This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/31/2005.
Yellow and black safari helmet worn by Pittsburgh Pirates HOF slugger Willie Stargell in batting practice during the 1981 season. The helmet was given to him by a fan, and he liked it so much that he wore it throughout the season, as it cheered up his teammates. The black stripes, number "8" and Pirates "P" are all hand painted. Stargell has signed the brim in black marker and added the inscription "My Man Mark (Boog)," in reference to his teammate Mark Lee whose letter accompanies this item. The letter states in part "On the last of the season in 1981, Willie asked me if I would like to have his helmet...he autographed it to my man mark (boog)." Helmet shows light use with head gear affixed on the inside, along with the manufacturer's and safety tags. Signature and inscription grade an overall 8-9. Accompanied by a LOA from James Spence Authentication.