This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/24/2014
ADDENDUM: James Jeffries was a longtime friend to Bill Schroeder and Paul Helms and a frequent visitor to the HAF museum. He was a recipient of many Helms awards and was a member of the Helms Hall of Fame. A copy of an original photo of Jeffries (late in life) celebrating his birthday with Schroeder and Helms is included with this lot. All of the Jeffries items featured in this auction were donated to the HAF directly by Jeffries himself. Circa 1899 boxing trunks worn by World Heavyweight Boxing Champion James J. Jeffries, who, after winning the title from Bob Fitzsimmons in 1899 held it until August of 1904, when he retired undefeated. Medium gray colored, knee length knit wool trunks have a horizontal red band knitted on both legs near bottom. Trunks display extensive use with a large amount of small holes(insect damage?). Elastic waist band visible at front. Pair of tears in the groin area have vintage repairs. Wright & Ditson Boston Trade mark tag sewn in back inside of waistband. The trunks were displayed in the Helms Museum as belonging the Jeffries.
Includes a Letter of Provenance from the Helms Athletic Foundation/LA84 Collection.