Welcome back to Kollector’s Korner: Met-o-ra-bil-ia Hall of Fame! If you laminated our first installment, you’re a true collector at heart—just don’t try to get it graded by PSA. This month, we turn our attention to another dedicated Mets memorabilia maestro, a man whose passion for the orange and blue runs deep.
Meet our latest inductee: Jessie James Burke—a collector with a name fit for an outlaw and a passion fit for a legend. His unwavering devotion to the men behind the mask—Mets catchers of all eras—has led him to amass one of the most impressive collections of game-used Mets catcher’s gear you’ll ever see, from Jerry Grote to Francisco Alvarez.
Like many collectors, Jessie's journey began with baseball cards before evolving into the world of autographs and game-used equipment. His first major acquisition? None other than Gary Carter’s catcher’s helmet, a piece that would set the tone for the focus of his collection. Since then, he has acquired hundreds of game-used Mets catcher’s items, making his collection a true shrine to the guardians of home plate.
When asked to name his most treasured piece, Jessie did not hesitate: Gary Carter’s home uniform from the 1985 season. More than just fabric and stitching, it represents the heart and soul of one of the greatest catchers in Mets history. The Kid’s leadership and clutch performances are forever linked to the Mets’ golden era, and owning this uniform is like holding a piece of that history in his hands.
Every collector has that one piece that stands out, a showstopper that sets their collection apart. For Jessie, it’s a full-sized 1986 World Series trophy—not a replica, but an artist-commissioned masterpiece created nearly 20 years ago. A fitting tribute to the greatest season in Mets history, it’s a constant reminder of that magical championship run.
One of the most rewarding aspects of collecting is the relationships built along the way. He’s had the privilege of meeting dozens of Mets players, buying from and even gifting items to former Mets. “It’s awesome to meet your heroes and let them know you appreciate them,” he says, underscoring that for true collectors, it’s not just about the memorabilia—it’s about the memories.
Every collector has that elusive piece they dream of acquiring. His ultimate “holy grail” items? Todd Hundley’s 1997 ‘ice cream’ white catcher’s helmet and Mike Piazza’s Mercury Mets catcher’s helmet. While they remain out of reach for now, the thrill of the hunt is part of what keeps the passion alive.
When it comes to acquiring pieces, Burke leaves no stone unturned. Auctions, card shows, personal connections, online forums—they all play a role in his ever-growing collection. However, the hobby isn’t without its challenges. The biggest frustration? “Shenanigans,” as he puts it, referring to the pitfalls of dealing with fakes, overpricing, and the occasional collector who isn’t playing fair.
Jessie James Burke's dedication to Mets memorabilia hasn’t gone unnoticed. In fact, the Mets themselves once visited his home to film a feature on his collection. Seeing it broadcast during rain delays at Citi Field was a surreal moment—made even better when friends in the stands would send him photos and texts when it aired.
For those looking to start a collection, his advice is simple yet invaluable: “Narrow your focus. If your means allow you to hoard, you’ll wind up doing that. Collect what truly gives you joy, not just to check off boxes on a list.”
When he’s not tracking down his next great Mets artifact, Jessie James Burke is busy with his career and family. “An attorney by economic necessity, and a Mets fanatic by choice,” he juggles his professional life with being a devoted father to his two beautiful daughters, Michaela and Ella. His passion for the Mets runs just as deep as his dedication to his clients—I’ve seen him in action as a lawyer, and I can say firsthand that he cares for them with the same intensity that he hunts down rare Mets memorabilia.
When asked to describe himself in three words, Jessie’s answer is simple but profound: Son. Brother. Father.
As we wrap up this month's edition of Kollector’s Korner, we’re reminded that Mets memorabilia isn’t just about the objects themselves—it’s about the passion, the history, and the stories that come with them. Whether it’s Gary Carter’s uniform, a World Series trophy, or a helmet still on the wish list, every piece tells a tale. And for Mets fans, there’s no greater story than the one we keep writing, year after year.
Stay tuned for our next installment, where we’ll spotlight another die-hard Mets collector keeping the Amazin’ legacy alive. Until then, keep collecting, keep reminiscing, and keep the faith—because you never know what piece of Mets history might be waiting just around the corner.
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