Lot # 1431: 1890s John L. Sullivan "Yours Truly" Cabinet Card SGC Authentic

The "Boston Strong Boy" strikes a formidable pose in this 1890s cabinet card. The last of the bare-knuckle brawlers, John L. Sullivan was the final heavyweight champion to fight without gloves, and also the first heavyweight champion to fight with gloves. His fame was such, that he is widely regarded as boxing's first superstar. This handsome 4-1/4" x 6-1/2" photograph is printed at bottom with "Yours Truly", followed by a facsimile signature, which remains extremely bold. Published around the time Sullivan's illustrious career came to an end, this Victorian era cabinet card pictures the heavyweight champion in a bare-knuckle boxing pose. SGC has encapsulated this satisfying antique photograph with an Authentic designation.