Lot # 1725: March 17, 1897 James J. Corbett vs. Bob Fitzsimmons Championship Battle of the World Carson City Souvenir Medallion

Boxing buffs encounter a rare treat, with the offering of 1897 James J. Corbett versus Bob Fitzsimmons Championship Battle of the World souvenir medallion. This handsome commemorative medal was issued for the heavyweight championship bout between the legendary Hall of Fame boxers, staged at The Race Track Arena in Carson City, Nevada, on March 17, 1897. Having been the first and only man to beat John L. Sullivan, Corbett held the title since 1892. Both men were intelligent fighters, and though Corbett was getting the better of him, Fitzsimmons rallied late and wore Corbett down with body blows, eventually stopping his tiring opponent in the 14th round. Sized with a 1-1/4" diameter, this handsome medal is designed with relief portraits of Corbett and Fitzsimmons ringed in wreaths on the obverse, with their names lettered below the images. At bottom of the obverse is a boxing ring fight scene, and rounding the rim is the legend "Championship Battle of the World, Carson City". The reverse side is dated March 17, 1897, below the tout "Grand Sporting Tournament, Dan Stuart, Nevada". Given the considerable age of this antique souvenir, wear is surprisingly minimal. Both sides show outstanding detail definition, making this nicely preserved relic worthy of a Nm+ rating.