1969 Larry Csonka AFL Miami Dolphins Game-Used Jersey

Larry Csonka’s Game-Worn Jersey: A Testament to Football Greatness

A Legendary Career

Larry Csonka, a name synonymous with power and perseverance, was the #1 pick by the American Football League’s Miami Dolphins in the 1968 Common Draft. As the first running back drafted in the first round, Csonka quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Dolphins’ offense. Over the next four seasons, he never missed a game, leading the Dolphins in rushing for five consecutive seasons. His remarkable performance during the 1972 season, where he rushed for a career-best 1,117 yards, was instrumental in the Dolphins’ historic undefeated season, a feat unmatched since the AFL-NFL Merger. Csonka’s contributions to the game were immortalized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987.

The Jersey: A Piece of Football History

This aqua durene jersey, worn by Csonka, is a rare and valuable piece of football memorabilia. The front tail of the jersey has been cut, including the removal of the crotch piece, a testament to its game-worn status. On the left front tail, the silk-screened “Wilson” tag with wash instructions and jersey size “48” is prominently displayed. The player number “39” is emblazoned on the front, back, and both sleeves in white on orange tackle twill, while the name “CSONKA” appears on the back in white tackle twill block letters on an aqua nameplate. The sleeves feature an elastic hem, and the jersey is adorned with numerous large team repairs, further attesting to its use on the field.

Authenticity and Provenance

Presented to us as game-used, this jersey is properly tagged and, in our opinion, shows outstanding wear. It is accompanied by a letter from Resolution Photomatching and a Heritage LOA, ensuring its place as a genuine artifact of football history. However, it is important to note that while there is no question that this jersey was indeed used by Csonka, PSA/DNA deemed the signatures on the jersey to be “inauthentic,” likely scribed by someone in the Dolphins locker room.

Why This Jersey Matters

• Historical Significance: Worn by Larry Csonka during his illustrious career with the Miami Dolphins.
• Iconic Player: Represents a Hall of Famer and a key figure in the Dolphins’ undefeated 1972 season.
• Game-Worn Authenticity: Properly tagged and accompanied by letters of authenticity, showcasing its genuine use on the field.
• Condition and Story: The numerous repairs and alterations tell a story of resilience and triumph on the gridiron.

A Legacy Beyond the Field

Larry Csonka’s impact on the game extends far beyond his playing days. His legacy is one of strength, determination, and excellence, qualities that are embodied in this remarkable jersey. As a piece of sports memorabilia, it offers a unique opportunity to own a fragment of football history, a symbol of Csonka’s enduring influence and the indelible mark he left on the game. For those looking to consign football jerseys or explore other game-worn items appraisals, Grey Flannel Auctions stands ready to assist in preserving and celebrating the legacy of sports legends like Larry Csonka.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.