailed LOAs personally signed by Scott Waters will be included with each item from his collection. Letters of authenticity: Scott Waters & MEARS / Troy Kinunen
n0048
(JSA Auction Letter; MEARS Auction LOA)