4/19/1997 Mario Lemieux Pittsburgh Penguins Stanley Cup Playoffs Game-Used Jersey

Mario Lemieux’s 1996-97 Game-Worn Jersey: A Piece of Hockey History

An Iconic Player and a Legendary Season

Mario Lemieux, affectionately known as “Super Mario,” is celebrated as one of the most talented players to ever grace the ice. His extraordinary career was marked by numerous accolades, including his immediate induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1997, a rare honor that waived the standard three-year waiting period. Upon his return to the NHL in 2000, Lemieux joined the ranks of Gordie Howe and Guy Lafleur as one of the few Hall of Famers to play after induction.

During the 1996-97 season, Lemieux showcased his prowess by participating in 76 games, the third-highest of his injury-riddled career. He amassed an impressive 50 goals, 72 assists, and 122 points, further solidifying his status as a hockey legend.

The Jersey’s Significance

This particular jersey holds a special place in the annals of hockey history. According to the Classic letter, it was worn by Lemieux during one of his final playoff goals before his first retirement. On April 19th, 1997, at Philadelphia’s Spectrum, Lemieux scored against Eric Lindros’ Flyers, marking the first of his last three playoff goals until his comeback in the 2000-01 season.

• Historical Moment: Worn during a pivotal playoff game against the Flyers.
• Unique Features: The jersey is adorned with a captain’s ‘C’, Lemieux’s iconic number 66, and the name “PITTSBURGH” diagonally across the front.
• Authentic Details: Includes a Center Ice / STARTER / size (58-R) tag, with handwritten notations and a customized hem.
• Provenance: Accompanied by letters from penguinschronicles.com and Classic Auctions.

A Jersey with a Story

The jersey is a black mesh masterpiece, featuring gold on white tackle twill for the player number and name. Penguins logos grace the shoulders, and the fight strap remains intact. Inside the back of the neck, tags and handwritten notes authenticate its game-used status. The jersey’s tail bears a patch with ’66 LEMIEUX ’96-97′ stitched in black, and a handwritten note inside the white band around the bottom commemorates the goal scored on April 19th, 1997.

This remarkable piece of hockey memorabilia is not just a jersey; it is a testament to Mario Lemieux’s enduring legacy and his indelible impact on the sport. The jersey is properly tagged, presented to us as game-used and in our opinion shows appropriate wear. For those looking to own a piece of hockey history, this jersey represents an unparalleled opportunity.

Explore More at Grey Flannel Auctions

At Grey Flannel Auctions, we are proud to offer an extensive collection of sports memorabilia, including items from the NHL’s greatest players. Whether you are looking to consign hockey jerseys or explore our appraisal services, we invite you to discover the world of sports history with us.

Mario Lemieux’s 1996-97 game-worn jersey is more than just a piece of fabric; it is a symbol of excellence, resilience, and the magic of hockey. Don’t miss the chance to own a fragment of this legendary player’s story.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.