What’s happening?
The National Museum of Australia has purchased Sir Donald Bradman’s baggy green cap from the 1946–47 Ashes series. The cap cost $438,550. Half the cost was met with assistance from the Australian Government’s National Cultural Heritage Account.
Why it matters
This acquisition preserves an artefact that symbolises hope in post-war Australia. Bradman’s career average of 99.94 and his leadership in the 1946–47 Ashes made him a figure of national pride. The cap is a tangible link to this history.
Local impact
The cap will be publicly displayed in the Museum’s Landmarks gallery in Canberra.
By the numbers
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$438,550 was paid for the cap.
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Government funding covered 50 percent.
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Only 11 Bradman baggy greens remain.
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Bradman’s career average was 99.94.
Zoom in
Minister for the Arts Tony Burke MP said the acquisition “safeguards an important piece of our national history for future generations.”
Katherine McMahon, Museum director, added, “We are delighted this national treasure has found a home here at the National Museum of Australia for all Australians to enjoy.”
Zoom out
The National Cultural Heritage Account has previously funded the purchase of a Colonial Billiard Table, a 1912 McDonald tractor, and a rare 1923 thylacine skin.
What to look for next?
The cap joins other Bradman memorabilia in the Museum, including his 1934 Ashes bat and the ball bowled by Eddie Gilbert in 1931.
