This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/14/2024
Born in the Sac and Fox Nation in Oklahoma’s Native American territory, Jim Thorpe developed into a world-class multi-sport athlete at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School. Playing football under legendary coach Pop Warner, Thorpe was a two-time All-American. He also excelled in track, lacrosse and baseball. In 1912, Thorpe qualified for the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Team, and he won two gold medals at the 1912 Stockholm Games in the Decathlon and Pentathlon. He returned home a national hero and went on to play professional baseball with the New York Giants and pro football with the Canton Bulldogs.
Presented here is a historically significant PSA/DNA Type 1 photograph of Thorpe signing his first MLB contract with the Giants on February 1, 1913. Whoever took this photo -- possibly Conlon since the issuer is Underwood & Underwood -- captured this important moment to perfection, getting Thorpe pen-in-hand with the contract on the table as he looks up with pride. As a utility outfielder, Thorpe saw action in 19 games for John McGraw's boys in 1913 as the Giants won their second straight NL pennant. Cropped at a slight angle within its white borders, the double-weight photo has some horizontal creasing and other surface wear, but the image clarity remains sharp with nothing affecting Thorpe's face. The reverse has a full caption with the date and issuer stamps plus editorial notes. This is the only known example of this iconic photo. Thorpe remains one of the most sought-after subjects among pre-war collectors.
DATE/ERA: Feb. 1, 1913
GENERATION: First (printed from original negative)
ISSUER: Underwood & Underwood
SIZE: 6.5 x 8.5
CONDITION: EX
AUTHENTICATOR: PSA/DNA Type 1 Encapsulated