Historical Hockey and Sports Memorabilia Auction April 2024
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/30/2024
One of the truly great stories that make up the rich history of the game, Ray Bourque devoted 21 seasons to the Boston Bruins, and despite leading a number of talented clubs, the Beantowners were never able to grasp a championship during his tenure. With the desire to hoist Lord Stanley’s grail before his career ended, Ray played his final season and a half with Colorado, and was able to realize his dream, becoming a Stanley Cup champion during the final game of his HOF career. Offered here, we present this Avalanche jersey worn by Bourque that is attributed to his first postseason as a member of the Avalanche. Said to be acquired by the original owner from an Avalanche employee in the included LOA that is typed out on MeiGray letterhead, the employee also stated that the jersey was worn by Bourque during Game 3 (April 17th) and Game 4 (April 19th) of Colorado's Western Conference Quarter Finals series against the Phoenix Coyotes. A lightweight mesh construction jersey made by Pro Player, a brand label that carries an "Authentic Collection" designation is affixed to the inner collar along with a fly tag that showcases size "56" and "Made in Canada" notations as well. Displaying the logos of both Pro Player and the NHL that have been embroidered into the reverse hem, the front of the jersey is decorated with an Avalanche team crest that features embroidered details throughout while matching alternate logo patches have been added over both shoulders. Featuring the NHL2000 patch that was worn by all the leagues teams throughout the course of the season over the right breast, the sleeves and verso have had Bourque's familiar number "77" sewn to them in stacked tri-layer tackle twill numerals, with "Bourque" having been spelt out in single layer white tackle twill letters across the affixed matching and arching nameplate at the top of the reverse. Signed by Bourque over the top of the first "7" on the reverse with a black marker ink signature that displays well despite some minor fading and bleeding, the jersey exhibits good game-wear with stick marks over the front, reverse and left sleeve while a couple spot stains are seen near the left elbow and lower reverse as well. With the sleeves of the jersey having shortened and taken in a little of Ray's liking, the jersey comes accompanied by the aforementioned LOA as well as a MeiGray COR.
Of note, it is worth noting that Bourque is known to have often worn multiple jerseys within any given game or set, and has been known to gift game jerseys to people, including staff, throughout his career.
By clicking this button, you will IMMEDIATELY bid the amount selected.
By clicking this button, you will submit this amount as your MAXIMUM (absentee) bid. The auction software will place bids on your behalf up to this amount only as it is bid against competitively by other bidder(s).