Accession Number: C.2017.13.1
Dimensions: 7 in X 7 in X 12 in
Dimensions (Metric): 17.78 cm X 17.78 cm X 30.48 cm
Credit Line: Gift of Livio Forte
Description
Black plastic catcher's helmet with navy blue visor. A blue fabric patch is adhered to the front of the helmet with "NYPD" embroidered in white. "PIAZZA" is printed in white on a small label attached to the front of the visor as well as on the back of the helmet. Piazza also autographed the visor.
Historical Notes
The first major sporting event in New York City after 9/11 occurred on September 21 at Shea Stadium as the Mets hosted their longtime rivals, the Atlanta Braves, before a crowd of 40,000. The New York Mets wore caps representing New York City’s first responders. Mike Piazza cut the letters from an NYPD cap and glued them to the catcher’s helmet he wore behind home plate. He later autographed the visor.