Rare Bill Barilko Signed Stick from 1951 Stanley Cup-Winning Season Up for Auction
A historic piece of hockey memorabilia is up for auction, a signed stick once owned by Bill Barilko, the Toronto Maple Leafs player famous for scoring the Stanley Cup-winning goal in 1951. Barilko, a Timmins, Ont., native, played all five seasons of his career with the Leafs, totaling 252 games. His iconic goal against the Montreal Canadiens in 1951 remains a celebrated moment in hockey history. Tragically, Barilko passed away later that year in a plane crash during a fishing trip to James Bay, and the Leafs did not win another Cup until 1962.
The game-issued stick from the 1950-51 season is being auctioned by Miller and Miller Auctions in New Hamburg, Ont. Benjamin Pernfuss, the consignment director in the sports category, described the stick as a "unique find" that holds significant historical value. Stamped with the number five, matching Barilko's jersey number, the stick shows signs of game use, including tape and wear marks. It bears Barilko's signature along with other notable Leafs players from that era, helping to date it to the 1950-51 season.
Miller and Miller Auctions initially estimated the stick's value between $3,000 and $5,000, but due to its rarity and historical significance, the final price could exceed expectations. With Barilko's memorabilia being scarce, owning a piece signed by him holds special importance in hockey history. The online auction for the stick will close on Sunday evening, offering fans and collectors a chance to own a piece of Maple Leafs history.