This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/25/2021
Cartoonist and entrepreneur Robert Ripley signed these two photos with inscriptions to “Skeets” Gill and “Eddie Orio.” Ripley became a sports cartoonist from the 1920s to his death in 1949 and was best known for his wildly popular “Believe It or Not!” cartoons that would depict wild facts and oddities. While he had plenty of success as a sports writer, writing books on handball and boxing while simultaneously becoming a handball World Champion, it was his “Believe It or Not!” that contributed to his lasting legacy. Perhaps his most impactful column was 1929’s “Believe It or Not, America has no National Anthem,” despite widespread belief that it was the “Star Spangled Banner.” This column led to discourse that eventually led to President Herbert Hoover certifying the anthem in 1931. Ripley’s idea of sharing bizarre stories continues today with the “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” exhibit in New York City’s Times Square. Measures 7” x 9” and 6.5” x 8”. Good Condition. Comes with a Gotta Have Rock & Roll Certificate of Authenticity.