Historical Hockey and Sports Memorabilia Auction November 2023
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/28/2023
Joining his famous brother as an NHL superstar beginning in the 1968-69 season as a member of the Stanley Cup-champion Montreal Canadiens, goaltender Tony Esposito was claimed on waivers by the Chicago Black Hawks the following season where he earned the coveted Calder Memorial Trophy. Tony O would guard the “Madhouse on Madison” crease for his entire career, appearing in six All-Star Games while securing a trio of Vezina trophies. Offered here, we present this stick used by the netminder during the early-1970s while guarding the Chicago crease. A Northland made "Custom Pro" model with “Esposito” stamped to the upper shaft and “35” handwritten above in black marker ink, the original black tape remains over the blade and paddle, with white-over-black tape to the knob. Sporting additional from Black Hawks equipment supplier Gunzo's over both sides of the upper shaft as well, the part of the stick where the shaft meets the handle has been sanded down to "Tony-O's" liking, likely done by the man himself. Exhibiting excellent game-use throughout, numerous puck marks are seen over both sides of the paddle and shaft with the upper portion also sporting some red post paint transfer marks as well. With wear to the blade tape including some marks and soiling over both sides, the backhand side also exhibits wear via dings and small tears from making contact with Tony's skate blade tips. With a large crack felt to the blade of the stick under the tape, additional wear is also found along the underside of the blade, prominent towards the heel where a small crack/chip is also present. A Classic Auctions LOA will accompany the piece.
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