This road white knit gamer by Cosby was worn by player #20 during the 1967-68 NHL preseason. This rare jersey hails from the first-ever set of Minnesota North Stars game worn jerseys. This set of double-knit tie-down jerseys were worn by the North Stars during the 1967-68 pre-season, marking the NHL’s expansion from The Original 6 to now 12 clubs. This set of jerseys was quickly replaced prior to the team’s first regular season game with a set made by General Athletic for reasons still unknown, but speculation is that they shrunk too quickly due to repeated washings. At some point in time, these gamers wound up being recycled to the minors, quite possibly to team owner Walter Bush’s Midwest Jr. Stars in the 1970’s.
Proudly sewn to the left breast of this gamer is the alternate Captain’s “A”. Sewn into the collar are the Cosby and size tagging while the original tie-lace remains sewn thru the eyelets. The game wear on this now somewhat shrunken size 48 sweater consists of stick and slash marks, board burns, board paint transfer and inner pilling. Removed from the upper verso is a player nameplate. Removed from the right breast was a circular patch, both likely related to Walter Bush’s 1970’s Midwest Jr. Stars. Shown above is the 1967 North Stars pre-season schedule with results as well as a rare color photo depicting the North Stars first ever home and road jerseys, being modeled by Jean-Guy Talbot and Dave Balon. When viewing the color photo, take note of the unusual slanted “N” logo, a Minnesota North Stars jersey rarity and something that every North Stars collector should want in their collection! Before Dino Ciccarelli immortalized the North Stars #20, the player number first took to the ice on this example during the 1967 pre-season. This wonderful expansion era sweater has been impeccably preserved and remains in extraordinary condition. Now more than 55 years removed from the ice, sporting the coveted letter of honor and Ciccarelli’s retired #20, this style rarity would make an awesome addition to any vintage or Minnesota collection of sweaters, choice!
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