1982-83 Larry Bird Boston Celtics Game-Used Home Jersey
(Photo-Matched To Multiple Games Including A 26-Point Playoff Performance • Boston Garden Employee LOA)
Larry Bird’s 1983 Game-Worn Jersey: A Piece of Basketball History
An Iconic Legacy
Larry Bird, a name synonymous with basketball greatness, has left an indelible mark on the sport. With three NBA championships, three regular season MVP awards, and two NBA Finals MVP awards, Bird’s career is a testament to excellence. His inclusion in the NBA’s 50th Anniversary All-Time Team and the retirement of his No. 33 jersey by the Boston Celtics further cement his legendary status. Bird’s contributions to the game have also earned him two inductions into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
The Jersey’s Provenance
This particular jersey is a remarkable artifact from Bird’s illustrious career. It is photo-matched to April 19th, 1983, when the Celtics faced the Atlanta Hawks in the first round of the NBA playoffs. In that game, Bird delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 26 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and dishing out five assists. The jersey features a “Sand Knit” distributor’s tag reading, “Designed & Tailored Exclusively for the BOSTON CELTICS,” and a size “46” manufacturer’s tag. The materials tag with washing instructions is located on the right inseam.
Unique Characteristics
- Team and Player Details: The jersey proudly displays “CELTICS” across the chest, with Bird’s iconic number “33” on both the front and back. The player name “BIRD” is emblazoned across the back.
- Distinctive Features: The numbering and lettering, done in green tackle twill, were locally crafted, resulting in a slight off-coloring typical of the Celtics during this era. The “R” in Bird is an atypical Sand-Knit “R”.
- Condition: The jersey shows signs of game use, with a small stain near “CELTICS” and some fading on the player number and name. Two light blue marks are present on the back of the jersey.
Authentication and Provenance
This jersey was presented to us as game-used and, in our opinion, shows outstanding game use. It is accompanied by a letter from PM&G, rating the jersey a 9, and an LOA from a Boston Garden employee. The employee, responsible for storing game uniforms for the Celtics, recounts how the jersey passed through their store. The photo-matching and grading authentication were performed by a new hobby service for game-used material, PM&G. More information can be found at Photo-Match.com.
Why This Jersey Matters
This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it is a tangible connection to Larry Bird’s legendary career and the rich history of the Boston Celtics. As a part of our basketball memorabilia auctions, it offers collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of NBA history. Whether you are looking to consign sports memorabilia or explore our extensive collection, Grey Flannel Auctions is your trusted partner in the world of sports memorabilia auctions.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.