“Philly” faithful enjoy a great bit of nostalgia, with this 4/10/71 program and ticket stub combo, from the Philadelphia Phillies first game at Veterans Stadium. With the Phillies battling for last place at the time, and little to root for from the Eagles, Flyers, and 76ers, the region pulsed with excitement as the new stadium was prepared to open. Big on theatrics and fanfare, the Phillies front office had the opening game’s first ball dropped from a helicopter to valiant backup catcher Mike Ryan. Larry Bowa got the Vets’ first hit, Don Money belted the first home, and Hall of Fame hurler Jim Bunning got the first win, to give the fans a 4-1 win over the visiting Montreal Expos, who were by the way, the Phillies main competition for last place in the NL East during the early ‘70s.



Let the memories flow as you examine this handsome program and ticket stub pairing from this historic game. Showing vibrant colors against a bright white background, the unscored program is a very handsome (NM+) example, with "Opening Day Issue" printed on the front cover. Several creases force a rating of (GD) for the ticket stub, which is otherwise very attractive with a clean, glossy surface, and vibrant colors/graphics, including a photo of the Vet, and the legend "1971 Opening Day". Also present is a “Good Luck Phillies” handbill insert from the Philadelphia Eagles, announcing the new stadium’s dedication on 4/4/71, along with the date of the first Phils game.

  Opening Bid $100.