Lot 328
La Motta, Jake (b. 1922). American boxer and middle-weight champion (1949-57). La Motta was born in the Bronx and began boxing at an early age, prompted by his father. Nicknamed the "Bronx Bull", Jake was known for his brute strength, endless endurance, and particularly tough chin. His life was the basis for the Martin Scorsese film Raging Bull.
1. Jake La Motta. Check Signed ("Jake La Motta"). Partially printed, accomplished in manuscript. 8¼ x 3¼", Miami Beach, March 30, 1957. Drawn on the Jake La Motta, Inc. account at the Bank of Miami Beach in the amount of $800. Signed on the recto. Punch cancelling, stamp endorsed verso. In very good condition. 2. Vikki La Motta. Check Signed ("Vikki La Motta"). Partially printed, accomplished in manuscript. 6 x 2¾", North Miami Beach, January 7, 1982. Drawn on Mrs. La Motta's account at the County National Bank in the amount of $100.08. Signed on the recto. Stamp cancelling verso, a small partial hole punch at left edge and a vertical fold just left of center. Overall the group is in very fine condition.
Shortly after retiring from professional boxing, the prize fighter signs a check as President of his own corporation, thereby transferring money to his Skybrite club. Accompanying La Motta's check is another payment, albeit written by the brawler's second wife, Vikki. The couple's tumultuous relationship was well documented in the film Raging Bull, and following its 1980 release Vikki appeared in Playboy Magazine. She wrote this check shortly thereafter.
Estimated Value $125 - 150.
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| Realized $75 |
