Don Bradman's cap estimated at $390,000 for auction next week

Australia is set to auction a historic baggy green Test cap worn by cricket legend Don Bradman during his final home series in 1947-48. This iconic piece of Australian cricket memorabilia is expected to fetch approximately $390,000 in an upcoming auction at Bonhams' Sydney office. The auction highlights the ongoing interest in sporting collectibles, even as the valuation of Bradman's cap falls significantly below the record-breaking $1,007,500 that Shane Warne's cap achieved in 2020. The exceptional amount for Warne's cap was largely a result of its association with a charitable cause, as it was sold to raise funds for bushfire relief efforts in Australia. The cap being auctioned is highly regarded not only for its age but also for the remarkable achievements of Bradman during the series in which it was worn. In this season, he averaged an extraordinary 178.75 across six Test innings, with four centuries, marking one of the most productive periods of his illustrious career. The item has shifted ownership multiple times; it was gifted to Pankaj Gupta, the manager of the Indian cricket team, at the conclusion of the series, before passing through the hands of wicketkeeper PK Sen. The cap was previously sold at auction in 2003 for $425,000 and has since been displayed on loan at the Bradman Museum in Bowral, New South Wales, emphasizing its special place in Australian sports history. In contrast, Shane Warne's baggy green cap, which he wore throughout his Test career, holds its own meaning and significance in Australian cricket. Warne’s cap's sale resulted in a high amount due to the philanthropic endeavor behind it; hence, it was poised to assist those affected by the devastating bushfires that swept through Australia in 2020. This initiative resonated deeply with many, and the cap's auction raised significant awareness and funds to support impacted communities. The Commonwealth Bank CEO purchased Warne's cap, planning to take it on a national tour to continue its role in raising awareness and funds. As the auction for Bradman's cap approaches, it serves not only as a reminder of his unparalleled impact on Australian cricket but also prompts discussions about the legacy of sports memorabilia in reflecting the history and culture of the sport. The current valuation highlights the fluctuating nature of memorabilia markets and the various factors that influence worth, including the context surrounding certain items. While Bradman's cap may not achieve the heights reached by Warne's cap, its historical significance and connection to one of cricket’s greatest legends remain undeniable.