The impressive array of over 900 autographed hockey jerseys from the late Bill Murdoch is currently being auctioned by the Rockford Auction Centre. This exceptional collection boasts jerseys signed by some of the most prominent names in the sport including Gretzky, Orr, Lemieux, Crosby, McDavid, and Wickenheiser, as well as numerous local players and stars from national and junior hockey teams.
Mark Snider, a seasoned auctioneer with Snider’s Sydenham Auction & Appraisal Services Inc. and the Rockford Auction Centre, has described it as “one of the largest signed hockey jersey exhibitions in existence.” The jerseys, which are being auctioned on behalf of Sue Murdoch and the Murdoch family, serve as a testament to Bill Murdoch’s dedication to collecting and the sport of hockey.
Sue Murdoch shared that her late husband’s passion for collecting autographed jerseys began 18 years ago when he received a Frank Mahovlich autograph. This sparked an unrelenting pursuit for more autographs, with Murdoch leveraging his political connections and even acquiring a mobile home to store his expanding collection after retiring from politics in 2011.
Despite being an unwavering Montreal Canadiens fan, Bill Murdoch’s collection encompasses more than just his favorite team. It includes signed jerseys from players of rival teams and even those from now-defunct franchises. Noteworthy items in the collection include a Quebec Nordiques jersey signed by all three Statsny brothers and an Edmonton Oilers jersey signed by Walter and Wayne Gretzky.
Furthermore, the collection features jerseys signed by lesser-known players and those from the newest expansion teams, reflecting Murdoch’s fervent interest in uncovering captivating stories about the players. He also broadened his collection to include autographed jerseys from women’s hockey, highlighting his growing involvement in the sport.
Following Murdoch’s passing in 2022, his family expressed their pride in his exceptional collection, stating that “it is truly a huge part of his legacy.” Part one of the online-only auction is currently open for bidding, with part two scheduled for the fall. Those interested in viewing the collection and participating in the auction can visit www.sydenhamauction.com.
In conclusion, Bill Murdoch’s remarkable collection of autographed hockey jerseys serves as a testament to his enduring passion for the sport and its history. This rare and exceptional collection offers hockey enthusiasts and collectors the opportunity to own a piece of the sport’s legacy.