Classic Auctions Highlights Historic Hockey Jerseys
By Stephen Laroche | Beckett Hockey Editor
The jersey worn during one of the most controversial moments in Stanley Cup history is up for bidding as Classic Auctions gives collectors an opportunity to purchase the Dallas Stars sweater worn by Brett Hull when he scored in triple overtime to give the franchise its only championship to date back in 1999 in their June 2015 event.
While Buffalo Sabres fans are still understandably bitter that the goal still counted even though the Hockey Hall of Famer’s skate was in the crease, this is but one of the incredible hockey treasures that will be finding new homes once the auction closes on June 16.
A portion of Hull’s personal collection had been auctioned off in the past, but this time, his items are joined by prominent items from the estate of former Detroit Red Wings and 1972 Team Canada defenseman Gary Bergman and several other historical items that are truly one-of-a-kind – including a Bill Barilko Toronto Maple Leafs jersey from his final season and the last sweater ever worn by the legendary Tim Horton.
Hull has also put up several other significant items once again, including the St. Louis Blues jersey that he wore when he scored his 500th NHL goal, milestone sticks, All-Star Game jerseys, and both of the Stanley Cups that were presented to him after winning championships in Dallas and Detroit.
For modern fans that may not be familiar with the late Gary Bergman, he was a standout defender that spent the majority of his career in a Red Wings uniform. He played some of the best hockey of his career during the Summit Series and his family has authorized the sale of both jerseys he wore during the event. With a starting bid of $5,000 each, it is expected that these pieces will do very well due to their cultural significance. Also available is a lot comprised of his gloves and equipment bag along with his official Team Canada jacket.
Toronto Maple Leafs fans are sure to be keeping an eye on the Barilko jersey, which he wore during the 1950-51 campaign. While it is not the last one he ever wore, his memorabilia rarely surfaces and he is a cult figure due to the fact that just weeks after he scored a Stanley Cup-winning goal, he disappeared while on a fishing trip in Northern Ontario. His body was not found for another 11 years – the same year the Leafs won their next title.
Tim Horton’s life was tragically cut short during the 1973-74 season as he was in an auto accident while returning home following a game against Toronto. The tough-as-nails defender was playing for the Buffalo Sabres at the time and served as an influential figure to their young defense corps. While his legacy lives on today through the doughnut shops that bear his name, this is the last jersey that he ever wore and will certainly see its fair share of bids.
Among the other higlights of this auction are a 2012-13 Chicago Blackhawks Stanley Cup ring, numerous Wayne Gretzky signed items and game-used sticks, various treasures associated with Maurice Richard ranging from his 509th goal stick to a signed contract, and a wide array of vintage hockey cards – including incredibly rare Imperial Tobacco postcards from the early days of the game. Some of the most remarkable game-used sweaters on the block as well were worn by legends such as Steve Yzerman, Johnny Bucyk, Martin Brodeur and Patrick Roy.
For a look at the Classic Auctions catalog, visit them here. Bidding will close on June 16.
Stephen Laroche is the editor of Beckett Hockey. Have a comment, question or idea? Send an e-mail to him at slaroche@beckett.com. Follow him on Twitter @Stephen_Laroche.
