For sports fans and memorabilia collectors alike, stadium relics offer a tangible connection to the magic of game day. Sports Cleanout has already covered the collectability of stadium seats in a previous blog post, so we will be focusing on more unique items from where the action really happens - the stadium! The items below make great additions to any sports man cave!
A growing trend amongst collectors are stadium canvas banners that prominently display the players of a team. These massive banners, often hung high above the bleachers, in the parking lot, or in concourse areas, are much more than decoration—they're symbols of a team's spirit and history. Whether it’s a banner featuring a beloved Hall of Famer or a current star player, these canvases capture moments in time that resonate deeply with fans. Given their limited availability and the stories they tell, they can become prized centerpieces in a collection, serving as a reminder of great performances, unforgettable seasons, and the passion of fans. The Kansas City Royals’ currently sell banners in their stadium store, but it might cost you a pretty penny!
Another unique collectible is bunting—the colorful, scalloped fabric draped around the stadium for special events like Opening Day, All-Star Games, or the World Series. While bunting might seem like an odd choice at first, its rarity and connection to specific moments make it a fascinating item to pursue. However, provenance is critical with bunting, and that's where the challenge lies. Without clear evidence that the fabric adorned a particular stadium during a specific event, it can be tough to authenticate and sell. Yet, for those with a keen eye for detail and a knack for finding credible sources, bunting can become a valuable and unique part of a sports relic collection. Bunting from Kauffman Stadium’s 1973 All Star game would be perfect for any Kansas City man cave, but might be a tough relic to come across!
Even the old turnstiles, once a simple gateway to the stadium, have found a place in the hearts of collectors. These turnstiles, which fans passed through for decades, have witnessed countless unforgettable moments. Each has a story to tell, marked by years of use and the passage of millions of fans. The heavy metal and sturdy construction make them standout display pieces in any collection, serving as a historical reminder of how fans once entered the hallowed grounds of their favorite teams. Today, they are sought after not only for their nostalgic value, but also for their distinctive industrial aesthetic that brings a piece of the stadium into the collector’s home. A metal detector or ticket scanning device from the present day that are used at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City just doesn’t have the same feel and display desirability to it!
Collecting stadium relics is about more than just acquiring objects—it's about preserving memories, celebrating history, and keeping the spirit of the game alive. Sports Cleanout is always looking for stadium relics including banners, turnstiles, signs, and more! Based in Kansas City, Sports Cleanout will travel to Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, Arkansas, and Oklahoma to check out your collection or give us a text or call today!
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