5/1/1999 Tony Gwynn San Diego Padres Game-Used & Autographed Batting Helmet
(JSA • Hit No. 2,964)
Tony Gwynn’s Game-Used Helmet: A Piece of Baseball History
An Icon of the Game
Tony Gwynn, a first-ballot Hall of Famer, remains an enduring symbol of excellence in Major League Baseball. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2007, Gwynn’s illustrious career is marked by his unparalleled achievements. He led the National League in batting an astounding eight times, was named to 15 All-Star teams, and garnered five Gold Glove Awards alongside seven Silver Slugger Awards. His legacy is immortalized with the retirement of his No. 19 by the San Diego Padres.
The Helmet’s Unique Features
This remarkable helmet, a testament to Gwynn’s storied career, is adorned with distinctive features that speak to its authenticity and significance:
- Manufacturer’s Mark: Inside the shell, an “american baseball cap” size “7 1-8” sticker is prominently displayed.
- Historical Inscription: The inside rear cushion bears the inscription “5/1/99 CUBS 2,964” in black pen, marking a pivotal moment in Gwynn’s career as he approached his 3,000th hit during the 1999 season.
- Team and Player Identifiers: The helmet features the “SD” logo in white and orange on the front, with an “ABC” logo sticker and the player number “19” decal on the back.
- Authenticity: An “Authentic Sports Investments” hologram sticker “42187” further validates the helmet’s provenance.
A Signature of Excellence
Adding to its allure, Gwynn’s signature graces the bill of the helmet in silver pen, rated a 6 overall in our expert opinion. This helmet is properly tagged, was presented to us as game-used, and in our opinion shows appropriate use with scuffing along the outer shell. Such wear and tear only enhance its narrative, reflecting the intensity and passion of Gwynn’s gameplay.
Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity
This extraordinary piece of baseball memorabilia is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from JSA, ensuring its place as a cherished artifact in any collection. The helmet not only represents Gwynn’s personal achievements but also serves as a symbol of the rich history and tradition of baseball.
Why This Helmet Matters
For collectors and enthusiasts, this helmet is more than just a piece of equipment; it is a tangible connection to the legacy of one of baseball’s greatest hitters. As part of our sports memorabilia auctions, it offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of history that celebrates the remarkable career of Tony Gwynn. Whether you are looking to consign baseball jerseys or explore other appraisals for MLB items, Grey Flannel Auctions is your trusted partner in preserving the legacy of sports legends.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.