The 1950s saw the popularity of spectator sports explode, with economic prosperity and the advent of television fueling the growth of professional sports in ways unimaginable a decade earlier. Another reason for the increased interest in spectator sports was Sports Illustrated, created by Time Magazine magnate Henry Luce, who wanted to create a magazine geared towards America's burgeoning interest in spectator sports. Sports Illustrated captured readers' minds with their in-depth articles, bringing to sports the type of care and journalism seen in TIME Magazine. Now synonymous with sports, the first issue of Sports Illustrated hit stands on August 16, 1954, and featured a colored picture of Hall of Fame third baseman and then-Milwaukee Braves centerfielder Eddie Matthews at the plate facing off against a New York Giants pitcher.

Presented here is the inaugural copy of the August 16th, 1954 copy of “Sports Illustrated” magazine inside a burgundy commemorative binder. The attractive binder features "SPORTS ILLUSTRATED" imprinted in gold on the center of the front cover. "FIRST ISSUE AUGUST 16, 1954" is imprinted in gold on the bottom right corner of the cover. Presented inside is a copy of the August 16th, 1954 magazine in a plastic bag that rests inside a gorgeous folder. The magazine and binder are in great condition, and the item is a perfect commemorative to a magazine that has faithfully covered sports for decades. The item comes with an LOA from Sports Illustrated.

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