1972 Willie Mays San Francisco Giants Game-Used Road Flannel Uniform

Willie Mays’ Final San Francisco Giants Uniform: A Piece of Baseball History

A Legendary Career

Willie Mays, often hailed as one of the greatest players in Major League Baseball history, was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame on the first ballot in 1979. His illustrious career is marked by numerous accolades, including 24 All-Star selections, a World Series championship, and two National League MVP awards. Mays led the National League in home runs four times and dazzled fans with his defensive prowess, earning 12 Gold Glove Awards. His legacy is cemented by iconic moments and unforgettable catches that have become part of baseball lore.

The Uniform’s Significance

This particular uniform holds a special place in the annals of baseball history. It is believed to be the last uniform worn by Willie Mays as a member of the San Francisco Giants. As the Giants transitioned from flannels to knits during the 1972 season, Mays was traded to the New York Mets after just 19 games, never donning a knit uniform for the Giants. This road flannel uniform, therefore, represents the end of an era for Mays and the Giants.

Provenance and Details

The uniform was gifted by Mays to fellow Hall of Famer Willie McCovey and was displayed at McCovey’s restaurant in Walnut Creek, CA. The jersey features a grey strip tag inside the collar with “Mays” embroidered in black script. Across the chest, “SAN FRANCISCO” is emblazoned, while the back proudly displays Mays’ iconic number “24.” All lettering and numbering are crafted in black on orange tackle twill. The pants bear the Spalding manufacturer’s tag, a year “72” tag, and a strip tag reading “Mays 24-32-25” inside the waistband. Seamstress notes, “W 33” Take In Legs + Tighten Elastic,” are penciled in adjacent to the tag.

• Historical Significance: Likely the last uniform worn by Willie Mays as a San Francisco Giant.
• Iconic Player: Represents the legendary career of Willie Mays, a Hall of Famer and baseball icon.
• Unique Provenance: Gifted to Willie McCovey and displayed at his restaurant.
• Condition and Authenticity: Presented to us as game-used and shows appropriately light use, with a Photo-Match.com LOA grading the jersey a perfect 10.

A Rare Opportunity

This uniform is not just a piece of fabric; it is a tangible connection to the storied career of Willie Mays and the rich history of the San Francisco Giants. For collectors and baseball enthusiasts, this is a rare opportunity to own a piece of baseball memorabilia that embodies the greatness of one of the game’s all-time legends. Explore more of our exclusive baseball memorabilia auctions and discover the treasures that await.

Whether you are looking to sell your own sports memorabilia or simply wish to appraise your collection, Grey Flannel Auctions is your trusted partner in the world of sports collectibles. Join us in celebrating the legacy of Willie Mays and the timeless allure of baseball history.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.