Champion bare-knuckle boxer (1872-1940). Born Norman Selby, he was known for his “corkscrew punch” and dirty tactics; the expression “The Real McCoy” is a fabled reference to him. Life outside of the ring was no less colorful, and Selby was married ten times! After a promising start in early films, he was later tried for robbing and holding a dozen people hostage the day after allegedly murdering his fiancee. Paroled from prison, Selby committed suicide, leaving an enigmatic note that said he “could not endure this world’s madness.” Scarce vintage fountain pen signature and inscription, “To Albert R. Chestnut, with all good wishes, Kid McCoy, Norman Selby, 9/9/37, Detroit, Mich,” on a 5.5 x 2.75 blue card from the Albert R. Chestnut collection. Attached to a slightly larger heavy gray card and in fine condition, with scattered light soling to right edge. From his Pennsylvania home, Chestnut, a printer by profession, began collecting autographs in 1935. He sent these personally-printed cards to over a thousand celebrities and received favorable replies from the vast majority, finally retiring from collecting to raise his family when postage increased from 2¢ per card! Pre-certified Steve Grad/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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