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Lot Number: 1150
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Lot 1150
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| Description: Significant Tim Keefe game worn New York Giants jersey c.1880's. On occasion, we receive a phone call at Hunt Auctions, Inc. that stands apart. Clearly, the day we received a message regarding the offered jersey it is one that will not soon be forgotten. Heavy stock cream color wool jersey having its original four button placket down the front and red "New York" lettering. Breast pocket remains intact as does the Western style hemmed back stitching. Pre 1900 Spalding red tag is affixed inside collar along with a sewn in piece of white fabric having partial "TK" in black stitching. Sleeves retain their original button holes that once held the detachable sleeves which have long since vanished. Obviously, the jersey does have some age and usage wear incl. some moth holes on both front and back and small staining spots, collar has been cut out but was presumably red due to the red residue around the neck. Buttons are missing from under the placket and jersey has had some conservation performed including interior stitching reinforcement along side panel seams from joint separation/tears and restiched area where the sleeves had become detached. The jersey also exhibits some period stitching repairs (left as such for originality) to various tears, etc. which could be improved upon if so desired. Given its age, fragility, and the rarity for such pieces even to have survived the jersey remains in generally fine condition overall. The jersey is accompanied by a period brown silk wrap that has been sewn together in a collar-like fashion. It is believed by the family that Keefe had worn this under the jersey in the collar area. Keefe was one of the elite pitchers of the 19th century if not the best. His 1888 season is easily among the finest in history for any pitcher (see statistics in Lot 1149 description). The National Baseball Hall of Fame does have a few select 19th century professional jerseys of quality in its collection and a very few 19th century pro jerseys have come into the marketplace. The Tim Keefe jersey must, however, be considered to be among the finest 19th century professional jerseys extant with regard to player quality, team quality, rarity, and most importantly impeccable provenance. Furthermore, the Keefe jersey is without question the finest documented 19th century professional jersey to become available to the collecting public. A truly unique and historic offering not likely to be equaled. Includes LOA from SCD Authentic David Bushing/Dan Knoll and letter of provenance from the Keefe family: VG-EX (With note to condition report) |
| Estimated Price: (Estimate Upon Request) |
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