While at the University of Nebraska, quarterback Bernie Masterson ended up breaking his nose so frequently in a short period that the equipment staff custom created this prototype facemask specifically for him. If this is not the first ever helmet with a facemask, we believe it to be the oldest surviving example. Masterson was one of the first players to wear a facemask on an all-original leather helmet. No tagging is present and the helmet shows condition issues and expected aging to the leather and facemask. A rare and significant piece of football history. Sourced directly from the family, this lot is accompanied by a Masterson family LOA.