Official Los Angeles Dodgers 1981 World Series Trophy. Mint Condition

A remarkable piece of sports history and a prized collectible. The Dodgers' 1981 World Series victory was especially significant, as they defeated the New York Yankees in six games, clinching their first championship title since 1965. 

The legendary Dodgers-Yankees rivalry is one of baseball's most storied matchups, with roots stretching back to the 1941 World Series, where the two teams first faced off. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, this rivalry came to embody the classic American baseball clash—East Coast vs. West Coast, Brooklyn vs. the Bronx. For years, Brooklyn Dodgers fans were left with the heart-wrenching motto, "Wait 'til next year," as the Yankees dominated the series, often edging out close victories.

The Brooklyn Dodgers finally broke through in 1955, capturing their long-awaited championship and overcoming the Yankees to end the "next year" mantra. However, the Yankees would reclaim victory in 1956, reasserting their dominance before the rivalry went through another dramatic chapter in 1963. In that series, the Los Angeles Dodgers, now with legendary pitcher Sandy Koufax, swept the Yankees in four straight games—a decisive victory that remains a hallmark of Dodgers lore.

The Dodgers-Yankees rivalry reignited in dramatic fashion during the late 1970s, with the Yankees clinching back-to-back victories in the 1977 and 1978 World Series matchups. But in 1981, the rivalry took an unexpected turn when the Yankees, after jumping to a two-game lead, found their momentum abruptly halted. The Dodgers’ secret weapon, Fernando Valenzuela, came through in Game 3, pitching a complete game that shifted the series entirely. Valenzuela’s stellar performance breathed life back into the Dodgers, who went on to win the next three games and claim the championship, marking a definitive end to the Yankees' hold over them.

After years of relative dormancy, the Dodgers-Yankees rivalry found new life this year. Once again, the Dodgers emerged victorious over the Yankees—but this time in just five games, proving their dominance and reigniting a classic baseball feud. This latest chapter in their rivalry adds to the rich tapestry of Dodgers-Yankees history, reminding fans that some rivalries are truly timeless.

 

This trophy celebrates not only the 1981 team’s hard work and triumph but also an era of Dodgers baseball led by legendary players like Fernando Valenzuela, who rose to fame that season with his iconic "Fernandomania" pitching, but also one of the great modern day infields, consisting of Garvey, Lopes, Russell and Cey. The roster also included future Hofer Dusty Baker, who batted .320, Pedro Guerrero, who batted .300 and Rick Monday at .315. Also, catcher Mike Scioscia, pitchers Burt Hooton, rookie Dave Stewart and Jerry Reuss.

The trophy is an impressive display piece, featuring the iconic gold flags representing each Major League team, along with the Dodgers’ logo and details commemorating the World Series win. It remains in its original mint state just as it did the day it was delivered to one of the players or executives of the club.These pre-1990s trophies are quite rare, as they were not automatically given to each player on the team, or to team executives. Rather, they had to be specially requested and purchased. Therefore, very few exist and of course seldom get offered for sale. We are fortunate to offer this one, our very first 1981 Dodger. 

Given its historical and sentimental value, as well as scarcity, this trophy is highly desirable for Dodgers fans and sports memorabilia collectors, symbolizing a pinnacle moment in the team's storied legacy.

Ships FedEx with Insurance and Signature.