There’s a lot of great Husker memorabilia out there. Husker Attic is how we’ve showcased those vintage finds in every issue of Hail Varsity since our very first one. In the weeks ahead we’re sharing some of those gems online for the first time. Brought to you by Husker Army Presents 2019 Husker Collectible and Autograph Show.
Nebraska Whiskey Decanters
>>This commemorative McCormick Whiskey decanter came in three versions, the jersey No. 1 player, and Johnny Rodgers in a red No. 20 jersey as well as a rarer white No. 20 jersey.
>>The white-jersey figures were issued in 1972 after Nebraska’s back-to-back national championships, the Rodgers in a red jersey in 1973. It includes records Rodgers set on the back.
More Husker Attic: NIT Notepad | Frost Mt. Dew | 1925 Program | Collector’s Plate | Wheaties Boxes
>>Expect to pay in the $200-plus range for the decanter with the red jersey and the No. 1 jersey, and $300 to $350, or more, for the Rodgers with the white jersey. Those with the original box are worth more.
>>Johnny Rodgers was the first of Nebraska’s three Heisman Trophy winners as a senior in 1972. He finished his career with a majority of the Huskers’ receiving and kick-returning records.
>>Originally, Johnny Rodgers’ No. 20 jersey was retired, as were several others. But the number came out of retirement, with Rodgers’ blessing, when his son, Terry, played for Nebraska (1986-89). The No. 20 was subsequently un-retired along with the others because of a shortage. Tom Novak’s No. 60 the lone exception. Bob Brown’s No. 64 also is now retired.
>>Tom Osborne, his position coach, once said that Johnny Rodgers “could impact a football game in more ways than anyone I’ve been involved with.”
Looking to add some new Husker memorabilia to your own collection? The 2019 Husker Collectible and Autograph Show, presented by Husker Army, is the place for you the day after Nebraska’s spring game. Find full details of the event at the Husker Army Facebook page.
Mike is in his 40th year covering Husker athletics, after seven years of community-college teaching. He has written and edited a dozen books, all on Nebraska football except one, a brief history of Husker basketball. He previously wrote for the Lincoln Journal and Star and Huskers Illustrated. He enjoys music, from the Grateful Dead and Jack Johnson to Van Morrison, Bob Wills, Glenn Miller and pretty much anyone else.
402-440-1851
