1977 Lester Hayes Rookie Los Angeles Raiders Game-Used & Autographed Home Jersey

Cliff Branch’s 1977 Rookie Jersey: A Testament to NFL Legacy

A Legendary Beginning

In the annals of NFL history, few players have left as indelible a mark as Cliff Branch. His 1977 rookie season with the Oakland Raiders was the start of a career that would see him become a five-time Pro Bowler and a two-time Super Bowl Champion. This jersey, worn during that iconic rookie season, is a piece of football memorabilia that captures the essence of Branch’s early impact on the game.

Unique Features and Historical Significance

The jersey is a fascinating artifact, not only for its connection to Branch but also for its unique features. On the front left tail, it bears a “Sand-Knit” manufacturer’s tag with size “LARGE (42-44)” and wash instructions. Adjacent above is another “Sand-Knit” tag that reads “Designed & Tailored Exclusively for the Oakland Raiders.” Across the front, back, and each sleeve, the player number “37” is emblazoned in silver vinyl, a testament to the experimental vinyl numbering issued for use in the ’74 season. This jersey is a 1974 shell, carried over for use when issued to Branch in his rookie year of 1977.

• Iconic Player: Represents Cliff Branch, a pivotal figure in Raiders history.
• Historical Significance: Worn during Branch’s rookie season, marking the start of a legendary career.
• Unique Provenance: Features experimental vinyl numbering, a rarity in NFL jerseys.
• Condition and Story: The jersey shows outstanding use, with cracking in the vinyl numbers, adding to its narrative.

Game-Used and Authenticated

The jersey is properly tagged and was presented to us as game-used, showing outstanding use. The cracking player number “37” in silver vinyl and the player name “HAYES” in silver tackle twill on a black nameplate are distinctive features. The spacing of the name and number is exclusive to Branch’s early career, a detail confirmed by video highlights from the Raiders’ 1977 season. The jersey is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA, further cementing its status as a prized collectible.

For collectors and enthusiasts, this jersey is more than just a piece of fabric; it is a symbol of Branch’s enduring legacy and the Raiders’ storied history. As part of our sports memorabilia auctions, it represents an opportunity to own a fragment of NFL history. Whether you are looking to sell NFL items or consign football jerseys, Grey Flannel Auctions is your trusted partner in the world of sports collectibles.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.