Legendary Syracuse University running back Ernie Davis won the Heisman Trophy handily in 1961 after rushing for 823 yards and 12 touchdowns on only 150 carries. Davis added two receiving touchdowns and 157 receiving yards for Syracuse’s 8-3 team. Davis was selected with the first overall pick in the NFL Draft in 1962 by the Washington Redskins, who then traded him to the Cleveland Browns, but a tragic diagnosis of leukemia prevented Davis from ever appearing in an NFL game. Davis passed away due to complications of his disease on May 18,1963.

This offered check may be one of the last signatures of Ernie Davis. Printed on “CLEVELAND BROWNS FOOTBALL COMPANY, INC.” Davis signed the back of this blue check in blue ballpoint pen, which has a printed dated of “APRIL 1, 1963”, just 48 days prior to his tragic passing. This 3 ½ x 8 ½ -inch check was drawn from the Central National Bank of Cleveland and was in the amount of $50.00. The check is in good overall condition, with six punch holes and a red “C.N.B. 400121 PAID APRIL 2” stamp. This item comes with a LOA from JSA (Z14971) for Davis’ signature.

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