JULY 19TH AUCTION
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/20/2013
Worn only during home games in 1948 and some road games in 1949, this Detroit Lions red jersey is extremely rare. This change in coloring scheme was brought about by their new coach and GM, Alvin "Bo" McMillin, who came to the Lions from Indiana University, bringing the new red color scheme from with him. This long sleeved, red dureen jersey has the number “55” sewn on front and back. This is a unique style which has six-button crotch area. On the crotch area are two tags, the first a “Sand-Knit” manufacturers tag, the second a “Lippman’s Sporting Goods” supply tag with attached “44” size tag. The jersey exhibits great game use, with staining, contacts marks and several areas of vintage team repairs, most notably under both arms. The all original numeral stitching shows stress, but remains intact. The No. 55 was assigned to Roger Harding in 1948 and Bap Manzini in 1949. Both players were of similar stature and played the same position. This is a very rare jersey of one of the NFL’s longest tenured franchises, worn only for a brief period in their long, storied existence. Our research could not uncover another Lions red jersey ever being offered by auction. This jersey is accompanied by a MEARS Letter of Opinion, and graded A10.