The lone Canadian-born pugilist to claim a Heavyweight title, former champion Tommy Burns was the first to allow both a black fighter and a Jewish opponent a shot at his title. The offered vintage photograph is signed by Burns (d.1955). Measuring 3-1/2 x 5", this black-and-white photo depicts Burns in a boxing pose, complete with championship belt displayed proudly around his waist. The lower white border is home to Burns' black ink signature, which projects ("8") strength and stands as one of the toughest heavyweight autographs in the hobby. The image remains decidedly crisp, and the piece itself is minimally affected by incidental creases, none of which impinge upon the quality of the signature. Full photo LOA from James Spence Authentications.

Tommy Burns was the World Heavyweight champion from 1906 to 1908. Burns fought Jack Johnson in 1908 and lost; which made Johnson the first African-American World Heavyweight champion.

The photograph is a Type 2 image, produced from an original negative years after the image was taken (most likely produced in the 1920s).