Auction Item Details
Lot 90
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Lot Number: 90
Description: Scarce "Bullet Bill" Dudley Detroit Lions professional model jersey c. 1947-1949. Exceptional Detroit Lions jersey as worn by Hall of Fame member Bill Dudley. Royal blue dureen jersey retains its original silver #35 on both front and back. Sand Knit tagging with "Griswold Sporting Goods" retain designation found within the crotch dates to the appropriate mid to late 1940s era. Overall use is outstanding with several team repairs and expected surface wear notably to the edges of the numerals. Additionally, a vertical team stitched repair is found running from the top of the opening at the left of the "3" to the bottom of that same opening. This appears to be a succinct photographic match to an image of Dudley pictured on his period exhibit postcard which is pictured in the catalogue. Back of the jersey has some thinning to the vertical lines but remains fully intact and original. Dudley was the first overall pick of the NFL draft in 1942 selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers and led the league in rushing during his rookie campaign. His career would span from 1942-1953 earning pro bowl selections as well as enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966. Hall of Fame football jerseys dating to the pre-1950s era are exceedingly scarce with only a handful entering the marketplace during any given year. Very fine exemplar with desirable photographic provenance from one of the game's great early stars. Includes LOA from Hunt Auctions: VG-EXEstimated Price Range: ($10,000-$20,000)
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