questions about ID-ing game used jerseys
 

hi, ive never collected game used stuff very much so ive got a few dumb questions if someone more knowledgeable doesn't mind helping me out... I just picked up this jersey that is believed to be game used. (I assume from the tag from the 1989 season, which would be Ben McDonald's rookie season). What am I supposed to look for to know for sure that it's game used or even team issued and not from the sporting goods store? Is that maybe what the "T" means? does psa/dna or someone like that certify equipment as game used? And maybe a long shot, but was wondering if any of you have a 1989 orioles road jersey to compare to it. thanks for any help!

http://photos.sportscollectors.net/585762.jpg

http://photos.sportscollectors.net/585764.jpg

http://photos.sportscollectors.net/585763.jpg

Here is a Ripken one from the same season:

https://sports.ha.com/itm/baseball-c...a/7190-81405.s

The "T" means the jersey should be tapered, I think.

Awesome, thanks for the link. It does look similar to mine.

So is that the only way to verify them? to compare to others from that team/season? Im sure there's not a huge market for Ben McDonald jerseys but just asking for future reference. This one supposedly came from a dealer with connections to the orioles. He did have a number of other apparently game used jerseys for sale as well.

This is essential for any game used jersey collector.

https://gamewornguides.com/

You can buy the full version or just a version for each team.

Oh wow, That’s a great resource. Thanks!

Seconded. Anyone just getting into collecting game used jerseys should absolutely buy Bill's guides, worth every penny.

That Ben McDonald jersey is 100% good.

Also bill is on Twitter
@Mlbdreamshop
He is a good follow and friendly man
Andy

How about pants? I have a pair of supposedly game worn Ozzie Smith pants. I can post pictures of tags etc if it helps.

Pants typically follow the team’s jersey tagging norms and can have lots of info
(Set, year, uniform number and waist and inseam measurements) or very little. Often pants will be passed down in years or to the minors (like jerseys) and may have additional player’s names written in the waist band.

Let me dig them out and post some photos. Would be a pleasant surprise if they were good. Though I am sure that even though they are rarer to market they are less popular than jerseys.

I have no opinion on the jersey, but note that uniform items with correct tagging may have been made for use by the player but may not have actually been worn by him. Other factors such as provenance and evidence of appropriate wear need to be considered.

Pants are a tough sell. A lot of collectors don't like them. Personally, I would never buy pants or shoes even if worn by my favorite player.

But if legitimate Ozzie Smith, I know someone would want them.