1967 Reggie Jackson Kansas City Athletics Signed Game-Used Rookie Road Jersey MEARS A9 (Ex Barry Halper Collection) - First Major League Jersey!

Sold For:

$66,000

Year:

1967

Auction:

2023 Fall

Lot #:

24

Category:

Post-1900 Baseball Memorabilia

Historically significant Kansas City Athletics road jersey worn by Hall of Fame outfielder Reggie Jackson during his 1967 rookie season. Graded A9 by MEARS. This jersey is not only one of the most important postwar Hall of Fame jerseys we have ever offered but also one of the most well documented. This piece was once part of the famed Barry Halper Collection and appeared as Lot 1768 in the initial 1999 sale of his collection. Accompanying the jersey is a handwritten note from Reggie that reads: "Barry - This certifies that this shirt is my 1st shirt worn in the big leagues. I'm glad you have it! - Aug 3, 85 - Reggie Jackson [signed]." The yellow flannel "vest-style" jersey has an "A" on the left breast and the number “9” on both the right breast and reverse. All letters and numerals are appliquéd in green-on-white tackle twill. Situated on the left front tail are a “Wilson 42” label and a “’67-1” year/set tag. Jackson has inscribed the jersey, “Reggie Jackson,” in blue Sharpie in the collar. It should be noted that this jersey was worn by outfielder Roger Repoz in the beginning of the 1967 season and was acquired by Jackson when he rejoined the team later that season in September. On the 17th of the month, Jackson hit his first career home run off of California Angels pitcher Jim Weaver, which was likely done wearing this very jersey. The jersey is original as issued with no alterations and has heavy wear. Accompanying the jersey is a 1967 Kansas City Athletics regular-season program (scored from a game on September 18, 1967) which lists Jackson in the preprinted roster with the number "9." In only 35 games played during his rookie campaign in 1967, Jackson hit one home run, four doubles, and four triples. One of the game's most controversial and charismatic players, Jackson finished his career with 563 home runs, 1,702 RBI, and a .262 average. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1993 during his first year of eligibility. This is an exceptional Reggie Jackson flannel of this rare vest style, dating from his rookie season. Graded A9 by MEARS (base grade of 10 with one point deducted for broken piping and loose stitching on the reverse “9”). Full LOA from MEARS. Auction LOA from James Spence/JSA. (for the signature only). Opening Bid $50,000.