Wolverhampton Wanderers have released a special 150th anniversary home kit, bringing back the city coat of arms for the first time in 30 years. The shirt, made by SUDU, marks the start of the club's 150th campaign and returns to a traditional gold shade.

What makes the 150th kit special?

The Wolverhampton city coat of arms last appeared on a Wolves shirt between 1993 and 1996. Now it's back by popular demand for this milestone season. The club badge remains the official branding, but the city identity adds a layer of local pride.

Club historian Pete Crump wrote the feature 'Out of Darkness Cometh Light: The story of Wolves' home kit' to accompany the launch. He explains the shirt is "so traditional" and that fans will also love the upcoming away and third kits.

How did Wolves' kit look in the early years?

When Wolves played their first game against Stafford Road reserves on 13th January 1877, they wore blue and white hooped shirts. Mrs Hill knitted those jerseys — her husband Fergus was an early club official and her son Jimmy played for the team.

From 1877 to 1883, Wolves looked more like Queens Park Rangers or Reading with dark shorts and socks. Then in 1883, the club switched to red and white vertical stripes. The 1884 Wrekin Cup winners and the 1888/89 squad all wore that design.

What changed after the Sunderland clash?

On 15th September 1890, Wolves travelled to Sunderland's Roker Park for their third league game of the season. Both teams turned up in identical red and white stripes. The referee sent Wolves back to the changing room and ordered them to wear their white travel shirts.

That kit clash forced a change. Wolves eventually adopted the gold and black that became iconic. The exact shade of gold has varied over the years, but the 150th shirt brings back a fan-favourite tone.

What comes next for the kit celebration?

This is part one of a series looking at Wolves' home shirt evolution. The club will also explore the history of the Wolves badge during the season. Away and third shirts are expected soon, and the club is confident supporters will love them.

The 150th campaign is a chance to honour the past while looking forward. For now, the gold and black — with a touch of city heritage — is back where it belongs.