1888 Allen & Ginter Pugilist - Geo. La Blanche - SGC 5

Description: 1888 Allen & Ginter Pugilist - Geo. La Blanche - SGC 5 - Low Pop., Only 1 Higher On the Set - The 1888 Allen & Ginter "World's Champions" cards among the earliest known sports trading cards. The cards were created by the Allen & Ginter Tobacco Company as part of their marketing strategy. They typically measure about 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches, consistent with early tobacco card sizes. Each card features a richly detailed chromolithograph portrait of a prominent athlete or sports figure from the time, rendered in vibrant colors and elaborate text. The "Second Series" set showcases a range of sports personalities, including baseball players, boxers, and other athletes. On the Card - SGC has graded only 11 1888 Allen and Ginter cards for La Blanche, with only one graded higher that this SGC 5. On the Boxer - George La Blanche (1856–1918), nicknamed "The Marine," was born into poverty in southern Quebec to French Canadian parents. In an effort to escape his difficult circumstances, La Blanche enlisted in the Canadian army as a teenager. It was during his military service that he began his boxing career in 1882. Although he was not known for technical prowess, La Blanche was distinguished by his speed and agility. La Blanche formed a close friendship with John L. Sullivan, boxing's first major superstar. Sullivan introduced La Blanche to both the refined and rough elements of the sport, which La Blanche effectively utilized to secure numerous victories. One of his most notable moments came in 1889 when he used his signature "Pivot Punch" against Jack Dempsey. Though it appeared he had won the Middleweight Championship, the punch was deemed illegal, and Dempsey retained the title. Throughout his career, LaBlanche achieved notable victories over prominent boxers such as Tom Henry, Denny Kelliher, Frank Bosworth, Sam Bittle, Tom Hinch, and Mike Lucie.

Price: 495 USD

Location: Jonesboro, Arkansas

End Time: 2024-09-15T18:43:11.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD