PLEASE READ UPDATES TO THIS DESCRIPTION. FULL LOA FROM PSA/DNA NOW POSTED.
Like a pair of Michael’s game-worn Air Jordan sneakers or a set of Bobby Jones' irons, some collectibles belong together no matter where their hobby journey may take them. This vintage multi-signed boxing glove and its mate were auctioned for a worthy cause back in 1944, and the pair stayed together for 66 years. Unfortunately, the two gloves were separated in 2010 and now it’s up to a an astute, determined collector to reunite them.
The circa 1920’s Sol Levinson brand gloves were originally sold to the same buyer at auction during the U.S. government sponsored Fourth War Loan Drive (there were eight total). The goal was to raise as much money as possible to purchase War Bonds amid the financial crisis brought on by World War II. Legendary multisport athlete Jim Thorpe along with boxing greats Jack Johnson and James J. Jeffries are among the five autographs on this offered left-handed glove. Amazingly enough, an included original photograph taken at the event captures Jeffries’ signing this very glove, pen-in-hand, with Thorpe holding it in place. Notations on the reverse of the UPI/Acme press photo date it to January 25, 1944.
Where was Jack Johnson you may ask? Considering the beating Big Jim took at the hands of the Galveston Giant in their famous 7/4/2010 World Heavyweight Championship, we can only imagine the awkwardness of being in the same room. Yet there's Jack's autograph, the boldest of the bunch, right below Jeffries. Thorpe has signed right in the middle of the five. The additional signatures on the dark brown, well-aged glove include boxing’s first Light Heavyweight Champion, Jack Root, and what appears to be longtime boxing announcer, Dan Tobey (this according to our consignor; PSA/DNA could not confirm Tobey's auto). Each signature was done in a white paint pen, and the most important three remain easily legible, ranging 4-7/10 in strength and eye appeal.
Now, back to the glove pair's provenance and separation. In 2010, the right-handed mate (with A.L. umpire Beans Reardon instead of Jack Johnson) was sold at auction. How do we know? A handwritten note included in that lot read, “Here is a boxing glove signed by some of the top athletes during WWII – we auctioned off two of these gloves at a Bond Rally. I have the left-handed glove signed by Thorpe, Jeffries, Jack Johnson, Jack Root, etc.” So, there you have it. A dozen years have passed since that sale. Perhaps, one day, the two gloves will be together again. In the meantime, the more valuable of the pair can be yours right here and now.
The lot comes with a full LOA from PSA/DNA for the autographs. The included 6x8 photo appears to be off the original negative with authentic press stamps on the back and would likely receive Type I designation from PSA/DNA if submitted. The consignor's glove display stand with the War Bond Rally event placard is avalabile upon request.