This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/24/2016
Direct from the Chicago Bears "Super Bowl Shuffle" era comes this white mesh road game-worn Bears jersey from “Sweetness,” the late, great Walter Payton, marking his most productive seasons in the NFL. The style sports Payton's most recognizable digits, with midnight blue and orange screen printing announcing his legendary uniform number "34" on the chest, back and sleeves, and "Payton" screened in similar fashion across the rear nameplate. Sleeve striping includes the memorial “GSH” in tribute to Bears icon George Halas on the left. The proper "Wilson [size] 44" label in the tail shows wear and some puckering to match the rather sizeable team repairs present in the shoulder area. Signed in Mint silver ink, it is also inscribed "Sweetness," the nickname Payton was given during his prolific rushing days at Jackson State. Payton's place in football history is undeniable, and shortly before his death in 1999 he was ranked No. 8 on The Sporting News' list of the 100 greatest football players ever. He was the highest-ranked Chicago Bear (just ahead of Dick Butkus at No. 9) and the second-highest rated running back behind only the great Jim Brown. Any game worn jersey from this gridiron star is worthy of Canton and the finest football collections. This is a keeper.
Includes letter from MEARS with A8 game-used grade (only deductions were for provenance). Full LOA from PSA/DNA (V08961) for autograph and inscription.