Historical Hockey Memorabilia Auction Winter 2021
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/23/2021
Absolutely legendary to Blueshirt supporters throughout the demise of the Original Six era, with his status confirmed by his lofty placement at 7th all-time in the noteworthy book 100 Ranger Greats, Jean Ratelle rose to prominence as the center and anchor of the famous Gag Line with Vic Hadfield and Rod Gilbert, so named for the trio’s ability to score each and every contest. Greatly admired for his face-off abilities, skilled passing and gentlemanly play, Ratelle would thrill Manhattanites for parts of 16 seasons while also representing his nation at the legendary Summit Series before concluding his Hall of Fame career as the NHL’s sixth all-time leading scorer.
Donned near the outset of his iconic career, we have an especially desirable New York Rangers jersey worn by Ratelle in 1964-65, where he saw action in 54 games. A label from Rangers’ team supplier and MSG resident Gerry Cosby is affixed to the inside hem, with a “64” year tag placed adjacently. Measuring-out to roughly a size 50, the tie-neck durene has been styled with “Rangers” placed diagonally across the chest in individual blue-over-red drop-shadow tackle twill letters, with “19” sewn to the sleeves and verso in matching material, and no nameplate over the upper reverse. Great game-use is exhibited on the vintage garment, with considerable wear to the material throughout including scrapes, marks and burns, with the material especially worn along the front collar. There is some minor staining beneath the front left shoulder, with numerous team repairs visible, including over the front (2), reverse (1), sleeves (6) and collar (4). We should also note that a few tiny holes are present on various areas of the jersey from a previous framing.
The earliest Jean Ratelle New York Rangers game-worn jersey ever offered at auction according to our knowledge, this Big Apple treasure will elicit wonderful Madison Square Garden memories for those lucky enough to have witnessed the superstar play. A signed LOA from Jean Ratelle will accompany this prized lot.
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