Large-Format 20 x 24 Muhammad Ali Signed Photo

Sold For:

$360

Year:

1975

Auction:

2017 Fall

Lot #:

2562

Category:

Boxing/Golf/Other Cards or Memorabilia

Large-format photo (20 x 24 inches) of Muhammad Ali striking a boxing pose underwater, signed in black Sharpie (grading "10") by Ali along the base. This is one of the most famous images of Ali and was taken by noted photographer Flip Schulke in 1961 while doing a photo shoot for LIFE magazine. Unbeknownst to Schulke, Ali (who was still known as Cassius Clay at the time) was pulling a prank on him. Ali and his trainer concocted a story about how Ali regularly trained underwater and when Schulke arrived he eagerly snapped various shots of Ali working out in the pool. However, a short time later, after the photos were published, Ali revealed it was all just a joke and the he didn't even know how to swim! Nevertheless, the photo became one of the most enduring images of the man who would soon be known as "The Greatest." The photo (which is not an original print) remains in Near Mint condition. Full LOA from PSA/DNA. Auction LOA from James Spence/JSA. Pre-certified by Steve Grad and Brian Sobrero/Beckett Authentication and SGC Authentic. Reserve $200. Estimate (open).