This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/10/2004.
The House of David was a Jewish religious group established in Michigan in 1903. Benjamin Purnell, a sports enthusiast, was the leader of the group. Purnell started a baseball team and in the winter of 1954 this particular group decided to play against college All-American teams in basketball. They were mostly known for baseball, but this incredibly rare warmup is from their basketball team. Inside the back of the collar is the "WILSON" manufacturer's tag. Inside the front left tail is the "WILSON" manufacturer's tag. Inside the front right tail of the jacket is "Leonard-44" done in blue chain stitch. On the left breast is the "ALL AMERICAN 1954" patch. On the back cape is "HOUSE OF DAVID" done in red on blue tackle twill. The back tail is restored. The jacket shows a great deal of wear and except for the above mentioned change it appears to have no alterations of any kind. This unbelievable piece comes with original letterhead describing provenance from the House of David.