This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/10/2001.
He will always be "Mr. Cub," the most popular player the Chicago Cubs ever had. The first black player on the Cubs, Ernie Banks came up as a shortstop, where he won consecutive MVP awards. Like his contemporary Hank Aaron, Banks got his power from amazingly quick and strong wrists. After his retirement in 1971, the Cubs hoisted a pinstripe pennant with his number "14" atop the left field foul pole at Wrigley Field. He was the first Cubs player to have his number retired. In the neck of the jersey is the "Wilson" label and size "42." On the left front tail is a gray patch with the year "72" in blue chain stitch. Across the front of the jersey is the name "Chicago." The jersey was sent down to the minors where "Chicago" was taken off the front but was subsequently restored. The coach's number "14" appears on both the left breast and on the back of the jersey. The letters and numbers are made of blue on white tackle twill. Banks autograph rates an 8. The jersey shows wear and with the exception of the restored front, appears to have no other alterations of any kind.