Sullivan, John L. Gold Pen Knife (1890)

John L. Sullivan was born on October 15, 1858 in Roxbury, Boston, MA. He is the link between bare knuckles and glove fighting and is considered to be one of the best heavyweights ever. He held the undisputed World Heavyweight Boxing Championship for ten years, winning it in 1882 from Paddy Ryan and losing it in 1892 to James J. Corbett. Other notable fighters he fought and defeated included Jake Kilrain, Charlie Mitchell and Dominic McCaffrey. Offered here is a gold pen knife which was presented to John L. Sullivan in 1890. The knife is inscribed, "John L. Sullivan From His Company Christmas 1890." This was likely given to Sullivan by the troupe of the play, Honest Hearts and Willing Hands who he was touring with at the time.
This pen knife is gold on both sides and at the fob attachment. 2 3/4" long. The two knives and small scissors are still intact. The inscription is bold and perfectly readable. A few very minor scratches. Personal property of this great champion are almost non-existent.