This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/3/2020
In Green Bay’s first trip to the NFL title game under legendary coach Vince Lombardi on December 31, 1961, the Packers demolished the New York Giants by the score of 37-0. This offered ring was issued to rookie tight end Lee Folkins, who primarily served as Ron Kramer’s backup during his lone season in Wisconsin. Interestingly enough, it was Folkins’ second championship in the same calendar year; in January ‘61, his Washington Huskies won the Rose Bowl and were named by Helms as 1960 College Football National Champions. Folkins joined the Cowboys in 1962 where he became the starting tight end and made the 1963 Pro Bowl.
The lovely 1961 Packers World Championship 14-karat gold ring features a large round-cut diamond mounted atop a green stone in the shape of a football. “1961 Green Bay Packers World Champs” surrounds the face in raised relief. One shank has the final score of the game (“Green Bay 37 - New York 0”) with large “NFL” letters below. The other shank depicts a ballcarrier in the Heisman pose with “FOLKINS” at the top and the tight end’s uniform number “81” at the bottom. Inside the band is the proper “Jostens 14K” hallmark. Ring comes in size 12 and weighs 28 grams. Presents in terrific condition with light to moderate wear. Needless to say, ’61 Packers player rings rarely come up for auction, especially one from such a pivotal season in franchise history that marks the beginning of “Titletown.” Includes LOA from Folkins.