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This jersey can be pinpointed to either the 1985 (rookie year) or 1986 season of the greatest receiver of all time. You do not see true rookie or sophomore shirts of this caliber everyday. The jersey features Rice's #80 screened on front, back and both sleeves. On back screen on in narrow full block letters is "RICE" on a white nameplate of like material. 1985 is the first year the team went to the narrow full block style lettering. The jersey has been customized along the side seams all the way to the under gusset and sleeve ends for a snug fit. Sewn on the left front tail is the Russell size "44" manufacturers tag. Below is the '100% Nylon" flag tag.
The jersey exhibits consistent WR wear with 1 team repair to the upper right shoulder area near the neck. There is also red coloring on one side seam (pictured above) that is likely attributable to field piant. In 1985, the 49ers played road games on 3 fields that would have had red paint (Atlanta, Washington and the Giants) and in 1986 they played road games where there was red paint vs. Atlanta, Washington New England and the Giants. Unlike the Wilson versions, authentic Russell era gamers are extremely difficult to come by. The jersey has been autographed by Rice on the back "0". The jersey is sourced directly from an employee of the 49ers during the 1980's. Many have been called Rice game used jerseys. Few, like this one, truly are.View Lot Detail page
The jersey exhibits consistent WR wear with 1 team repair to the upper right shoulder area near the neck. There is also red coloring on one side seam (pictured above) that is likely attributable to field piant. In 1985, the 49ers played road games on 3 fields that would have had red paint (Atlanta, Washington and the Giants) and in 1986 they played road games where there was red paint vs. Atlanta, Washington New England and the Giants. Unlike the Wilson versions, authentic Russell era gamers are extremely difficult to come by. The jersey has been autographed by Rice on the back "0". The jersey is sourced directly from an employee of the 49ers during the 1980's. Many have been called Rice game used jerseys. Few, like this one, truly are.View Lot Detail page