A rare piece of cricketing history has found its rightful place in the National Museum of Australia, as a ‘baggy green’ Test cap worn by Don Bradman during the 1946–47 Ashes series was acquired for AUD 438,550 (USD 287,000). The purchase, made from a private collector, was hailed as the preservation of an `iconic slice of Australian history`.

The cap, worn by Bradman in the first Ashes series held after World War II, carries not just sporting significance but deep cultural symbolism. At a time when Australians were emerging from the shadows of global conflict, the return of Test cricket represented hope, renewal, and a return to national pride. Bradman, leading Australia against England, embodied that resilience and optimism.

Katherine McMahon, Director of the National Museum, underlined the emotional and historical weight of the acquisition. "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 World War II," she said late Friday. "We are delighted this national treasure has found a home here at the National Museum of Australia for all Australians to enjoy."