Football coach Knute Rockne's final possessions to beat $400,000?

The possessions found on legendary football coach Knute Rockne after his death in a plane crash in 1931 will cross the block at Goldin Auctions.

The lot includes a prayer book, a pocket watch and a pocket knife - three things he always carried with him.

Knute Rockne possessions
Knute Rockne was a driving force behind the development of American football

Rockne (1888-1931) is one of the most famous coaches in the history of American football.

His tenure at the University of Notre Dame, from 1918 until his death, made the team one of the most formidable in the country.

He introduced some of the sport's most important plays, including the forward pass and the Notre Dame Box offence.   

Inside the book is an inscription from Rockne's old friend Father Vincent Mooney that reads: "Rock killed when Plane crashed near Bazaar, Kansas The Date March 31, 1931.

"This book, found in his traveling bag, near his body. Also: his Rosary found in his hand. I gave Rock this prayer book Nov. 21, 1925 at his 1st com., St. Eds, I baptized him in chapel Nov 20-1925."

The auction house comments: "The University of Notre Dame and College Football Hall of Fame have been attempting to get these items for display purposes for decades however the family never let them out of their possession.

"This is a rare opportunity to own the most treasured items of the most iconic figure in Notre Dame and college football history."

The collection is expected to sell for in excess of $400,000 when it auctions on August 4.

The sale will also feature the gloves Muhammad Ali wore in his 1971 bout against Joe Frazier.

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