1979-80 Joe Montana San Francisco 49ers Game-Used Rookie Jersey
(Graded A10 • Sourced From Equipment Manager Through Lon Lewis • Earliest Fully Documented Career Example)
Joe Montana’s 1979 Game-Used Jersey: A Legendary Artifact
An Iconic Piece of Football History
Joe Montana, a name synonymous with excellence in the realm of football memorabilia, set the benchmark for quarterbacks with his remarkable career achievements. An eight-time Pro Bowl candidate, Montana ranks among the top ten in all-time pass attempts, completions, passing yards, and passing touchdowns. His legacy is further solidified by two regular season MVP awards, three Super Bowl MVP awards, and four Super Bowl Championships, earning him a revered place in the upper echelons of professional athletes. Inducted into the Football Hall of Fame in 2000, Montana’s influence on the game is indelible.
The Jersey’s Unique Provenance
This particular jersey, a Wilson size “44”, is a testament to Montana’s early career. It features the iconic number “16” in red vinyl across the front, back, and sleeves, with “MONTANA” emblazoned on a white nameplate on the back. Presented to us as game-used, this jersey is properly tagged and, in our opinion, shows appropriately light quarterback use, reflecting Montana’s limited playtime during the 1979 season. As the second-string quarterback behind Steve DeBerg, Montana attempted only 23 passes that year. However, his role expanded significantly in 1980, with 273 pass attempts and 15 touchdowns.
A Jersey with Historical Significance
- Earliest Known Fully Documented Jersey: This is the earliest known fully documented Joe Montana jersey to have ever gone to auction.
- Rookie Season Artifact: Either worn during his inaugural NFL season or his rookie season, this jersey is a rare find.
- Provenance: Originally sourced from 49ers equipment manager Chico Norton through hobby veteran Lon Lewis, adding a layer of authenticity and allure.
- Accompanied by MEARS LOA: The jersey comes with a MEARS Letter of Authenticity, grading it an A10, underscoring its exceptional quality.
Why This Jersey Matters
This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it is a fragment of football history, representing the early days of a player who would go on to redefine the quarterback position. For collectors and enthusiasts, owning such a piece is akin to holding a piece of the NFL’s storied past. As part of our sports memorabilia auctions, this jersey stands out as a testament to Joe Montana’s enduring legacy and the remarkable journey of his career.
For those interested in exploring more about consigning NFL items or seeking appraisals for game-worn items, Grey Flannel Auctions offers unparalleled expertise and a platform to showcase such extraordinary artifacts. This Joe Montana jersey is a prime example of the treasures that await in our football auctions.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.