DeLONG Varsity Jacket Value Guide

This vintage DeLONG Varsity Jacket from the 1980-1990 era represents a classic piece of American collegiate history, featuring a striking blue wool body and contrasting gold leather sleeves. It is highly collectible due to its specific 'DC' football embroidery and personalized 'Tom' chest detailing, showcasing the high-quality craftsmanship DeLONG is known for.

What Is DeLONG Varsity Jacket Worth?

The typical price range for DeLONG Varsity Jacket is $180 - $200 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The overall condition of the leather sleeves, specifically looking for any cracking or scuffing that reduces value.
• The presence of unique football-themed patches and the 'DC' initials which increase desirability for sports collectors.
• The structural integrity of the wool body and the vibrancy of the blue and gold color scheme.
• The provenance and historical appeal of the 1980-1990 production era from a reputable US maker like DeLONG.

How to Identify DeLONG Varsity Jacket?

• Verify the presence of the original DeLONG manufacturer's tag, typically located in the neck or inner pocket.
• Examine the 'DC' initials and football motifs for high-density, era-appropriate embroidery stitching.
• Check for genuine leather sleeves and a heavy wool body, consistent with 1980s American manufacturing standards.
• Look for the specific 'Tom' name embroidery on the left chest, which confirms its authentic personalized history.

History of DeLONG Varsity Jacket

Varsity jackets, also known as letterman jackets, originated in 1865 at Harvard University. Initially, these jackets were thick-knit sweaters worn by the Harvard baseball team, embroidered with a large 'H' at the center. By the early 20th century, the tradition of awarding letters evolved, and the jackets transformed into the iconic wool body with leather sleeves we recognize today. They symbolized athletic and academic achievement, often adorned with patches indicating sports played, honors, and graduating years. DeLONG has been a prominent manufacturer of these jackets, known for their quality and classic designs, serving schools and sports teams across the United States for decades.