How to Authenticate Game-Worn Jerseys: Kansas City’s Sports Cleanout Guide

Quick tips from Kansas City’s Sports Cleanout regarding game used jerseys. It is essential for collectors and fans who want to ensure the item’s legitimacy and value that they know the basics of retail v. team issued jerseys. However, it’s important to note that there is no single method that guarantees authenticity. The following tips provide a helpful starting point, but they are not comprehensive. Exercise caution and consider seeking professional authentication when in doubt.

Identification Codes on Jersey Tags

Manufacturers often include specific codes on jersey tags to differentiate retail replicas from those intended for team use:

• Majestic Athletic (MLB Jerseys):

  • 0068: Indicates jerseys produced for team use, which could be game-worn or team-issued.

  • 6800: Denotes retail jerseys made for consumer purchase.

These wash code tags can help identify the jersey’s intended purpose. They are located on the inside of the jersey. Keep in mind this only works for your Kansas City Royals’ jerseys from 2005-2019. 

Wash tag from a baseball jersey, featuring care instructions and the 0068 code signaling it is team issued.

Importance of Manufacturers

Understanding the role of manufacturers can aid in identifying authentic jerseys:

• 1970s-1991: Multiple companies, including Rawlings, Wilson, and Spalding, supplied uniforms to MLB teams.​

• 1992-1999: Russell Athletic served as the exclusive uniform supplier for most MLB teams during this period.

• 2000-2004: This was a transition period where teams could choose their uniform suppliers, with companies like Majestic Athletic providing jerseys for some teams. ​

• 2005-2019: Majestic Athletic became the exclusive on-field uniform supplier for all MLB teams. ​

• 2020-Present: Nike took over as the official uniform supplier starting with the 2020 season. ​

• Reebok, Adidas and Fanatics (NHL Jerseys):

  • Reebok Era (2005-2017): Reebok became the official NHL jersey supplier in 2005 and introduced the Edge jersey system in the 2007-08 season, which lasted through 2016-17.

  • Adidas Era (2017-2024): Adidas took over for the 2017-18 season and supplied jerseys until the 2023-24 season.

  • Fanatics Era (2024-Present): Starting with the 2024-25 season, Fanatics is the official NHL jersey supplier under a 10-year deal.

While manufacturer details are helpful, they should be verified alongside other indicators of authenticity.

 1977 Kansas City Royals game-used jersey by Wilson, worn and signed by Hall of Famer George Brett.

Authentication Programs and Practices

Official authentication programs add credibility and traceability to game-worn jerseys:

• MLB Authentication Program: Established in 2001, this program uses tamper-proof hologram stickers with unique alphanumeric codes. These codes can be verified in the MLB database to confirm authenticity. Kansas City’s Sports Cleanout Tip: Just because an item is only listed as team issued doesn’t mean it isn’t game-used. There are plenty of team issued items labeled in the MLB database that actually were used and show great signs on use!

• MeiGray Group: Partners with the NBA and NHL to authenticate game-worn jerseys. Each jersey receives a unique, counterfeit-proof tag inserted before game use, ensuring traceability.

Be wary of items lacking these verification features, as they may not be authentic.

 NFL jersey neck tag featuring the size and year identifier "02-44."

Physical Characteristics of Authentic Jerseys

Authentic game-worn jerseys often exhibit distinct physical traits:

• Fight Straps (Hockey Jerseys): Found inside authentic NHL jerseys to prevent them from being pulled over during fights.

• Year & Size Sewn into the Neck in Vintage NFL Jerseys 

• Wear and Tear: Signs of use, such as fraying, puck marks, grass stains, or sweat discoloration, may indicate a jersey was game-worn. However, ensure these signs align with natural game use and not artificial aging.

Close-up of an NHL fight strap on a hockey jersey, designed to secure the jersey during gameplay.

Photo Matching

Photo matching involves comparing the jersey to game photos to identify unique marks, patterns, or wear. This method provides concrete evidence of game use when done accurately. However, it requires access to high-quality game photos and a trained eye for detail. This is the best thing to have for one of your collectibles for value and desirability!

Conclusion

Distinguishing between game used jerseys and retail replicas requires attention to detail and an understanding of manufacturer codes, authentication tags, physical characteristics, and photo matching. While these tips provide valuable guidance, they are not foolproof. Rely on reputable authentication services and proceed cautiously to ensure the integrity and value of your sports memorabilia collection. Kansas City’s Sports Cleanout is always looking to buy game used jerseys, team issued jerseys, and other sports memorabilia! 

We are always looking to buy collections of sports memorabilia including vintage cards, sealed boxes and packs, game used items, ticket stubs, and pretty much anything else sports related! Contact SportsCleanout.com today at (816) 810-3639 (call or text). We’re based in Kansas City, Missouri, and travel to other parts of Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.