Auction Item Details
Lot 349
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Lot Number: 349
Description: Johnny Unitas autographed Baltimore Colts professional model helmet c. Late 1960s to early 1970s. Gladiator model helmet has the Colts familiar blue accent strip running down the center and horseshoe logo decals on either side. Player number "19" is on the back in applied numbering. Size "7 1/4" label is below the number "1" and an impressed "Gladiator" mark is below the "9." Riddell marked two bar facemask and chin strap remain in place. Suspension style interior is an early 1970s type and it is also stamped with the size (7 1/4). The overall appearance of the interior suspension padding suggests that it was likely replaced in the period and it is presumed that the horseshoe logo decals were also replaced at this time. Refurbishing was (and in fact still is) a common practice among NFL teams and nearly all helmets undergo this process. Nice use is evident throughout the exterior of the shell was some scattered nicks and scrapes including a small area of loss to the center stripe material. Interior ear pads also show fine evident use/wear. Autographed "Johnny Unitas" in blue marker rating 7-7/8 out of 10. Noting that Unitas more commonly wore a classic Riddell model helmet this Gladiator model stamping primarily dates to the late 1960s period. The helmet has been within the Unitas Family Collection and presented directly from Johnny Unitas to his son John Jr. Includes full LOA from JSA, LOA from Hunt Auctions, and letter of provenance from the Unitas Family: EXEstimated Price Range: ($25,000-$50,000)
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