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The Concussion Helmet - Roman Gabriel 1970 Los Angeles Signed Game Used Helmet - Used in Government Hearings (Photo-Matched)

The Concussion Helmet - Roman Gabriel 1970 Los Angeles Signed Game Used Helmet - Used in Government Hearings (Photo-Matched)

Get your head in the game! That message carries a different meaning on today's football fields as doctors have shined the spotlight on the adverse effects of concussions, prompting greater safety measures at all levels of the sport. One of the first players to make this a priority issue over 40 years ago was Rams quarterback Roman Gabriel, who also holds the distinction of being the first Asian quarterback in NFL history. Back in 1971, the College Football Hall of Famer's L.A. helmet was used in US House subcommittee hearings on the effects of head trauma on artificial turf. This navy and white Riddell helmet with profound scuff mark near the right temple was actually used as "exhibit A" in the hearings, and the lot comes with a photo of NFL Players Association representative Edward Garvey holding it in his hands on Capitol Hill. Along with the photo, there is documentation from a bar owner in Wisconsin to whom Garvey gifted the helmet, as well as a provenance from Garvey and photo of him at the bar. Great history here, especially in light of recent scientific evidence and NFL financial compensation to older, concussed players. This helmet has also been blessed with a perfect 10/10 signature of Gabriel right above the "concussion" mark on the right side of the helmet.


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