Thursday, March 26, 2009

A Rarity


It's pose is familiar to sport fans across the country. The statue alone measures 14" long, 13 1/2" wide and weighs a bulky 25lbs. The base of the statue: 65 lbs. It's the prestigious Heisman Trophy which is awarded annually to college football's most outstanding player. The conception of the award dates back to 1935 and was the brainchild of the famed Downtown Athletic Committee of Manhattan. The award was originally named the DAC award after the Committee and was renamed the Heisman Memorial Trophy following the death of John W. Heisman, who was one of football's early pioneers.
The initial design of the trophy was modeled after New York University standout, Ed Smith. The commission for the design went to renowned sculptor Frank Eliscu. Eliscu collaborated with several players and coaches in determining the appropriate pose for such an award. The result was a combination of the side step, the forward drive and the strong arm thrust of the right arm.
I recently had an opportunity to hold Johnny Lattner's 1953 Heisman trophy. Lattner was awarded the trophy as a halfback for Notre Dame. Even though Lattner didn't lead Notre Dame in scoring or yards rushing, Lattner was a force to be reckoned with at only 195 lbs. Coming up huge for ND when it mattered most against key opponents. Picking off passes, recovering fumbles and returning punts were just a few of his specialities. Lattner showcased the trophy for years at his restaurant before it wound up in my hands and the hands of appraisers most recently. BTW: previous Heisman trophies have sold for as much as $325,000

1 comment:

  1. Glad you resisted the urge to replicate the Heisman pose!

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