Auction Item Details
Lot 321
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Lot Number: 321
Description: Iconic Pittsburgh Steelers "Steel Curtain" c.1974. Little did nine year old Gregory Krontz know that a simple radio contest entry would evolve into a nickname for the ages. During a 1971 contest as conducted by a Pittsburgh radio station, young Krontz was one of just (17) individuals who submitted the name "Steel Curtain" as a nickname for the vaunted Steelers defensive front four. The front line combination of Mean Joe Greene, L.C. Greenwood, Ernie Holmes, and Dwight White. During their period of dominance in the 1970s they literally revolutionized defensive front line play. In the 1976 season over a period of eight out of nine games the defense did not allow a single touchdown. Four members of the Steelers starting defense from that period would eventually be inducted in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The offered hand painted linen banner achieved iconic status having been on display for many years at Steelers home games at Three Rivers Stadium. Originally painted in 1974, the banner would become a visual hallmark as it related to the Steelers defensive unit. It has been featured in countless venues such as NFL Films, Sports Illustrated, and television commercials such as the Coors Light "Love Train". The hand painted banner measures 7'x11 1/2' retaining its original surface with appropriately weathered appearance. Signed at the bottom right corner by artist/creator Greg Nixon. Several areas have some wrinkling from age and a few border splits none of which affect the visual appeal. Superb item which may well be the most significant exemplar of its medium and remains, to date, the most poignant visual reminder of the most feared defense in NFL history. Includes letter of provenance from the original creator of the banner: EXEstimated Price Range: ($10,000-$15,000)
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