The owner of a U.S. flag signed by Tom Brady claims in a federal lawsuit that the New England patriots damaged the flag by putting it in their hall of fame.
The flag's value was reduced by as much as $1 million after Brady's signature faded, according to the lawsuit.
The team has no comment at this time, according to a spokesman.
The flag was flown over the stadium on December 22, 2001 in what was described as a priceless piece of sports history.
The flag was bought by Daniel Vitale as an investment.
Vitale told The Associated Press that he has been a fan of the New England team for forty years. The flag was important to me because it was the last regular-season game at the stadium.
Vitale lent the flag to the Hall of Fame after he was assured that it would be taken care of. According to the lawsuit, he wanted it back a couple of months later because he thought it might be worth a lot more.
The family of Vitale's youngest daughter wanted to hire a full-time nanny to care for her.
Brady's signature faded when Vitale returned the flag.
According to the lawsuit, the lighting at the Hall of Fame and the glass on the display case were not designed to protect signed sports equipment.
A jury trial and a lot of damages are sought in the suit.
It was a last resort. Vitale said that they don't want to talk to them.
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