Displayed is a 1952 Truett Smith Pittsburgh Steelers' jersey that was likely game worn by Smith during a 1952 pre-season game shortly before Smith announced his retirement. Smith was a blocking back for the Steelers in 1950-51, when the Steelers still used a single wing formation. Smith was a former combat decorated U.S. Marine who in World War II was declared KIA (Killed in Action) yet survived and began his pro football career at age 26 after college at the University of Wyoming and Mississippi State University. Smith was a substitute in '50 when the Steelers were 6-6 and finished in 3rd place in the NFL's American Division. Smith became the regular blocking back in '51, when he ran the ball once for a yard and caught four passes for 71 yards for the Steelers, who finished the regular season at 4-7-1. Smith was originally drafted by the Chicago Bears in '48 and then by Pittsburgh in '50. After pro football, Truett Smith coached football in college. The jersey comes with a Letter of Opinion from Mears Authentication. The aforementioned letter states, "Original auction listing stated that the jersey was sourced from Steelers' quarterback Jim Finks with attribution to Truett Smith during preseason of 1952 prior to his retirement, though MEARS was not provided with documentation to confirm this." The jersey was originally black, but the color has faded over time. On the chest is "67", in gold sewn-on, 7.25" Tackle Twill numerals. On the back is "67", in sewn-on gold 9" Tackle Twill numerals. In the crotch strap is a Wilson manufacturer's strap and a size "44" tag. There are six black buttons in the crotch strap. The jersey exhibits a period team number change. The jersey shows great use. There are myriad team repairs that show the repeated use that vintage NFL jerseys can exhibit. Founded in 1933, the Pittsburgh football franchise is one of the older teams in the NFL, and this vintage jersey dates to when the NFL had not yet become the full, commercial success that was its destiny.