This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/7/2017
Our consignor was a contributor to both the Bobby Bonilla and Ken Griffey Jr. Celebrity Bowling Charity events. As a “thank you”, Ken Griffey Jr. went to his personal stock of game worn equipment and gifted this 1998 game worn glove as an act of appreciation.
Judging from the heavy game wear, MEARS is confident to state that this glove was favored by Griffey Jr and used for the majority of a season. MEARS evaluator Troy R. Kinunen has had the honor of evaluating numerous Griffey Jr. gloves, and per his review, this is the finest example he has ever encountered.
Manufactured by Rawlings, this black Trap Eze model is part of the Gold Glove series and manufactured with Heart of Hide leather. The red Rawlings patch can be found on the reverse.
Regarding wear, the glove is pounded! Well-oiled and broken in, the factory markings and area above the finger opening are heavily worn.
Dating can be determined by examining the script of the yellow “Ken Griffey Jr.”. Starting in 1998, the design of the script changed to this version.
Period images support the style of glove as being worn by Griffey Jr. during the 1998 season.
Based on the provenance, design, game wear, and imagery analysis, MEARS can state this is the finest glove examined by our company.
Also included is a Brunswick Max WIBC/ABC Approved bowling pin signed by a dozen major leaguers including Griffey Jr., Alex Rodriguez, Kirby Puckett, Ozzie Smith, Eddie Murray, Cecil Fielder, Kenny Lofton, Bobby Bonilla, John Franco, Eric Young & more. The pin was gifted to our consignor while he attended the bowling charity event.
LOA from Troy R. Kinunen/ MEARS and our consignor stating the details of the event and how he personally obtained Griffey Jr.’s glove.
(02D0558)
(MEARS Auction LOA; JSA Auction Letter)