Production Era Reference
The production-era taxonomy used throughout this archive, with distinguishing details. Each era section catalogues reference photos of collar tags, jock tags, and other identifying marks — use these to identify which era a jersey came from by comparing it against the reference shots.
Original Production
When Mitchell and Ness created the first authentic reproductions in 1985, the jerseys were produced by Maple Manufacturing in Philadelphia, PA and included Maple’s manufacture tag. These tags were used from 1985 - 1986. The collar tag also included a paper ‘Made in USA’ tag.
Around 1987, the first Mitchell and Ness manufacturer collar tag appeared. It’s now referred to as the ‘block’ tag because of the block style font. This collar tag included the location of Mitchell and Ness, Philadelphia, PA, as well as the ‘Made In USA’ paper tag. The paper tag placement was mostly consistent but, residing on the right side of the block tag but could have been placed anywhere.
These jerseys did not have a jock tag because they were being produced without an official license.
All jerseys during this production era were produced at Maple Manufacturing.
Collar Tag(6 photos)
Maple Athletic Sportswear Tag(3)
Original Mitchell and Ness 'Block' Collar Tag(3)
Jersey Reference(3 photos)
The whole jersey these tags came off.
First Cooperstown Collection
Tag details and reference photos for this era are being catalogued. Check back soon.
First Cooperstown Authentic Collection
Tag details and reference photos for this era are being catalogued. Check back soon.
Second Cooperstown Collection
Tag details and reference photos for this era are being catalogued. Check back soon.
Second Cooperstown Authentic Collection
Tag details and reference photos for this era are being catalogued. Check back soon.