This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/6/2015
Few modern uniforms can compete with the offered example in terms of both rarity and historical significance. This is one of the very last Yankees home uniforms ever worn by the beloved Yankee Captain Thurman Munson in his final season of 1979. Munson was one of the finest all-around catchers of his era and another in a long line of legendary Yankees players. He was the 1970 American League Rookie of the Year, a six-time All-Star and League MVP, who helped lead the Yankees to three pennants and two World Championships during his brief career. In addition to his remarkable offensive achievements (including three consecutive seasons of batting over .300 with 100 or more RBI) Munson was also awarded three Gold Glove Awards in recognition of his defensive skills. In 1976 he received possibly his highest honor when he was named the team’s first captain since Lou Gehrig. Like Gehrig, Munson led by example and was modest by nature, happy to deflect the spotlight away from himself and onto his teammates. His tragic death in 1979 remains one of the darkest days in Yankees history. Today, Munson’s No. “15” has been retired and in deference to his memory, Munson’s locker remains empty in the Yankee clubhouse; a silent tribute to one of the greatest players in team history.
This white knit pinstripe jersey and pants are totally original and unaltered. Munson’s name, along with the year and set number of the jersey (“Munson 79 2”) are chain-stitched in blue upon a strip tag in the collar. A “Wilson 44” label is situated on the left front tail. The matching pants feature a “Wilson” label in the waistband. The Size 35 1/2 is chain stitched in navy upon the Wilson label. Adjacent to the manufacturer’s label is a white strip tag that features Munson’s name, the year, the set number and the inseam measurement (“Munson 79 2 22”) chain-stitched in navy. The jersey displays moderate wear, while the wear is much lighter with the pants. Originating from Munson’s estate, the uniform comes with a signed LOA from Munson’s widow, Diana Munson. Additional LOA from MEARS (A10).