The Heisman Trophy is a yearly award given to the best college football player, chosen by a panel of sports journalists, previous Heisman winners, and fans. The trophy came into existence in 1935 and was named after John W. Heisman, who was a pioneer football player and coach. The selection process comes from all regions of the United States to ensure fairness. The winner must have an outstanding season, remarkable sportsmanship, and must be immensely valuable to their team. The trophy ceremony is usually held every year in December in New York City and is a main event in college football history.
The Heisman Trophy presentation has been broadcast on television since the 1970s, bringing the announcement of the winner to a national audience. Since 1982, multiple finalists have been invited to New York City to enhance the live event. The rights to broadcast this event are owned by ESPN and are aired during prime time. Television, fans, and media can experience college football's best players on a big stage.
Have any Heisman Trophy winners sold their trophy?
Several Heisman Trophy winners have sold their trophies over the years despite restrictions on selling awards in 1999. Here are some notable sales below, as per sources.
| Year Awarded | Player | Sale Details | Sale Price |
| 1936 | Larry Kelley | Sold in December 1999 to settle his estate and provide for his family. | $328,110 |
| 1941 | Bruce Smith | Holds the record for the highest sale price for a Heisman Trophy. | $395,240 |
| 1968 | O.J. Simpson | Auctioned in February 1999 as part of the civil trial settlement following his murder case acquittal. | $230,000 |
| 1979 | Charles White | Initially sold for $184,000, later sold for nearly $300,000 in December 2006 to address federal tax debts. | $300,000 |
| 1956 | Paul Hornung | Sold to fund scholarships for students at the University of Notre Dame in Louisville, KY. | $250,000 |
READ MORE: Who is the oldest Heisman Trophy winner?
FAQs on Heisman Trophy
A. The Heisman Trophy is awarded annually to the most outstanding player in college football.
A. The first Heisman Trophy was awarded in 1935.
A. The Heisman Trophy winner is selected by sports journalists, former winners, and a fan vote.
A. The Heisman Trophy ceremony is held annually in New York City.
