We'll resist the temptation to call this jersey unbelievable settling instead simply for "amazing." Worn during the Mets' giddy season as reigning world champions in 1970 this is an real treasure from one of the key members of two Mets pennant winners and later performed similar heroics for the club's arch-rival the Phillies. Indeed his 19-year career was divided almost equally in terms of tenure and statistics between the two East Division foes efforts that ended up with a 96-92 lifetime record 180 saves and a pair of All-Star appearances again one for each club and two World Series rings. As noteworthy as his numbers are he gained nearly much notoriety for his effervescent on-field and clubhouse demeanor instigating the well-known "You Gotta Believe" chant that seemingly played a role in inspiring the Mets to a second World Series appearance in five seasons in 1973. Thus does this wonderful home blue pinstriped garment claim some additional import even beyond its superior condition and dazzling presentation. The shirt boasts the expected Spalding tagging on the left-front tail directly above a washing instructions tag and an attached flag tag with "Set 1 #8P 1970." A white tag with "40 70 45" appears on the back of the collar denoting size year and his jersey number. The shirt shows game use and is essentially problem free with eight original buttons and still-vivid orange and blue felt elements on the scripted "Mets" across the chest and his uniform No. 45 front and back and just as compelling presentation from the iconic Mets skyline patch on the left sleeve. But as they say on television "Wait there's more": McGraw planted a blazing 10/10 black marker autograph on the front tail above the Spalding label and proving once again that he was a man decades ahead of his time added the smiley face avatar next to his signature. Truly an extraordinary artifact from one of the beloved players of his generation.

Pre-certified by PSA/DNA.