Mid-1970’s Cliff Branch Game-Worn Jersey Raiders COA 100% Authentic Team Grade 12/20

Authentication Status:  PASS –GRADE: 12/20

Cliff Branch was a wide receiver with the Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders during his entire 14-year National Football League (NFL) career. He won three NFL championships with the Raiders in Super Bowl XI, XV and XVIII. He was selected by the Raiders in the fourth round of the 1972 NFL Draft after playing college football for the Colorado Buffaloes.

Presented is an extremely rare and original Cliff Branch game worn jersey. Branch wore this Raiders home [size] M jersey during his heyday with the Silver and Black in the Mid-1970’s. The stunning black mesh jersey features his number “21” prominently in alpha numeric identifiers in silver sewn on in matching textured twill. This particular silver has a unique glistening to it on the identifiers which is specific to the Raiders. The style can be compared to the photo showcasing Ken Stabler holding a trophy. Notice, the similarity in the shape/style of the numbers. Also note, the heavy wear/aging on the front numerals characterized by a splice in the “2”. The bottom of the “2” also has a section that is becoming detached. In additional wear, there are some notable hit marks on the shoulders from contact.

“BRANCH” is properly applied on the foam cloth nameplate in  silver rubber applique with a notable Raider N. The nameplate which is aligned properly is a standout feature to dating the Raiders era of the jersey to the Mid-1970’s. “21″ is also showcased splendidly on the back of the shirt and on both sleeves. This jersey has been customized by cutting the bottom by the Oakland Raiders Equipment Staff. There is no hem and was done in order to have the tail fit Cliff Branch perfectly. This is custom fit was necessary for all of his Raiders Jerseys. Other than the custom Raiders tailoring, the jersey appears to have no alterations of any kind.

Overall, the jersey has been well preserved considering the toll it took on the field. It was worn by one of the finest wide receivers to ever play in the NFL. Even though he has passed in 2019, in recent years he has been in HOF consideration.

Authentication: 100% Authentic Team Cert Holo: 11050