Billy Conn
Light Heavyweight World Champion and International Boxing Hall of Famer · Boxing - Professional
IBHOF (International Boxing Hall of Fame) / World Light Heavyweight Champion
Era
Late life - June 10, 1990
Item Type
Official Inaugural Induction First Day Cover (Envelope)
Condition
Excellent/Near Mint; paper is bright, ink is dark with no fading, and edges are crisp.
Rarity
Common; Conn was a prolific signer at boxing conventions and Hall of Fame ceremonies until shortly before his death in 1993.
Overall Assessment
An excellent, high-grade example of a boxing legend's autograph on an appropriate commemorative item from a historic event.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic (Confidence Level: 95%)
Signature Style
Full name with a distinctive underlining flourish extending from the final 'y' in Billy; legible, cursive script with fluid motion.
Signature Characteristics
Consistent baseline, upward-slanted 'B', fluid connection between 'i-l-l-y', and a detached 'Conn' starting with a loop-less 'C'.
Ink & Medium
Black felt-tip marker on paper envelope (First Day Cover).
Item Description
Commemorative envelope issued for the 1990 International Boxing Hall of Fame induction, featuring a June 10, 1990 Canastota, NY postmark, a 25-cent American flag stamp, and a cachet of the Marquis of Queensberry.
Estimated Value
$40 - $75 USD
Comparison to Known Examples
The signature perfectly matches verified examples signed during the inaugural IBHOF ceremony in 1990.
Authentication Tips
Look for the sharp upward angle of the 'B' and the long horizontal strike-through underscore that typically exits the 'y'.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or PSA/DNA; these services are the industry standard for vintage sports autographs.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the ink penetration and flow are consistent with live ink on a porous paper substrate.
Provenance Notes
Likely obtained in person at the International Boxing Hall of Fame induction weekend in Canastota, NY, June 1990.
Historical Context
Billy Conn is famous for nearly defeating Joe Louis in 1941; he was part of the inaugural 1990 IBHOF induction class where this item was signed.
Market Trends
Boxing autographs for 1940s-era legends like Conn remain stable but do not see rapid appreciation; demand is highest for pieces featuring Joe Louis.
Investment Potential
Moderate to Low; as a prolific signer, supply is high, making this a 'heritage' piece for a fan rather than a high-growth asset.
Similar Autographs
Joe Louis, Max Schmeling, Archie Moore, Sugar Ray Robinson.
Display & Preservation
Keep in a PVC-free top-loader or frame with UV-protective glass to prevent paper yellowing and ink fading.
Interesting Facts
Conn famously 'lost his head' in the 13th round of his fight with Louis, trading punches instead of boxing for a points win, which led to his knockout.