This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/12/2017
Jerry Rice, ranked #1 on the list of the top 100 greatest players in NFL History, wore and signed this San Francisco 49ers red home jersey as well as the accompanying pair of gloves during his record-setting season. This Reebok Authentic Pro Line size 46 jersey was worn throughout the 1998 campaign (primarily later in the season) and has been specifically photo-matched to at least two games. The jersey has the other proper tagging and lettering expected, with “80” on the front and back. “RICE” is placed on a name plate below the neckline on the back. The jersey is signed vertically on the back “0” in black Sharpie.
The unwashed jersey, in our opinion, appears to show characteristics of incredible game use including blood stains. The accompanying Proline gloves are each signed in black Sharpie and show incredible multiple game use with staining and excessive wear.
The provenance of this 49ers jersey cannot be understated. There are photo-match characteristics to a number of games during the 1998 NFL season including a November 22, 1998, contest in which San Francisco toppled the New Orleans Saints, 31-20. In the 3rd quarter of that game, Rice took an 8-yard pass from QB Steve Young into the end zone. The are also photo-match characteristics to the season opener on September 6, 1998 where Rice hauled in 6 receptions and a Touchdown which helped defeat the New York Jets by a score of 36-30. The jersey is also photo-matched to a December 14, 1998 49ers victory over the Detroit Lions and also shows photo-match characteristics to the final game of the 1998 regular season which was a December 27, 1998 victory over the Saint Louis Rams. The jersey accompanied by a meigray photo match letter of authenticity as well as PSA/DNA pre certifications for the signatures.