Proudly Presents...
The BOXING Page!!!
The BOXING Page!!!
1948 Leaf Knockout Gum #1 Jack Dempsey 1948 Leaf Knockout Gum #48 Joe Louis
"LADIES AND GENTLEMEN... FOR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT, MAY WE PRESENT OUR TRIBUTE TO SOME HARD-HITTING, ROCK 'EM-SOCK 'EM IN-DA-MOUTH, PRIZE FIGHTERS!" Prize fighters, like baseball players,
were featured on early tobacco cards. Boxing was very popular but once it got into BIG money, different boxing organizations, "PAY PER VIEW," etc., it lost (in my opinion) a lot of it's appeal. I think what is more popular now
is "Extreme Fighting" where two guys get into a "cage" and pretty much beat each other into bloody pulps. More or less these are street fights, almost no rules, or finesse required. On this page we will feature vintage boxing
cards and some of the greatest boxers of all-time. Enjoy!
were featured on early tobacco cards. Boxing was very popular but once it got into BIG money, different boxing organizations, "PAY PER VIEW," etc., it lost (in my opinion) a lot of it's appeal. I think what is more popular now
is "Extreme Fighting" where two guys get into a "cage" and pretty much beat each other into bloody pulps. More or less these are street fights, almost no rules, or finesse required. On this page we will feature vintage boxing
cards and some of the greatest boxers of all-time. Enjoy!
| 1910 T218 Hassan Champions Jack Johnson (back view) |
The first African-American to win the World Heavyweight Championship, the great Jack Johnson. Johnson fought in a time of racial hatred and had to overcome many obstacles in his career and life. Originally, the white establishment of the time would not
allow blacks to fight whites for the World Title. However when Johnson was finally allowed to "prove himself" he defeated former Heavy Weight Champ James J. Jeffries in a widely publicized match on July 4, 1910. Jeffries had retired undefeated a few years
earlier but got back in shape and came back to fight Johnson due to public pressure. Jeffries said "I am going into this fight for the sole purpose of proving that a white man is better than a Negro." Well the "Negro" turned the tables and beat Jeffries in 15
rounds. This event created racial tensions and violence against blacks and at least 20 blacks were killed in ensuing riots across the States. Johnson's impact on society, sports, and history cannot be ignored. He opened the doors to future athletes such as Joe
Louis, Jackie Robinson, and Muhammad Ali. Ken Burns did a terrific documentary on Johnson called: "Unforgivable Blackness - The Rise And Fall Of Jack Johnson." For more on Jack Johnson click on this link (Courtesy Wikipedia - The Free Encyclopedia):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Johnson_(boxer)
allow blacks to fight whites for the World Title. However when Johnson was finally allowed to "prove himself" he defeated former Heavy Weight Champ James J. Jeffries in a widely publicized match on July 4, 1910. Jeffries had retired undefeated a few years
earlier but got back in shape and came back to fight Johnson due to public pressure. Jeffries said "I am going into this fight for the sole purpose of proving that a white man is better than a Negro." Well the "Negro" turned the tables and beat Jeffries in 15
rounds. This event created racial tensions and violence against blacks and at least 20 blacks were killed in ensuing riots across the States. Johnson's impact on society, sports, and history cannot be ignored. He opened the doors to future athletes such as Joe
Louis, Jackie Robinson, and Muhammad Ali. Ken Burns did a terrific documentary on Johnson called: "Unforgivable Blackness - The Rise And Fall Of Jack Johnson." For more on Jack Johnson click on this link (Courtesy Wikipedia - The Free Encyclopedia):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Johnson_(boxer)
1948 Leaf Knockout Gum (from left to right) #1 Jake LaMotta, #42 Marcel Cerdan, #64 Ray Robinson, #17 Jack Johnson
In 1948, Leaf Gum produced the first major trading card set devoted entirely to prize fighters. Entitled "Knock Out Gum" the series included both former and current (at the time) champions. Some real heavy hitters were included: Jack
Johnson (who was killed in 1946 in a car crash), Joe Louis, Jack Dempsey, "Sugar" Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Jake LaMotta, and more. These cards are nearly identical to the Leaf baseball and football sets of the same year; colorized
black and white photos printed on somewhat heavy cardboard. These cards have held up well over time and are considered "classic" today. One card that was created but never released for this set was Rocky Graziano ("Somebody Up There
Likes Me"). That card is ultra rare and there just might be only one or two known copies that are highly coveted today. The Graziano card is so rare it is not considered part of a complete set (49 skip-numbered cards make up a complete set of
Knockout Bubble Gum cards). As with most vintage Leaf cards, centering and print problems are the main issues for these cards. And of course, back then kids would play with the cards and so most were handled and show signs of such. Still these
are terrific pieces of vintage sports and Americana. Also note that the Leaf cards were printed on two different card stocks, both white and grey.
Johnson (who was killed in 1946 in a car crash), Joe Louis, Jack Dempsey, "Sugar" Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Jake LaMotta, and more. These cards are nearly identical to the Leaf baseball and football sets of the same year; colorized
black and white photos printed on somewhat heavy cardboard. These cards have held up well over time and are considered "classic" today. One card that was created but never released for this set was Rocky Graziano ("Somebody Up There
Likes Me"). That card is ultra rare and there just might be only one or two known copies that are highly coveted today. The Graziano card is so rare it is not considered part of a complete set (49 skip-numbered cards make up a complete set of
Knockout Bubble Gum cards). As with most vintage Leaf cards, centering and print problems are the main issues for these cards. And of course, back then kids would play with the cards and so most were handled and show signs of such. Still these
are terrific pieces of vintage sports and Americana. Also note that the Leaf cards were printed on two different card stocks, both white and grey.
1951 Topps Ringside #32 Rocky Marciano 1951 Topps Ringside #49 Bob Murphy SP (back view)
Topps Chewing Gum Company of Brooklyn New York produced a beautiful full color boxing set in 1951. Called Topps "Ringside" this classic set also featured former and current fighters. Included in the set are heavy hitters like Joe Louis, Ray
Robinson, John L. Sullivan, Jake La Motta, James Braddock ("Cinderella Man"), and more. The 1951 Topps Ringside cards were issued in two ways: 1 card for 1 penny or a 2-card panel for 5 cents. Cards still in panel form are scarce and command a
premium. Above (left) we have a 1951 Topps Ringside #32 Rocky Marciano rookie card, one of the key cards in the set. But the real key to the set is this 1951 Topps #49 Bob Murphy (above right). The Murphy card was short printed, so much
so that it is considered THE key card to the set. As such it is also the most expensive card in the set; more than the Marciano RC, Joe Louis, etc. The above example, graded PSA 4, had a price tag of $700! In comparison, the Marciano (PSA 6) was on
eBay for $400. More Topps Ringside cards are pictured below.
Robinson, John L. Sullivan, Jake La Motta, James Braddock ("Cinderella Man"), and more. The 1951 Topps Ringside cards were issued in two ways: 1 card for 1 penny or a 2-card panel for 5 cents. Cards still in panel form are scarce and command a
premium. Above (left) we have a 1951 Topps Ringside #32 Rocky Marciano rookie card, one of the key cards in the set. But the real key to the set is this 1951 Topps #49 Bob Murphy (above right). The Murphy card was short printed, so much
so that it is considered THE key card to the set. As such it is also the most expensive card in the set; more than the Marciano RC, Joe Louis, etc. The above example, graded PSA 4, had a price tag of $700! In comparison, the Marciano (PSA 6) was on
eBay for $400. More Topps Ringside cards are pictured below.
This page is currently under construction! Please check back soon for more hard hitting,
butt-kicking boxing cards and photos!
butt-kicking boxing cards and photos!
In 1956, Gum Products issued it's "Adventure" series; a set of 100 cards depicting action and adventure scenes. Included in the set were several boxing issues, including Rocky Marciano (above right), Joe Louis, Max Schmeling (very scarce card
as it was printed with a "Swastika" and was pulled early from production for obvious reasons; see picture below), Gene Tunney (above left) and others. The Schmeling card is quite scarce and hence commands a premium. However most of the other
boxing cards are much more affordable than the 1948 Leaf and 1951 Topps Ringside cards.
Gene Tunney was, and still is, a very under appreciated fighter. He beat Jack Dempsey, not once, but twice (albeit the last fight with Dempsey was the famous "long count" fight in which Dempsey had knocked Tunney down and over 10 seconds were
allowed by the referee, enabling Tunney to avoid the KO); no small accomplishment. However Dempsey was an American "Icon" and even in his losses the public sided with him. Tunney was a veteran Marine and deserved better. Still, he is in Boxing's Hall
Of Fame along with Jack Dempsey. You will find quiet a few Gene Tunney (& Jack Dempsey) cards on this page.
as it was printed with a "Swastika" and was pulled early from production for obvious reasons; see picture below), Gene Tunney (above left) and others. The Schmeling card is quite scarce and hence commands a premium. However most of the other
boxing cards are much more affordable than the 1948 Leaf and 1951 Topps Ringside cards.
Gene Tunney was, and still is, a very under appreciated fighter. He beat Jack Dempsey, not once, but twice (albeit the last fight with Dempsey was the famous "long count" fight in which Dempsey had knocked Tunney down and over 10 seconds were
allowed by the referee, enabling Tunney to avoid the KO); no small accomplishment. However Dempsey was an American "Icon" and even in his losses the public sided with him. Tunney was a veteran Marine and deserved better. Still, he is in Boxing's Hall
Of Fame along with Jack Dempsey. You will find quiet a few Gene Tunney (& Jack Dempsey) cards on this page.
1956 Gum Products Adventure #35 Gene Tunney 1956 Gum Products Adventure #44 Rocky Marciano
| 1956 Gum Products #86 The Black Uhlan Of The Rhine (Max Schmeling) SP |
As mentioned above, the 1956 Gum Products Adventure #86 "The Black Uhlan Of The Rhine" (Max Schmeling) card is very, very scarce. An ungraded example recently sold for $350 (March 2009) in an eBay "Buy It Now" auction. Note the
Swastika, which eBay requires to be "blacked out" when listing this card. I am not endorsing this symbol but I am presenting the card as it was issued in 1956. My apologies if this offends anyone; it is not my desire to do so.
Swastika, which eBay requires to be "blacked out" when listing this card. I am not endorsing this symbol but I am presenting the card as it was issued in 1956. My apologies if this offends anyone; it is not my desire to do so.
1940's-'50's Boxing Exhibit Rocky Graziano
Exhibit boxing cards were produced by the Exhibit Supply Company of Chicago and were issued in vending machines from the 1920's through 1960's. These are postcard size cards usually found with blank
backs, though some have postcard backs as well. While Exhibit cards are generally much more affordable than regular gum cards of the same period, expect to pay premiums for the big names. Some early Exhibit cards
also featured postcard backs.
backs, though some have postcard backs as well. While Exhibit cards are generally much more affordable than regular gum cards of the same period, expect to pay premiums for the big names. Some early Exhibit cards
also featured postcard backs.
Early Jack Dempsey Exhibit card Exhibit boxing cards (Joe Louis & Rocky Marciano)
T218 Boxing
1948 Leaf Knockout Bubble Gum
1951 Topps Ringside
1956 Gum Products Adventure
Exhibit Supply Company Inc.
1977-79 French Sportscaster Boxing card (Mohammad Ali vs. Richard Dunn)
Mohammad Ali is featured on several boxing card issues. His rookie card is considered to be the 1971 Barratt & Company Ltd "Famous Sportsmen" #24 Cassius Clay (above center) but I think it's kind of ridiculous to call a card a "rookie
card" when Ali had been boxing for almost a decade prior to this issue. So I am not going to call this his "rookie card," but it should be noted that this is an expensive card. This PSA 9 MINT graded example has an asking price of $750 on eBay (April
2009). I do know of a boxing Exhibit card that was issued of Cassius Clay that would pre-date this 1971 Barratt & Co. card but I guess they figure that the Barratt card is from a more "mainstream" set. A very early card that features Ali (or Cassius Clay
as he was known then) is 1965 #154 Lampo Grand Champions Cassius Clay (Italian issue). There are a couple on eBay with astronomical price tags. There are also some Dutch gum cards that feature Ali and these are very undervalued (see above card
with The Beatles). Regardless, any vintage Mohammad Ali card is a terrific collectible. The 1977-79 Sportscaster set (a huge set that featured all sports and was available via mail order) featured many boxing cards including Ali. This 1977 French
Sportscaster boxing card (above right) is similar to the U.S. version except for the French text and is a cool card featuring Ali while he was still an active boxer. There are several Ali issues included in the Sportscaster series and all are very affordable,
probably a few bucks each.
card" when Ali had been boxing for almost a decade prior to this issue. So I am not going to call this his "rookie card," but it should be noted that this is an expensive card. This PSA 9 MINT graded example has an asking price of $750 on eBay (April
2009). I do know of a boxing Exhibit card that was issued of Cassius Clay that would pre-date this 1971 Barratt & Co. card but I guess they figure that the Barratt card is from a more "mainstream" set. A very early card that features Ali (or Cassius Clay
as he was known then) is 1965 #154 Lampo Grand Champions Cassius Clay (Italian issue). There are a couple on eBay with astronomical price tags. There are also some Dutch gum cards that feature Ali and these are very undervalued (see above card
with The Beatles). Regardless, any vintage Mohammad Ali card is a terrific collectible. The 1977-79 Sportscaster set (a huge set that featured all sports and was available via mail order) featured many boxing cards including Ali. This 1977 French
Sportscaster boxing card (above right) is similar to the U.S. version except for the French text and is a cool card featuring Ali while he was still an active boxer. There are several Ali issues included in the Sportscaster series and all are very affordable,
probably a few bucks each.
1971 Barratt & Co. Ltd. #24 Cassius Clay
"Floats like a butterfly and stings like a bee..."
1951 Berk Ross "Hit Parade Of Champions"
1951 Berk Ross Sam Jethroe/ Sandy Saddler 2-card panel 1951 Berk Ross Ray Robinson/ Sitko 2-card panel
The 1951 Berk Ross "Hit Parade Of Champions" was a small regional set that featured mostly baseball players. However also included were stars from other sports, like boxing. Several boxing cards were issued including Jake LaMotta, Ray
Robinson (above right), and Sandy Saddler boxing card (above left). Cards were issued in 2-card panel form, intended to be pulled apart at the perforations to make card "singles." These cards are not as popular as mainstream cards of the era
(Bowman & Topps); however they are scarce and terrific collectibles in their own right. Also featured in the set was the last card of Joe DiMaggio as an active player (he was not included in either the Bowman or Topps sets), Whitey Ford's first card (which
corresponds to his 1951 Bowman #1 rookie card), an early Bob Cousey card, and even a Jesse Owens card! Terrific and under appreciated set!
Robinson (above right), and Sandy Saddler boxing card (above left). Cards were issued in 2-card panel form, intended to be pulled apart at the perforations to make card "singles." These cards are not as popular as mainstream cards of the era
(Bowman & Topps); however they are scarce and terrific collectibles in their own right. Also featured in the set was the last card of Joe DiMaggio as an active player (he was not included in either the Bowman or Topps sets), Whitey Ford's first card (which
corresponds to his 1951 Bowman #1 rookie card), an early Bob Cousey card, and even a Jesse Owens card! Terrific and under appreciated set!
1927 Fro-Joy #5 Gene Tunney
The great Gene Tunney lost only 1 fight in his heavy weight career. Tunney appeared on numerous boxing issues: Exhibit cards, 1933 Goudey Sport Kings, and
both the 1948 Leaf and 1951 Topps Ringside sets to name a few. This is a pretty rare issue from Fro-Joy Ice Cream. Fro-Joy also produced a set of Babe Ruth cards
so including Gene Tunney meant he was a big name in sports. Beating Jack Dempsey (twice) will do that for you. The above 1927 Fro-Joy Gene Tunney is card
number 5 of 6 different Tunney cards. According to the back of the card (see right), you could send in a set of (6) cards to Fro-Joy for a reproduction of Gene
Tunney's autographed photo. I think I'd rather have the six Tunney cards, even just one. These are a very tough issue.
both the 1948 Leaf and 1951 Topps Ringside sets to name a few. This is a pretty rare issue from Fro-Joy Ice Cream. Fro-Joy also produced a set of Babe Ruth cards
so including Gene Tunney meant he was a big name in sports. Beating Jack Dempsey (twice) will do that for you. The above 1927 Fro-Joy Gene Tunney is card
number 5 of 6 different Tunney cards. According to the back of the card (see right), you could send in a set of (6) cards to Fro-Joy for a reproduction of Gene
Tunney's autographed photo. I think I'd rather have the six Tunney cards, even just one. These are a very tough issue.
| 1920 W529 Jack Dempsey (Reverse image) This is a very early Jack Dempsey issue. The "W529" refers to the catalog number, but essentially this was a "strip card." Strip cards were issued in "strips" with multiple players or famous figures. I believe they were obtained in vending machines but regardless they are very tough to find. Most were cut into "singles" like the above Dempsey card. I don't know if the seller got it, but he was asking over $750 for this card on eBay. |
1952 UPI Wire Photo Johnny Bratton (left) vs. Rocky Castellani (right)
1954 Topps #39 Scoops Dempsey Defeats Willard 1954 Topps Scoops #40 Joe Louis New Champ
In 1954 Topps produced a beautiful color set of sports highlight cards called Topps "Scoops." The fronts had full color drawings and the backs had a mock newspaper write up of the event. Included were a few boxing cards including Jack Dempsey
(above left), Joe Louis (above right), Rocky Marciano, and John L. Sullivan. Originally the cards were issued with black scratch off ink on the fronts but usually you find these scratched off. These cards are very undervalued in my opinion.
(above left), Joe Louis (above right), Rocky Marciano, and John L. Sullivan. Originally the cards were issued with black scratch off ink on the fronts but usually you find these scratched off. These cards are very undervalued in my opinion.
1933 Goudey Sport Kings Gum #17 Jack Dempsey (Back view)
Goudey Gum is famous for it's classic vintage baseball sets during the 1930's. Goudey also issued the one of the most popular non-sports card sets in 1933 (and later re-issued in 1947) with their "Indian Gum" series which featured Indians, Cowboys,
pioneers, and outlaws. In 1933 Goudey released just a super set with it's "Sport Kings Gum" series. Included were all the big names in the world of sports: Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Babe Didrickson, Knute Rockne, Eddie Shore, even famous Hawaiian surfer
Duke Kahanamoku. Four famous boxers were in the set including Gene Tunney and this beautiful Jack Dempsey card. These cards are quite popular and as with all vintage cards, the higher the grade, the higher the price. These cards have been
reprinted and also altered to appear to be older than they are so be careful when purchasing ungraded examples.
pioneers, and outlaws. In 1933 Goudey released just a super set with it's "Sport Kings Gum" series. Included were all the big names in the world of sports: Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Babe Didrickson, Knute Rockne, Eddie Shore, even famous Hawaiian surfer
Duke Kahanamoku. Four famous boxers were in the set including Gene Tunney and this beautiful Jack Dempsey card. These cards are quite popular and as with all vintage cards, the higher the grade, the higher the price. These cards have been
reprinted and also altered to appear to be older than they are so be careful when purchasing ungraded examples.
Jack Dempsey was one of the biggest sports celebrities in his era, right up there with Babe Ruth. As such he was offered many endorsements, movie
roles, candy bars (see above candy wrapper) and more. His Broadway Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge was a big hit with celebrities and fans alike.
While Jack Dempsey's place is no more, you can find many surviving examples of menu's, signed photos, match covers, etc. and they are pretty
affordable. I picked up the match cover featuring Dempsey's restaurant (left) for about $8. Not sure of the date, but it appears to be the 1940's.
roles, candy bars (see above candy wrapper) and more. His Broadway Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge was a big hit with celebrities and fans alike.
While Jack Dempsey's place is no more, you can find many surviving examples of menu's, signed photos, match covers, etc. and they are pretty
affordable. I picked up the match cover featuring Dempsey's restaurant (left) for about $8. Not sure of the date, but it appears to be the 1940's.
1951 Topps Ringside Advertising Panel (Back panel)
Here is a terrific (& rare) advertising panel for the 1951 Topps Ringside picture cards. Featured on the panel is Rocky Mariciano (considered his "rookie card") and also a great looking "Sugar" Ray
Robinson card ("Ray Robinson vs. Marty Servo"). The reverse shows a colorful boxing scene advertising the Ringside cards ("Save 'Em, Trade 'Em"). This is just an awesome piece!
Robinson card ("Ray Robinson vs. Marty Servo"). The reverse shows a colorful boxing scene advertising the Ringside cards ("Save 'Em, Trade 'Em"). This is just an awesome piece!
1951 Topps Ringside #34 Ray Robinson vs. Marty Servo 1951 Topps Ringside #44 Tony Zale vs. Marcel Cerdan
| 1950s-60s Poloroid photo - Jack Dempsey hamming it up |
1930's-'40's? Jack Dempsey Milk Chocolate Bar Wrapper
June 10, 1948 Press Photo Rocky Graziano vs. Tony Zale III
These guys are not "hamming it up." Rocky Graziano and Tony Zale fought 3 epic fights together (more like brawls), with Zale winning 2 of the 3. They were real slugfests and both fighters gave it their all. Both fighters are also in Boxing's Hall of
Fame. Graziano, being an Italian from New York City got a bit more exposure than Zale, who came from Gary, Indiana. Hollywood even made a movie about Graziano, called "Someone Up There Likes Me" starring Paul Newman as Rocky
Graziano. Now Paul Newman was a great actor, but he sure as hell did not look anything like Rocky Graziano. And vice versa. Regardless it was a pretty good film but I don't know how much of it was based on the actual book by Graziano (also
entitled "Someone Up There Likes Me"). There are very few vintage boxing cards of Rocky Graziano. For an affordable card you can pick up a Boxing Exhibit card of Graziano for a few bucks (see above). Also you can find "The Ring" Magazines
with Graziano pictured on the cover or you can pick up vintage wire photos like the above example. Tony Zale is featured in both the 1948 Leaf and 1951 Topps Ringside sets and both cards are affordable.
Fame. Graziano, being an Italian from New York City got a bit more exposure than Zale, who came from Gary, Indiana. Hollywood even made a movie about Graziano, called "Someone Up There Likes Me" starring Paul Newman as Rocky
Graziano. Now Paul Newman was a great actor, but he sure as hell did not look anything like Rocky Graziano. And vice versa. Regardless it was a pretty good film but I don't know how much of it was based on the actual book by Graziano (also
entitled "Someone Up There Likes Me"). There are very few vintage boxing cards of Rocky Graziano. For an affordable card you can pick up a Boxing Exhibit card of Graziano for a few bucks (see above). Also you can find "The Ring" Magazines
with Graziano pictured on the cover or you can pick up vintage wire photos like the above example. Tony Zale is featured in both the 1948 Leaf and 1951 Topps Ringside sets and both cards are affordable.
June 28, 1950 World Middleweight Championship Graziano vs. La Motta Ringside Ticket
The June 28, 1950 World Middleweight Championship Fight between Rocky Graziano and Rocky Marciano never materialized as Graziano suffered a broken hand prior to the fight. So this
Ringside seat ticket (above) was never used. Check out the price for a Ringside seat, $20. That was a lot of money in 1950. Regardless this is a fight "that never was" but it sure would have
been a dandy. This "phantom" ticket is currently listed on eBay (March 8, 2010).
There are not many vintage boxing cards of Rocky Graziano out there but an affordable example would be this boxing card from the Exhibit Supply Co. of Chicago (left). You can pick one
up for pretty cheap on eBay. However one of the rarest boxing cards EVER is the 1948 Leaf Knockout Gum card of Rocky Graziano. The Leaf Graziano card is rarer than the T206 Honus
Wagner card (the most coveted baseball card on the planet) with only a few examples known to exist. The last 1948 Leaf Graziano that I know of sold in auction for over $17,000 (it was
graded a PSA VG-EX 4) a couple years back.
Ringside seat ticket (above) was never used. Check out the price for a Ringside seat, $20. That was a lot of money in 1950. Regardless this is a fight "that never was" but it sure would have
been a dandy. This "phantom" ticket is currently listed on eBay (March 8, 2010).
There are not many vintage boxing cards of Rocky Graziano out there but an affordable example would be this boxing card from the Exhibit Supply Co. of Chicago (left). You can pick one
up for pretty cheap on eBay. However one of the rarest boxing cards EVER is the 1948 Leaf Knockout Gum card of Rocky Graziano. The Leaf Graziano card is rarer than the T206 Honus
Wagner card (the most coveted baseball card on the planet) with only a few examples known to exist. The last 1948 Leaf Graziano that I know of sold in auction for over $17,000 (it was
graded a PSA VG-EX 4) a couple years back.
This is what you would look usually end up looking like after a fight with Joe Louis ("The Brown Bomber"). I don't know how this guy could crack a smile. Maybe he is wincing instead. A face only a mother
could love. This Associated Press wire photo was taken February 9, 1940 after Arturo Godoy tried to dethrone Heavyweight Champ Joe Louis. Didn't work out as planned...
could love. This Associated Press wire photo was taken February 9, 1940 after Arturo Godoy tried to dethrone Heavyweight Champ Joe Louis. Didn't work out as planned...
1933 Sport Kings Gum wax wrapper 1933 Sport Kings Gum #18 Gene Tunney
1910 T9 Turkey Red Cabinet Jack Johnson (Checklist back)
Is this just a classic boxing card or what? Turkey Red "cabinet" cards are large beautiful picture cards that were given as premiums for buying tobacco products (Turkey Red, of course). These are very ornate and feature both prize fighters and
baseball players, as both baseball and boxing were the two top sports in America at the time. The cards themselves have an ornate faux wood grain frame and the pictures are so beautiful they look like museum masterpieces. The cabinet card
features the great Jack Johnson. It is low grade (note the pinholes near the corners) but still is really doesn't matter. Just a terrific piece of Americana and history!
baseball players, as both baseball and boxing were the two top sports in America at the time. The cards themselves have an ornate faux wood grain frame and the pictures are so beautiful they look like museum masterpieces. The cabinet card
features the great Jack Johnson. It is low grade (note the pinholes near the corners) but still is really doesn't matter. Just a terrific piece of Americana and history!
Here is an example of a wax wrapper from the 1933 Sport Kings Gum issue (above left). Made by the Goudey Gum Company of Boston MA, the set featured four boxing cards: Max Baer, Primo Canera, Jack Dempsey (scroll up page
for example) and Gene Tunney (above right). You hear about Rocky Mariciano being the only undefeated heavy weight, but Tunney was also unbeaten as a heavyweight. He did lose on fight as a light heavy weight to Harry Greb, but
Tunney was to beat Greb in their next two meetings. Tunney went up to the heavyweight division where he was undefeated including two classic wins vs. the great Jack Dempsey. Gene Tunney "The Fighting Marine" was a great and under
appreciated fighter in his era.
for example) and Gene Tunney (above right). You hear about Rocky Mariciano being the only undefeated heavy weight, but Tunney was also unbeaten as a heavyweight. He did lose on fight as a light heavy weight to Harry Greb, but
Tunney was to beat Greb in their next two meetings. Tunney went up to the heavyweight division where he was undefeated including two classic wins vs. the great Jack Dempsey. Gene Tunney "The Fighting Marine" was a great and under
appreciated fighter in his era.
Recently I got an email from someone who had an uncut sheet of 1948 Leaf boxing cards (see above image; do you think the guy has enough guns?). The sheet appears to be tacked to the back of the gun rack. Just from the picture I can make out
2 Jack Dempseys, 2 Max Schmelling, Ray Robinson, Kid Chocolate, 2 Henry Armstrong, John L. Sullivan, and more. Fabulous!
2 Jack Dempseys, 2 Max Schmelling, Ray Robinson, Kid Chocolate, 2 Henry Armstrong, John L. Sullivan, and more. Fabulous!
Mid-1960's Dutch gum card (The Beatles with Cassius Clay)
Rocky Graziano Exhibit card (1940's)
12/10/53 UPI Photo "King Swing" (Joe Louis, Rocky Graziano, Jack Dempsey) (back view)
1954 photo Ezzard Charles vs. Rocky Marciano September 23, 1952 Marciano K.O.'s Walcott ("Jersey" Joe Walcott, Rocky Marciano)
November 1951 THE RING Magazine (Rocky Marciano)
1948-49 Leaf Knock Out Gum Dealer Advertisement
While in cyberspace I came upon this terrific advertisement for the 1948-1949 Leaf Knockout Gum cards. This is an advertisement for dealers (store owners, etc.) to order the Leaf boxing bubble gum cards. I don't know if you can read the
fine print, but it says "PACKING: 24 Packages to box; 29 Boxes to shipping container. Minimum shipment 60 Boxes 72c a Box." Is that right? 72 cents a box??? The advertisement also lists Leaf Gum Company's address as 1135 N. Cicero
Ave., Chicago 11, ILL. I wonder what is there now... Still looking for a good picture or scan of a Leaf Knock Out Gum wax wrapper. If you have one and can provide a nice scan I would love to post it here (giving you full credit of course!).
Please send me an email: nowbatting19@yahoo.com. Thank you! Tim
fine print, but it says "PACKING: 24 Packages to box; 29 Boxes to shipping container. Minimum shipment 60 Boxes 72c a Box." Is that right? 72 cents a box??? The advertisement also lists Leaf Gum Company's address as 1135 N. Cicero
Ave., Chicago 11, ILL. I wonder what is there now... Still looking for a good picture or scan of a Leaf Knock Out Gum wax wrapper. If you have one and can provide a nice scan I would love to post it here (giving you full credit of course!).
Please send me an email: nowbatting19@yahoo.com. Thank you! Tim
1948 Leaf Gum #50 Rocky Graziano - The "Holy Grail" of Boxing Cards!
One of the rarest boxing (and rarest sports card, period) is the 1948 Leaf Gum #50 Rocky Graziano. Originally thought to never have been issued in wax packs, recent proof has come to light that the Graziano most likely was issued as intended.
However the card was pulled early in production (probably due to contract problems with Graziano; he also did not appear in the 1951 Topps Ringside set) resulting in one of the rarest sports cards today. At one time, the highest price known for a
Graziano was $17,000 (for a PSA 4 VG-EX example), but this 1948 Leaf #50 Rocky Graziano SGC A (Authentic) recently sold in a major auction for $29,625 (including Buyer's Premium)! Holy Cow! If an authentic slabbed Graziano fetches nearly
$30K, what would a GRADED example now sell for? Only time will tell. Most collectors who actually have this card (so far only a few examples are known) keep the card so the card does not trade hands that often. It is unbelievable to me that in this
economy someone has the extra $30K to buy a sports card. Granted this is a true rarity, probably rarer than the more famous T206 Honus Wagner baseball card, but still. What a world, what a world... By the way, a 1948 Leaf Knockout Gum set is
considered "complete" without the Graziano (Thank goodness!).
However the card was pulled early in production (probably due to contract problems with Graziano; he also did not appear in the 1951 Topps Ringside set) resulting in one of the rarest sports cards today. At one time, the highest price known for a
Graziano was $17,000 (for a PSA 4 VG-EX example), but this 1948 Leaf #50 Rocky Graziano SGC A (Authentic) recently sold in a major auction for $29,625 (including Buyer's Premium)! Holy Cow! If an authentic slabbed Graziano fetches nearly
$30K, what would a GRADED example now sell for? Only time will tell. Most collectors who actually have this card (so far only a few examples are known) keep the card so the card does not trade hands that often. It is unbelievable to me that in this
economy someone has the extra $30K to buy a sports card. Granted this is a true rarity, probably rarer than the more famous T206 Honus Wagner baseball card, but still. What a world, what a world... By the way, a 1948 Leaf Knockout Gum set is
considered "complete" without the Graziano (Thank goodness!).
9-5-58 Carmen Basilio vs. Art Aragon at Wrigley Field Los Angeles
Rare 1955 Masquerade Party #6 Jack Dempsey
Jack Dempsey card (Tabs closed) Back of card with clues Jack Dempsey card (Tabs opened)
| In 1955, Betty B. Products produced a board game (see above left) based on a popular ABC TV show called "Masquerade Party." The show would have celebrities appear in costume and the panel of guests would try and guess their identity. The board game included large tabbed cards that depicted a costumed figure on the front. The back would have clues to the identity of the "masquerader." Then the card could be opened up to reveal the celebrity. Most of the cards picture actors, musicians, and politicians but there are a few well known sports figures including baseball stars Leo Durocher (with wife, actress Lorraine Day), Brooklyn Dodger shortstop Harold "Pee Wee" Reese, and this terrific Jack Dempsey card (above right; see all three images). Dempsey appeared on the show dressed as a Chef. The board game is considered "rare," which means the game cards are pretty tough to find today. Most probably found their way in the trash after cleaning up the attic. As far as I know, these collector cards, notably the sports figures, are undocumented in Collecting Catalogs. Very cool card of Dempsey! |
Jack Dempsey's Restaurant Postcard "Jack Dempsey Knocks Out Jess Willard" (Back view)
You can pick up one of these vintage Jack Dempsey Restaurant postcards for cheap on eBay and other places. I just picked this one up at an antique store for $3 (6-7-11). The linen postcards feature a famous painting of giant Jess Willard
(dark trunks) and Jack Dempsey (white trunks) during their epic fight on July 4, 1919 in Toledo Ohio. Dempsey KO'd Willard to become "Champion of the World." Willard suffered severe injuries to his face including fractures to the cheekbone,
jaw, and ribs as well as a smashed nose. There was speculation that Dempsey may have had "loaded" gloves but this was never proven. Dempsey of course is considered to be one of the all-time greats, he was larger than life and was idolized
by millions of Americans. After his legendary boxing career ended Dempsey started his own restaurant and Cocktail Lounge on Broadway in New York City. It became a mecca for celebrities and fans alike. You could have your photo taken
with Dempsey and he would sign autographs as well. Jack Dempsey's Restaurant was open from 1935 to 1974. Of note, Jack Dempsey's Restaurant was featured in the Oscar Winning Film "The Godfather." While the restaurant is no longer
there, you can still find souvenirs. Everything from Menu's, matchbooks, and postcards are highly collectible today but fairly inexpensive. Try eBay for starters.
(dark trunks) and Jack Dempsey (white trunks) during their epic fight on July 4, 1919 in Toledo Ohio. Dempsey KO'd Willard to become "Champion of the World." Willard suffered severe injuries to his face including fractures to the cheekbone,
jaw, and ribs as well as a smashed nose. There was speculation that Dempsey may have had "loaded" gloves but this was never proven. Dempsey of course is considered to be one of the all-time greats, he was larger than life and was idolized
by millions of Americans. After his legendary boxing career ended Dempsey started his own restaurant and Cocktail Lounge on Broadway in New York City. It became a mecca for celebrities and fans alike. You could have your photo taken
with Dempsey and he would sign autographs as well. Jack Dempsey's Restaurant was open from 1935 to 1974. Of note, Jack Dempsey's Restaurant was featured in the Oscar Winning Film "The Godfather." While the restaurant is no longer
there, you can still find souvenirs. Everything from Menu's, matchbooks, and postcards are highly collectible today but fairly inexpensive. Try eBay for starters.
1948 Leaf Knock-Out Gum 73 Gene Tunney (Back view)
| 1935 U.S. Caramel #22 John "Jack" Dempsey (Back view) |
The 1935 U.S. Caramel issue was mostly made up of baseball players but included some prize fighters as well. They are very scarce today in any condition. This Jack Dempsey, graded PSA 7 NM had a price tag of
well over one thousand dollars (eBay, July 2011)!!! Ouch!
well over one thousand dollars (eBay, July 2011)!!! Ouch!
| 1938 Churchman's Cigarettes "Boxing Personalities" |
1935 Churman's James Braddock 1935 Churchman's Max Schmeling
Among the most affordable vintage boxing issues are the 1938 Churchman's Cigarettes "Boxing Personalities" series, produced in the U.K. & Ireland. Included in the set of 50 cards are Jack Johnson, Jack Dempsey and Joe Louis and these you
can find surprisingly cheap on eBay. I picked up this James J. Braddock & Max Schmeling card for a few bucks each. Both of these boxing greats had movies made about them. James Braddock was played by Russell Crowe in "Cinderella Man,"
while Schelling was in a cable television movie called "Max & Joe" or something like that. Schmeling was the first fighter to beat Joe Louis and in the highly touted rematch was soundly beaten by Louis. While both were pawns of their respective countries
during the war (Germany & the United States) they later became very good friends. Hence the story of "Max & Joe." It is interesting that even though fighters are paid to try and knock the other guy silly, the fact remains there is a lot of respect in the ring
for fellow opponents.
can find surprisingly cheap on eBay. I picked up this James J. Braddock & Max Schmeling card for a few bucks each. Both of these boxing greats had movies made about them. James Braddock was played by Russell Crowe in "Cinderella Man,"
while Schelling was in a cable television movie called "Max & Joe" or something like that. Schmeling was the first fighter to beat Joe Louis and in the highly touted rematch was soundly beaten by Louis. While both were pawns of their respective countries
during the war (Germany & the United States) they later became very good friends. Hence the story of "Max & Joe." It is interesting that even though fighters are paid to try and knock the other guy silly, the fact remains there is a lot of respect in the ring
for fellow opponents.
1950 Chesterfield Cigarettes Joe Louis
| 1948 Topps Magic Photos #8 Jack Dempsey (Back view) |
Topps is well known for being the undisputed leader in bubble gum picture cards from 1956 through 1980. Their first major issued was with their 1952 "Giant" baseball cards and within just a few years they had put everyone else either out of
business or manufacturing something other than bubble gum picture cards. However Topps very FIRST issue were these small "Magic Photo" cards, issued in 1948. The set included baseball stars, football stars, famous figures in history, landmarks
and more including a nice sub-set of boxing cards. These cards were a neat gimmick. First it appeared that the fronts were blank. The back had clues as to the card's identity. Then you would develop the photo card yourself using spit. Something like
that. Some cards have nice pictures (sepia toned), while others were not developed properly and are very faint. Regardless these are very tough to find but very affordable nonetheless, especially in "raw" or "ungraded" condition. I think I saw this
1948 Topps Magic #8 Jack Dempsey for around $30. Other boxing stars included in the 1948 Topps Magic set are Joe Louis, Gene Tunney, Jack Sullivan, Jack Johnson, and 20 others.
business or manufacturing something other than bubble gum picture cards. However Topps very FIRST issue were these small "Magic Photo" cards, issued in 1948. The set included baseball stars, football stars, famous figures in history, landmarks
and more including a nice sub-set of boxing cards. These cards were a neat gimmick. First it appeared that the fronts were blank. The back had clues as to the card's identity. Then you would develop the photo card yourself using spit. Something like
that. Some cards have nice pictures (sepia toned), while others were not developed properly and are very faint. Regardless these are very tough to find but very affordable nonetheless, especially in "raw" or "ungraded" condition. I think I saw this
1948 Topps Magic #8 Jack Dempsey for around $30. Other boxing stars included in the 1948 Topps Magic set are Joe Louis, Gene Tunney, Jack Sullivan, Jack Johnson, and 20 others.
1965 Aurora "Great Moments In Sport" Plastic Model Kit (Jack Dempsey vs. Luis Firpo)
Here is an interesting boxing item I saw on eBay (above). In 1965 Aurora (makers of the popular automobile scale plastic
models) issued models of sports heroes. Included was this boxing piece, recreating the famous scene in which Luis Firpo
knocked Jack Dempsey completely out of the ring in a 1925 Championship Bout. This occurred in Round 1. Dempsey was
helped back into the ring where he proceeded to pummel Luis Firpo in defeat in the very next round. These models, as you
would expect are rare. Rare because most were painted and eventually broken and tossed in the trash. This example is
unpainted and still intact. A really nice boxing collectible. It has a $250 price tag currently (as of Sept. 20, 2011). Imagine
what an unopened, still-sealed model would bring?
The picture to the right is an advertisement for the Aurora Hobby Kits. The photo depicts Firpo being counted out in Round 2.
models) issued models of sports heroes. Included was this boxing piece, recreating the famous scene in which Luis Firpo
knocked Jack Dempsey completely out of the ring in a 1925 Championship Bout. This occurred in Round 1. Dempsey was
helped back into the ring where he proceeded to pummel Luis Firpo in defeat in the very next round. These models, as you
would expect are rare. Rare because most were painted and eventually broken and tossed in the trash. This example is
unpainted and still intact. A really nice boxing collectible. It has a $250 price tag currently (as of Sept. 20, 2011). Imagine
what an unopened, still-sealed model would bring?
The picture to the right is an advertisement for the Aurora Hobby Kits. The photo depicts Firpo being counted out in Round 2.
Dempsey and Firpo by George Wesley Bellows, 1925
Late 1940's Chicago Tribune Wire Photo Jack Dempsey & Gene Tunney ("Why can't we be friends.. why can't we be friends...")
1932 Bulgaria Sport Photos #256 Max Schmeling, Babe Ruth 1933 Trumpf Chocolate #1 Jack Dempsey
Cards featuring prize fighters was not just limited to the United States. Many cards, particulary from England & Germany were produced and packaged in cigarette packages, candy and gum. Here are a couple of
examples. The 1932 Bulgaria Sport Photos #256 (above left ) features Heavyweight Champ Max Schmelling and baseball Icon, Babe Ruth. Because it features Ruth, who is considered one of the greatest
baseball players ever, this is a very expensive card. The 1933 Jack Dempsey card (#1, above right) was issued by Trumpf Chocolate and features a beautiful & rugged shot of the great Jack Dempsey.
examples. The 1932 Bulgaria Sport Photos #256 (above left ) features Heavyweight Champ Max Schmelling and baseball Icon, Babe Ruth. Because it features Ruth, who is considered one of the greatest
baseball players ever, this is a very expensive card. The 1933 Jack Dempsey card (#1, above right) was issued by Trumpf Chocolate and features a beautiful & rugged shot of the great Jack Dempsey.
1977-79 Sportscaster The Three Ali-Frazier Fights (Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier)
I am saddened to learn of the passing of boxing champ Joe Frazier. Frazier was one of the great heavyweight champs and the first to beat Muhammad Ali. Ali and Frazier battled 3 times and the last fight ("The Thrilla In Manila) was probably the
fight of the century. Do you remember those "Rocky" movies with Sylvester Stallone? I think it was the 2nd "Rocky" but there was a scene where after the fight Rocky is in the hospital and he goes to see Apollo Creed who is also beat up. Remember
that? Well the last Ali-Frazier fight was worse than that, because this was for real! Both fighters battled high heat, gruelling punishment from both fighters and clearly when Frazier's trainer threw in the towel before the final round, there was no telling
who would win that fight. Both Ali and Frazier were pushed to the limits by each other and both responded like the warriors they were. They also nearly killed each other. If you ever get to see the fight on ESPN Classic you will know what I mean.
That fight was one of the last of Joe Frazier's career; and Ali's last great fight as well. Both fighters will forever be linked after their 3 epic fights. Joe Frazier was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.
There were not too many Joe Frazier cards produced during his ring career, boxing was just not as popular as Baseball, Football, etc., so major card manufacturers (mostly TOPPS Chewing Gum Inc.) did not produce any major boxing issues since
their series of "Ringside" cards in 1951 (they did however produce some "Rocky" picture gum cards after the movie exploded at the box office!). However I picked up this 1977-79 Sportscaster "The Three Ali-Frazier Fights" card which
depicts the two in battle for something like five bucks several months ago. These Sportscaster cards might be your best bet for finding a Joe Frazier card. They were issued over a period of years (1977-79) and featured multiple sports; perhaps the
largest such "set" ever produced. The cards were available through mail order subscription.
fight of the century. Do you remember those "Rocky" movies with Sylvester Stallone? I think it was the 2nd "Rocky" but there was a scene where after the fight Rocky is in the hospital and he goes to see Apollo Creed who is also beat up. Remember
that? Well the last Ali-Frazier fight was worse than that, because this was for real! Both fighters battled high heat, gruelling punishment from both fighters and clearly when Frazier's trainer threw in the towel before the final round, there was no telling
who would win that fight. Both Ali and Frazier were pushed to the limits by each other and both responded like the warriors they were. They also nearly killed each other. If you ever get to see the fight on ESPN Classic you will know what I mean.
That fight was one of the last of Joe Frazier's career; and Ali's last great fight as well. Both fighters will forever be linked after their 3 epic fights. Joe Frazier was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.
There were not too many Joe Frazier cards produced during his ring career, boxing was just not as popular as Baseball, Football, etc., so major card manufacturers (mostly TOPPS Chewing Gum Inc.) did not produce any major boxing issues since
their series of "Ringside" cards in 1951 (they did however produce some "Rocky" picture gum cards after the movie exploded at the box office!). However I picked up this 1977-79 Sportscaster "The Three Ali-Frazier Fights" card which
depicts the two in battle for something like five bucks several months ago. These Sportscaster cards might be your best bet for finding a Joe Frazier card. They were issued over a period of years (1977-79) and featured multiple sports; perhaps the
largest such "set" ever produced. The cards were available through mail order subscription.
Joe Frazier 1944 - 2011
Goodnight Champ!
1987 Panini #160 Mike Tyson
