Edson Arantes do Nascimento, the football legend known only as Pelé, signed his first professional contract in 1956 at the age of 15 with prestigious Brazilian club, Santos FC. The following year, he made his first appearance with the Brazil National Team at age 16. During his prolific international career, Pelé won three FIFA World Cup titles (1958, 1962 and 1970) – the only player ever to do so for his country. He retired as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 77 goals in 91 caps.

Presented here is a superb Pelé 1962 Brazil National Team match-worn home jersey that dates to his most decorated season as a footballer. The 21-year-old guided "Os Santásticos" (The Santastics) to all four major trophies and Brazil successfully defended its World Cup crown in Chile. An unfortunate groin injury suffered in Brazil's second match would sideline the sensational striker for the remainder of the tournament. Thanks to a loaded roster led by Garrincha and Vavá, Brazil still went on to win its second consecutive title. The shirt was gifted to Brazilian player Joel Camargo, a longtime teammate of Pelé's on the national squad and Santos FC.

The long-sleeve jersey comes in Brazil's classic home yellow with a green fold-over collar that sits atop a distinctive V-neck insert, a hallmark of the Brazilian kits of the period, with green ribbed cuffs at each wrist. An Athleta manufacturer's label is sewn inside the collar. The embroidered CBD crest is affixed to the left chest and shows appropriate fraying and age to its white border, while the back features a sewn royal blue twill "10" that remains firmly attached. Pelé has signed the front of the jersey and added a warm personal inscription in Portuguese that translates to "with a hug from your friend," a charming touch that speaks to its direct provenance.

The cotton fabric displays even toning, light soiling and minor staining at the chest, all consistent with genuine use and age. Pelé 1962-era jerseys are heavily coveted by collectors, especially one autographed with documented provenance. A museum-quality relic worn by the sport's first global icon from arguably his finest overall season.

Authentication & Provenance

Includes LOA from MEARS for the jersey, autograph certification from GRAD Authentication (longtime Beckett and PSA/DNA authenticator Steve Grad), and a letter of provenance from Brazilian center back Joel Camargo, a teammate of Pelé's with Brazil and Santos FC. The two remained friends long after their playing careers. Camargo passed away in 2014.