How to Collect Boxing Memorabilia

Capture the power and awe of boxing by showcasing the fighters who have graced the ring. By collecting everything from apparel worn by the boxers to vintage photos and promotional items, you can express your passion for this sport.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Study the greats of the boxing arena. Boxing is an ancient sport, with modern rules dating back to the 1800s, and has become one of the most popular sports around the world. Collect memorabilia that represents boxing's rich history. Seek out early trading cards depicting Charlie Mitchell, Benny Leonard. Stanley Ketchel, Jack Johnson, John L.Sullivan, Bob Fitzsimmons, Jim Corbett and other legends of the sport.

2. Get a feel for the different decades in boxing history. Find photos of boxing heavyweight champs Jack Dempsey and Joe Louis. Learn what is deemed collectible for a particular period in boxing. Don't just focus on the athletes, but collect memorabilia about the National Boxing Association, which formed in the early 1920s, and the history affecting the sport of boxing, such as the advent of television.

3. Start your collection with some small items. Action photos, on both early and modern cards, are widely available on the collecting market. Choose eclectic boxing memorabilia in the form of casino chips, pinbacks and portrait cigar bands. You will be able to find such items online, at sports conventions and antique stores.

4. Divide your collection into sections. Effectively sort your items by weight class, origin of boxer, style of boxer or win by knockout. As you go, build your memorabilia collection to express your passion for the sport, the resilience of the boxers and the enthusiasm of the fans.

5. Highlight the 1960s era of boxing. During this changing time of boxing, an exuberant and controversial fighter named Cassius Clay entered the ring. He went on to change his name to Muhammad Ali, as well as changing boxing forever. Your collection wouldn't be complete without something Ali.

6. Collect some of the flashy garments worn by boxers. Like no other sport, the gloves, trunks, robes and boxing shoes are truly one of a kind. An Everlast glove or name-embroidered robe will not only increase the value of your collection, but give it character.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure any signed apparel that you buy comes with a certificate of authenticity (COA) from the dealer. Consider having an outside agency evaluate the item for its value and insurance purposes.
• Purchase a rectangular wooden frame or vintage suitcase to display boxing magazines, pins, medals, ribbons, buttons, gloves and other treasures.

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on 4/28/2008 Check www.numbersports.com out.