1960s Larry Wilson St. Louis Cardinals Game-Used & Autographed Helmet
Larry Wilson’s Game-Used Helmet: A Testament to Football Greatness
A Legendary Career in the NFL
Larry Wilson’s journey from cornerback to free safety is a tale of adaptability and excellence. His illustrious career is marked by eight Pro Bowl selections and his inclusion in the NFL’s 75th Anniversary Team, as well as the All-Decade Teams for both the 1960s and 1970s. Inducted into the Football Hall of Fame in 1978, Wilson’s legacy is further immortalized by the retirement of his number “8” by the Cardinals organization.
The Helmet: A Piece of Football History
This Rawlings helmet, a relic of Wilson’s storied career, bears the player number “8” inscribed in black marker on both ear holes and the back. The size “7 1/8” is also handwritten twice inside the right earhole, a testament to its authenticity. The inner suspension padding remains fully intact, ensuring the helmet’s structural integrity. On the back outer shell, the inscriptions “7 1/8” and “Rawlings MADE IN USA” are prominently displayed, alongside the iconic Cardinals team logo on both sides.
- Player Number: “8” inscribed in black marker
- Size: “7 1/8” handwritten twice
- Team Logo: Cardinals logo on both sides
- Facemask: Riddell double bar, fully intact
A Signature of Excellence
Adding to the helmet’s allure is Larry Wilson’s signature on the outer shell, penned in blue ink with the inscription “HOF 78.” In our expert opinion, the signature rates a 7, with minor fading at the end of “Wilson.” This helmet is properly tagged, was presented to us as game-used and shows wear, accompanied by an ALOA from JSA.
Why This Helmet Matters
This helmet is not just a piece of football memorabilia; it is a tangible connection to Larry Wilson’s remarkable career and the indelible impact he left on the game. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, this helmet represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of NFL history.
At Grey Flannel Auctions, we are proud to offer such exceptional items that celebrate the legacy of sports legends. Whether you are looking to consign football jerseys or explore our extensive collection of sports memorabilia, we invite you to join us in honoring the achievements of athletes like Larry Wilson.
For those interested in acquiring this extraordinary artifact, we encourage you to participate in our NFL auctions and become a part of preserving sports history.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.