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Lot # 786: 1924 Earl Johnson, "Early Black Olympic Champion" Extremely Rare and Important Photo

Category: Olympics/Related

Starting Bid: $15.00

Bids: 0 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed
Lot / Auction Closed




This lot is closed. Bidding is not allowed.

Item was in Auction "Winter Premier Auction 2020",
which ran from 1/7/2020 10:00 AM to
1/25/2020 8:00 PM



Earl Johnson was the world champion in Cross Country in 1921 and 1922, breaking racial barriers as well as records along the way. In 1924 he became one of the first black athletes to win an individual medal (bronze) and also a team silver cementing his place in history as one of the first black Olympic Champions! Images of Johnson (as can be imagined) are extremely rare with this example being the only one we have ever handled. Issued by Underwood and Underwood, the photo quality is outstanding and aside from a crease on the lower right corner, it presents quite well. An important piece of sports history as it pertains to race relations in America and breaking stereotypes. Essentially he is the Jackie Robinson of Cross Country!

Size: 6.5x8.5
Designation: Vintage 1
Condition: 4/5
Quality: 5/5
Overall Grade: 9/10

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