This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/1/2025
1961 US Amateur Sponsor Badge #863 - Jack Nicklaus Amateur Winner
If you are a collector of Jack Nicklaus major wins badges, Jack says that you will need this one as he has always claimed that his major win total is 20 not 18 to include this and his other U.S. Amateur triumph. The aesthetically pleasing white and green 'Sponsor' badge is a credential unlike you have likely ever seen to the tournament, complete with the Cypress tree silhouette centered below the '863' and above 'USGA National Amateur Championship 1961.' As most Sponsor badges were and with the $12.50 cost, this was likely a week-long means of admittance. Jack Nicklaus play some of the finest golf of his life routinely booming out 300 yard drives, Nicklaus was 20 under par for his seven matches that week. His 8 and 6 final match win over Dudley Wysong was a final salute to his amateur career. A time period that saw Jack recognized as "the greatest amateur since Bobby Jones". Short months later in November of 1961, Jack declared his intentions to turn pro. It presents quite well, with some wear shown only on backside. It represents a welcomed hobby entry into the tickets/badges category and specifically pre-rookie Jack Nicklaus carrying an amateur status.