JO Sports, Inc.
HISTORY: James Jackson Jeffries (April 15, 1875 – March 3, 1953) was an American professional boxer and World Heavyweight Champion. He was known for his enormous strength and stamina. Using a technique taught to him by his trainer, former Welterweight and Middleweight Champion Tommy Ryan, Jeffries fought out of a crouch with his left arm extended forward. He was able to absorb tremendous punishment while wearing his opponents down. Jeffries stood 6 ft (1.83 m) tall and weighed 225 pounds (102 kg) in his prime. He could run 100 yards (91 m) in just over ten seconds, and could high jump over 6 feet (180 cm). A natural left-hander, he possessed one-punch knockout power in his left hook, and brawled his way to the top of the rankings. Writer Jack London coined the phrase "Great White Hope" to describe Jeffries in his attempt to win the heavyweight crown from African-American champion boxer Jack Johnson in 1910. Jeffries came out of retirement for the fight, urged on by London and many others who wished to see a white man once again reign as heavyweight champion. Jeffries was beaten by Johnson in what was the first prizefight to be billed as the Fight of the Century.
Berna Eli "Barney" Oldfield (January 29, 1878 – October 4, 1946) was an American pioneer automobile racer; his "name was synonymous with speed in the first two decades of the 20th century". After success in bicycle racing, he began auto racing in 1902 and continued until his retirement in 1918. He was the first man to drive a car at 60 miles per hour (96 km/h) on a circular track.
Offered here is an original, first generation mounted photograph depicting James J. Jeffries and Barney Oldfield posed together and signed by both. Authenticated by PSA/DNA.
FULL DESCRIPTION: This is an original, first generation, mounted photo. Boldly signed in fountain pen, "To my friend Lardner You know me Barney Oldfield." and "To my southern Friend Yours Jas J Jeffries." Dated Feb 14-1911. Bold, clear image. Not creased or torm. Minor corner wear to mount. Slight discoloration to mount. 9 3/4" x 12" photo on a mount of 12" x 15." Authenticated by PSA/DNA and comes with their full letter with cert # AN01159.
