2-832-161 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Ezzard Mack Charles (1921-1975), known as the Cincinnati Cobra, was an African-American professional boxer and World Heavyweight Champion. Copper alloy boxing championship belt with presentation case awarded to Ezzard Charles in 1948. Consists of large central plate and four plates either side. Central plate has circular photo of Ezzard Charles above which is an eagle with outstretched wings flanked on both sides by US, British and what might be French flags. Flags are enameled. The top of the plate has detached circular element with clear colored stones (possible paste or glass) encompassing the head of a wolf. The eagle carries a banner that reads [POLICE GAZETTE HEAVY WEIGHT CHAMPION PRIZE RING BELT OF THE WORLD]. At bottom of the central plate is a banner that reads [PRESENTED BY H. H. ROSWELL POLICE GAZETTE / 1948].