Wednesday, 04 August 2010
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Game Worn Sports Memorabilia
Perhaps no other segment of the sports collecting hobby has grown more over the last decade than game worn memorabilia.What was once an afterthought among a group that embraced sports cards more than anything else, has blossomed into a major part of the industry. Teams across all professional sports now treat their game used jerseys and other equipment as commodities rather than something to be recycled or used again.
What is it about game worn memorabilia that has attracted such a large following? The answer may be tied to…sports cards. As collectors began to grow frustrated with the large number of products issued in each of the major sports, some slid out of that arena and into an area that was much more limited or exclusive. Most game used equipment or game used jerseys aren’t produced in quantity. There can be only one jersey worn by Alex Rodriguez when he hit his 500th home run There’s only one game worn NHL jersey from the night he set a scoring record.
While some players do wear multiple jerseys, even during one game, that still leaves a relatively small number available. If you have a game worn jersey from Albert Pujols, you know you’re part of a very small number of collectors who have managed to secure one. That likely means as long as Pujols continues to produce, the jersey will increase in value over time.
Tying specific players to moments is a special connection for collectors. Game worn jerseys are also colorful and look great on display. Heck, you can even wear it if you want to. They’re phenomenal conversation pieces for sports fans.
One issue for game worn memorabilia collectors, of course, is authenticity. Replica jerseys are often so close in feel and design to the authentic ones worn by players, a novice can sometimes get fooled. It’s wise to do your homework online about the specific tagging and other characteristics to look for in a real jersey. The old adage that says ‘if it sounds too good to be true it probably is’ fits here. Bargains can be had, but be sure to come armed with knowledge if you’re looking to make a deal.
Look for letters of authenticity from companies like MEARS for higher-priced or very old jerseys. Pay close attention to a seller’s eBay feedback and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Minor league jerseys usually aren’t being faked and those can be just as much fun to own as those from the big league clubs. They’re colorful and a lot less expensive, especially minor league hockey jerseys.
You can get information about framing a jersey online. Minor League Jerseys also offers links to a large selection of game worn memorabilia as well as information on these unique sports collectibles that bring us a little closer to the games.
Please check out my other blog on T206 Vintage Baseball Cards
