Another piece of game-used gear worn by Mets’ catcher Mike Piazza in the aftermath of 9/11 is going on the auction block. Just weeks after the jersey he wore to hit a dramatic home run on September 21, 2001 was sold privately, Goldin Auctions said Piazza’s catchers helmet with the letters “NYPD” will be sold at auction on August 4.
The auction will open July 11 and include 100 lots of memorabilia valued at $10,000 or above. A corresponding catalog auction will run through August 13.
The Mets honored police and firefighters with the special headgear just days after the attack on the World Trade Center.
Manufactured by American Baseball Cap, this size M helmet has an American Flag sticker on the right side, with the MLB logo sticker and a “PIAZZA” sticker affixed to the back. On the blue brim is another 
“PIAZZA” sticker with the recently elected Hall of Famer’s bold signature in silver marker. The inside of the helmet has two-inch brown padding all around the edges. There is an “NYPD” patch that was glued over the interlocking “NY” on the helmet. Piazza wore this helmet while catching the entire game.
The helmet comes with a Letter of Authenticity from The MeiGray Group (MGA003322) with a detailed photo-match to the exact game as part of the MeiGray LOA. There is also a Steiner hologram on the underside of the brim which certifies the autograph.
Prior to being sold at auction, Piazza’s catchers helmet will be displayed at the Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center in Little Falls, NJ from July 1-30, 2016 to allow fans and collectors the opportunity to see the historic item and relive the memorable moment. Additionally, Goldin Auctions will donate 50% of the buyer’s premium from this item to Tuesday’s Children, a NY-based 501C3 charity formed in the aftermath of September 11, 2001 that supports first-responders and their families, international youth, families and communities impacted by terrorism and traumatic loss.
“We are very lucky to have the opportunity to share such an important piece of baseball history and at the same time support the worthwhile work of this wonderful organization that supports those affected by the events of September 11,” said Ken Goldin, Founder of Goldin Auctions. “Similar to Piazza’s jersey from 
that night, this helmet will forever connect fans to one of the most memorable moments in Mets history. Those who were lucky enough to be there, or view it on television will never forget it.”
Piazza’s homer gave the Mets the lead and the eventual win in an emotional evening against the Atlanta Braves. Trailing 2-1 in the bottom of the eighth inning, Piazza, facing an 0-1 count, hit a towering blast off of Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Steve Karsay.
The jersey Piazza wore on that same game was sold by Goldin Auctions for a record $365,000 in May and will be displayed on a rotating basis at the 9/11 Memorial, the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown and the New York Mets Hall of Fame Museum at Citi Field. Several museums have also expressed interest in this item if the buyer was to lend it for display.
To register for the auctions or to receive a free catalog, visit www.GoldinAuctions.com.
Related Stories:
1933 Goudey Ruth Sets Record Pace in Goldin Auctions Event
Ed Kranepool Selling 1969 World Series Ring, Other Items
Ruth’s 1935 Braves Contract, 1948 Letter Coming to Auction
Piazza Jersey Sold for Record Price; Will Go on Display
Let it Go, Mets: Piazza Disappointed Team Sold Post-9/11 Jersey
Mike Piazza Post-9/11 Home Run Jersey at Auction
Christy Mathewson Multi-Signed 1905 World Series Bat at Auction
Babe Ruth’s First, Last Yankees Contracts Coming to Auction
