A piece of baseball history is about to go under the hammer at Heritage Auctions’ Spring catalog – the rare grey flannel jersey worn by Hall of Fame pitcher Walter Johnson during his time with the Washington Senators from 1919 to 1922. This iconic piece of sports memorabilia is one of only two known to still exist, making it a highly sought-after item for collectors and baseball enthusiasts alike.
The jersey has a fascinating provenance, having previously belonged to Johnson’s teammate, Eric “Swat” Erickson, before finding its way into the hands of a private collector. Despite its age, the jersey has been exceptionally well preserved, retaining its original condition and offering a glimpse into the rich history of baseball during the early 20th century.
Walter Johnson’s stellar career accomplishments have solidified his place in baseball lore, with an impressive 3,508 strikeouts and 110 shutouts to his name. Known for his dominance on the mound and unwavering dedication to the game, Johnson remains one of the most revered pitchers in the history of Major League Baseball.
The authenticity of the jersey has been certified with an A10 rating from MEARS, further supported by a letter of authenticity from renowned authenticator Dave Grob. While the jersey does show some signs of wear and rust from its storage over the years, its historical significance and connection to a baseball legend like Walter Johnson make it a truly priceless piece of memorabilia.
The last time this remarkable jersey was up for auction was in 2006 when it sold for an impressive $352,000. However, with the current surge in sports memorabilia collecting and the enduring legacy of Walter Johnson, experts are predicting that the upcoming auction could shatter previous records, with estimates suggesting that the jersey could fetch well over $3 million.
Baseball fans, historians, and collectors alike are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to bid on this extraordinary piece of baseball history. As the auction date approaches, all eyes will be on Heritage Auctions to see if this rare Walter Johnson jersey will indeed break records and find a new home with a lucky bidder who values the rich heritage and legacy of America’s favorite pastime.
