Rare 1930s Red Grange Jersey Set for Auction This October
A rare jersey worn by renowned football player Harold Edward “Red” Grange during the 1930s will be auctioned on October 22, 2025. This jersey, which is believed to be the first from Grange’s career ever offered at public auction, represents a significant piece of sports history. The auction will take place at Christie’s as part of the event titled “American Greats: Vintage Sports and Hollywood from the Dr. G.B. Espy collection.”
The cream-colored road jersey, which features navy and orange stripes and bears the number “77” in felt letters, is estimated to sell for as much as $300,000. This figure is notably similar to the amount Grange earned in today’s dollars for his debut game with the Chicago Bears on Thanksgiving Day in 1925. Grange, often referred to as the “Galloping Ghost,” played a pivotal role in popularizing professional football in the United States.
One distinctive aspect of this jersey is its modification history. Originally designed with a crotch strap, it was removed when issued to Grange, revealing its unique customization. The jersey shows signs of wear, including small holes and stains, likely due to its use during games in the later years of his career. The jersey’s authenticity has been confirmed by MEARS, which has graded it an A8, indicating its excellent condition for its age.
Grange’s financial journey in football reflects the era’s challenges. In a 1929 interview with the Chicago Tribune, he acknowledged earning around $100,000 after leaving the University of Illinois, which would equate to approximately $1.8 million today. He warned that sudden wealth could lead to significant expenses, contrasting his income with that of other professions.
After sustaining a knee injury in 1927, Grange briefly left football to pursue a career in vaudeville but returned to the Chicago Bears in 1929. Following his final game in January 1935, he declined an offer from team owner George Halas to become the head coach. Grange later ventured into various businesses, including running a nightclub and working as a sales manager and sports broadcaster.
The jersey currently up for auction has an intriguing provenance. There is no record detailing how it transitioned into the collection of Goodman Basil “G.B.” Espy III, an obstetrician-gynecologist from Atlanta who passed away in November 2024. Espy was known for his extensive collection of sports memorabilia, and his life was documented in the book “The Apostle” by author Rick Hill.
A review of the Chicago Tribune archives reveals Grange wearing a similar jersey during a team photo in 1933, the same year the Bears won their first NFL championship against the New York Giants at Wrigley Field. This upcoming auction is more than just a sale; it is a chance to own a piece of football history that highlights Grange’s impact on the sport and his legacy as one of its most iconic figures.
