Joe Thompson, "The Leviathan", from the Celebrities and Prizefighters series (N174) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887 - 1888

This is a trade card from the "Celebrities and Prizefighters" series by Goodwin & Company, produced for Old Judge Cigarettes between 1887 and 1888. The card depicts Joe Thompson, a professional boxer, with a formal portrait of him in a suit, a common style of portraiture in the late 19th century. This trade card serves as an advertisement for Old Judge Cigarettes, using a popular figure to attract consumers. The card's small size, measuring 2 11/16 x 1 3/8 inches, makes it a collectible item for those interested in both 19th-century advertising and boxing history.