Large-Scale c. 1931 Billy Burke Photograph

inscribed by Walter Hagen

HOWARD SCHICKLER COLLECTION OF VINTAGE PHOTOGRAPHS

        Large-scale vintage photograph embellished with pencil drawing of 1931 U.S. Open Champion Billy Burke. The photo is impressively signed and inscribed in ink on recto by his friend, 11-time Major Champion Walter Hagen. Says Hagen: "One who made it tough on me every time, but from a swell guy 'It's Okay' Golfingly Walter Hagen". Mounted on board. 19 x 15 3/8 inches.

        This large-scale photo measures 19 x 15 3/8". Such large scale vintage golf photos are seldom offered for sale, and generally bring a premium of 5x to 10x the value of what a similarly valued 8x10 photo would bring. The offered example is no exception.

        Burke (1902-1972) was an American golfer from Connecticut who won the U.S. Open in 1931 after a 36-hole playoff with George Von Elm. He had an unusual grip due to losing two fingers on his left hand. Burke was selected for the 1933 Ryder Cup team and won the only American match in that competition. Walter Hagen (1892-1969), from Rochester, NY, won eleven major titles. In addition to his impressive list of victories, he was instrumental in legitimizing the PGA Tour, elevating the standing of professional athletes around the world.

Condition: Overall excellent condition. Minor paper loss along lower left edge, top right and bottom right corners. Top left corner has 3/4 inch crease. Slight rippling near bottom edge.

        The offered photograph is being consigned by the Howard Schickler Collection of Vintage Golf Photographs.

        Letter of Authenticity from Golf Photography Expert Howard Schickler, Mastersworks Golf.

      Letter of Authenticity from Green Jacket Auctions (GJA).