This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/2/2012
It's a testimony to the kind of defensive attention paid to Oscar Robertson as he rolled to a Hall of Fame career in the rough-and-tumble NBA of the 1960's; this game-worn protective headgear was something The Big O felt compelled to wear in 1967 after receiving a blow to the mouth that required several stitches. Eager to return to the lineup even in precarious shape, Robertson donned this metal monstrosity with minimal padding and played on despite having this odd accoutrement surrounding his chin and projecting a protective band in front of his mouth. Having performed its odd duties admirably, the peculiar piece of NBA memorabilia is intact but showing a bit of the ravages of time. The metal chin piece and protective mouth bar show some tarnishing but no rust; the rubber padding shows considerable wear and aging, as does the myriad straps that presumably held the piece in place to some degree or other. All in all, an extraordinary piece of NBA paraphernalia that offers a stark reminder of the kind of, uh, energetic defensive play that used to be applied to many of the game's biggest stars.
Comes with Letter of Authenticity from Oscar Robertson.