Historic 1961 Roger Maris Yankees Jersey Up for Auction, Expected to Surpass $1 Million

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One of the most significant game-worn artifacts in baseball history is now available to collectors. A 1961 Roger Maris New York Yankees uniform, worn during his record-breaking 61-home-run season, is up for auction at Heritage Auctions. With 15 days remaining, this jersey, which has been photo-matched to multiple home run games, is projected to sell for well over $1 million.

This remarkable uniform, authenticated by MeiGray, has been conclusively photo-matched to 16 different photographs from 13 separate games, making it one of only two confirmed home jerseys worn by Maris in 1961. With memorabilia from baseball’s greatest moments continuing to command record prices, this jersey stands as a rare opportunity to own a tangible piece of one of the sport’s most legendary seasons.

A Jersey Worn During One of Baseball’s Most Historic Seasons​

Roger Maris' 1961 campaign remains one of the most celebrated yet controversial achievements in baseball. As he pursued Babe Ruth’s single-season home run record of 60, Maris faced relentless media scrutiny, pressure from fans, and skepticism from the baseball establishment.

Despite the challenges, he remained focused, ultimately surpassing Ruth’s record by hitting 61 home runs, securing the American League MVP Award, and leading the Yankees to a World Series title.

This jersey, worn during several crucial games in Maris’ historic chase, has been extensively authenticated and photo-matched to significant moments, including:

  • July 2, 1961 – Maris hit home runs No. 29 and 30, going 3-for-4 in a 13-4 victory over the Washington Senators.
  • August 15, 1961 – Maris hit home run No. 46 in a 2-1 loss to the Chicago White Sox.
  • September 2, 1961 – Maris hit home runs No. 52 and 53, going 3-for-4 in a 7-2 win over the Detroit Tigers.
Not only has the jersey been authenticated, but so have the matching pinstriped pants, which were also confirmed as being worn during multiple games from the 1961 season. MeiGray’s analysis has determined that Maris used just two sets of home uniforms that season, making this a truly rare and historic find.

Pristine Condition and Original Details​

The jersey remains in its original, unaltered state, preserving the classic Yankees pinstripes from that legendary season. Key details include:

  • Spalding manufacturer tag, size 44
  • “61” embroidered into the fabric, confirming its game use during the 1961 season
  • “Maris” name swatch sewn into the collar, marking player ownership
  • Shortened sleeves, a signature look for both Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle
The matching pants also feature:

  • Spalding label and washing instructions tag
  • "Maris 9 36 61" embroidery, verifying the set’s use in 1961
  • Navy blue belt and stirrups, completing the full uniform ensemble
For decades, this jersey was displayed at the Yankee Stadium museum, offering fans a glimpse at one of the most important artifacts from baseball’s golden era. The uniform was originally acquired in the 1980s from a close friend of the Maris family, adding further provenance to its authenticity.

The Legacy of Roger Maris and the Significance of This Jersey​

Roger Maris’ pursuit of 61 home runs in 1961 was met with resistance from both the baseball establishment and many Yankees fans who remained loyal to Babe Ruth’s legacy. Unlike Ruth, who was celebrated as a national hero, Maris was often seen as an outsider, undeserving of the spotlight.

He responded to this adversity not with words, but with one of the most dominant offensive seasons in history, cementing his place in baseball lore.

As Maris famously stated during his home run chase:

"Maybe I'm not a great man, but I damn well want to break the record."

This uniform serves as a symbol of that determination, representing the moment when one of baseball’s most sacred records fell.

Over six decades later, Maris’ accomplishment is still revered, and artifacts from his historic season remain among the most sought-after pieces of baseball memorabilia.

Auction Details and Estimated Value​

With 15 days remaining in the auction at Heritage Auctions, this jersey is expected to sell for well over $1 million, given its historical importance, impeccable provenance, and extensive photo-matching.

Given the increasing value of photo-matched, game-used memorabilia, especially those tied to record-breaking seasons, this jersey could easily exceed its estimated price range.

Final Thoughts​

Roger Maris’ 1961 Yankees uniform is more than just a collectible—it is a monument to one of the greatest individual achievements in baseball history.

This photo-matched game-worn jersey represents the defining moments of Maris’ home run chase, a story of resilience, determination, and triumph against overwhelming odds.

As one of only two known home jerseys worn by Maris during that historic season, it is a rare and irreplaceable piece of baseball history.

With interest in high-end sports memorabilia continuing to grow, this auction is expected to draw intense competition from collectors, making it one of the most anticipated sports auctions of the year.

For those looking to own a piece of baseball immortality, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
 
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