1950s Yogi Berra NY Yankees Game-Used & Autographed Catchers Mask

Yogi Berra’s Game-Worn Catcher’s Mask: A Testament to Baseball Greatness

A Legendary Career in New York

Yogi Berra, a name synonymous with baseball excellence, spent an illustrious 40 years in New York, gracing both the Bronx and Queens with his presence as a player, coach, and manager. His remarkable career is adorned with 13 World Series Championships, a testament to his enduring impact on the game. From 1948 to 1962, Berra was a perennial All-Star, earning 15 selections and three AL MVP awards in the early 1950s. His prowess at the plate was matched by his defensive skills, making him a formidable force in baseball history.

The Catcher’s Mask: A Piece of Baseball History

This particular catcher’s mask, worn by Yogi Berra during the 1950s, is a rare and invaluable piece of baseball memorabilia. Presented to us as game-worn, it comes with a photo style match, adding to its authenticity and allure. The mask features a black metal facemask stitched into soft leather padding, lightly toned from use, and a vertical brown leather strap branded with “YOGI BERRA” and the inventory number “1514”. A horizontal blue spandex strap, adorned with a Spalding manufacturer’s tag, completes this iconic piece.

Exemplary Game Use and Autograph

• Game Use: The mask exhibits excellent game-use characteristics, with sweat marks on the inside and significant chipping on the metal mask itself.
• Autograph: Yogi Berra has autographed the chin of the mask in silver paint marker, with the signature rating a strong 8.
• Provenance: Accompanied by a Berra LOA on Yankees letterhead and a JSA LOA, ensuring its historical significance and authenticity.

A Legacy of Excellence

Yogi Berra’s ability to hit poor pitches with precision and his defensive agility behind the plate are legendary. His quickness and mobility allowed him to handle all kinds of pitchers, including Don Larsen during his 1956 World Series perfect game. This catcher’s mask is not just a piece of equipment; it is a symbol of Berra’s enduring legacy and his unparalleled contributions to the sport. For those looking to add a piece of history to their sports memorabilia collection, this mask represents an opportunity to own a fragment of baseball’s golden era.

Explore more about our consignment opportunities and discover other exceptional items in our baseball auctions. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate fan, Grey Flannel Auctions offers a gateway to the world of appraising sports memorabilia and celebrating the legends of the game.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.