1947 JOE LOUIS OPEN "CONTESTANT" RARE BUTTON FOR GOLF TOURNAMENT.
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Winning Bid:
$165.20 (Includes 18% Buyer's Premium)
Bids:
13
Bidding Ended:
Thursday, May 27, 2021 9:00:00 PM (20 Minute Clock Begins At Thursday, May 27, 2021 9:00:00 PM)
Time Left:
Ended
Auction:
Sports Online Auction #5
Value Code:
- - Open Estimate Help Icon
Item Description
2.5" oval. Curl marked "Made in USA." The Rackham Golf Club of Louis' native Detroit was the site of the Joe Louis Open Invitational Golf Tournament. It began in 1941 and a total of eight tournaments were held through 1951. "Contestant" buttons were issued for each year of the tournament and all are rare. Legendary heavyweight boxing champion Joe Louis became one of the most influential amateur golfers in American history. Louis's sincere love of golf, coupled with his competitiveness to improve his game, led to him supporting a crusade for diversity in golf.  One of Louis's ambitions was to win the most prestigious title in African American golf, the amateur division of the National, or "Negro National," the centerpiece of the UGA schedule. After several attempts, Louis won the 1951 title. He also became more outspoken about discriminatory practices in golf. Button is glossy, Exc. This marks the first time in our 54 years we have offered any button from these tournaments. A rare and desirable button for both boxing and golf collectors. Paul Muchinsky Collection Book Example.
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