MEARS Auction #36, Ends March 31st, 2012, 9:00 CST w/ 15-Minute Rule

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Lot #615:

1965 circa New York Jets Dan Ficca Game Worn AFL Suspension Helmet - MEARS LOA

The AFL gave its counterpart more than enough competition for the public's football heartstrings. The renegade league was colorful in the truest sense and showed us all that the game could be opened up.

After a year in Oakland, Dan Ficca played the remainder of his career in New York with the Jets. This suspension helmet, with bubble ear suspension, was donned by Ficca in 1965 and beyond. Outstanding use is shown on the white shell (now cream colored from aging) with green, orange and red transfer marks and scratches from those Sunday conflicts. The green marks could have been from Ficca's own teammates while the other scratches scream AFL battles with Kansas City and Denver. Green/white/green striping runs from front to back with the white portion raised.

Jets decals adorn the sides. A Riddell sticker on the inside reads "RD 65" which leads us to believe the helmet was created in 1965. "61" is markered into the inner right ear hole, which was Ficca's number during his Jets career. The original facemask is still intact and 12-point suspension "padding" is secured on the inside.

Celebrate the one league which could compete with the NFL with this outstanding headgear.

q0049

(MEARS Auction LOA)