June 21, 2017 Summer Games Catalog Auction (#48)

Lot #335:

1978 Johnny Bench Cincinnati Reds Game-Used Road Jersey (Photo-Matched • Great Use With Clear Chest Protector Wear Pattern)

A two-time MVP and perhaps the best catcher in major league history, Johnny Bench led the league in HRs twice and RBIs three times. His Cincinnati Reds dominated the NL in the 1970s winning four pennants and back-to-back world championships in 1975-76. On the left inseam is the Wilson manufacturer’s tag size “44” with washing instructions. Adjacent is a strip tag that reads, “78 1” representing the year and the set number embroidered in red. Across the chest reads “CINCINNATI” and below is player number “5”. Across the back reads player name “BENCH” and below is “5”. All numbering and lettering is done in red tackle twill. There is great use on the back where the catcher’s chest protector was worn. This jersey is properly tagged, was presented to us as game-used and in our opinion shows outstanding use.

Please note that the photo-matching and grading authentication work on this jersey was performed by a new hobby service for game-used material PM&G. More information can be found at Photo-Match.com