1974 Larry Csonka Super Bowl VIII MVP Presentational Game Ball.
This utterly unique Super Bowl VIII game-used football was intended for presentation to MVP Larry Csonka of the victorious Miami Dolphins in celebration of his phenomenal performance in the 24-7 rout of the Minnesota Vikings. Aside from the obvious, this ball is extremely meaningful for several considerations: Game-used balls from early Super Bowls are virtually nonexistent in the hobby; additionally, dark overcast weather conditions shadowing Houston's Rice Stadium that day necessitated use of this rare NFL white-striped night ball. The ball's significance (and story) gets better. At the conclusion of play, the stadium grounds staff inscribed the laces of this ball "Z-O-N-K-1-13-74" to guard against loss or post-game misidentification. It was then surrendered to the team (actually, an artist commissioned by the Dolphins) who transformed the game ball into an exquisitely and properly painted trophy ball, detailing the particulars of the victory and Csonka's MVP statistics, namely 145 yards rushing and two critical touchdowns. The finished ball was later placed in Csonka's locker awaiting his off-season return. However, in the ensuing months, a trio of Miami stars - Csonka, Kiick, and Warfield - jumped ship to the upstart WFL. Csonka never reported to the Dolphins camp and never took possession of this trophy ball. Team sources reclaimed it, and it has been in the collection of an equipment manager ever since.
This is a one-of-a-kind ball documenting a milestone in the career of a one-of-a-kind Hall of Fame fullback and World Champion, and a legitimate relic of Miami Dolphins dynastic history. This would be a colossal addition to any high-profile collection.
COA 100%/Lampson.
Authenticators
100% Authentic Team (Read Details)
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