Winter 2014 Auction Closing Feb 7
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/8/2014
You won’t see the number 35 on the backs of any Braves players these days. That’s because Hall of Famer Phil Niekro, one of only 24 pitchers to notch 300 career wins, had his jersey retired in 1997 thanks to his 18 dominant seasons in Atlanta. This powder blue, pullover jersey was worn by Niekro in the 1981 strike-shortened season which saw him go 7-7 in 22 starts with an impressive 3.10 ERA. All as a 42 year old! The jersey features “Atlanta” scripted in cursive across the chest and Niekro’s number “35” on both sides in royal blue-on-white tackle twill. His name “NIEKRO” appears across the back of the jersey in royal blue tackle twill on a powder blue name plate. The front tail of the jersey features a powder blue strip tag with “81” stitched in royal blue, indicating the jersey’s year. The inside collar features a “Wilson” manufacturer’s tag with size “44.” The Braves made a real fashion statement in these unique uniforms and it’s a wonderful item of Niekro’s to add to any collection. The jersey shows heavy use and comes with an LOA from Mears Memorabilia Evaluation and Research Services, who have graded this jersey an A9.5.