Bradman Baggy Green Sold For $400,000 To National Museum

A rare piece of cricket history has been secured for the nation, with the National Museum of Australia buying a historic Bradman baggy green cap worn by Sir Donald Bradman in the 1946-47 Ashes series for AU$438,500 (approximately US$286,700). The purchase safeguards this rare and precious piece of sporting history for future generations.

One of Only 11 Bradman Baggy Greens Still in Existence

One of the famous Bradman baggy greens is among only 11 that are known to be still in existence and is a very rare one. It was used by Bradman in his post-World War II Ashes series, which saw him lead Australia to a 3-0 series victory over England.

The win saw the start of an unprecedented era in Australian cricket history, paving the way for the mythical 1948 “Invincibles” tour when Australia did not lose a single match in England.

Government and Museum Cooperation in Purchase

The Government of Canada helped pay for half of the purchase price, showing the importance of the acquisition to the nation. Arts Minister Tony Burke pointed out the cultural and historical importance of the Bradman baggy green and how it has the power to connect Australians to their sporting heritage.

“You’d be hard-pressed to meet an Australian that hasn’t heard of the great Donald Bradman, arguably the greatest cricketer of all time,” he said.

“Now to have one of his iconic baggy greens in the National Museum of Australia means visitors will have the opportunity to get up close and connect with our sporting and cultural history.”

A National Treasure to Behold

National Museum Director Katherine McMahon welcomed the cap as a precious piece of the museum’s collection. She underscored its significance in conveying not just Bradman’s greatness as a cricketer but also the social influence of the post-war period.

“Sir Donald’s baggy green marks the life of Australia’s most celebrated batsman and reflects a time when sporting heroes gave Australians hope, following the heartbreak and hardship of the Second World War,” she said. “We are delighted this national treasure has found a home here at the National Museum of Australia for all Australians to enjoy.”

The Bradman baggy green will now be showcased in the museum’s Landmarks gallery, a space dedicated to highlighting defining moments in Australian history.

Where Are the Other Bradman Baggy Greens?

Of the 11 Bradman baggy green caps known to still exist:

One is now located at the National Museum of Australia

Another is in the Australian Sports Museum

The whereabouts of the other nine caps are privately owned and unknown

This makes the new purchase even more historic, as few Australians will ever have the chance to see these relics up close.

The National Museum of Australia’s purchase of the Bradman baggy green is more than a sports memorabilia acquisition it’s the saving of national identity, culture, and history. Not only was the cap owned by Australia’s greatest cricketer, but also a generation’s essence and the country’s rebirth after WWII.