1973 University of Alabama National Champions Ring Presented to Pat Dye - From The Pat Dye Collection

Sold For:

$8,100

Year:

1973

Auction:

2021 Spring

Lot #:

2823

Category:

Football Cards or Memorabilia

Original National Championship ring presented to Pat Dye during his tenure as an assistant coach at the University of Alabama. Dye, who was a standout lineman at the University of Georgia, served as a defensive assistant under Paul "Bear" Bryant from 1965 to 1973. During the 1973 season, the Crimson Tide compiled an 11-1 record (8-0 in conference) to win the SEC and earn a berth in the Sugar Bowl against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. In a close game, the Fighting Irish defeated the Crimson Tide 24-23 in the December 31, 1973, matchup. Although the Tide lost the Sugar Bowl, they were declared National Champions in the Coaches' Poll, thus earning them the offered ring. The ring, which originates directly from the estate of Pat Dye, is 10K gold and produced by Jostens. The face of the ring features a single diamond underneath the year (1973) flanked by "National Champions." The left shank features a large "A" along with "Crimson Tide" and a campus scene. The right shank features "Alabama" atop three banners and a football representing SEC championships in 1971, 1972, and 1973. Underneath is an ornate trophy inscribed "Sugar Bowl Classic." The inside of the ring shank is engraved "Pat Dye." The ring remains in outstanding condition, one of Dye's many treasured awards, with light usage wear visible. It is in otherwise Excellent condition. Reserve $1,000. Estimate (open).