Excellent 1996-97 Mario Lemieux game worn Pittsburgh Penguins jersey from the season before his first "retirement." Starter, NHL Center Ice, and 58-R strip tag (with "66c" in black marker) are in the collar, tail has been hemmed with "66 Lemieux '96-97" embroidered tag inside the tail. Pittsburgh is in 3-D style lettering diagonally across the chest of this black road jersey with captain's C on left breast, Pens' trident logo patch on each sleeve along with the iconic number 66 in gold-on-white tackle twill. Name is on a plate on reverse above the number in the same style. Shows moderate use with stick marks and mild pilling, fight strap intact. Though Magnificent Mario announced his retirement due to illness and injury, he was still at the top of his game with a league-leading 122 points in that 1996-97 campaign, and his ownership bid literally saved the franchise from bankruptcy before his return in 2000, only adding to his legendary status.