Winter 2014 Auction Closing Feb 7
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/8/2014
Jim Gosger, a well-traveled outfielder, was promoted to the New York Mets on Sept. 5, 1969 after helping Tidewater, the franchise’s Triple-A affiliate, win an International League title. He played sparingly, logging just 15 at-bats down the stretch for the “Miracle Mets,” who went on to win the first-ever National League East crown before capturing the franchise’s first World Series title with a 4-1 series win over the Baltimore Orioles. Gosger wasn’t eligible to play in the postseason, but he did document the thrilling experience of winning the first-ever NL East division title with the team in the following letter. As a memory, Gosger’s goal was to keep his 1969 New York Mets jacket as a memento. The following letter is his recollection of the event: “Jeff, In 1969, I was privileged to be part of the N.Y. Mets world championship team. The night we clinched the Division and during the clubhouse celebration, I asked our clubhouse manager if it would be possible that I might keep my Met jacket. Not knowing what response I would get, he just smiled at me and said “Take it” I was shocked, never forget that night! Best wishes, Jim Gosger.” The jacket is a remarkable piece of history considering what it went through with the Mets. The Met blue wool jacket features a thick, orange chenille “NY” logo on the left chest and a Mets logo with the New York City skyline on the left sleeve. The inside of the jacket is lined in orange satin and features a “Wilson” manufacturer’s tag with size “42” stitched in the lower left corner. The inside collar of the jacket features a tattered name plate that is not legible, however remnants of black marker writing can be seen. The collar of the jacket shows signs of use and is discolored in the center, but is in overall great condition outside of some minor fraying. The 44-year old iconic jacket does show some other expected signs of wear. The elastic waist band is ripped around the majority of the left side and small holes can found scattered on both sleeves. A small hole on the back collar of the jacket near the name plate stitching is evident, as are some on the front of the jacket along the bottom buttons. Both elastic cuffs show signs of fraying. The left front pocket is in ideal condition, while the front right pocket has a small tear. Both pockets are lined in wool. The jackets buttons appear to be all original and show normal signs of wear. Gosger’s letter verifying the authenticity of this one-of-a-kind jacket comes with PSA/DNA certification number “V53838.”