This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/1/2002.
Walter Payton's consistent excellence left him as the NFL's career leader in rushing yards with an incredible 16,726, but his output at Soldier Field on November 20, 1977, was even more unthinkable than his career yardage. On that day, Payton rushed for an astounding 275 yards against the Minnesota Vikings, starting strong with 144 yards on 26 first-half carries before breaking off a 58 yard run with a little more than three minutes to play. Offered here is one of the jerseys Payton wore during that record-breaking game. On the left front tail is the "Wilson" manufacturer's tag with the size "44." The player number "34" has been screened onto the front, back, and both sleeves of the jersey. On the back of the jersey is a navy nameplate with the player name "Payton" screened on. All of the letters and numbers are white with an orange outline. The tagging, numbers, and letters are consistent with other 1977 Chicago Bears game-used jerseys. On the front numbers is a black autograph reading "Chicago Bears Sweetness Walter Payton" and rating a near 10. The jersey comes with a letter of authenticity from a former Chicago Bears team official stating that the jersey was worn by Payton during his record-breaking November 20, 1977 game and later autographed by him for the consignor, who obtained the jersey after making a generous contribution to the Brian Piccolo Cancer Fund, according to the letter. The Bears told our consignor that Payton wore two jerseys in the game. It also comes with an additional letter of authenticity from our consignor. The jersey shows light game-use including nicks on the letters and numbers along with some fraying on the nameplate. It appears to have no alterations of any kind. It is certainly one of the most prized Payton jerseys in the hobby. The autograph comes with a letter from PSA/DNA.