What Are Game-Used Jerseys?
These are authentic pieces of apparel that a player wore during an actual game during his professional career.
Jerseys may or may not be autographed by the player. If signed, these items will often command a higher price. Many collectors, however, prefer to have unsigned pieces, feeling that the visible autograph detracts from the authentic just-off-the-field appearance. If a jersey is to be autographed, most collectors prefer that the signature appears on the back of the jersey as they are most often displayed with the nameplate showing so as to identify the player. Further, in order to highlight the autograph, the player’s signature is usually affixed on the uniform number with a permanent marker of a contrasting color.
Why Collect Game-Used Jerseys?
Game-used jerseys and equipment is considered by many to be the pinnacle in sports memorabilia collecting. While other types of game-used items reside in many football collections, jerseys are by far the most popular item. This is especially true amongst player-specific collectors who relate owning such a piece with having a more personal connection to his or her favorite player. Additionally, every piece of game-used equipment, jerseys or other items, has a place in sports history.
Interest in this type of memorabilia is also driven by the relative scarcity of these items. In years past, players were often issued only two jerseys each year (home and road) and in some cases, players wore the same jerseys for more that one year. It is not unfathomable, that for certain players who had short playing careers, only a couple of authentic jerseys may exist.
Interest in this type of memorabilia is also driven by the relative scarcity of these items. In years past, players were often issued only two jerseys each year (home and road) and in some cases, players wore the same jerseys for more that one year. It is not unfathomable, that for certain players who had short playing careers, only a couple of authentic jerseys may exist.
What Should I Collect?
Collect what you enjoy. Although everyone would like to own a John Elway or a vintage AFL-era jersey, the cost of either may be prohibitive. If a person collects what he or she is most passionate about without regard to its value, the collector will ultimately derive maximum enjoyment from each acquisition, and that satisfaction will be repeated each time the collection is reviewed or shared with others.
How Do I Know If It's Authentic?
The question is inevitable: “How do I know if it’s authentic?” Aside from physically removing the jersey from the player on the field, novice collectors are wise to approach a potential purchase cautiously armed with a healthy dose of skepticism. As experience is gained over time, a collector will develop a trained eye and an understanding of the hobby. There are several items to be taken into consideration when attempting to determine the authenticity of a jersey. In the following section, we have highlighted the most crucial elements regarding authenticity.