1. Measures 8" x 11". Cleveland Williams' face is eclipsed by the fist of Cassius Clay in the second round of their 1966 Championship fight in Houston, Texas. The referee called the fight early in the third round to give Clay the victory. On the Reverse: "Cassius Clay vs Cleve Williams" hand written in pencil, editor's markings, dated stamp, Chicago Sun-Times hologram.
2. Measures 8" x 10". Chuck Wepner's body goes limp as he falls on Muhammad Ali during the 15th round of their 1975 title bout in the Cleveland Coliseum. Ali leans back in an attempt to let Wepner fall to the ground. On the Reverse: "Muhammad Ali fights Chuck Wepner" hand written in pencil, editor's markings, dated stamp, Chicago Sun-Times hologram.
3. Measures 8" x 10". Heavyweight Chuck Wepner gives an empty stare towards the referee as he clutches the ropes for stability. Muhammad Ali floored Wepner moments before, and Wepner can only listen to the count as he fails to gain his footing. On the Reverse: "Muhammad Ali fights Chuck Wepner" hand written in pencil, editor's markings, dated stamps, Chicago Sun-Times hologram. (C1085)
This image originated directly from the archives of "The Chicago Sun-Times" and was intended for use in its pages. Designated as a first generation photo (Type A), this image was developed directly from the original photographers negative within approximately one to five years of the depicted person/event. In some instances, usually when a date stamp is present, the photograph was developed within a year or even days of the listed event. Photographers included in the collection include Charles Conlon, George Burke, George Brace, William C. Greene, Alex P. Silverberg, and George Dorrill. Some are identified; many are not but were provided by these world class photographers. Unlike standard wire photos, these images were often hand developed by the photographer sent to the Chicago Sun-Times newspaper. Therefore, the result is an actual first generation photographer's print -again, not be confused with the more commonly found wire photo image. First major collection to enter the market of exclusive Generation 1 Photos.
News service photos are also included, and in those instances, are identified as such by their respective stampings. Acme Wire Photo, Associated Press, International News, and United Press have provided images to the archives. Reverse images are included for identification purposes. As part of the production process for the newspaper, images may show production notes, photographer's stamps, date codes, and other markings associated with the production of the Chicago Sun-Times newspaper. In all cases, each selected image is of superior quality, subject matter, clarity, contrast and condition. Each image was archived by the Chicago Sun-Times and includes the official Chicago Sun-Times hologram, assuring its origin and provenance. Additional MEARS LOA included with each lot.
(MEARS Auction LOA~SB)