1969 Johnny Unitas Baltimore Colts Game-Used Durene Jersey
(Graded 8+ & RGU Photo-Match • Also Worn By Morral • Originally On Display At Unitas' “The Golden Arm” Restaurant)
Johnny Unitas’ Iconic Jersey: A Testament to NFL Greatness
The Legacy of “The Golden Arm”
Johnny Unitas, affectionately known as “The Golden Arm,” remains a towering figure in the annals of NFL history. His journey from being cut by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1955 to becoming a legendary quarterback for the Baltimore Colts is a tale of resilience and triumph. Unitas’ career is decorated with accolades, including induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979, ten Pro Bowl selections, five First Team All-Pro honors, three NFL MVP awards, and a Super Bowl V Championship. His legacy is immortalized in the annals of football history, making any memorabilia associated with him highly coveted.
A Jersey with Historical Significance
The jersey in question is a remarkable piece of football memorabilia, originally worn by Earl Morrall during the 1968 season and later donned by Johnny Unitas in the 1969 NFL season. This blue and white three-quarter sleeved durene jersey, with Unitas’ iconic number “19” in white tackle twill, is a testament to the dual-player use and the rich history of the Baltimore Colts. The jersey’s provenance is further enriched by its display at Unitas’ famed “The Golden Arm” restaurant, where it was showcased for many years.
Unique Features and Provenance
- Manufacturer’s Tags: The jersey features the Sand-Knit manufacturer’s tag, size “46,” with washing instructions, and the Eddie Leonard distributor’s tag.
- Number Transition: Originally numbered “15” for Morrall, the jersey was renumbered to “19” for Unitas, with stitching outlines visible from the team-instituted replacement.
- Anniversary Patch: A faint outline of the 50th Anniversary patch is present on the left shoulder, adding to its historical significance.
This jersey was presented to us as game-used and, in our opinion, shows appropriate dual player use. It is accompanied by multiple Letters of Authenticity (LOAs) confirming its match from RGU, a Photo-Match.com LOA grading the jersey an 8+, and an LOA from the original owner.
The Allure of Football Memorabilia
For collectors and enthusiasts, acquiring a piece of sports memorabilia like Johnny Unitas’ jersey is not just about owning a physical item; it’s about possessing a fragment of sports history. This jersey represents the indomitable spirit and legendary career of one of the NFL’s greatest players. As part of our football jerseys consignment, this artifact offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of the NFL’s storied past.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate fan, this jersey is a testament to the enduring legacy of Johnny Unitas and the rich history of the NFL. Don’t miss the chance to add this extraordinary piece to your collection and celebrate the remarkable achievements of “The Golden Arm.”
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.