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Lot # 878: 1954 Howie Judson Cincinnati Reds Game Worn Cap

Starting Bid: $200.00

Bids: 6 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed
Lot / Auction Closed




This lot is closed. Bidding is not allowed.

Item was in Auction "2023 Summer Classic",
which ran from 7/16/2023 7:00 PM to
8/5/2023 10:00 PM



Howie Judson was a right-handed pitcher who played from 1948-57 in the Major Leagues, with the Chicago White Sox (1948-52) and the Cincinnati Redlegs (1953-54). Offered is a Howie Judson Cincinnati Redlegs game worn and autographed cap. The cap has historical interest because it comes from the first year that the Cincinnati franchise changed the team's nickname from Reds to Redlegs. This was because the mid-1950s was a period of strong anti-Communist feeling among many in the country and a time when U.S. Senator Joseph McCarthy was investigating what he alleged were Communists or Communist sympathizers. Therefore, from 1954-58, Cincinnati management changed the team's nickname to Redlegs and when the Communist scare had diminished, changed the team's name back to the Reds in time for the 1959 season. Judson, pitching mainly in relief, had a 5-7 record with a 3.95 ERA in '54, when the Redlegs had a 74-80 season and finished in 5th place in the NL. Judson had a lifetime Major League record of 17-37, with a 4.29 ERA. The cap is a very rare style, dark blue, with a red "C" on the front and a red button on top. The cap has "47" stenciled under the brim and Judson has neatly signed the cap under the brim as well, using a black marker. On the inside back of the headband is old style New Era manufacturer's tagging and a size "7 & 3/8" tag. The hat exhibits terrific use, particularly with sweat stains and other stains on the headband. Yet, even with the marks of extensive use, the cap remains in nice condition. A game worn cap from the 1950s days when the Reds were called the Redlegs can add to the interest in any collection.

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