This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/3/2020
When opportunities suddenly present themselves, the best thing to do is simply react and be as resourceful as possible. That was the case when a family was dining at a hotel restaurant in New York City and Muhammad Ali walked in. The year was 1967 and Ali was meeting his parents [for a meal] who were apparently staying at the Loew's Midtown Motor Inn on Eighth Avenue between 48th and 49th Street. The easiest thing to put in front of the GOAT to autograph was this Showcase Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge placemat, and that he did.
"To Lee - From Muhammad Ali - World Heavy Weight Champion - Good Luck - 1967" is neatly done by The Champ in nearly perfect 9-10/10 black ink. Ali's parents each signed the 10x13-inch placemat as well, both in thick blue marker. (The name written in pencil is unidentified.) The placemat has been folded in fourths, yet remains in fine shape with no other condition issues. This lot even comes with a small snapshot photo taken by the consignor's relative capturing this very scene of Ali dining with his parents right after they all signed. How's that for seal-proof provenance? Includes full LOA from Beckett (A25819).