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November 12, 2025
At 6 p.m. on Wed. Novmber 12th t he one-hour extended bidding period begins followed immediately by the 30 Minute Rule. All times in RR Auction guidelines and instructions are stated according to the Eastern (U.S.) time zone.
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Robert S. Eaton Sr. 1940–2001
Presidents and First Ladies
Strategic Revolutionary War letter from Washington to Lord Stirling, preparing his defense of Philadelphia and considering an attack on Staten Island: “I have sent orders to Colo. Dayton to endeavour to procure certain intelligence of the Number of the Enemy left upon Staten Island and where they are posted”
1. George Washington Revolutionary War-Dated Letter Signed to Lord Stirling, Preparing His Defense of Philadelphia and a Raid on Staten Island (1777): “You may judge whether it will be prudent to make an attack”. Revolutionary War–dated LS signed “Go: Washingto[n],” one page both sides, 7.5 x 9.25, July 26, 1777. Letter to Major General William Alexander, Lord Stirling, offering precise details on recent troop movements and approving a plan for his army’s march into eastern New Jersey. At the time, Washington had spent months awaiting signs of British action from their New York base. On July 24th, he learned that General Howe and his 15,000 troops had set sail, destination unknown. Unsure whether the British would strike at the Hudson Valley, Philadelphia, Boston, or Charleston, Washington judged Philadelphia the most likely target and began repositioning forces accordingly. However, with Staten Island left thinly defended, he saw a fleeting chance for a tactical strike—preparations for which are outlined in this letter.
In full: “Yours of the 24th overtook me at this place. Gen’l Green’s division will reach Morris Town this Evening. Gen’l Stephen’s and Gen’l Lincoln’s march thro’ Chester by an upper Road. I have no objection to your Lordship’s taking the Rout you mention, and as it will bring you near New Ark and Elizabeth Town, I have sent orders to Colo. Dayton to endeavour to procure certain intelligence of the Number of the Enemy left upon Staten Island and where they are posted. If they only consist
of the Green Regiments amounting to about 1000 Men, as a Deserter says, a descent may be made to great Advantage. Colo. Dayton will procure all the Boats thereabouts previous to your coming, and if upon your arrival you think the attempt practicable, you may make the tryal. That you may not go needlessly out of your Way, Colo. Dayton is to send an Officer to meet you, to acquaint you with his intelligence, from which you may judge whether it will be prudent to make an attack. Your Lordship is not by any means to under[stand] the above [as] a Positive order, but a M[atte]r left intirely to your own discretion, I would not have it undertaken if there is the smallest Risque, for I do not think we are at this time intitled to put any thing to the hazard.” In very good to fine condition, with some small professional repairs, light staining affecting some of the text, and a trimmed edge catching the “n” at the end of Washington’s signature.
Washington’s letter offers a clear view of his strategic thinking, as well as his flexible approach to his command—he entrusts Stirling with full authority to decide whether to launch the attack on Staten Island, warning him against taking unnecessary risks given the fragile state of the Continental Army. In the end, Sterling’s planned raid on Staten Island was aborted and he was ordered to reinforce the troops at Philadelphia.
Provenance: Lot 10, The Forbes Collection of American Historical Documents, Christie’s, October 9, 2002. Starting Bid $5000
Superlative Revolutionary War discharge for an early patriot,
signed by General George Washington
2. George Washington Revolutionary War-Dated Document Signed, Discharging a Patriot with the “Badge of Merit”. Revolutionary War–dated partly-printed DS, signed “Go: Washington,” one page both sides, 7.75 x 13.75, June 7, 1783. Continental Army military discharge headed “By His Excellency George Washington, Esq., General and Commander in Chief of the Forces of the United States of America.” In part: “These are to certify that the Bearer hereof Rich’d Cottrill Private in the Second N. York Regiment, having faithfully served the United States six years and six months, and being inlisted for the War only, is hereby Discharged from the American Army.” Prominently signed at the conclusion by General George Washington, and countersigned below by Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. The lower portion of the document recognizes Cottrill’s six years of service with the “Badge of Merit,” and is endorsed by his commander Colonel Philip Van Cortlandt. On the reverse is a statement noting that the certificate “shall not avail the Bearer as a Discharge, until the Ratification of the definitive Treaty of Peace,” and that he is to be considered on furlough until that time. In fine condition, with some light toning along the intersecting folds; this example is far more well-preserved than usual documents of this type, and it boasts an ideal example of Washington’s signature. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA. As commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution, General Washington took it upon himself to organize and train his soldiers. By war’s end, this highly disciplined and hands-on approach carried over into Washington insisting on signing every discharge certificate personally. The 2nd New York Regiment was raised on May 25, 1775, in New York City for service with the Continental Army under the command of Colonel Philip Van Cortlandt. After joining the regiment, Richard Cottrill ostensibly saw action at the Battle of Saratoga, Battle of Monmouth, and the Battle of Yorktown. The regiment was furloughed in June 1783 at Newburgh, New York, and disbanded on November 15, 1783. Dating to the end of the Revolutionary War and featuring a bold signature of the nation’s first commander-in-chief, this is an immensely desirable discharge for one of America’s veteran patriots. Starting Bid $1000
Weeks after the final ratification of the
US
Constitution, Jefferson transmits
“‘An Act to establish the Judicial Courts of the United States,’ within the State of Rhode Island”
3. Thomas Jefferson
Letter Signed as Secretary of State, Transmitting an Act of Congress Organizing Rhode Island’s US District Court, Weeks After Ratification of the Constitution. LS signed “Th: Jefferson,” one page, 8 x 9.75, June 25, 1790. Letter to “His Excellency, Gov’r of Georgia,” Edward Telfair, enclosing an act effecting the expansion of the federal judiciary into the State of Rhode Island, mere weeks after it became the last of the 13 colonies to ratify the United States Constitution. In full: “I have the honor to send you herein inclosed, two copies duly authenticated of the Act intituled, ‘An Act to establish the Judicial Courts of the United States,’ within the State of Rhode Island and Providence plantations.” In very good to fine condition, with complete silking to the reverse, paper loss to the lower left corner, a tiny bit of paper loss to the last name of the signature, and bleeding to the ink not affecting readability. Accompanied by an issue of the Columbian Centinel newspaper of July 28, 1790, which carries the text of several early acts of Congress.
Rhode Island was the last of the original colonies to ratify the US Constitution on May 29, 1790, less than a month prior to this letter. Article III established only the Supreme Court while granting Congress the power to create lower courts as necessary—a modest example of the ‘checks and balances’ between the three branches of government. On June 23, Congress proceeded to “establish the Judicial Courts of the United States,’ within the State of Rhode Island,” and organize Rhode Island as one judicial district assigned to the Eastern Circuit with a single authorizing judgeship. Jefferson subsequently notified the nation’s governors by sending copies of the newly passed statute. This letter represents the very beginnings of the United States, invoking the Constitutional powers granted to the federal government upon ratification. It is an early example of Jefferson’s role in the creation of the American judicial system, an influence which would only increase during his term as president. Starting Bid $1000
Important Madison-Monroe appointment for peace commissioners following the Second Barbary War
4. James Madison and James Monroe Document Signed, Appointing Peace Commissioners after the Second Barbary War. Manuscript DS, signed “James Madison” as president and “Jas. Monroe” as secretary of state, one page, 10.25 x 16.25, August 4, 1816. Appointment for William Shaler and Isaac Chauncey to participate in peace negotiations with the Dey of Algiers in the aftermath of the Second Barbary War, naming them “Commissioners of the United States of America, with authority to meet a Commissioner or Commissioners having like authority from the Dey and Regency of Algiers, and with him or them to negotiate and conclude a settlement of the subsisting differences.” Boldly signed at the conclusion by President Madison and
countersigned by Secretary of State Monroe. The embossed white paper seal affixed to the lower left remains fully intact. In fine condition, with professional repairs and reinforcements to small areas of paper loss and intersecting folds.
William Shaler and Stephen Decatur had negotiated an end to the Second Barbary War in a peace treaty signed on June 30, 1815. However, Dey Omar Agha of Algeria repudiated the agreement, refused to accept the terms of peace that had been ratified by the Congress of Vienna, and threatened the lives of all Christian inhabitants of Algiers. By this appointment, Shaler and Isaac Chauncey were named as commissioners to settle the dispute. Starting Bid $1000
Handwritten political letter by James Monroe, evaluating his presidential candidacy:
“My public life ought to speak for itself”
5. James Monroe
Autograph Letter
Signed, Remarking on His Presidential Qualifications: “My public life ought to speak for itself”. ALS signed “Jas. Monroe,” three pages both sides, 8 x 10, December 16, 1815. Handwritten letter to his neighbor, friend, and family physician, Charles Everett, discussing his candidacy for the presidency and the likelihood of his being elected. At the time of his election, Monroe was serving as Secretary of State in President James Madison’s administration, and he felt that his public service ought to speak for itself. He writes, in part: “My public life ought to speak for itself, and for the last five or 6 years, if the war thru which the country has passed, and the burdens I have borne, are not sufficient proofs, in connection with all that preceded, of my claim to public confidence, nothing will be.”
Monroe goes on to express his doubts about the quality of character of the members of the New York coalition, but indicates that their underhandedness may lend an advantage toward securing the presidential nomination: “After the election of the present Executive Incumbent [Tompkins], there was no remedy but in public opinion, and that was sure to be more effectual, in the case that my nearest friends manifested no sensibility to it. An attack on him by them, would give consequence to which neither his talents or any other circumstance in his favor, merited. His re-election according to the mass of the state, followed of course, if by some overt act, he did not bring public indignation on him, which his silent, underhand, night-moving practice render’d improbable...Mr. [Henry] Tazewell [Senator from Virginia and friend of Monroe] was in New York this summer, and held a congress, which comprised some of my friends there. He said that he was personally friendly to me, had always been, &c…I have always confided in him, and shd. be very sorry to suspect that his projected trip was to promote unfriendly purposes to me. Yet it may be. The danger is of making enemies, of friends, or affording, under public patronage, opportunities to enemies to do harm.”
Monroe closes with a restatement of his opinion that he should be elected by his obvious public merits or not at all: “Dr. Bible of Georgia assur’d me that Georgia has long since made up her mind in my favor...the same is stated of Kentucky & Tennessee, in relation to persons of merit in each. I take no part, nor will I, as is well known, being resolv’d, if the nation does elect me, that the election shall be due to it, without the slightest movement of my own. Others here can give you better intelligence than I can, of the general sentiment. My opinion is that Virga. ought to take no prominent part in the business...If for example the whole assembly met, & declared in my favor, it would give offence to & alienate other states. If a small vote was given, much noise took place, & confusion, it would operate against me by showing that my support in Virga. was futile. Virga. had therefore better do nothing of the kind, but act after others, & according to her judgment and interest.” Expertly silked and in fine condition. Accompanied by an engraved portrait and a handsome custom-made finely bound quarter-leather case. Starting Bid $1000
Six-page handwritten letter by Andrew Jackson—his opening salvo in the prelude to a duel: “It is difficult to find an appropriate epithet for a character who descents to stoke falsehoods in a situation, where the honour of a man is at stake”
6. Andrew Jackson Autograph Letter Signed, Preceding a Duel: “It is difficult to find an appropriate epithet for a character who descents to stoke falsehoods in a situation, where the honour of a man is at stake”. ALS, six pages on three sheets (including two adjoining), 8 x 13.25, February 6, 1806. Lengthy handwritten to newspaper editor Thomas Eastin, regarding the dispute over a gambling debt that led to Jackson’s infamous duel with Charles Dickinson—in which Jackson took a bullet to the chest, and Dickinson was killed. Jackson responds to a letter published by Thomas Swann, who had intervened on behalf of Dickinson in the matter. Jackson had set up a horse race with Dickinson’s father-in-law, Captain Joseph Erwin, on the grounds that a forfeit fee of $800 would be paid to the injured party if a horse had to withdraw. When Erwin’s horse had to drop out, a quarrel ensued over how the debt was to be repaid and a flurry of insults were exchanged back and forth. At one point, Swann confronted Jackson, who struck him with his cane and called him a ‘stupid meddler.’ In this lengthy letter, Jackson questions Swann’s honesty while offering his own views on the controversy; enclosed statements, certificates, and witness affidavits (not present), which Jackson refers to throughout, provided further evidence for Jackson’s point.
In small part: “To impose upon the public attention, through the medium of your usefull paper, is not my wish, but as Mr. Swan[n] has endeavoured to exhibit to the public eye, a statement of his case, and character, and impartial public, will indulge such supplementary remarks, as may be necessary to complete the caricature…Let it briefly be premised, that a course race was made between Captain Erwin, and myself… This race was afterwards drawn, on account of the indisposition of Capt. Erwin’s horse, upon an agreement to pay $800 as a forfeit...Mr. Samuel Jackson is next referred to…Mr. Jackson flatly calls Mr. Swann a rascal...This young man has industriously acquired such a reputation as to make it an arduous task to add to it….This hopeful youth, who forgets to-day what
he has uttered yesterday, thinks himself secure…This young man has either a vicious habit of deviating from the truth, or a natural weakness of memory, either of which is equally pernicious to society, and renders him a fit compeer for his friend. It is difficult to find an appropriate epithet for a character who descents to stoke falsehoods in a situation, where the honour of a man is at stake; where truth and justice ought to be the order of the day, with a person chosen to accompany another on the field of honor; and, in many cases, where integrity is the only shield of innocence.” In very good to fine condition, with professional repairs and reinforcements to areas of paper loss. Accompanied by a handsome custom-made finely bound full morocco leather case.
A slightly revised version of this letter, dated February 10th, is what was ultimately published in the Impartial Review and Cumberland Repository. Dickinson, returning from New Orleans, would respond in kind in May, publishing a letter that called Jackson ‘a poltroon and a coward.’ After reading the article, Jackson sent Dickinson a letter requesting ‘satisfaction due me for the insults offered’—and a duel was scheduled for May 30, 1806. Dickinson fired first, hitting Jackson in the chest—by a stroke of luck, and perhaps influenced by Jackson’s stance and heavy coat, he was merely wounded. Under the rules of dueling, Dickinson had to remain still as Jackson took his shot. Jackson’s pistol stopped at half cock, so he drew back the hammer and aimed again, this time hitting Dickinson in the chest. Dickinson bled to death on the spot.
Doctors determined that the bullet lodged in Jackson’s chest was too close to his heart to operate; Jackson carried it for the rest of his life, suffering much pain from the wound. His reputation also suffered, as some locals questioned the application of the rules of dueling as well as his honor in shooting to kill. A fascinating and important early Jacksonian letter. Starting Bid $1000
President Tyler requests the “papers sent with the China Treaty”
8. John Tyler Autograph Letter Signed on “the China Treaty”. Boldly penned ALS signed “J. Tyler,” one page, 4.5 x 7, no date but likely circa 1844–1845. Handwritten letter to a gentleman, marked “Confidential.” In part: “The papers sent with the China Treaty are the original which we have had no time to copy—a return of them when the Senate…[is] done with them is respected.” In fine condition, with a tiny chip to the top edge. This most likely relates to the very first treaty between the United States and China, which was signed on July 3, 1844, and ratified by President Tyler on January 17, 1845. Known as the Treaty of Wang Hiya, it was negotiated by Caleb Cushing, a Massachusetts lawyer dispatched by President John Tyler under pressure from American merchants concerned about the British dominance in Chinese trade. The lengthy treaty was modeled after similar agreements between China and the United Kingdom, and included: extraterritoriality, which meant that US citizens could only be tried by US consular officers; fixed tariffs on trade in the treaty ports; the right to buy land in the five treaty ports and erect churches and hospitals there; the right to learn Chinese by abolishing a law which hitherto forbade foreigners to do so; and granting the US most-favored-nation status, allowing the nation additional privileges. The US also banned opium trade in a concession to the Chinese. Given the date that this treaty was passed, this is most likely an ALS as president. An exceptionally bold letter from this historic time between nations, setting the stage for the immense growth of international commerce that continues to this day. Starting Bid $300
Tyler writes to President Buchanan, advocating for an artillery lieutenant’s promotion, citing his “admiration of the intrepid valour of his brother Capt. Drum who fell before the gates of Mexico, a more glorious death a soldier never died”
9. John Tyler Autograph Letter Signed to President James Buchanan, Petitioning for an Officer’s Promotion, Citing His Brother “who fell before the gates of Mexico, a more glorious death a soldier never died”. ALS, one page, 7.75 x 9.75, February 21, 1861. Handwritten letter to “The President,” James Buchanan, in part: “I feel much interest in the fortunes of Lt. Drum of the 4th Artillery—having been drawn to him in the first instance by my admiration of the intrepid valour of his brother Capt. Drum who fell before the gates of Mexico, a more glorious death a soldier never died. Since I have known him intimately in my intercourse with the officers at Old Point my appreciation of his own merits has been of a high order…A vacancy has been caused in the Adjutant General’s department by the resignation of Major Day and I sincerely hope that you may find it in your power to confer the vacancy to Lt. Drum. You will never regret it I am well convinc’d.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Buchanan comments on Pierce’s record in the Senate: “I recollect him as a radical & inflexible Democrat in all his votes”
11. James Buchanan Autograph Letter Signed on Franklin Pierce: “I recollect him as a radical & inflexible Democrat in all his votes”. ALS, one page, 8 x 10, June 11, 1852. Handwritten letter to Isaac G. McKinley, editor of the Harrisburg Democratic Union, commending his editorials and offering some commentary on Franklin Pierce, who had just been nominated for president at the 1852 Democratic National Convention. In part: “The editorials of the last Union are admirable & I could wish them to be in the hands of every Democrat in the Union. You, with Mr. Parke & other friends, can best decide whether in view of the terrible & doubtful conflict before us in Pennsylvania, the circulation of these articles & the capital address in the form you suggest would injure the cause…I served in the Senate with General Pierce all the time he was a member of that Body, though we were never on terms of special intimacy. I recollect him as a radical & inflexible Democrat in all his votes, sometimes going beyond Silas Wright & myself. He was modest, amiable & gentlemanly in his manners. The Whigs can make nothing out of any of his votes, nor of any thing else unless they may possibly endeavor to attack him, though unjustly, about the Cilley duel. General Pierce is a gentleman of fair intellect & excellent education; though he never took a prominent part in the debates or proceedings of the Senate…Judging from Pierce’s old associations, I should infer that the Barnburning wing (Van Buren’s) of the New York Democracy would have much influence over him.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a handsome custom-made finely bound quarter-leather case. Starting Bid $500
“The Republican House and Republican Senate have seemed to me to be as weak and blind & destitute...Even if there be no purpose to bring on civil war, will not halting, blundering, arrogant imbecility stumble on it?”
10. Franklin Pierce Autograph Letter Signed on the Eve of War - “Even if there be no purpose to bring on civil war, will not halting, blundering, arrogant imbecility stumble on it?”. ALS, four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 8.5, March 27, 1861. Handwritten letter to his former private White House secretary Sidney Webster, in full: “I received your letter of the 14th inst. some days since, and wrote to Mr. Merritt, our consul, particularly with reference to Mr. Neilson. Mr. M. is an intelligent kindhearted man—has seen a great deal of the world and is a thorough Gentleman. I feel quite sure, that Mr. Neilson & his sick sister w’d receive every attention from him without any suggestion from me, but Mr. N. ought not to come to the States before the June steamer, and my letter may be useful. I’m tired of reading the contradictory newspaper accounts with regard to the purposes and policy of this administration. Pray can you tell me in what condition Dr. Fox or Mr. Lamon found the supplies in Ft. Sumpter [sic]? If there were two dozens of candles instead of one and four barrels of beef instead of two I do not think the fortress will be evacuated just at present. The question seems to turn solely upon supplies & upon the ability to hold the place. That is, if the thing is to be done at all, the Adm’n seems chiefly solicitous, that there shall be no doubt about the fact that it is done from the lowest possible motives. In this at least I think the public judgment is already prepared to give them the credit of success—on the other hand with how much breadth and sagacity the affairs of the new confederation have been and are apparently conducted—The Republican House and Republican Senate have seemed to me to be as weak and blind & destitute of any well defined purpose as the Republican Executive. That we of the North are to be humiliated in this unequal match of statesmanship, is to me clear enough. The folly of the new tariff considering the condition of the country & the circumstances of its enactment is amazing, but it does not stand alone, it is a part of the whole. Chas. Sumner Ch’r of the Committee on Foreign relations, Henry Wilson on that
of war, etc. etc.—what can we reasonably expect. Even if there be no purpose to bring on civil war, will not halting, blundering, arrogant imbecility stumble on it? I hope not but under the guidance of present counsels, if the word in this connection be not a solecism, no man can tell what a week may bring forth. Fort Pickins [sic] as well as Ft. Sumpter must be evacuated—The idea of collecting revenue in the ports or harbors of the Gulf States must be distinctly abandoned or collision is unavoidable. Mrs. Pierce is pretty well for her and my health is perfectly restored. Give my love to Sarah and kindest regards to Gov. Fish and family—In this Mrs. P. would heartily unite if she were sitting by me—.” In fine condition.
Shortly after leaving the White House in 1857, Pierce returned to his native New Hampshire and then embarked on a threeyear tour of Europe and the Bahamas. During his time abroad Pierce maintained correspondence with Webster, the son-inlaw of Senator Hamilton Fish and a brilliant Manhattan lawyer who, in 1892, published Franklin Pierce and His Administration. The election of Abraham Lincoln as the “Republican Executive” compelled South Carolina to secede from the Union on December 20, 1860, a decision that placed the still-underconstruction Union garrison of Fort Sumter directly within enemy territory. Confederate demands to surrender the fort were ignored and President Buchanan’s attempts to transport troops and provisions to the Charleston sea fort were repulsed on January 9, 1861, when cadets from the Citadel fired upon the merchant steamer Star of the West. The resupply of Fort Sumter became the first major crisis for President Lincoln, and three months later, on April 12, the fortress served as the site of the first battle of the Civil War. Handwritten letters by Pierce remain scarce and highly sought-after, with this example all the more remarkable given Pierce’s commentary on a pivotal event that led to the outbreak of the Civil War just sixteen days later. Starting Bid $1000
Dealing with a war-torn nation,
President Lincoln authorizes parole for two Confederate “Conscripts—poor men with families” on taking the “Oath of Allegiance”
12. Abraham Lincoln Civil War-Dated Autograph Endorsement as President, Approving the Parole of Two Confederate “Conscripts—poor men with families”. Civil War-dated autograph endorsement as president, signed “A. Lincoln,” on a 6.5 x 3.25 address overleaf attached to a letter written by Thomas Jacks requesting the release of two prisoners, March 1, 1865. Jacks writes, in part: “I would most respectfully request that you release from prison upon their taking the Oath of Allegiance—W. M. Johnson, Alton, Ills—and Monroe Thomas, Fort Delaware. I am not personally acquainted with either of these prisoners but they are endorsed to me by gentlemen of high respectability. They are both Conscripts—poor men with families.” The endorsement, written in the hand of Lincoln’s secretary John Hay, in full: “Let W. M. Johnson & Monroe Thomas, Prisoners of War, be discharged on taking the oath of Dec. 8, 1863.” In fine condition, with light brushing to the date, and almost all of the integral sheet bearing Lincoln’s endorsement trimmed away. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
On December 8, 1863, President Lincoln had issued the Proclamation of Amnesty and Reconstruction, by which he offered full pardons to any participant in the rebellion who laid down his arms and swore a loyalty oath, agreeing to ‘faithfully support, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, and the union of all the States there under.’ Starting Bid $1000
“I am a democrat in the enlarged and proper sense of the term and have devoted the best efforts of my life to ameliorate the condition of the laboring man”
14. Andrew Johnson Autograph Letter Signed on His Campaign for Congress and a Potential Vice Presidency: “I am a democrat in the enlarged and proper sense of the term”. ALS, one page both sides, 7.75 x 9.75, May 15, 1851. Handwritten letter to John H. Keyser, in part: “Your letter of the 6th ult. was received by this days mail. In reply I have last time to say, [struck through: that I am no candidate for the Vice Presidency]. At present I am a candidate for reelection to the congress of the U.S. with the hope of success, which will enable me I trust to accomplish an object that I have had at heart, that is to see every man who desires it domiciliated. I am now in the midst of the canvass and have not the time to write you a long letter on the Subject…Enclosed you will find a copy of a…Speech made some time since in congress which will give you the bones of my views on the ‘Homestead.’ I am a democrat in the enlarged and proper sense of the term and have devoted the best efforts of my life to ameliorate the condition of the laboring man. The time has arrived when…thousands in the U.S. should be honored with a laboring man for the Presidency—A man who in fact has been a laboring man, one whose sympathies are with the mass. There is too much talk about this thing of labor and too little practice. If the work was commenced in good earnest the people, the real people I mean, would respond to it…You will please accept of my sincere thanks for your friendly feelings…and also the profoundest feeling of my heart for the success of any scheme that will elevate the oppressed condition of my kind.” He adds a handwritten postscript, struck through: “I repeat that I am no candidate for the Vice Presidency.” In very good to fine condition, with splitting to the ends of the horizontal folds. Accompanied by a handsome custom-made leather presentation folder. Starting Bid $1000
President Garfield ratifies “a treaty relating to Chinese immigration”
15. James A. Garfield Document Signed as President for the Ratification of “a treaty relating to Chinese immigration”. Scarce partly-printed DS as president, one page, 8 x 10, May 9, 1881. President Garfield authorizes Secretary of State James G. Blaine to affix the Seal of the United States to “my ratification of a treaty relating to Chinese immigration into the U. S. signed at Peking, Nov. 17, 1880.” Boldly signed at the conclusion by President James A. Garfield. In fine condition.
With a decades-long influx of Chinese immigration, the economically strained American workforce’s anti-Chinese sentiment spiked throughout the 1870s. Under great pressure, President Hayes renegotiated the US’s terms with China at the close of his presidency, temporarily suspending immigration of Chinese laborers while still protecting the rights and privileges of those already present. The relationship between the two nations continued to develop as Garfield took office; the treaty referenced here promoted mutual commercial intercourse while also prohibiting the transportation and distribution of opium. Presidential documents issued by Garfield are quite rare, given his brief time in office. Starting Bid $1000
16. Theodore Roosevelt Signed Book - Big Game Hunting (Ltd. Ed. #60/1000). Signed book: Big Game Hunting in the Rockies and on the Great Plains. First edition, limited issue, numbered 60/1000. NY: G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 1899. Hardcover in the damaged original full leather binding with decorative gilt bear illustrations in corners, 8.25 x 11.25, 476 pages. Neatly signed below the frontispiece three-quarter-length portrait of Roosevelt in his Rough Rider uniform in crisp ink, “Theodore Roosevelt.” Autographic condition: fine. Book condition: G-/None, with the textblock and endpapers detached entirely from the binding, minor dampstaining to edges of opening pages, and a stain to the colophon; remarkably, the frontispiece is largely unaffected. An ideal candidate expert rebinding or disassembly and framing, as it boasts an exceptional signed portrait of the rough-riding Roosevelt.
Accompanied by an ‘autographed edition’ of The Long Trail by Kermit Roosevelt, published by The Metropolitan Magazine in 1921, signed on the colophon in fountain pen by the president’s son, Kermit Roosevelt. Starting Bid $200
17. Woodrow Wilson Signed Book as Governor of New Jersey - George Washington. Rare, early signed book: George Washington by Woodrow Wilson. NY: Harper and Brothers, 1896. Hardcover with green cloth boards and gilt titles, 5.25 x 7.75, 333 pages. Signed neatly on the first free end page in black ink as the governor of New Jersey, “Woodrow Wilson, Princeton, 19 Dec., 1912.” Autographic condition: fine. Book condition: VG+/None. Accompanied by an ALS from Charles R. Erdman, Sr., a Presbyterian minister and professor of theology at Princeton Theological Seminary, dated December 20, 1912, who forwarded this book to a friend, for whom he had this book signed by Wilson: “Mrs. Erdman and I are sending to you and Mrs. Gulland two volumes…One is by Woodrow Wilson and the other is by Henry van Dyke, and each contains the autograph of the author written specially for you at my personal request.” Starting Bid $200
Writing to the president of Colombia, FDR calls for “an extraordinary inter-American conference” on the maintenance of world peace in 1936
18. Franklin D. Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed as President to Alfonso Lopez, President of Colombia, Suggesting an Inter-American Conference on the Maintenance of World Peace. TLS as president, four pages, 8 x 10.5, White House letterhead, January 31, 1936. Letter to “His Excellency Alfonso Lopez, President of the Republic of Colombia,” showcasing FDR’s ‘Good Neighbor’ policy toward Latin America in action. Roosevelt sent copies of this letter to all Latin American heads of state, beginning with a reference to the recent end of the BolivianParaguayan war over the Gran Chaco region. Roosevelt had declared an embargo on arms to both sides of the war in 1934, and the United States participated in the League of Nations commission which finally ended the war and brought an armistice in June 1935, followed by the exchange of peace protocols.
Roosevelt evokes these events to advocate for broader Pan-American action: “I cherish the sincere conviction that the moment has now arrived when the American Republics, through their designated representatives seated at a common council table, should seize this altogether favorable opportunity to consider their joint responsibility and their common need of rendering less likely in the future the outbreak or the continuation of hostilities between them, and by so doing, serve in an eminently practical manner the cause of permanent peace on this Western Continent. If the tragedy of the Chaco can be considered as having served any useful end, I believe such end will lie in our joint willingness to profit from the experience learned and to exert our common endeavors in guarding against the repetition of such American disasters.
It has seemed to me that the American Governments might for these reasons view favorably the suggestion that an extraordinary inter-American conference be summoned to assemble...to determine how the maintenance of peace among the American Republics may best be safeguarded whether, perhaps, through the prompt ratification of all of the inter-American peace instruments already negotiated; whether through the amendment of existing peace instruments in such manner as experience has demonstrated to be most necessary; or perhaps through the creation by common accord of new instruments of peace...These steps, furthermore, would advance the cause of world peace, inasmuch as the agreements which might be reached would supplement and reinforce the efforts of the League of Nations and of all other existing or future peace agencies in seeking to prevent war.” In fine condition, with marginal staple and file holes. Starting Bid $500
An exceptional multi-signed portrait from a memorable Minnesota day—
President FDR
and the American Legion
pay tribute to the Mayo Brothers
19. Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Mayo Brothers Signed Photograph. Superb vintage matte-finish 10.75 x 8.25 photo of President Franklin D. Roosevelt seated in a convertible with famed physicians Charles Horace and William James Mayo during FDR’s visit to Rochester, Minnesota, in the summer of 1934, signed in the lower border in fountain pen, “Franklin D. Roosevelt, “C. H. Mayo,” and “W. J. Mayo.” Handsomely double-matted and framed to an overall size of 19 x 14. In very fine condition. On August 8, 1934, over 40,000 spectators braved the summer sun to attend President Roosevelt’s American Legion tribute to the Mayo Brothers at their clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, for their work in caring for disabled veterans. Starting Bid $300
“Dear Mr. Chief Justice, The President was going to give you this for Christmas. Please accept it now from me. With my deepest appreciation for all you did to help Jack and to make him admire you so much. Jacqueline Kennedy, December 1963”
21. Jacqueline Kennedy Signed Book, Presented to Chief Justice Earl Warren a Month After President Kennedy’s Assassination (One of 85 Privately Printed Copies). Signed book from the personal collection of Chief Justice Earl Warren: Inaugural Addresses of the Presidents of the United States from George Washington 1789 to John F. Kennedy 1961. Limited edition, one of 85 specially bound copies printed for private distribution, 6 x 9.25, 270 pages. Washington, D.C.: United States Government Printing Office, 1961. Personalized leather-bound hardcover, with edge gilding to text block, marbled endpapers, and gilt lettering and designs to the spine and front cover, the latter of which bears a small presidential seal and the initials, “E. W.,” indicating that it was a presentation copy made for Earl Warren. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page in blue ballpoint, “For the Chief Justice, Earl Warren, Dear Mr. Chief Justice, The President was going to give you this for Christmas. Please accept it now from me. With my deepest appreciation for all you did to help Jack and to make him admire you so much. Jacqueline Kennedy, December 1963.” Autographic condition: fine. Book condition: VG/None, with sunning to spine and some scuffing to leather.
Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA and a printed photo of the Kennedys posing with Warren and his wife, Nina Elisabeth Meyers, in November 1963.
A marvelous association piece between President John F. Kennedy and Chief Justice Earl Warren, whose paths intersected at several pivotal moments in American history. Warren administered the oath of office at Kennedy’s 1961 inauguration, and despite his Republican background, he had quietly supported Kennedy in the 1960 election after the GOP’s nomination of Richard Nixon. The two grew personally close during Kennedy’s presidency, a relationship that Warren later reflected upon: ‘No American during my long life ever set his sights higher for a better America or centered his attacks more accurately on the evils and shortcomings of our society than did [Kennedy].’ In the aftermath of the assassination, Warren was called upon to head the commission investigating Kennedy’s death, a role in which he was personally and deeply involved. He oversaw testimony from Marina Oswald, attended the private interview of Jacqueline Kennedy, participated in the Dallas deposition of Jack Ruby—where he also visited the Texas School Book Depository—and examined evidence concerning Kennedy’s medical treatment and autopsy. This rare, privately issued book stands as a significant association copy from the personal library of Chief Justice Earl Warren, presented to him by the newly widowed Jacqueline Kennedy at Christmas 1963, one month after the tragic passing of President Kennedy. Starting Bid $1000
Timeless custom-made black wool swing coat from Jacqueline Kennedy’s personal wardrobe
22. Jacqueline Kennedy’s Black Wool Bouclé Swing Coat. Jacqueline Kennedy’s personally owned black wool bouclé swing coat, lined in black silk satin. The well-crafted threequarter-length swing jacket boasts a wide shawl collar and large jet buttons on each cuff. The hand-stitched seams and absence of tags suggest that the piece was professionally designed and custom-made to Jackie’s taste and specifications.
Provenance: Lot #117, Documents and Artifacts Relating to the Life and Career of John F. Kennedy, Guernsey’s, March 18–19, 1998. Accompanied by the original auction catalog.
As first lady, Jacqueline Kennedy became an icon of American fashion in the 20th century. Her simple, yet sophisticated, taste and inclination toward practical pieces endeared her to the public at large. She would have looked effortlessly chic in this timeless black coat. A quintessential garment from the first lady’s personal wardrobe, epitomizing the grace and elegance of Jacqueline Kennedy’s iconic style. Starting Bid $500
Elegant Tiffany cigarette case gifted by “JBK” in ‘66
24. Jacqueline Kennedy-Gifted Tiffany & Co. Cigarette Case. Gold vermeil on sterling silver cigarette case by Tiffany & Co., gifted by Jackie Kennedy to Helen Lempart Westbrook in 1966. The elegant case measures 3.5˝ x 2.25˝ x .25˝, and is engraved inside the spring-loaded cover, “1966, For Helen, with appreciation and affection, JBK.” The maker’s hallmark is stamped above, “Tiffany & Co., Sterling 925, Italy.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a light blue Tiffany cloth bag. The recipient, Helen Lempart Westbrook, worked in the Kennedy White House. Starting Bid $200
“Reading rooms—he wants a room that will be a replica of his office—a souvenir hall I suppose— with some things on exhibition—as that is what draws people—state presents—some of my dresses”
Jackie Kennedy begins to conceptualize JFK’s presidential library
23. Jacqueline Kennedy Autograph Letter Signed as First Lady, Imagining the JFK Library in Early 1963: “There must be a private part...where he can work—as that will be his office—& he will be writing a book or something”. ALS signed “Jackie,” eight pages on four sheets, 5.25 x 7.5, White House letterhead, April 5, 1963. Handwritten letter to “Jack,” the architect John Carl Warnecke, who developed the master plan for Lafayette Square in Washington, D.C., and later conceptualized the eternal flame at JFK’s grave site. Kennedy comments on his plans for Lafayette Square and offers a fascinating discussion of the early planning stages for John F. Kennedy’s presidential library.
In part: “Thank you for your charming thank you letter—It was lovely to have you come with Lafayette Square—and it will be sad when you go—but I don’t think you will for ages—Ethel’s new wing may put you in Walter Reed—You add an insidious element of intrigue in your ‘new existence as a bachelor’ (which you try to make sound pathetic!—and which I find rather refreshing). Yes I am still interested—more than anything in Lafayette Square—The square is perfect because you kept it as it was—but I would love to see the designs of the big buildings behind as they near the final decision—as I rather forget them—I was so excited about saving the square—and I think it important they be marvelous in themselves (I am sure they are)—and they don’t really have to harmonize with the square too much as how can you make a skyscraper harmonize with an old residential square.
And the gardens too I would love to do with you—maybe in early May—I will try and persuade Bunny Mellon–who is a genius at gardens—she redid the Rose Garden at the W.H. to come with us—as I am awful at gardens and she has such an eye—and is always longing to do new gardens—like King Stanislas, who built Nancy—I think she feels if she stops building or doing gardens she will die—She is helping me now with the grounds at the W.H. and though she is busy—I know I can lure her into this. What fountains or pools in Europe can I ask you to look at that I love—Versailles the Italian chateaux—none of them would fit so you decide—I love fountains and the sound of splashing water in this hot city so maybe you—& maybe Bunny—will have some ideas. About JFK’s library—could you find out from Bill who will know who to ask about it? I don’t know whose realm it is under—I hope Bernie Boutin’s—but the $ still has to be raised. I haven’t even seen the site—but I would love you to do research on it & so would he…just snoop around & be rather discreet—see what the buildings around it are like—if they are in a horrible modern part of Harvard…I hope it is in a brick & ivy part—as he likes old things & as I may spend my old age stamping tickets for tourists there—I don’t want to be sitting in the Seagram building.
Also I suppose you should visit—or get plans & pictures of other Pres. libraries, Truman, Eis., Roosevelt—& figure out what the functions of a Presidential library are—filing—reading rooms—he wants a room that will be a replica of his office—a souvenir hall I suppose—with some things on exhibition—as that is what draws people—state presents—some of my dresses though I hate that idea. Arthur Schlesinger can tell you some of the working part of a library. I don’t know how to pick the architect—I hope it is you—maybe the Dem. Nat. Committee promises it to the nephew of the man who raises the most $ for it—Bill will know all that—I just passed Roosevelt’s library at Hyde Park the day of Mrs. Roosevelt’s funeral—it was one story—& low & inviting like a house—probably that is impractical for JFK’s—but I would love it to be as much like that as possible—you could dig an enormous basement for files and there must be a private part—cut off from the throng of tourists & students where he can work—as that will be his office—& he will be writing a book or something—so 2 or 3 private rooms—even one I could creep off to—& a full bathroom—but you will have to see the site before we can think of any of this.
My house in Va. is so rustic a gazebo would make it look even more pathetic. You must come & see it when it is done as I designed it & learned so much from my mistakes & successes—but if you see 2 stone or lead 18th century (or copies) of 18th cent. sphinxes with ladies heads in Europe could you get them for me if they are not too fabulous ($)—as I have always longed for them * they will make me forget all the asphalt tile & asbestos roof & it does have an incredible site—against a great ledge of rock where there will be a secret rock garden with a waterfall.” She adds a postscript at the head of the first page: “P.S. Since I wrote this I spoke to JFK—He says it would be marvelous if you would go ahead & scout around. Also the exact location of his site is not set—so you might have suggestions on that—and thank heavens it is under GSA Bernie Bourin so you can find out who to contact at Harvard from him—I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on this—J.” Also includes a later TLS signed “Jackie,” one page, 5.75 x 7.75, 1040 Fifth Avenue letterhead, November 1, 1983, in part: “How very thoughtful of you to send me the lovely flowers. I was most touched…Lafayette Square meant so much to Jack. You should be enormously pleased by the part you have played in making this tribute possible.” In overall fine condition. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library was originally intended to be built on the campus of Harvard University, near where Kennedy studied as an undergraduate. Plans for the library began shortly before his assassination in 1963, with Jacqueline Kennedy playing a central role in shaping its vision as both an archive and cultural center. Local opposition in Cambridge over concerns about traffic, construction, and environmental impact delayed the project for years. Ultimately, the site was moved to Columbia Point in Boston’s Dorchester neighborhood, where the library opened in 1979, designed by architect I. M. Pei. Starting Bid $200
“For Governor Orval Faubus, with warm regards and every good wish –
John F. Kennedy”—iconic Bachrach portrait of Kennedy presented to a future presidential opponent and the orchestrator of the 1957 Little Rock Crisis
31. John F. Kennedy Signed Photograph by Fabian Bachrach - Presented to the Arkansas Governor Behind the 1957 Little Rock Crisis. Exceptional mattefinish 7.25 x 9.25 head-and-shoulders portrait of Kennedy in a suit and tie by Fabian Bachrach, affixed to its original 9.5 x 12.75 mount, which is signed and inscribed in the lower border in bold black ink, “For Governor Orval Faubus, with warm regards and every good wish – John F. Kennedy.” Attractively matted and framed to an overall size of 17 x 20.5. In fine condition.
Orval Faubus (1910–1994), a Democratic politician who served as the 36th Governor of Arkansas from 1955 to 1967, is best known for his role in the 1957 Little Rock Crisis, when he refused to comply with a decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in the 1954 case Brown v. Board of Education, and ordered the Arkansas National Guard to prevent black students from attending Little Rock Central High School. Per journalist Harry Ashmore (who won a Pulitzer Prize for his columns on the subject), Faubus used the Guard to keep blacks out of Central High School because he was frustrated by the success his
political opponents were having in using segregationist rhetoric to arouse white voters.
Faubus continued to align with Jim Crow advocates when, three years later, during the 1960 presidential election, the white supremacist National States’ Rights Party nominated Faubus for President and retired U.S. Navy rear admiral John G. Crommelin of Alabama for Vice President. Faubus, however, did not campaign on this ticket actively and won only 0.07% of the vote (best in his native Arkansas: 6.76%), losing to the John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson ticket.
Fabian Bachrach was an American photographer, known for portraits of celebrities, politicians, presidents, and other prominent individuals. Bachrach was best known for a portrait of Senator John F. Kennedy, which was later used as his official photograph after he was elected President in 1960. Bachrach’s family, who own Bachrach Studios, has been in the commercial photography business for more than 140 years and is believed to be the world’s oldest continuously operating photography studio. Starting Bid $1000
Kennedy drafts speeches urging Americans to stay vigilant during Cold War détente:
“NATO has not developed militarily as was earlier presumed—but it has served its purpose—& Western Europe is still free”
30. John F. Kennedy Handwritten Speech Draft on Hand-Corrected Typescript on the Cold War: “NATO has not developed militarily as was earlier presumed—but it has served its purpose—& Western Europe is still free”. Unique double autograph manuscript and typescript drafts of John F. Kennedy’s speeches delivered at South Weymouth Naval Air Station on October 28, 1955, and at Holy Cross College on November 15, 1955, 8 x 10.5, totaling six double-sided pages. On the front is a hand-corrected typescript draft of Kennedy’s address at the Naval Air Station, cautioning Americans not to be lulled by Soviet gestures of peace, such as troop reductions announced after the Geneva Conference. He warns that behind Moscow’s friendly rhetoric lay unresolved threats, and urges the West to remain vigilant and avoid weakening its defenses in the face of Communist power.
In part: “It is a real honor to pay tribute to the men of the New England Naval Air Reserve, and to convey to you the thanks of a grateful people—the people of Massachusetts and New England, in fact all of us in all of the 48 states, who are able to sleep easier at night with the knowledge that you stand ready to respond to any emergency call…
The President…came back from Geneva with the report that the leaders of the Soviet Union had assured him ‘earnestly and often’ that the nation ‘intended to pursue a new spirit of conciliation and cooperation in its contacts with others.’ The American people were told that there was ‘evidence of a new friendliness in the world.’ Secretary Dulles went even further. He thought the Russian leaders ‘indicated at Geneva… the genuine desire of peace’; and he assured us that ‘the war danger has further receded,’ and that ‘an era of peaceful change’ could be on its way…Some skeptics asked whether there were any fine deeds to accompany these fine words—and they asked what, after all the shouting had died down and all the pleasantries had been exchanged, actually had been accomplished at the Big Four Meeting in Geneva. But even these skeptics were for the most part hushed on August 13 when Moscow announced a reduction in the Soviet Armed Forces of 640,000 men. Manpower, after all, was not only the bulwark of Russian military might but the root of her political and diplomatic power as well…These cuts, said the Communists, were made ‘with a view to promoting the relaxing of international tension and establishing confidence among the nations’…
With such an attitude of sweetness and light suddenly transforming those whom we had but a short time ago considered our menacing enemies, it is difficult indeed for anyone in this nation—which has no thought of aggression or desire for war—to raise doubts about the sincerity and the objectives of the new Russian approach. But surely
we know in this country that it is folly to ‘cry peace, peace, when there is no peace.’ And surely we know that too often behind the soft smile of sweetness there lie the sharp teeth of aggression.
The facts of the matter are that, although Communist diplomatic notes may be couched in more gentlemanly tones—those gentlemanly tones have brought us no closer to real agreement over a system of nuclear inspection, over the reunification of Germany over the defense of Formosa, over the rights of the satellite nations trampled behind the Iron Curtain, or over any other major issue which threatens the peace and security of the world. We cannot afford to denounce whatever progress is being made or appear to be stirring up distrust and hostility unnecessarily. But neither can we afford to permit the beam of our own peace propaganda spotlights to turn inland and. blind us to the grim realities of the world situation…
The free world wearily and earnestly hopes for the ‘relaxation of international tension’ which Moscow claimed had made these meaningless reductions in armed strength possible. But let us not confuse ‘relaxation of tension’ with just plain ‘relaxation.’ And I am fearful that it is the latter which causes the Russians to smile—a smile which may even be stifling a laugh at Western confusion and ineptitude. For while we have not yet even fulfilled the limited strength goals of NATO, much less even begun to match the overwhelming manpower of the Committee, the West is already cutting, transferring and withdrawing—not just in public announcements, not for increased efficiency, and not (unlike the Soviets) for transfer to labor camps or collective farms to strengthen the national security—but instead in a fashion that is clearly reducing our strength.” A few sections of the text are struck through, underlined, or otherwise emphasized in blue ballpoint.
On the reverse of five pages, in his distinctive, upward-slanting script, Kennedy has rapidly drafted another address, delivered at Holy Cross on November 15th, offering commentary on similar issues—namely, the relative balance of power between the NATO allies and the Communist Bloc. Kennedy details new problems raised by the recent Geneva summit, observing, “NATO was organized in 1949 at a time when the Communist threat was primarily military, and when it was believed that an attack in force from the East was a prospect…NATO has not developed militarily as was earlier presumed—but it has served its purpose—& Western Europe is still free.” He asserts that “since Geneva NATO has suffered severe blows,” and although “prospects of war have faded in W. Europe,” it is a mistake to reduce the West’s capacity for defense. He also briefly discusses problems involving refugees and immigration policy. In fine condition. Starting Bid $1000
“The voice of a local newspaper can be one of the most powerful influences in aiding communities in meeting the legitimate desire of Negro citizens for equal treatment and opportunity”—four days after his famed June 1963 ‘Report to the American People on Civil Rights’ speech, President Kennedy extends his thanks to the editor of The Knoxville News-Sentinel
32. John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed as President - Written Four Days After His Famous ‘Report to the American People on Civil Rights’ Speech. TLS as president, signed “John Kennedy,” one page, 6.5 x 9.5, White House letterhead, June 15, 1963. Letter to Loye Miller, Sr., editor of the Knoxville News-Sentinel, written four days after his famous ‘Report to the American People on Civil Rights’ speech, in full: “I have seen the editorial which appeared in the May 15 issue of The Knoxville News-Sentinel urging the city to ‘open up’ and admit all on a non-discriminatory basis to business establishments which serve the public. The voice of a local newspaper can be one of the most powerful influences in aiding communities in meeting the legitimate desire of Negro citizens for equal treatment and opportunity. I hope that your efforts in Knoxville will be successful and commend you and your newspaper for the leadership you have evidenced in advocating a policy of equality for all.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 11.5 x 14.75; frame backing bears the original White House mailing envelope. In fine condition.
On June 11, 1963, President John F. Kennedy addressed the nation from the Oval Office in a televised and radio-broadcast speech on civil rights. The moment followed an attempt earlier that day by Alabama Governor George Wallace to prevent Black students from integrating at the University of Alabama, a direct challenge to federal authority that spurred Kennedy to use his presidential office to advocate forcefully for civil rights. Kennedy framed the struggle as a moral issue, not merely a matter of law, and his compelling arguments and proposed legislation laid the groundwork for the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which became law the following year. The address marked a turning point in the approach of the Kennedy administration, signaling firm support for the civil rights movement and helping define his legacy as an advocate for racial equality. Starting Bid $500
Two weeks after Hitler’s 1939 invasion of Poland, the young Jack Kennedy honors a fallen British airman
33. John F. Kennedy Typed Letter
Signed on a Memorial for a WWII RAF Airman Killed in Active Service, Two Weeks After Hitler’s Invasion of Poland. TLS, signed “John F. Kennedy,” one page, 8 x 10.5, Foreign Service of the United States of America, American Embassy letterhead, September 15, 1939. Letter to Charles R. Nasmith, American Consul at Edinburgh, pertaining to a wreath sent for the memorial of Peter George Alexander St. Clair-Erskine, who had been killed while in active service with the Royal Air Force on September 8, 1939, one week after German forces invaded Poland, an event that triggered the start of World War II. The letterhead Kennedy uses was almost certainly obtained from the office of his father, Joseph P. Kennedy, Sr., who was then into his second year as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom.
In full: “I want to thank you for your kindness in sending the wrath out to Rosslyn Chapel. Both my sister and I appreciate it very much - I am sorry it was on such short notice. I am leaving next Friday for America, so if you could let me have the bill, I will send you up a check immediately. Thanks again.” In very good to fine condition, with creasing and staining in the margins.
Accompanied by a carbon copy of a letter from Nasmith to Edward E. Moore, private secretary to JFK’s father, regarding the arrangements for bringing the flowers to Rosslyn Chapel.
Two weeks before writing these letters, on September 3, 1939, the same day that Britain and France declared war on Germany following its invasion of Poland, the passenger liner SS Athenia became the first UK ship to be sunk by German forces in World War II. Among the Athenia’s 1,103 passengers, 311 were U.S. citizens, and those that were rescued were safely transported to Glasgow. Unable to leave London, Ambassador Kennedy sent his 22-year-old son and personal secretary John F. Kennedy to visit the American survivors on his behalf.
The event was a pivotal one for Kennedy, who by October had returned to Harvard after his six-month European sabbatical with a reshaped political mindset. He had, initially, like his father, considered the prospect of war remote, but the sinking of the Athenia and the concurrent war declaration pressed upon Kennedy greatly. After the fall of Poland, JFK wrote an editorial for the Harvard University newspaper entitled Peace in Our Time, and then began work on his honors thesis, which discussed the British appeasement that led to war; the final product would be published as a book in 1940, under the title Why England Slept. Unique, early, and poignant correspondence from a young JFK. Starting Bid $500
“The new President stands in precisely the same spot as Lincoln one hundred years ago”—early handwritten statement by President-Elect John F. Kennedy, written a few weeks before his inauguration, containing early draft ideas for his historical address
34. John F. Kennedy Handwritten Statement as President-Elect (January 4, 1961) - Early Basis for His Inaugural Address. Handwritten draft statement from President-elect John F. Kennedy to White House correspondent Merriman Smith of United Press International, unsigned, penned by Kennedy in blue ballpoint on both sides of a Western Union Press Message telegram, 8 x 10.5, which Merriman had forwarded to Kennedy for approval in the lead-up to the latter’s historic inauguration on January 20, 1961. Unsatisfied with the quote attributed to him, “The President-elect,” Kennedy has struck through the second paragraph and added his own statement below. He starts with “The pomp and circumstance of the inaugural,” but then strikes through that and begins anew: “As the word Inaugural suggests – This is a beginning with new administration – a new decade. The inaugural is about a break with the past. The new President stands in precisely the same spot as Lincoln one hundred years ago. He faced a dividing country – we face now a dividing world. Our survival now as then rests best with ourselves and in the hands of God.”
Kennedy’s original attributed statement, which is bookended by a paragraph related to the London TV Times inauguration coverage and a statement made by The Catcher in the Rye author J. D. Salinger, reads: “While the inauguration of an American president is a colorful ceremony, it is a solemn moment in our country’s history. It is an hour of grave responsibility, but a time of challenge and, I trust, the beginning of a new era of hope.” In fine condition.
Accompanied by a 1988 letter of provenance sent to noted JFK collector Robert L. White by Evelyn Lincoln, John F. Kennedy’s personal secretary, which reads: “These handwritten notes, which you now have in your possession, were written by President-elect John F. Kennedy for Merriman Smith of the AP during a flight from Palm Beach, Florida to New York on January 4, 1960.” Lincoln has errantly written 1960 instead of 1961; a second included letter has amended that mistake.
These January 4th notes introduced ideas and phrasings that Kennedy later expanded and refined in a 9-page inaugural speech draft that he wrote two weeks later, on January 17th,
which is now in the JFK Library. The start of our offered statement, “As the word inaugural suggests – This is a beginning with new administration – a new decade. The inaugural is about a break with the past,” was condensed and revised in the January 17th draft to read, ‘An inaugural is an end as well as a beginning.’
Another instance relates to the line, “The new President stands in precisely the same spot as Lincoln one hundred years ago.” Kennedy develops this phrase in the 17th draft, broadening it into a shared lineage of presidents: ‘Today I am linked with the 35 other Presidents, three of whom are with us today and stood in this same place.’
Another from the 4th finds Kennedy observing, “He [Lincoln] faced a dividing country – we face now a dividing world. Our survival now as then rests best with ourselves and in the hands of God.” In the subsequent version, JFK shifted the historical framework away from Lincoln to the revolutionary founders, writing: ‘The world is very different now….the concept that the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state but from the hand of God.’
Eager to make a lasting impression with his own inaugural address, Kennedy turned to Lincoln’s Second Inaugural—long celebrated as one of the greatest inauguration speeches— as the benchmark he hoped to match. To accomplish this, he asked his speechwriter, Ted Sorensen, to tally the word counts of various presidential inaugurals, a select group that included Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. Both men deeply admired Lincoln’s oratory, with Kennedy regarding the Gettysburg Address as the ideal example of a short, memorable, and powerful speech. A comparison of Kennedy’s Inaugural Address with Lincoln’s First Inaugural revealed a familiar line:
Lincoln: ‘In your hands, my dissatisfied fellow countrymen, and not in mine, is the momentous issue of civil war.’
Kennedy: ‘In your hands, my fellow citizens, more than mine, will rest the final success or failure of our course.’ Starting Bid $500
JFK nominates Adlai Stevenson for president in 1956: “The man uniquely qualified by virtue of his compassion, his conscience and his courage to follow in the great traditions of Jefferson, Jackson, Wilson, Roosevelt and the man from Independence”
35. John F. Kennedy Signed Photograph, Quoting from His Address Nominating Adlai Stevenson at the 1956 DNC: “In the great traditions of Jefferson, Jackson, Wilson, Roosevelt and the man from Independence—I give you the man from Libertyville”. Marvelous vintage matte-finish 10 x 8 photo of John F. Kennedy delivering his nominating speech for Adlai Stevenson at the 1956 Democratic National Convention, signed in fountain pen with a long quotation from his address: “It is now my privilege to present to this Convention as a candidate for President of the United States the hand of the man uniquely qualified by virtue of his compassion, his conscience and his courage to follow in the great traditions of Jefferson, Jackson, Wilson, Roosevelt and the man from Independence—I give you the man from Libertyville—the next Democratic nominee and our next President of the United States—Adlai E. Stevenson. John Kennedy.” Reverse bears a Wide World Photos credit stamp. In very good to fine condition, with creasing to the upper left corner, and some minor smudging and brushing to the ink.
At the 1956 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, John F. Kennedy gained national attention when he nearly secured the vice-presidential nomination as Adlai Stevenson’s running mate. Stevenson left the choice to the delegates, and Kennedy lost narrowly to Senator Estes Kefauver in a ‘free vote.’ The close contest elevated Kennedy’s profile within the Democratic Party and showcased his growing appeal among delegates and the public. His strong performance at the convention, supplemented by these eloquent remarks in his nominating address, set the stage for his presidential ambitions just four years later. Starting Bid $1000
Hand-corrected pages from a Kennedy speech on labor reform and party ideals, evoking FDR and Woodrow Wilson
36. John F. Kennedy (9) HandCorrected Speech Pages on Labor Reform and Democratic Ideals: “We can wage unrelenting war against drought and poverty and illiteracy and illness and economic insecurity”. Nine pages of John F. Kennedy’s hand-corrected notes for a speech on labor, 8 x 10.5, plus one 8 x 3.75 section, with most (but not all) corrections made in Kennedy’s own hand, mostly in blue ballpoint, with a few edits in pencil and fountain pen. The pages are not entirely continuous, marked “1,” “2,” “4,” “c,” “e,” “i,” “f,” “g,” and “k.” Kennedy opines on labor reform: “Perhaps the most shocking illustration of the importance of securing a much greater Democratic majority in Congress was the cynical act of the House Republicans, aided and abetted by Secretary of Labor Mitchell, in killing all chance for labor reform legislation this year…Labor reform will be an issue in this fall’s election.” In an ensuing paragraph, the typed text twice mentions Jimmy Hoffa; Kennedy strikes through both instances of his name, amending it to “racketeers.”
Imagining a future Democratic administration, he promises: “We can build the schools and the hospitals and the dams that our nation needs. We can wage unrelenting war against drought and poverty and illiteracy and illness and economic insecurity. We can build, through strength and justice and realistic leadership, a lasting peace.” Kennedy writes down a few abstract ideas, connecting past and present: “25 years—FDR—Plodding Feet, Candles.”
Following further discussion of a forthcoming labor bill—this time explicitly invoking Jimmy Hoffa’s name—Kennedy jots, “The Bill must be passed during the next sess.” He closes the speech by quoting the words of Woodrow Wilson: “We must neither run with the crowd nor deride it—but seek sober counsel for it—and for ourselves.”
On the backs of two sheets, Kennedy jots down several names, including Iowa Democratic Party chairman Duke Norberg, Don Mitchell, Luke McManus, Frank Brannan, Jan Fisher, Bill Ginsberg, and several others. All together, Kennedy’s handwriting amounts to about one hundred words. In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $500
Amidst political jottings, Kennedy sketches and signs a pastoral scene
37. John F. Kennedy Handwritten Notes and Signed Sketch of a Pasture - PSA GEM MINT 10. Remarkable original handwritten notes and sketches by John F. Kennedy, penned on the reverse of an 8. 5 x 11 page of Harvard Board of Trustees meeting minutes, no date. Kennedy fills the page with spontaneous notes, policy thoughts, and whimsical sketches accomplished in blue ballpoint. Central to the sheet is a well-composed, detailed drawing believed to depict JFK’s family retreat in northern Virginia, showing a fenced pasture, tall tree, and small aircraft approaching, signed in the lower right corner, “J. Kennedy.” Below, Kennedy sketches a side-view profile of a horse, plus rougher outlines of some more aircraft and another tree. Kennedy’s jottings include the names of several people, including some aides and advisors—”Dave White,” “Pat Lynch,” “Bob Morey,” and “[Arthur] Goldberg”—as well as his vice president: “Lyndon Johnson, on labor bill scheduling—recommending with good reform.” Among his other notes are “Scholarship - oath,” “5 great Senators,” “Unemployment,” and “Entertainment allowance.” In fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “GEM MT 10.” Starting Bid $500
President Kennedy approves the passage of the Mental Retardation Facilities & Community Health Centers Construction Act of 1963, forwards his bill-signing pen to a controversial Illinois Congressman
38. John F. Kennedy 1963 Community Mental Health Act Signing Pen - Presented to an Influential Illinois Congressman. Official dipping pen attributed to President John F. Kennedy’s signing of the Mental Retardation Facilities & Community Health Centers Construction Act of 1963 (S. 1576). The official ‘bill signer’ Esterbrook pen measures 6.25˝ long and features a black plastic grip with a Lucite handle imprinted with “The President—The White House.” Includes a TLS from Lawrence F. O’Brien, special assistant to the president, White House letterhead, October 31, 1963, forwarding the pen to Illinois Congressman: “The President asked me to send you the attached pen which was used today when he approved S. 1576, Mental Retardation Facilities and Community Mental Health Centers Construction Act of 1963. Of course, this is a companion to the legislation which you sponsored.” Both are mounted and framed together to an overall size of 11.25 x 14.25. In fine condition, with rippling to the transmittal letter.
Passed as part of John F. Kennedy’s New Frontier, the Community Mental Health Act of 1963 was an act to provide federal funding for community mental health centers and research facilities in the United States. The purpose of the CMHA was to establish mental health centers that provide community-based care as an alternative to institutionalization. Despite considerable deinstitutionalization, the CMHA proved to be a mixed success. Only half of the proposed centers were ever built; none were fully funded, and the act didn’t provide money to operate them in the long term. Some states closed expensive state hospitals, but never spent money to establish community-based care, and many patients, formerly warehoused in institutions, were released into the community.
Larry O’Brien (1917-1990) was one of the United States Democratic Party’s leading electoral strategists for more than two decades, serving as Postmaster General in President Lyndon B. Johnson’s cabinet. He later became commissioner of the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1975 to 1984. The NBA Championship Trophy is named in his honor.
Chicago politician Dan Rostenkowski (1928–2010) was one of the most powerful legislators in Congress, especially in matters of taxation. During his career, he held positions such as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, House Democratic Chief Deputy Whip, and Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee. However, after 34 years of serving as an Illinois congressman, Rostenkowski was defeated for reelection in 1994 amid an investigation by the Justice Department for his involvement in the House Post Office scandal. In 1996, he pleaded guilty to reduced charges of mail fraud and was fined and sentenced to 17 months in prison, 15 of which he served at the Oxford Federal Correctional Institution in Wisconsin. President Clinton pardoned Rostenkowski in December 2000, remarking that ‘Rostenkowski had done a lot for his country and had more than paid for his mistakes.’ Starting Bid $200
40. John F. Kennedy Signed Photograph as President. Vintage glossy 8 x 9.75 photo of President John F. Kennedy shaking hands with longtime Virginia Congressman J. Vaughan Gary at the White House, signed and inscribed in bold black ink as president, “For Vaughan Gary, with high esteem and warm personal regards, John F. Kennedy.” Matted to an overall size of 12 x 14.25. In fine condition. The consignor notes that research conducted by Dave Powers, a longtime friend of President Kennedy and founding curator of the John F. Kennedy Library, indicates that Kennedy met with Gary at the White House on August 30, 1962. Starting Bid $200
39. John F. Kennedy Signed Photograph as a Massachusetts Senator - Presented to the President of the Worcester Brewing Company. Vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 photo of John F. Kennedy shaking hands with supporter Matthew Stacey, president of the Worcester Brewing Company, during a local campaign event for the former’s reelection as a Massachusetts senator, signed and inscribed in bold black ink, “To Matthew J. Stacey – with thanks and every good wish – John Kennedy.” The reverse bears a credit stamp for photographer Marvin Richmond. In fine condition, with a small crease to the upper left corner. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder.
Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, which bears two facsimile Kennedy signatures, and a transmittal letter from Kennedy’s aide, Francis X. Morrissey, United States Senate letterhead, September 18, 1958, addressed to Stacey: “I am enclosing the picture that Jack autographed for you. He is deeply appreciative of everything you have done for him.”Read more online at www.RRAuction.com Starting Bid $200
Kennedy presents his Eisenstaedt portrait to relatives:
“For Aunt Bunny and Uncle Tom, with the affectionate regards of their nephew”
42. John F. Kennedy Oversized Signed Photograph, Presented to His Aunt and Uncle. Vintage matte-finish 11 x 14 portrait of John F. Kennedy taken by Alfred Eisenstaedt after his nomination as the Democratic presidential candidate in August of 1960, signed and inscribed in the lower border in fountain pen to relatives, “For Aunt Bunny and Uncle Tom, with the affectionate regards of their nephew, John Kennedy.” In very good to fine condition, with creasing, primarily in the borders, and a couple of light horizontal bends. Starting Bid $500
41. John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed as President. TLS as president, signed “John Kennedy,” one page, 6.75 x 8.75, White House letterhead, September 8, 1963. Letter to Congressman Claude Pepper, in full: “Please accept my warmest congratulations on your birthday. I hope that this will be a happy and memorable occasion and that the years to come will bring you continued health and happiness.” Kennedy strikes through “Congressman” in the salutation, writing out “Claude” instead. In fine condition, with some very faint toning. Accompanied by the original White House transmittal envelope, marked “By Messenger and By Hand.” Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from Beckett Authentication Services. Starting Bid $200
High school physics worksheet by the 17-year-old JFK
43. John F. Kennedy Signed Physics Laboratory Worksheet from Choate. Choate physics laboratory worksheet filled out by Kennedy and signed in pencil at the top, “John F. Kennedy,” one page both sides, 7.25 x 10.25, February 19, 1935. Kennedy answers seven questions for a laboratory experiment involving electroplating, examining the chemical effects of an electrical current. He observes the electroplating process (“the cathode gets deposit of copper, nothing to the anode”), makes note of the source of the material (“the copper sulphate”), suggests a method for continuous plating (“keep a bar of copper in solution”), and suggests a method for nickelplating (“use any soluble nickel compound”). In fine condition. This desirable, early high school worksheet reveals JFK’s understanding and grasp of a difficult subject in the physical sciences. Kennedy attended Choate from 1931 to 1935, and was elected as ‘most likely to succeed’ from his graduating class. Starting Bid $200
44. John F. Kennedy: Presidential China from the ‘Honey Fitz’ (4-Piece Tea Cup and Saucer Set). Attractive tea cup and saucer set from the chinaware used by President John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy aboard the presidential yacht, the ‘Honey Fitz,’ which was named in honor of JFK’s maternal grandfather, John Francis ‘Honey Fitz’ Fitzgerald. Includes three double-handled teacups (2˝ tall, 3.5˝ diameter), and one matching saucer (5˝ diameter), all designed and manufactured by Shenango China in New Castle, Pennsylvania.
The elegant set boasts subtle gilt embellishments, including golden-striped rims and handles, with central presidential seals flanked by single stars. All are marked on the bottom with Shenango China maker’s marks in green. In overall fine condition, with light overall wear, including a small chip to rim of saucer.
Consignor notes: ‘These pieces were from my father who worked on the Special Support Staff in the White House starting with the Johnson administration, then the Nixon administration and the Ford administration. He retired when President Ford was in office. He worked closely with the first family in the Johnson, Nixon and Ford administrations.’
Notably, the Honey Fitz remained in use as a presidential yacht during the administrations of Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon. While Johnson retained its name as the ‘Honey Fitz’ to honor JFK’s memory, Nixon had it refurbished and renamed to honor his daughter, Patricia. The yacht was retired from official service in the early 1970s, then decommissioned and sold at auction in 1971. Starting Bid $200
45. John F. Kennedy Signed Photograph. Vintage glossy 8 x 10 head-and-shoulders photo of John F. Kennedy smiling in a suit and tie, signed toward the left side in fountain pen. Reverse bears the stamp of “Jan Studios, 68 West 45th St., New York 36, N.Y.” In very good to fine condition, with scattered small creases, and very poor signature contrast. An accompanying typed slip notes: “Personally autographed by Senator Kennedy in front of the Bellevue Stratford Hotel, Oct. 1960, soon to be elected president of the U.S.A.” Starting Bid $200
“To extricate ourselves without war or surrender is a most difficult operation, but we shall persist”— hand-corrected draft letter from President Kennedy on the U.S. involvement with Laos, written not long before the 1962 Geneva Accords
47. John F. Kennedy Typed Draft Letter as President - “Laos is still full of danger”. Hand-edited typed draft letter from President John F. Kennedy, unsigned, one page, 6.75 x 8.75, White House letterhead, February 1, 1962, sent to Norman Cousins, the longtime editor of the weekly magazine Saturday Review. Kennedy has made several corrections to the text in his own hand, which include changes to punctuation, striking through words, and adding alternative phrases to the borders. The letter, in its corrected form, reads: “I appreciate your sending me the latest copy of Saturday Review. The article on the Congo was excellent. Although things have gone better recently the matter continues to be of great concern because of the widespread economic and social misery. Laos is still full of danger. There is no place where the policy in recent years has been more shortsighted. To extricate ourselves without war or surrender is a most difficult operation, but we shall persist.” In very fine condition.
This hand-corrected letter dates to a little less than six months before Kennedy and a host of 13 other countries signed the International Agreement on the Neutrality of Laos on July 23, 1962, at a conference more commonly known as the 1962 Geneva Accords.
Per the JFK Library: ‘After the surrender of the Japanese in World War II, the French attempted to reassert dominion over Laos and the rest of French Indochina, which included Vietnam and Cambodia. The Communist Laotian nationalist movement, the Pathet Lao, was an ally of the Vietnamese in the struggle with France. After the French were defeated by the Vietnamese, the Geneva Accords of 1954 established the sovereignty of Laos. Civil war soon broke out, however, as the Royal Lao government, supported by the United States, fought Pathet Lao insurgents, supported by the Communists in neighboring North Vietnam.
The Eisenhower government committed millions of dollars in aid and teams of military advisers to prevent the takeover of Laos by the Pathet Lao. Shortly before John F. Kennedy’s inauguration, President Eisenhower warned his successor that the effort was on the verge of failure and that the US military might need to intervene.
Kennedy moved cautiously. He rejected a variety of proposals to send American forces and concluded that a negotiated settlement with the Soviet Union and other interested parties was the best he could achieve. A 1962 peace conference in Geneva produced a Declaration on the Neutrality of Laos and a three-part coalition government divided between pro-American, pro-Communist, and neutral factions. From Washington’s standpoint, the arrangement was flimsy, but it was the best of unattractive options.
Soon after the accord was reached, civil war resumed. As American military involvement in Vietnam grew, Laos became another battlefield in that region. Running through eastern Laos, the Ho Chi Minh Trail was a crucial North Vietnamese supply route for Communist forces in South Vietnam. To disrupt the flow of supplies, the United States bombed parts of Laos for nearly a decade, until a ceasefire agreement was reached in 1973. In 1975, the Pathet Lao took control of the country.’ Starting Bid $200
“Care is to be taken that Frau Arvad is not received again”—internal Reich Chancellery letters and documents on the Nazi investigation into Inga Arvad, the onetime l over of John F. Kennedy, and her claims of having repeated private meetings with Adolf Hitler
46. John F. Kennedy: Inga Arvad Letter and Document Collection - The Nazi Party Investigates Her Claimed Meetings with Hitler. Fascinating letter and document collection related to the Nazi Party’s investigation into Inga Arvad, a Danish journalist who claimed to have had three personal meetings with Adolf Hitler, and who later shared a two-year romance with John F. Kennedy during World War II. A newspaper columnist, former Miss Denmark, and wife to a Hungarian filmmaker, Arvad began a relationship with Kennedy in Washington in 1941, the same year that FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover suspected her of being a Nazi spy. The Nazis were just as wary of Arvad, whose claims that she had been received by Hitler on several occasions prompted the Reich Chancellery to begin an investigation.
The letters and documents, all in German, are listed in chronological order:
Carbon copy of a typed letter from Dr. Helmuth von Feldmann, Ministry of Propaganda, to the German Embassy in Copenhagen, one page, March 26, 1936, warning of Arvad’s reputation. He cites “alleged relations” with the wives of Goebbels and Göring, and notes Danish surprise at her ability to secure an interview with Hitler on a freelance basis.
TLS from Danish journalist Herluf Andersen, one page, August 17, 1936, addressed to Hitler requesting an interview with
questions submitted in advance, leaving Hitler free to choose topics. Accompanied by two follow-up documents dated August 26 and 28, 1936.
Carbon copy of a typed letter from Georg Ferdinand Duckwitz, Nazi Ambassador to Denmark, three pages, September 10, 1936, to the Foreign Office in Berlin. Duckwitz stresses that Danish press requests for Hitler interviews were always rejected, but recommends Andersen rather than Arvad if one were to be granted.
TLS from Wilhelm Wolf, Foreign Office, one page, September 18, 1936, to the Secretary of State and head of the Presidential Chancellery, asking if any official record exists of Arvad’s supposed audience with Hitler. Includes handwritten notations.
On the reverse, TLS from Reich Chancellery adviser Werner Kiewitz, December 1936, noting that files show no record of a September 1936 audience. He confirms, however, that Arvad was briefly received by Hitler at the end of 1935, but nothing more formal is documented.
In overall very good to fine condition, with edgewear, creases, and small tears. An intriguing group of documents linking two of the 20th century’s most famous political leaders, Adolf Hitler and John F. Kennedy, via a Danish journalist who may—or may not—have been a Nazi spy. Starting Bid $200
“President Kennedy Assassinated!”— comprehensive archive of nearly 1,000 newspapers from across the USA, covering JFK’s assassination and its immediate aftermath
50. John F. Kennedy Assassination: (950+ Newspapers from November 1963. Amazing, comprehensive archive of over 950 newspapers covering the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, originating from all over the United States. The vast majority date to November 22, 1963, or November 23, 1963, with a few from later in the week, covering Oswald’s arrest and murder. Capturing the national shock and local reactions to President John F. Kennedy’s assassination from across America, this impressive collection offers a unique window into the breadth and diversity of American reportage on November 22, 1963, and the days that followed. Beyond front-page headlines, the collection preserves varied perspectives on Lee Harvey Oswald and the unfolding aftermath, making it an unparalleled resource for historians and collectors alike.
In addition to the typical slate of premiere, nationally-read newspapers—the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Boston Globe, Washington Post, and Chicago Tribune—the archive offers rare glimpses of local reports from Anytown, USA, as seen in issues of the Alton Evening Tribune, Chillicothe Express, Chippewa Herald Telegram, Dallas Morning News, Durango Herald, Fitchburg Sentinel, Honolulu Star-Bulletin, Humboldt Standard, Joplin Globe, Kokomo Tribune, Lenoir News-Topic, Miles City Star, Mesa Tribune, Nashville Banner, Palo Alto Times, Portland Evening Express, Roswell Daily Record, Sarasota Journal, Schenectady Gazette, Spokane Daily Chronicle, Stamford Advocate, Torrington Register, Wichita Beacon, and Youngstown Vindicator.
Most of the papers offer standard, front-page headlines breathlessly describing the tragic events of November 22nd: “President Kennedy Assassinated!,” “Kennedy Slain on Dallas Street,” “Kennedy Assassinated: Texas Governor Wounded,” “President Kennedy Killed by Sniper in Dallas, Texas,” “Kennedy Assassinated; Johnson Takes Oath,” “President Is Slain,” “Sniper’s Bullet Kills President,” “Kennedy Dead by Assassin’s Shot in Dallas,” “President Kennedy Slain During Dallas Parade,” “President Slain, Nation Mourns,” “President Kennedy Murdered by Sniper During Dallas Motorcade,” “Kennedy Dead: Bullet in Brain Proves Fatal,” and “Sniper Kills President.”
Others offer interesting, more obscure interpretations of the news, often related to JFK’s killer; depending on the news outlet, Oswald is described as a “Communist,” “Ex-Marine,” or, simply, “Man.” Among the Oswald-focused headlines are: “Johnson New President: Castro Pal Charged with Kennedy’s Assassination,” “Man, 24, Charged in Assassination,” “President’s Killer Seized in Dallas—LBJ Sworn In,” “JFK Assassinated; Hold Castro Partisan,” “President Kennedy Slain; Assassin Eludes Dragnet,” “Accused Assassin Says He’s in Communist Party,” “Man Accused in JFK Death,” “Oswald Charged in Kennedy Slaying; Johnson Calls for National Unity,” and “Ex-Marine Is Charged as Assassin of Kennedy.”
In overall very good to fine condition. A complete inventory list prepared by the consignor is available online. Although we have spot-checked the list and believe it to be accurate, RR Auction has not done a comprehensive one-for-one accounting of the lot versus the list. Due to the overwhelming size of this collection, it will be sold as is and no returns will be accepted. Interested parties are encouraged to view the collection in person at our offices or call us with specific inquiries. Starting Bid $300
Congressman Kennedy thanks an Italian-American newspaper publisher for a letter “congratulating me on my stand against communism”
48. John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed, Thanking a Boston News Publisher for Support on His Stand Against Communism. Early TLS signed “John F. Kennedy,” one page, 8 x 10.5, House of Representatives letterhead, March 20, 1947. Letter to Graziano Longarini of Boston, publisher of the Italian-language newspaper La Notizia, in full: “This will acknowledge receipt of your telegram of March 18th, congratulating me on my stand against communism. In reply, I wish to thank you for your kind remarks. I appreciate your assurances of support of my stand from your newspaper and from the Italian people throughout the State of Massachusetts.” He adds a handwritten postscript: “I appreciate the past support of your excellent paper.” In fine condition.
In his early days in Congress, John F. Kennedy took a firm stance against communism, reflecting the deep anxieties of the early Cold War era. As a young congressman and later senator, he criticized the spread of Soviet influence abroad and supported strong measures to contain it, often backing military preparedness and aid to nations resisting communist movements. Kennedy positioned himself as a staunch anti-communist, arguing that the United States needed both vigilance and strength to confront the global ideological struggle, a position that laid the groundwork for his later foreign policy as president. Starting Bid $200
Pen from JFK’s signing of the influential Communications Satellite Act of 1962
49. John F. Kennedy 1962 Communications Satellite Act Bill Signing Pen - From the Collection of the National Aeronautics and Space Council Executive Secretary. Official dipping pen attributed to President John F. Kennedy’s signing of the Communications Satellite Act of 1962 (H.R. 11040). The official ‘bill signer’ Esterbrook pen measures 6.25˝ long and features a black plastic grip with a Lucite handle imprinted with “The President—The White House.” Mounted and framed to an overall size of 10 x 5.5, with an engraved plaque: “Pen used by President John F. Kennedy to sign the Communications Satellite Act of 1962, 8-31-62.” In fine condition. Accompanied by an original vintage glossy 9 x 7 photo of the signing of the act (erroneously annotated “1963” in the lower border), showing President Kennedy surrounded by several of the bill’s sponsors. The Communications Satellite Act of 1962, signed into law by President John F. Kennedy, established a framework for the United States to develop commercial satellite communications. It created the Communications Satellite Corporation (COMSAT), a private company with government oversight, to represent the U.S. in international satellite ventures. The act marked a pivotal step in opening space technology to commercial use, fostering new opportunities in global telecommunications and broadcasting. Originates from the collection of Edward C. Welsh (1909–1990). Read more online. Starting Bid $200
“You have helped us pioneer on the frontiers of space. You have worked with vision and restraint, with a strong sense of history but also with a devotion to the challenges of the future”
51. Lyndon B. Johnson (13) Typed Letters Signed to the Executive Secretary of the National Aeronautics and Space Council: “You have helped us pioneer on the frontiers of space”. Archive of 13 TLSs by Lyndon B. Johnson, six as president, with seven signed “Lyndon B. Johnson” and six signed “L.B.J.,” totaling 13 pages, 6.75 x 9, White House and personal letterhead, dated August 31, 1966 to February 3, 1972. All are to Edward C. Welsh, who served as Executive Secretary of the National Aeronautics and Space Council from 1961 to 1969. Excerpts from the letters:
August 31, 1966: “I just want to thank you for your thoughtful birthday message. Words of confidence and support from those on whom we rely so much are always especially gratifying.”
January 31, 1968: “I received your 1967 report today and plan to give it close study. For now, you have all my pride and gratitude for another year of large and lasting achievement. Please tell all your colleagues of my warm appreciation.”
March 20, 1968: “I am delighted that you have overtaken me once again. It is not your fault that fate got you off to a slow start in this birthday race, but I do notice that you manage to catch up with me every six months or so.”
August 28, 1968: “The friendship conveyed in your birthday wish is but the eloquent expression of the generous support you have given us every day of the past year.”
September 4, 1968: “I see by the report on the 1968 Savings Bonds Campaign that we are Federal rivals for first place. This is an honor I am happy and proud to share with you and your patriotic staff. Please tell them all of my satisfaction. It is a feeling that all our people can share, because of the new strength that you have all added to our economy and our security.”
January 17, 1969: “I hope you realize that our long friendship and association has been more than a one-way street. I have always cherished your wise and expert advice. You have helped us pioneer on the frontiers of space. You have worked with vision and restraint, with a strong sense of history but also with a devotion to the challenges of the future. I know you will find great pleasure and success in whatever you decide
to do. You have my gratitude, my affection, and my esteem.”
March 28, 1969: “That was a very nice gesture of yours—nominating me for listing in the National Space Hall of Fame. During the days of my association with you and the other leaders of this Nation’s space efforts, I learned what it was like to be among the real Giants in a living Hall of Fame.”
August 28, 1969: “Thank you so much for your birthday greetings. I appreciate the sentiments they express.”
August 27, 1969: “Yes, the years have a way of adding up for us…but none of them have subtracted from my affection and admiration for you.”
December 22, 1970: “Thanks for sending a beautiful card at Christmas and adding to our happiness in many ways through all the years.”
January 22, 1971: “Many thanks for your get-well wishes. I’m grateful for your concern and your generous words…a combination that was sure to make me feel better.”
April 6, 1971: “Mrs. Johnson and I are disappointed you can’t be here to celebrate May twenty-second with us, but we’re grateful for your thoughtful letter.”
February 3, 1972: “I’m so glad that you and Carolyn enjoyed the CBS interview. It’s a little startling to realize that I’ve been in the homes of so many old friends via television. It’s the next best thing to really being there.”
In overall fine condition.
Edward C. Welsh (1909–1990) was an American economist and government administrator who served as the inaugural Executive Secretary of the National Aeronautics and Space Council under President John F. Kennedy. Before that, he advised Senator Stuart Symington on space policy during the Democratic primary; material he developed for Symington was later repurposed in Kennedy’s campaign to sharpen his posture toward the Soviet Union. Starting Bid $300
“My fellow Americans, our long national nightmare is over. Our constitution works”
52. Gerald Ford Signed BookPortrait of a President - “My fellow Americans, our long national nightmare is over”. Signed book: Portrait of a President. First edition. NY: Harper & Row, 1975. Hardcover with dust jacket, 10.25 x 10.25, 189 pages. Signed on the title page in black felt tip with a lengthy quote from his inaugural address, “I have not campaigned either for the Presidency or the Vice Presidency. I am indebted to no men and only to one woman, my dear wife as I begin this very difficult job. My fellow Americans, our long national nightmare is over. Our constitution works. Gerald R. Ford, 9/21/80.” In fine condition, with chipping to the dust jacket edges, and corner creasing to a few opening pages. Starting Bid $200
53. George Bush and Congressional Leaders Signed Stamp Sheet. Fantastic sheet of 12 three-cent postage stamps depicting the United States Capitol, affixed to an 8.5 x 11 sheet of House of Representatives Speaker’s Rooms stationery, signed in felt tip by George Bush, Tip O’Neill, Jim Wright, Alan Simpson, Thomas Foley, Robert Byrd, Bob Michel, Alan Cranston, Trent Lott, and Bob Dole. Bush and O’Neill respectively add their positions as “Vice-Pres.” and “Speaker.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
54. Four Presidents Signed Photograph - Nixon, Ford, Reagan, and Carter. Color satin-finish 7.5 x 9.75 photo of Presidents Nixon through Reagan gathered at the White House before departing for Anwar Sadat’s funeral in 1981, signed in the lower border in felt tip, “Ronald Reagan,” “J. Carter,” “Richard Nixon,” and “Gerald Ford.” Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 14.75 x 17. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
56. White House Telephone. Beige Western Electric telephone with a removable handset and coiled cord, model 2500DMG, measuring approximately 6˝ x 9˝ x 5˝, featuring a key listing White House Centrex extensions in the button area and an affixed label reading: “Not Secure, Do Not Use For Classified or Sensitive Information.” This model was manufactured between 1968 and 1984, and this example probably would have been used by a Reagan staffer. In fine condition, with general wear from use. Starting Bid $200
Notables
American Politicians and Leaders
Unique compilation of speeches from members of the 29th U.S. Congress, signed by key legislators from North and South—highlighted by Andrew Johnson,
Alexander
H. Stephens, John C. Calhoun, and Hannibal Hamlin
217. Speeches of the 29th Congress Book with (60+) Signatures, including Andrew Johnson, Alexander Stephens, John C. Calhoun, and Hannibal Hamlin. Unique book of speeches made by members of the 29th Congress of the United States, leatherbound hardcover with marbled boards, 6 x 9, containing more than 60 clipped and affixed signatures inside, mostly taken from free franked covers. Most speeches pertain to the ‘Three Million Bill,’ the Mexican-American War, or the slavery question, focusing on the Wilmot Proviso—a proposal to ban slavery in territories acquired from Mexico. Signed and dated on the first free end page with the ownership signature of T. A. D. Fessenden, “Thomas A. D. Fessenden, 1847.”
The list of signers is highlighted by Andrew Johnson (2), Hannibal Hamlin, Alexander H. Stephens, John C. Calhoun, David Wilmot, John A. Dix, James Seddon (2), and Robert Rhett.
Other signers include: Luther Severance (2), Solomon Foot, Robert C. Winthrop, George Ashmun, Charles Hudson (3), James Dixon, George O. Rathbun (2), Timothy Jenkins, Washington Hunt, Samuel Gordon, Erastus D. Culver, George Evans, Bradford R. Wood, Stephen Strong, Martin Grover, Preston King, William L. Dayton, James Pollock, Abraham R. McIlvaine, Charles J. Ingersoll, Richard Brodhead, Andrew Stewart, Moses McClean (2), William F. Giles, Edward Long,
Thomas Perry, Shelton F. Leake, Thomas H. Bayly, John Pendleton, Henry Bedinger, Seaborn Jones, John M. Berrien, Franklin W. Bowdon, Henry W. Hilliard, Andrew Butler, Joseph A. Woodward, Alexander D. Sims, Robert W. Roberts, Jacob Thompson, John H. Harmanson, Milton Brown, Edwin H. Ewing, Frederick P. Stanton, John H. Crozier, and Meredith P. Gentry.
In very good condition, with rubbing and scuffing to boards, worn corners, and some staining to the textblock.
This extraordinary volume offers a vivid window into the political and sectional tensions of mid-19th-century America. It preserves speeches and signatures from legislators of the 29th Congress debating the Mexican-American War and the contentious Wilmot Proviso, which aimed to prohibit slavery in territories acquired from Mexico—an early flashpoint in the nation’s escalating crisis. The collection includes over sixty signatures representing prominent figures across the political spectrum: Andrew Johnson, later president; Hannibal Hamlin, future vice president under Lincoln; staunch pro-slavery advocates like John C. Calhoun and Robert Rhett; and David Wilmot, the Proviso’s author. The book not only documents the legislative battles that presaged the Civil War but also captures the personal imprint of key actors shaping the era’s political landscape. Starting Bid $500
Hayes, Garfield, and McKinley sign a 19th-century autograph album—highlighted by members of the cabinet and Congress
218. Rutherford B. Hayes, Cabinet, and Congress Signed Autograph Albums, with Garfield, McKinley, Dewey, and Stephens. Two 19th-century autograph albums, both about 5 x 3.25, with one signed inside by President Rutherford B. Hayes, his cabinet, and members of the 45th United States Congress, and the second containing 100+ signatures of Pennsylvania politicians and notable personalities. Signers include: President Rutherford B. Hayes, Secretary of State William Evarts, Secretary of the Treasury John Sherman, Secretary of War George W. McCrary, Secretary of the Navy Richard W. Thompson, Postmaster General David M. Key, Secretary of the Interior Carl Schurz, Attorney General Charles Devens, Vice President William A. Wheeler, Admiral George Dewey, and members of Congress including James A. Garfield, William McKinley, Alexander H. Stephens, Nathaniel P. Banks, Lucius Q. C. Lamar, Stanley Matthews, John T. Morgan, David Davis, Ambrose Burnside, Matthew C. Butler, Blanche Bruce, James G. Blaine, John B. Gordon, Samuel J. Randall, and Benjamin F. Butler. In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
RFK sends a family friend “a general idea of the proposed John Fitzgerald Kennedy Library”
219. Robert F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed and Draft Memorandum for the Proposed John Fitzgerald Kennedy Library. TLS signed “Bob,” one page, 7 x 9, The Attorney General letterhead, January 14, 1964. Letter to Robert Troutman, Jr., in full: “I thought you might be interested in seeing the attached memorandum, which gives a general idea of the proposed John Fitzgerald Kennedy Library.” Includes a seven-page carbon copy draft of a issued by RFK to the trustees of the John Fitzgerald Kennedy Library, outlining several important points in establishing the institution, breaking down progress in each category: architecture (“Nineteen distinguished American and foreign architects, artists and designers have agreed to serve on an Advisory council,” including eventual architect I. M. Pei); components (“The Museum will display photographs, files, scientific objects, and memorabilia…The Archive is the component most commonly associated with the concept of Presidential Libraries and it will indeed include President Kennedy’s papers, books, and records”); funding (“The Kennedy Library, like the other Presidential Libraries, is being built with funds contributed by the public”); traveling exhibits; and press coverage. In fine condition.
The recipient, Robert Troutman, Jr., had been Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr.’s roommate at Harvard Law School. He later served as Southern campaign manager for John F. Kennedy’s 1960 presidential campaign and, after the election, was appointed to the President’s Committee on Equal Employment Opportunity, the forerunner to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum was founded to preserve the legacy of the 35th president of the United States and dedicated on October 20, 1979, with President Jimmy Carter and members of the Kennedy family in attendance. Originally planned for Harvard University, the library was ultimately built on a waterfront site in Dorchester, Boston. Designed by architect I. M. Pei, the striking modernist building houses Kennedy’s papers, artifacts, and exhibits celebrating his life and presidency. Starting Bid $200
The Secretary of State sends thanks for support of his Alaska deal—mocked by some as ‘Seward’s
Folly’—alluding to “the acquisition already made and that proposed, to our national domain”
220. William Seward Letter Signed on the Alaska Purchase, Referring to “the acquisition already made and that proposed, to our national domain”. LS signed “William H. Seward,” one page both sides, 5 x 8, Department of State letterhead, December 30, 1867. Letter to the Hon. J. Glancy Jones, thanking him for comments in relation to the recent purchase of Alaska, and alluding to a proposal for the acquisition of British Columbia. In full: “I give you my thanks for your private letter of the 14th instant, expressing your appreciation of the acquisition already made and that proposed, to our national domain. Such expressions from persons whose experience in public affairs and known sagacity entitle their authors to confidence would, it seems to me, be useful and instructive in a form in which they could be promulgated without violating the restrictions imposed upon private letters.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, retaining its red “Department of State” wax seal on the reverse.
In 1867, the United States purchased Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million, a deal negotiated by Secretary of State William H. Seward under President Andrew Johnson. The treaty transferred a vast and resource-rich territory of over 586,000 square miles to the United States at a cost of about two cents per acre, greatly expanding the nation’s footprint in the North Pacific. Seward envisioned Alaska as strategically important for trade and defense, as well as a future source of natural resources.
At the time, however, many Americans ridiculed the purchase, dismissing the frozen land as useless wilderness. Critics mockingly called the acquisition ‘Seward’s Folly’ or ‘Seward’s Icebox.’ Over time, the discovery of gold, oil, and other resources, along with Alaska’s geopolitical significance, proved Seward’s foresight correct, transforming what was once seen as a blunder into one of the most beneficial land deals in American history. Starting Bid $1000
World Leaders and Politicians
227. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Signature. Scarce vintage fountain pen signature, “Gazi M. Kemal,” on an off-white 5.25 x 3.75 card. In very fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope (with its stamp clipped out) and transmittal letter from his secretary Hasan Riza, dated August 7, 1934.
Ataturk was given the title of “Gazi” by the Grand National Assembly following his defeat of the Greeks in the Greco-Turkish War, which secured the independence of Turkey. He soon became the nation’s first president and embarked on a series of tremendously influential reforms, producing the modern nation that continues to exist today. Starting Bid $300
Josephine recommends a state accountant, the brother of “one of the painters of the Emperor and of myself”
228. Josephine Bonaparte Letter Signed, Recommending the Brother of “one of the painters of the Emperor and of myself”. LS in French, signed “Josephine,” one page, 7.25 x 9, January 10, 1812. From her famous Château de Malmaison, Josephine de Beauharnais sends a letter of recommendation to a councilor of state. In part (translated): “I am requesting your kindness for St. Augustin whose brother is one of the painters of the Emperor and of myself. He would like to get the rank of auditor in the accounting division where he has been employed for some time…I recommend him to you with greater pleasure as his morality and services render him worthy of your good will.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a carte-de-visite of a portrait of Josephine and a custom-made presentation folder. Josephine may be referring to the French miniature painter Jean-Baptiste Jacques Augustin, who worked for Napoleon and his entourage; among his famous subjects were Napoleon I and his family, King Louis XVIII, and Louis-Philippe d’Orléans. Starting Bid $200
“This is a queer sort of letter”—Churchill reproves a draft letter written on his behalf—“God forbid that I in my temerity should ever venture even to explain or repeat the dread commands of Caesar!”
229. Winston Churchill (2) Signed Items - Autograph Letter and Envelope - “God forbid that I...explain or repeat the dread commands of Caesar!” ALS signed “W. S. C.,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, Colonial Office, Down Street letterhead, May 3, 1907. Handwritten letter by Winston Churchill to his secretary, Eliot Crawshay-Williams, penned at the end of a draft letter sent by Crawshay-Williams on behalf of Churchill to a “Mr. Tomkinson.” Churchill begins by writing at the top of the first page, “This is a queer sort of letter,” and then underlines a pair of phrases — “great pressure” and “I need hardly say I can add nothing” — the latter of which Churchill comments, “‘What on earth does this mean?” He continues: “God forbid that I in my temerity should ever venture even to explain or repeat the dread commands of Caesar! ‘Words so pungent, so wise, so conclusive need no comment from any mortal.’ I need hardly say that it would be utterly out of the question for me to add anything to official jargon, however curt or hackneyed.” Churchill then adds below: “Find out when the new law regulating oil boring will be passed. The delay is vexatious and will damage trade prospects. A full answer should be prepared.”
Crawshay-Williams’ handwritten draft reads: “I fear the great pressure of work at the present moment has prevented my replying to your letter of the 16th April for a long time. Since you wrote to me about Major Ewart and his desire for permission to commence boring for oil in Southern Nigeria, he will have received a letter from this office to which I need hardly say I can add nothing.” Churchill writes the salutation in his own hand. Includes the original transmittal envelope, which has been signed in bold ink, “Winston S. Churchill.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
Churchill informs MGM executive Arthur M. Loew of “developments connected with the film rights of My Early Life”
230. Winston Churchill Typed Letter Signed to MGM Exec Arthur Loew on “developments connected with the film rights of My Early Life”. TLS signed “Winston S. Churchill,” three pages, 7.5 x 9.5, Chartwell letterhead, December 24, 1956. Letter to movie magnate Arthur M. Loew, in part: “I feel that you should know of the further developments connected with the film rights of My Early Life since I wrote to you in August. A letter was addressed to Mr. Jack Warner by Lord Bracken, who had acted for me in 1941 when the original rights were sold. He asked Mr. Warner if he would be willing to sell back to me the copyright, but without mentioning any other desire I had in mind. There followed a considerable delay. Finally I have been approached by Mr. Robert Clark, of the Associated British Picture Corporation, who are associated with Warner Brothers. Mr. Clark told me that his company had suggested to Warners that a film should be made of My Early Life at much the same time as Lord Bracken’s letter had reached them. Following discussions, Mr. Clark had been asked to approach me and to tell me that Warners were most interested in making such a film. They recognized that the 1941 contract was not a realistic one under present conditions, and were prepared to revise it on generous terms…
At this point, I disclosed to Mr. Clark the story of my negotiations with M.G.M., of which he had already had some indication. I said that I would wish, if it were physically possible, to benefit M.G.M. in some way, since you had been so forthcoming in your dealings with me. Mr Clark entirely took this point, and is at present in touch with Mr. Warner. I expect to hear from them further after Christmas. As you will see, nothing is settled, but in view of my past relationship with your company, I feel it desirable to keep you, for your private information, in touch with developments.” In fine condition, with staple and file holes to the top edge.
Winston Churchill’s My Early Life, published in 1930, is an autobiographical account covering his childhood, education, and military experiences up to the early 1900s. Written with humor and vivid detail, the book highlights his adventurous spirit, from his struggles at school to his time as a young cavalry officer and war correspondent. It offers not only a portrait of Churchill’s formative years but also a lively snapshot of the late Victorian and Edwardian eras. Interestingly, it was indeed adapted for the screen—but not until 1972, when Columbia Pictures released Young Winston, starring Simon Ward as the youthful Churchill. Starting Bid $300
231. Winston Churchill Signature. Choice fountain pen signature, “W. Churchill,” on an off-white 3.25 x 2.25 card. In very fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Churchill receives an 80th birthday present from his chiropodist—
“I am delighted to receive the charming ash tray”
232. Winston and Clementine Churchill (2) Typed Letters Signed. Two letters: a TLS from “Winston S. Churchill,” one page, 5 x 8, Chartwell, Westerham, Kent letterhead, April 11, 1955, sent to his chiropodist, Mr. Thair: “I am delighted to receive the charming ash tray which you and your family have given me, and I want to thank you so much for your congratulations and for your thought of me on the occasion of my 80th Birthday”; and a TLS signed “Yours sincerely, Clementine Spencer-Churchill,” one page, 6 x 8, 7 Princes Gate (London) letterhead, October 16, 1969, hand-
addressed to “Dear Mr. Thair,” in full: “Thank you so much for your letter. I will certainly go to either Mr Bell or Mr Burton at Harvey Nichols when I next need chiropody. Thank you so much for looking after me for so many years. I am sorry I was unable to fit in an appointment with you before you left.” In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
At behest of Somerset Maugham, Churchill becomes a “member of the Society of Authors”
233. Winston Churchill and W. Somerset Maugham (2) Typed Letters Signed on Membership in the Society of Authors. Two letters: a TLS signed “Winston S. Churchill,” one page, 7.5 x 9.5, 28 Hyde Park Gate letterhead, May 16, 1956, to Poet Laureate John Masefield, in part: “I should be honoured to become a member of the Society of Authors, and of its Council. Would you please express to them my pleasure at their invitation”; and a TLS signed “W. S. Maugham,” one page, 5.25 x 8.25, Villa Mauresque letterhead, March 22, 1956, to Denys Kilham Roberts, General Secretary for the Society of Authors in England, in full: “Winston Churchill was lunching here yesterday, and I asked him if he was a member of the Authors Society. He said he wasn’t, and I told him that he ought to be. He said he would like to be. I was wondering whether your Committee would consider electing him as an honorary member. I know he would look upon it as a great compliment.” In overall fine condition, with some light creasing to the Churchill letter.
Winston Churchill and Somerset Maugham shared a warm and long-standing friendship rooted in mutual respect for each other’s literary talents. Though best known for his stout leadership of Great Britain during World War II, Churchill was also an extremely accomplished writer, orator, and historian. He would receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1953 ‘for his mastery of historical and biographical description as well as for brilliant oratory in defending exalted human values.’ Starting Bid $200
Sought-after
signed photograph
of the paramount leader of modern China
234. Deng Xiaoping Signed Photograph. Immensely influential Chinese reformist leader (1904–1997) who was the architect behind the modernization of China’s economy by opening the country to global markets. Sought-after glossy 9.5 x 7 photo of Deng Xiaoping at a diplomatic meeting with German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, signed in black felt tip by both leaders. In fine condition. In very good condition, with speckled silvering and golding to the emulsion in darker areas of the image. Starting Bid $1000
In April 1917, Leon Trotsky resumes his journey home to Russia after a month of imprisonment at the Amherst Internment Camp in Nova Scotia, the largest internment camp in Canada during World War I
235. Leon Trotsky War-Dated Autograph Letter Signed - Written the Day After His Release from the Amherst Internment Camp in Nova Scotia. Rare World War I-dated ALS in Cyrillic, signed “Leo Trotski,” penned on the reverse of a 5.5 x 3.5 postcard, April 30th (postmarked on May 4, 1917, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, where Trotsky had recently been imprisoned for over a month). Brief handwritten letter to New York lawyer Louis B. Boudin, penned one day after the British government engineered his release from the Amherst Internment Camp. Trotsky writes (translated): “Dear Tovarish, Since yesterday, A. and I are finally on the steamship, heading to Christiania. Warm regards to you and your wife.” The front of the postcard features an image of the Danish passengercargo ship SS Hellig Olav, which brought Trotsky and his family back to Europe. In fine condition. Louis B. Boudin (1874-1952) was a Russian-born American Marxist theoretician, writer, politician, and lawyer.
In March 1917, following the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II, Leon Trotsky left New York City with his family aboard the SS Kristianiafjord to return to Russia. When the ship docked at Halifax, Nova Scotia, on April 3, Trotsky was detained by the Royal Navy and confined first at the Citadel and then at the Amherst Internment Camp, while his wife Natalia Sedova and their children remained in Halifax under police supervision. He spent a month in Amherst, described by Trotsky as a ‘concentration camp,’ where he befriended workers and sailors among the inmates and described the experience as ‘one continual mass meeting.’ His speeches and agitation angered some German prisoners, leading the camp commander to forbid him from speaking publicly — a decision that provoked a protest and petition from over 500 fellow detainees. Meanwhile in Russia, after initial hesitation, Foreign Minister Pavel Milyukov — pressured by workers’ and peasants’ Soviets — demanded Trotsky’s release as a Russian citizen. The British government complied, freeing him on April 29, 1917. Starting Bid $300
Obtained by President Roosevelt’s Army Air Corps pilot, a historical array of ‘short snorter’ banknotes signed by the ‘Big Three’ Allied leaders of Franklin Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Joseph Stalin, in addition to numerous other high-ranking U.S. officers such as Dwight D. Eisenhower, Hap Arnold, George C. Marshall, and more
236. WWII: Franklin D. Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Joseph Stalin (2) Signed ‘Short Snorter’ Banknotes from the Historic Tehran Conference. Incredible pair of WWII-dated ‘short snorter’ banknotes bearing ink signatures of the leaders of the ‘Big Three’ Allied countries during World War II—Franklin Roosevelt (“Franklin D. Roosevelt”), Winston Churchill (“Winston S. Churchill”), and Joseph Stalin (“J. Stalin”), the latter two of which have signed on a Persian five-rial banknote, 2.5 x 4.75, which also contains signatures of U.S. Army Generals Dwight D. Eisenhower and Henry ‘Hap’ Arnold. The Roosevelt signature is found on a Turkish 10-lira banknote, 2.5 x 6, which is signed by Turkish President Ismet Inonu, is also signed by several of Roosevelt’s inner circle, such as Admirals William Leahy and Wilson Brown, Major General Edwin M. Watson, advisor Harry Hopkins, son-in-law Clarence John Boettiger, physician Ross T. McIntire, and massage therapist George A. Fox.
Also includes six additional signed ‘short snorter’ banknotes, with examples form Bermuda, Egypt, Iceland, Algeria, Allied military currency issued for Italy, and a U.S. one dollar silver certificate, which are all signed by various dignitaries and officers including actor Clark Gable, Air Force General Hoyt Vandenberg, Army Chief of Staff George C. Marshall, and many others that undertook the journey. In overall fine condition.These historical signatures were obtained by Lt. Richard F. Brown, a pilot for the Army Air Corps assigned to a transport aircraft that, when not ferrying critical military supplies, flew high-ranking officers and other V.I.P.s. On November 20, 1943, Brown served as the co-pilot on the aircraft ferrying Franklin Roosevelt from La Senia, Algeria to Tunis, Tunisia, and then, two days later, to Cairo for a meeting with Churchill and Chiang Kai-shek. On November 27th, FDR flew to Tehran for a meeting with both Churchill and Joseph Stalin, Roosevelt’s first meeting with the Soviet leader, which is now famously known as
the Tehran Conference. Accompanied by a handwritten letter from Brown to Robert Parks, a member of the Research Department in the Franklin D. Roosevelt Library, who sends thanks for sending him a log of FDR’s trip to Africa and the Middle East: “Reading the log again brings back many good memories of a most interesting trip. I felt so very privileged meeting and being with President Roosevelt and his top military officers.” Included is a modern print of FDR, Churchill, and Stalin at the Tehran Conference, and a biographical summary of Brown’s life, written by his son, which reads, in part: “My father was raised in Cocoa Beach, Florida, and attended the University of Florida before interrupting his studies to join the Army Air Corps at the beginning of U.S. involvement in World War II. He flew multi-engine transport aircraft containing high-priority items such as weapons, ammunition, and medical supplies, as well as transporting VIP personnel and evacuating wounded soldiers from various combat theaters. In 1943, my father was the Co-Pilot for President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s aircraft, flying President Roosevelt to the historic Egyptian and Iranian summit meetings with Winston Churchill and Joseph Stalin.” Held at the U.S.S.R.’s embassy in the Iranian capital, the historic Tehran Conference was the first of the World War II conferences of the ‘Big Three’ Allied leaders, preceding the Yalta and Potsdam conferences of 1945. The main outcome of the meeting was the Western Allies’ commitment to open a second front against Nazi Germany, laying the groundwork for ‘Operation Overlord’—the invasion of Normandy—in 1944. It also marked the beginning of discussions on the division of Europe and the post-war settlement, foreshadowing the tensions of the emerging Cold War. The conference elevated the status of the Soviet Union as a global power and affirmed the principles of democracy, self-determination, and human rights as central to the Allied vision for the post-war world. In essence, the Tehran Conference solidified the Allied commitment to defeating Nazi Germany and laid the foundation for the geopolitical landscape of the 20th century. Starting Bid $1000
Royalty
King Charles II proclaims the Treaty of Westminster, marking the return of New York to British control
242. King Charles II: Broadside Proclaiming the 1674 Treaty of Westminster, Which Returned New York to Great Britain. Broadside proclamation by King Charles II, one page, 11.5 x 14.75, February 27, 1674. Significant broadside issued by King Charles II, proclaiming the Treaty of Westminster, headed: “By the King. A Proclamation For Publishing the Peace between His Majesty and the States General of the United Netherlands.” The text begins: “Whereas a Peace hath been Created and Concluded at Westminster, betwixt His Majesty, and the States General of the United Netherlands, and the Ratifications thereof exchanged, and Publication thereof made at the Hague…In conformity thereunto His Majesty hath thought fit hereby to Command, That the same be Published throughout His Majesties Dominions.” The king’s name, “Charles R,” is imprinted at the top, and the proclamation concludes, “God save the King.” Printed in London by John Bill and Christopher Barker. Tipped into a quarter-morocco binding. In fine condition.
This broadside proclaims the Treaty of Westminster, which ended the Third Anglo-Dutch War in February 1674. Most significantly, the treaty provided for the return of the colony of New Netherland (now New York) to England, it having been seized by the Dutch fleet a year earlier. Interestingly, as news of the peace could not be communicated quickly to all parts of the world, different dates had been determined upon which legal hostilities would end. Starting Bid $500
243. King Francis I Letter Signed. King of France (born 1494) who reigned from 1515 until his death in 1547. Known as the ‘Father and Restorer of Letters,’ the cultured and well-read Francis, himself a poet, ushered in the Renaissance in France with generous support for a number of writers and ambitious construction projects. Scarce LS in French, signed “Francoys,” one page, 7.75 x 11.5, April 28, 1543. Untranslated letter concerning the Ninth Italian War, prominently signed at the conclusion in ink by King Francis I. In very good to fine condition, with scattered light stains, and loss to two corners affecting none of the handwriting. Accompanied by an export certificate from the French Ministry of Culture and an engraved portrait of the king. Starting Bid $500
Rare handwritten royal note by Nicholas II to his sister, said to be his last written words
244. Nicholas II Autograph Note Signed to His Sister, Grand Duchess Xenia Alexandrovna - Said to Be His Last Written Words. The last Tsar of Russia (born 1868) who reigned from 1894 until he was deposed in 1917. In the wake of the Russian Revolution, Nicholas, Empress Alexandra, and their children were imprisoned and finally executed on July 17, 1918. ANS in Russian, signed in pencil with his initials, one page, 5 x 3.5, The Imperial Train of the Nikolaevsky Railway Station letterhead, 1918. Handwritten note to his sister, Grand Duchess Xenia Alexandrovna of Russia, in full (translated): “If you are ready, come here right now. It’s time to drink coffee. Mother has already left.” In fine condition. Consignor notes that these are considered to be the last written words of Nicholas II, kept and cherished by his sister for the rest of her life. Starting Bid $300
Royal Christmas card to Charles and Diana from “Mummy” and “Papa”
245. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip Signed Christmas Card to Charles and Diana, from “Mummy” and “Papa”. Extraordinary Christmas card from 1983 featuring a color portrait of the royal family on the front, measuring 14.25 x 7.25 open, signed and inscribed inside in fountain pen by Queen Elizabeth II, “Charles and Diana, With love, Mummy, 1983” and by Prince Philip, “Papa.” In fine condition, with two light stray ink marks between the two signatures. A stellar royal piece, connecting Charles and Diana with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip Christmas Card to Charles and Diana. It is an especially intriguing piece, considering Diana’s oftentimes complicated and turbulent relationship with her in-laws. Starting Bid $500
Rare letter by ‘Bloody Mary’ to the Duke of Savoy, a one-time suitor to Lady Elizabeth Tudor
246. Queen Mary I Rare Letter Signed (1556). Rare LS in French, signed “votre bonne cousine, Marye,” one page, 15.25 x 10.75, November 16, 1556. Letter to her cousin, the Duke of Savoy, relaying news and making a recommendation. In very good to fine condition, with light soiling, toning from prior display, and professional repairs to several small tears. Mary writes to Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy, the cousin of her husband, King Philip II of Spain. Philip had ascended to the Spanish throne at the beginning of 1556, making Mary queen consort of Habsburg Spain in addition to her position as Queen of England and Ireland. At one time, Queen Mary and King Philip had schemed to have Elizabeth Tudor marry the Duke of Savoy, thereby securing Catholic succession and preserving the Habsburg interest in England. However, Elizabeth refused to comply and parliamentary consent was unlikely. After Mary’s death in 1558, her re-establishment of Roman Catholicism was reversed by her younger half-sister and successor, the Protestant Queen Elizabeth I. Starting Bid $1000
Relgious Figures
Martin Luther explains a religious principle to a noble follower: “Even if someone comes into such guilt willfully or through carelessness, or inherits it with innocence, it is still decreed by God”
252. Martin Luther Partial Autograph Letter Signed on Religion: “It is still decreed by God...Amen”. German priest and theologian (1483–1546) who became the seminal figure of the Protestant Reformation. Extremely rare partial ALS in German, signed as part of the Latin date, “Martin,” one page, 7.5 x 4.5, March 12, 1530 [“12 Martin 1530”]. Fragment of a handwritten letter on religion to his follower Joseph Levin Metzsch, Lord of the Castle of Mylau, on the question of whether debt inherited from the parents is an act of God’s will and punishment.
In part (translated, with bracketed sections sourced from the Weimar edition of Luther’s works): “[Because guilt, thirst, or poverty are no small punishment for those who do not know how to bear them, it is without doubt a noticeable particle of the Holy Cross for children of God] who can bear and use it. [However], like all other punishments from the dear Father, it should not frighten the [conscience] as a serious disgrace, but rather [comfort] and strengthen it as a fatherly rod of the fox[tail]. For even if someone comes into such guilt willfully or through carelessness, or inherits it with innocence, it is still decreed by God, and such a rod is bound by the same carelessness and willfulness. Hereby commended to God, Amen.” Addressed on the reverse by Luther to “The punctilious and steadfast Joseph Levin Metzsch zu Mylau, my favorable good Lord and friend.” Laid down to a slightly larger sheet, with openings cut to reveal the address panel and small seal. Though the bottom of the letter has been cut off, the top of the “M” from his Latin signature (“M[artinus]”) is preserved along the lower edge. In very good condition, with paper loss to the left side (affecting portions of the text), toning and soiling, and two vertical folds.
The complete text of Luther’s letter is recorded in the Weimar Edition of his works (Vol. V, No. 1537), with minor deviations from the original. The recipient, Joseph Levin Metzsch (1507–1571), was a nobleman and early follower of Luther who provided protection and political backing, allowing Luther’s ideas to spread more freely. Metzsch had participated in the disputation between Martin Luther and Johann Eck in Leipzig in 1519, and was responsible for introducing the Reformation into the Dominion Mylau-Reichenbach in 1526–27. A remarkable letter fragment by the celebrated leader of the Protestant Reformation, explaining some of his religious principles. Starting Bid $2500
Activists and Social Leaders
The South African activist complains of harassment by apartheid security forces:
“It is not as if the police expect to find me committing murder. They probably expect to find me playing cards”
258. Steve Biko Typed Letter Signed on Police Harassment: “We are not criminals and have never been proved guilty of criminal acts before any law court”. TLS signed “B. S. Biko,” two pages, 8.25 x 11.75, October 29, 1973. Letter to the chief magistrate of King William’s Town, complaining of police harassment. In full: “I wish to bring to your attention some matters of a rather serious nature regarding visits by Security Police to my place of residence.
For some time now I have observed extremely unprofessional and provocative conduct on the part of one Charles Xhanti Sebe, a ‘Bantu’ Sergeant of the South African Police attached to the Security division in King William’s Town. Far too often this man has had a tendency to use his privileged position as a policeman to either unnecessarily harass myself and/or the people at home or even to openly insult them. On two occasions, Mr. Sebe has uttered the word ‘voetsek’ against female members of my family first my wife and later, my sister. Beyond this, he also has taken liberty to taunt people that he finds at home into one reaction or the other.If one takes these things into consideration it is not unconceivable that a nasty situation may arise during a visit to my home by Security Police. It even becomes more serious if this is coupled with the fact that on occasions the policemen have carried fire-arms with them and some have openly threatened to use them. I do not wish to allow anybody to use a situation of tension arising out of such deliberate provocation as an excuse for resorting to the use of firearms. Insult to anybody often leads to a rise in emotions but it is much more so when the insult is directed at women. For this reason therefore, I wish to ask you to consult urgently with the Chief of Security Police in King William’s Town to restrain Mr. Charles Sebe from setting foot within the precincts of my home. I feel that relations between him and my family have deteriorated to the point where professional considerations are clouded by personal animosity. I strongly feel too that further visits by security police to my home can go on much more smoothly without this man. So far I have managed to persuade my family against taking court action against Mr. Sebe or exposing such behaviour through the press. I believe that a settlement reached by mutual consultation in this manner can bear more positive results. If on the other hand no settlement is reached we shall have no option but to formally apply for a court interdict on the matter and for the family to take whatever other necessary steps it deems fit. In the meantime we shall take no further responsibility for what develops at home especially after formal complaints have been made
both vocally and in writing to you and to his superiors. Please take this very seriously. Secondly, on a much broader plain, I wish to ask you to consult with the Chief of the Security Police in King William’s Town that they should conduct their investigations at my home more prudently and with greater discretion. I have repeatedly pointed out to them that I am the only person at my home who is restricted. I wish that their operations there should not bring unnecessary discomfort to other members of the family. People’s privacy is guaranteed by law and police should have very strong reasons to disturb it and not do so as a matter of routine. In the past I have argued with the police about barging into other people’s rooms. Of late I notice that they pip through windows almost as a matter of routine. There are two questions here to raise. What about the possibility of finding women in a state of undress? If the police are snooping around the yard there is the possibility of being mistaken for ordinary intruders giving rise to whatever instant action people may take.
I do not at all wish to contest the right of the police to investigate in any legal manner they see fit. I merely want to point out that often this is extremely unnecessary and that discretion might far better be applied. The police must also know that their manner of operation is often irksome and that they are expected to be courteous towards the people whose ordinary run of business they disturb. Far too often we are subjected to threats as in the case of the use of fire-arms I have already referred to. We are not criminals and have never been proved guilty of criminal acts before any law court. The restriction order on me does not declare me a criminal either. Its provisions are so infantile as to make the police investigation absolutely incommensurate. It is not as if the police expect to find me committing murder. They probably expect to find me playing cards. This then does not justify the all-too-frequent employment of rigid tactics. Barring my normal revulsion for their type of work and the inhuman laws they seek to enforce, I have respect for Capt. du Plessis and some of his men. Except for the specific person I have mentioned above, I have not detected any unnecessary vindictiveness on their part. Most of the debates which have arisen were occasioned by different interpretations of procedure and of the terms of the restriction orders. I therefore feel that it is possible through mutual consultation to arrive at some common understanding in spite of our opposed positions. I am sending a copy of this letter to Captain du Plessis and to my lawyers.” In fine conditiont. Starting Bid $500
Gandhi
offers
encouraging words while imprisoned at Yerawada: “Try your maximum to be pure and be a true devotee”
259. Mohandas Gandhi Autograph Letter Signed from Yerawada Prison: “Try your maximum to be pure and be a true devotee”. ALS in Gujarati, signed “Bapu,” one page on a 3.5 x 5.5 postcard, May 9, 1933. Handwritten letter from Yerawada Central Prison, in part (translated): “Received your letter. Do not worry about me. Do more and more pure duty (Dharm) and be the real devotee (Servant).” Addressed on the opposite side in Gandhi’s hand. In fine condition, with an unobtrusive central fold.
In 1932, Gandhi was imprisoned at Yerawada Central Jail in Pune following his arrest during the satyagraha (civil disobedience) movement. While there, he undertook his famous ‘fast unto death’ in protest of the British Communal Award, which threatened to divide India by granting separate electorates to the so-called ‘Depressed Classes.’ The crisis led to negotiations with B. R. Ambedkar and resulted in the Poona Pact of September 1932, increased the political representation of the depressed classes. Gandhi was released from Yerawada in May 1933, continuing his campaign of nonviolent resistance to exert moral pressure against British colonial policies. Starting Bid $300
262. Nelson Mandela Signed Lithograph‘The Tennis Court’ (Ltd. Ed. # 152/350) (20˝ x 16˝). Color limited edition 20 x 16 lithograph of Nelson Mandela’s artwork entitled ‘The Tennis Court,’ portraying the court in the Robben Island prison yard, numbered 152/350, signed in the lower right in pencil, “N. Mandela.” The lithograph suite is complete with the print of Mandela’s artist statement in facsimile (with his facsimile signature) and a print of Grant Warren’s photograph of the Robben Island tennis court, signed in pencil by Warren. Rolled and in very fine condition. Accompanied by the publisher’s certificate of authenticity. Starting Bid $200
“Best wishes, Martin Luther King, Jr.”— Time Magazine’s ‘Man of the Year’ for 1963
260. Martin Luther King, Jr. Signed 1964 ‘Man of the Year’ Time Magazine Front Cover. Detached front cover from the ‘Man of the Year’ issue of Time Magazine from January 3, 1964, 8.25 x 11, which features an artistic depiction of ‘Martin Luther King Jr.’ by artist Robert Vickrey, signed in bold blue ballpoint, “Best wishes, Martin Luther King, Jr.” The interior pages and detached back cover of the magazine are present. Includes a vintage glossy 3.4 x 3.5 photograph of King standing behind a podium with a lei around his neck, an image taken during his 1959 visit to Hawaii, the reverse stamped “484A.” In very good condition, with light creasing and some edge surface loss. Starting Bid $500
Malcolm X on how Presidents Lincoln, Roosevelt, Truman, and Kennedy have helped African Americans—”None of them have ever done anything for Negroes. All of them have tricked the Negro, and made false promises to him at election time, which they never fulfill”
261. Malcolm X Signed Page for Alex Haley’s Playboy Interview - PSA MINT 9. Page marked “MX EXTRA – 6” from the original typescript of Alex Haley’s 1963 interview of Malcolm X for Playboy magazine, one page, 8.5 x 11, signed “Malcolm X” in the bottom margin (with a marginal line indicating his approval of the contents). In full: [Haley] Mr. Malcolm, among all U.S. Presidents, what one or ones do you feel could be credited with having done the most for the Negro? Lincoln? Roosevelt? Truman? Kennedy?
[Malcolm X] None of them have ever done anything for Negroes. All of them have tricked the Negro, and made false promises to him at election time, which they never fulfill. Lincoln’s concern wasn’t freedom for blacks, but to save the Union. Kennedy, when he was he running, promised what he would do with a stroke of his pen. It’s been two years and he hasn’t taken out his pen yet, with regard for Negroes.
[Haley] How can you say this when President Kennedy has fought for a year to even establish a new department in order to make a Negro, Dr. Robert Weaver, the first Negro who would be a member of the Cabinet?
[Malcolm X] He’s fighting? He doesn’t have to fight, he’s the President. He didn’t have any fight putting Celebrezzi in, who replaced Ribicoff. He didn’t have any trouble putting Goldberg on the Supreme Court. He hasn’t had any trouble getting anybody in but Weaver and Thurgood Marshall.
[Haley] But as you must know, no man can become a member of the Cabinet or Supreme Court unless the Congress approves. It was die-hard Congressional objection that balked
the President, Can we blame him for that?
[Malcolm X] He wasn’t worried about Congressional objection when he challenged U.S. Steel, which is one of the strongest corporations on this earth. He wasn’t worried about either Congressional reaction or Russian reaction, or even world reaction, when he blockaded Cuba. But when it comes to the rights of the Negro, to put him in office, then he’s afraid of little pockets of resistance.” An editorial hand has amended one of Malcolm X’s comments to read: “It took him two years to take his pen out of his pocket to sign the housing bill which he had promised Nregroes during his campaign.” In fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “MINT 9.”
Playboy’s May 1963 interview with Malcolm X was one of the most famous of Haley’s career and gave most readers their first in-depth look at Malcolm X’s teachings and personality. Supporters and critics viewed the Muslim minister in very different terms. Admirers saw him as a courageous advocate for the rights of African-Americans and condemned crimes against black Americans; detractors accused him of preaching racism, black supremacy, and violence. Nevertheless, he has been described as one of the greatest and most influential African-American leaders in history. Within a year of granting this interview, with America still gripped by ever-growing racial tension, the once-combative black nationalist Malcolm X had repudiated almost every stance in the interview. He had broken with the Nation of Islam movement, fallen out with its leader, Elijah Muhammad, renounced black supremacy, and embraced racial equality and human rights. He was assassinated in Harlem in 1965. The Marc and Mary Perkins Collection. Starting Bid $500
Important archive of Bugatti materials on his giant 500 horsepower, 16 cylinder engine—licensed to Duesenberg for American production Buisnessmen
268. Ettore Bugatti Archive: Typed Letter Signed on 500-HP, 16-Cylinder Engine, with Photographs and Supplements. Archive of material by and related to Ettore Bugatti, highlighted by a four-page TLS in French to the director of Duesenberg in Elizabeth, New Jersey: TLS signed twice by Ettore Bugatti, and also initialed by him at the foot of the first two pages, four pages, 8 x 10.5, personal stationery, April 11, 1918, in part: “As regards the changes made to my engine, I regret that these were made without prior notice. I have no intention of calling into question the ability of the engineers who carried out these transformations, and I simply limit myself to giving my opinion....The mixed lubrication under pressure and by centrifugal force of my engine has been eliminated by a lubrication under pressure. It is possible that you have a satisfactory result, but I consider my device as being more certain... The upper part of the cylinder, cast with the cylinder itself, is part of my construction of series cars, which I have been manufacturing for about ten years...The modified water circulation device: in fact, the water enters from the propeller side into the cylinders; after cooling the first group of cylinders, it passes into the 2nd group and exits at the rear, on the water pump side. When the engine is put into the up position, you will have pockets of vapor that will form and that will completely disturb the water circulation, compromising the efficiency of the cooling. To avoid this disadvantage, you could have the water enter the cylinders on the water pump side and leave it in the cylinders on the propeller side, because the front cylinders cool more than the rear cylinders in the machine…
The exhaust and intake sections are rounded. You must have seen that, for the same passage, you were obliged to raise the cylinder. As a result, an increase in weight. I am against the theory which admits that a gas passage must be round instead of being square. It is simply a matter of its opening being proportionate to the work that the engine must do, to have no difference in efficiency. I add, in parentheses, that the efficiency that I obtained with this engine is superior to anything that has been obtained, even with racing car engines, considering the number of revolutions, and the volume of the cylinders...For the crankshaft, the rounding that you have done is a completely natural thing, but it was not done in Europe, because we are not able, here, during the war, to forge the parts as you forge in your factories. This rounding would have required an additional machining operation...The carburetor piping heated by the water circulation will certainly give you trouble. The seal between the cylinder and the pipe is difficult to obtain, and it will happen, as a result, a suction of water into the intake valves. Which will cause you serious inconvenience...The transformation that you were able to make to the piston must be considered as
a very delicate thing, because the aluminum piston is unergonomic very difficult, and it was in my construction the object of long tests….
In principle, it is always possible to change, especially in its appearance, an engine, but it should not be overlooked that these engines, in 8 and 16 cylinders, have carried out their official 50-hour test, the results of which have been most satisfactory, and it is certainly imprudent to make changes, before having tried these modifications, on engines of the same type, built after the original. The tests must be made with a propeller, and the power curve with a four-bladed reel. This reel must be made of several thicknesses of glued wood, to avoid unbalancing due to the difference in density of the wood used…A motor should never be tested with an electric brake; this would be to sacrifice this motor to a breakage, by making it support a work which is not appropriate for it, given that it must have a mass which serves as a flywheel identical to that which is mounted in an airplane, by the fact of its propeller. No test has ever been successful on an electric brake or on a hydraulic brake, unless proceeding with cooling of the crankcase and of all the artificial parts.” He goes on to define his engine’s power curve, which tops out at 527 horsepower. Additionally includes two related unsigned pages on Bugatti’s personal stationery, conveying some information about his engine with details on its cylinders, exhaust pipe, spark plugs, fuel lines, and oil circulation; the second page boasts original hand-drawn sketches of setups for the gasoline and oil filters.
Further accompaniments are a manuscript page in French on Duesenberg Motors Corp. letterhead pertaining to the “moteur 500 HP,” a letter regarding the manufacture of the King-Bugatti engine, and eight original vintage glossy photographs, all about 2.5 x 4, one showing Ettore Bugatti as part of a group, and the others showing his 500 horsepower, 16 cylinder aviation engine. In overall fine condition.
These materials pertain to Bugatti’s powerful piston aircraft engine, the Bugatti U-16, and its American-made successor. The Bugatti U-16 was a 16-cylinder water-cooled double-8 vertical in-line ‘U engine’ designed by Ettore Bugatti in 1915 to 1916 and built in France in small numbers. The Bolling Commission bought a license to build a version of the engine in the United States, with modifications made by Signal Corps aeronautical mechanical engineer Colonel Charles Brady King. Small numbers of this slightly revised version—approximately 40 engines—were built by the Duesenberg Motor Corporation as the King-Bugatti. About 40 of these King-Bugatti engines were made before the end of World War I caused building contracts to be canceled. Starting Bid $1000
Scarce
Scientists and Inventors
handwritten letter from Marie Curie during
her yearlong
convalescent leave,
penned
six months after winning her second Nobel Prize
274. Marie Curie Autograph Letter Signed, Dated Shortly After the Reception of Her Second Nobel Prize. ALS in French, signed “M. Curie,” penned on an off-white 4.75 x 3 card, May 29, 1912, roughly six months after becoming the first person to win a Nobel Prize twice. Addressed from Paris, a handwritten letter from Marie Curie to an unnamed recipient, noting that she is once more ill and cannot be held responsible “for moving the portico.” She goes on, “But I gave Madame Chavannes a note authorizing the porter to come and collect the portico and the pole from you. The portico will be installed at Foulevay’s school.” In fine condition. Isabelle Chavannes was a student of Marie Curie who documented Curie’s experimental physics and chemistry lessons for her daughter, Irene, in a teaching co-op started in 1907. Curie developed these hands-on, experimental classes because she didn’t believe the National Education system would adequately educate her daughter. Chavannes’s notes from these lessons were compiled and published in the book Leçons de Marie Curie (Lessons of Marie Curie).
After winning a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903, Marie Curie became the first person to ever win the award twice when she received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in December 1911. She
received it ‘in recognition of her services to the advancement of chemistry by the discovery of the elements radium and polonium, by the isolation of radium, and the study of the nature and compounds of this remarkable element.’
Her reception of the award was, unfortunately, saddled with controversy. Around the same time, newspapers exposed her romantic relationship with physicist Paul Langevin, who was married but estranged from his wife. The affair became a public scandal in France, and Curie was harshly criticized in the press, with some members of the Swedish Academy even suggesting she should not travel to Stockholm to accept the prize. Determined not to let her personal life overshadow her scientific achievements, Curie went to Stockholm anyway to receive her award and deliver her Nobel lecture.
A month after accepting her 1911 Nobel Prize, Curie was hospitalized with depression and a kidney ailment. She withdrew from public life for much of 1912, though she spent time in England with her friend and fellow physicist Hertha Ayrton. Curie did not return to her laboratory until December, following an absence of nearly fourteen months. Starting Bid $300
“I am convinced that orchids have a wicked power of witchcraft, for I ought all these months to be working at the dry old bones of poultry, pigeons & rabbits, instead of intensely admiring beautiful orchids”
275. Charles Darwin Autorgaph Letter Signed on His Horticultural Studies: “I am convinced that orchids have a wicked power of witchcraft”. ALS signed “Charles Darwin,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, Down letterhead, November 27, [1861]. Handwritten letter to horticulturalist Dorothy Fanny Nevill, who supplied Darwin with rare plants for his research and experimentation. In full: “I will not attempt to thank your Ladyship for all your kindness, for it is beyond my power—I am pleased to hear that my Books have at all interested you; but I fear my little Orchid book will be dry. This summer when at the sea, I meant merely to write a paper for some scientific journal, but the subject grew on me till my M.S. got rather too long for a paper. I am convinced that orchids have a wicked power of witchcraft, for I ought all these months to be working at the dry old bones of poultry, pigeons & rabbits, instead of intensely admiring beautiful orchids.—I mention all this, because, though I can hardly bear to write the words, I must beg your Ladyship not to send any more of your treasures; though perhaps at some future period I may indulge myself with the examination of a few more Orchids—I will not forget your Ladyship’s most generous offer to give me other flowers, if I require them for observation, & I have no doubt that I shall some time be a beggar again.—
I am truly obliged to your Ladyship for taking the trouble to write to Mr. Veitch; who has already sent me some orchids & with much generosity refused all payment for cut flowers.—I see in ‘Cottage Gardener’ of this morning, an account of the beauties of Dangstein, which I shall now read with interest.
If your Ladyship should meet Mr. Knox I hope that you will remember me to him: I spent many years ago a very pleasant morning with him & Sir Philip Egerton at the Zoological Gardens.” He adds a postscript: “Since writing I have reason to hope that I shall receive a flower of Mormodes from Mr. Rucker of Wandsworth.” In fine condition.
Recorded by the Darwin Correspondence Project as Letter no. 3414F. Darwin’s inquiries into insect pollination in 1861 led to his studies of wild orchids, in which he observed the adaptation of their flowers to attract specific moths to each species and ensure cross fertilization. He published his findings in 1862 in the lengthily titled ‘On the Various Contrivances by Which British and Foreign Orchids Are Fertilised by Insects, and On the Good Effects of Intercrossing,’ known more simply as ‘Fertilisation of Orchids,’ which marked his first detailed demonstration of the power of natural selection to explain complex ecological relationships. Famously, he predicted that the long nectar spur of the Madagascan orchid Angraecum sesquipedale must be pollinated by a then-unknown insect with an equally long proboscis—a conjecture spectacularly confirmed two decades later when such a moth was finally discovered. Starting Bid $1000
Original sketches from the ‘Wizard of Menlo Park’
276. Thomas Edison (3) Original Sketches, including an Incandescent Light Bulb. Scarce group of three pencil sketches by Thomas Edison from circa 1886, accomplished on individual off-white sheets ranging in size from 4.25 x 7 to 7.75 x 5, with drawings including: an incandescent light bulb with turn-knob socket; a group of four metal funnels with interspersed circles; and an assortment of miscellaneous rectangular figures and converging lines. In overall very good to fine condition, with some light staining and toning. Originates from the estate of Mrs. Pierre Bernard, the granddaughter of Edison employee James Symington, who was a Port Huron neighbor of Samuel Edison. Starting Bid $300
278. Albert Einstein Typed Letter SignedPSA GEM MINT 10. TLS in German, signed “A. Einstein,” one page, 8.5 x 11, July 27, 1934. Letter to Theodore Menzel, a German national and American resident who had initiated a correspondence with the theoretical physicist in late November 1933. Einstein, replying to Menzel’s persistent requests to answer some scientific questions, assents to his pleas to meet in person. In full (translated): “Your letter indicates that you prefer to pose your questions to me orally. This can certainly be done some morning by prior arrangement. P.S. My wife is in Europe.” In very good to fine condition, with light toning and soiling, binder dings to edges, and two file holes to the left edge. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “GEM MT 10.” Accompanied by Menzel’s retained copies of his July 25th, July 31st, and August 24th letters to Einstein, with full translations. On the 25th, Menzel expressed that an in-person meeting would be ideal, as it would save Einstein “the effort of a time-consuming written exchange of views.” Starting Bid $500
“With a strong curse...”— Einstein signs with a swear as he leaves Germany for good
277. Albert Einstein Signed Photograph: “With a strong curse”. Outstanding vintage matte-finish 5.5 x 3.75 candid photo of Albert Einstein in profile, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Mr. Sulzmann, with a strong curse… Albert Einstein, 1933.” Affixed to a slightly larger mount and in fine condition, with a surface crease near his lapel.
In 1933, the National Socialists seized power in Germany. Einstein, as a Jew and outspoken intellectual, was directly threatened and left his homeland for good. The dedication, marked by an unusually harsh curse, reflects his outrage and despair over the political developments and his conscious break with Germany. A powerful portrait of the exiled genius. Starting Bid $1000
One genius recognizes another: “I would like to thank you very much for the wonderful Vivaldi record. When I have overcome the shock of the birthday, I will leisurely devote myself to the master’s work and remember you gratefully”
279. Albert Einstein Typed Letter Signed, Sending Thanks for “the wonderful Vivaldi record”. TLS in German, signed “A. Einstein,” one page, 8.5 x 11, blindstamped personal Princeton letterhead, March 25, 1954. Letter to Dr. Eugenie Anderman in New York, in part (translated): “You can be sure that I have received all your letters and their enclosures. However, the mail has swelled so much in recent years that I would not be able to adequately meet my obligations even if I were to give up all productive work. But I am resisting this with all the strength I have left. Now I would like to thank you very much for the wonderful Vivaldi record. When I have overcome the shock of the birthday, I will leisurely devote myself to the master’s work and remember you gratefully.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Alongside Mozart and Bach, Einstein was also known to enjoy Vivaldi, Schubert, Scarlatti, and Corelli; he himself was an accomplished violinist. Einstein had turned 75 years old on March 14th, and evidently received a Vivaldi record as a gift. A desirable letter by the genius, demonstrating his well-known love of classical music. Starting Bid $1000
“I take the liberty of referring to you a brave workman bitten…in Grenoble by a rabid dog, whom the doctor referred to me in the thought that I could treat him”—handwritten 1885 letter from Louis Pasteur dated three months before administering his first successful rabies inoculation
280. Louis Pasteur Autograph Letter Signed on a Workman Bitten “by a rabid dog”. ALS in French, “L. Pasteur,” one page, both sides, 5.25 x 8, April 1, 1885. Handwritten letter from Louis Pasteur to “Monsieur d’Angély,” penned a few weeks before his first effective application of the rabies vaccine on the young Alsatian Joseph Meister, which took place in July 1885. In the letter, Pasteur conveys concern not only about his patient’s health, but also his patient’s financial needs and insurance, in part (translated): “I take the liberty of referring to you a brave workman bitten…in Grenoble by a rabid dog, whom the doctor referred to me in the thought that I could treat him, but you know that I have not yet dared to do anything to the man…You would be very kind to take note of this workman’s insurance policy and give him advice so that he can – without untying his purse – recover the money to which he seems to have certain rights.” In fine condition.
After five years of extensive study of the rabies virus and the successful treatment of several infected dogs, Louis Pasteur faced his first human patient in July of 1885. Certain that the severely bitten nine-year-old Joseph Meister would not survive without treatment, he began the course of the 13 injections; after administering all 13, one each day, in progressively stronger doses, Meister regained strength and never developed rabies. After a second successful treatment on a bitten shepherd, which began in October, word spread, and people began to seek him out for the vaccinations. Starting Bid $300
American West
289. William F. ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody Signed Book - The Last of the Great Scouts. Signed book: The Last of the Great Scouts: The Life Story of Col. William F. Cody. Later printing. London: The Partington Advertising Company, 1903. Hardcover, 5.25 x 7.75, 296 pages. Signed and inscribed on the half-title page in fountain pen, “With the Compliments of the subject, W. F. Cody, ‘Buffalo Bill,’ To Mrs. Lilian White, Cardiff, July 6th, 1903.” Autographic condition: very good to fine, with foxing to the signed page affecting only appearance. Book condition: G+/None, with scattered scratches to boards, sunning and chipping to spine, and some dampstaining to rear endpapers. Consignor notes that the recipient was a performer with the Barnum & Bailey Circus; accompanied by a folding map of “The Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth Tour of the United Kingdom 1897–98,” bound in red hardcover boards. Starting Bid $200
Notorious Figures and Lawmen
296. Al Capone Original Photograph - PSA Type I. Original vintage circa 1929 glossy 4.25 x 7 news service photo of Al Capone pictured smiling and wearing a dark bathing suit in a full-length pose. The reverse is stamp-dated to April 14, 1929, and bears an affixed wire caption: “Gangland’s Famous Leader at Miami! This exclusive and copyright photo shows Al Capone, Gangland’s famous leader, at Palm Island, Florida. It is on this island that the Czar of Chicago’s Gangland, has establish[ed] his palatial residence. 2-28-29.” In very good condition, with light stains, surface scratches, and trimmed edges. Encapsulated by PSA as an authentic “Type I” photograph from 1929. The Marc and Mary Perkins Collection. Starting Bid $200
299. Al Capone Original ‘Comiskey Park’ Photograph - PSA
Type I. Original vintage glossy 10 x 8 news service photograph of Hall of Fame catcher Gabby Hartnett of the Chicago Cubs signing a baseball for Al Capone and his 12-year-old son Sonny during a Cubs exhibition game against the White Sox on September 9, 1931. Pictured behind the Capones are bodyguards, including ‘Machine Gun Jack’ McGurn. The reverse of the photo bears pencil notations and an International Newsreel stamp. In very good condition, with diagonal creases to the lower left, creasing to the edges (heaviest to the top), and a missing upper right corner tip. Encapsulated by PSA as an authentic “Type I” photograph from 1931.
During a September 9, 1931, exhibition game against the Chicago White Sox in Comiskey Park, fan-favorite Gabby Hartnett chatted with fans in the first row, one of whom was Al Capone, who was in attendance with his son and a regiment of his bodyguards. Capone was 18 months removed from the Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre and less than a year from having served nine months in prison on a concealed weapon charge. When the crime boss asked for a signed baseball for his son, Hartnett didn’t think twice, a decision the press was only too happy to capture and publish in newspapers across the country.
The exhibition game was organized to benefit Governor Louis Lincoln Emmerson’s unemployment fund, which evolved into the Chicago branch of the United Way. Despite the inherent philanthropy, baseball commissioner Kenesaw Mountain Landis was not happy with the optics of one of his signature players making nice with the notorious Capone, who returned to prison just a month later to serve an 11-year term for tax evasion. The next day, Landis dashed off a terse telegram to Hartnett. ‘You are no longer allowed to have your picture taken with Al Capone.’ The catcher acquiesced to the demand and wired back his reply: ‘OK, but if you don’t want me to have my picture taken with Al Capone, you tell him.’ The Marc and Mary Perkins Collection. Starting Bid $200
“Here is your friend Al Capone”— handwritten 19841 letter from the Chicago mobster to his family doctor—
“please send me 2 boxes of them red pills for bowels movement”
298. Al Capone Autograph Letter Signed to His Primary Physician (August 25, 1941). Boldly penned ALS, one page, 6.5 x 10.25, postmarked August 25, 1941 (Hurley, Wisconsin). Handwritten letter to his family physician, Dr. Kenneth Phillips, in full: “Here is your friend Al Capone, writing you this letter from here, first hope it will find you & the rest of your dear family all in perfect health. Dr., I’m leaving here the 1st of Sept, then staying at my mother’s house in Chicago until the middle of Oct then I’ll be back there at our home. I have something nice for you which will bring back home for you. Dr. please send me 2 boxes of them red pills for bowels movement. Send to this address its the address I’ll be until I leave. 7244 Prairie Ave., Chicago, Ill.” In fine condition. Encapsulated in a PSA/ DNA authentication holder. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope addressed in Capone’s own hand. Hurley, Wisconsin, was where Capone’s older brother, Ralph Capone, retired after his release from prison in 1934.
The recipient, Kenneth Phillips, was the primary physician for both Al and Mae Capone when they lived in Miami, Florida. Phillips, who had been with the family since 1927, first treated Mae for her syphilis before also tending to her husband, whose neurosyphilis, a consequence of the disease going untreated, significantly impacted Capone’s mental capacity. In 1942, after mass production of penicillin was started in the United States, Capone was one of the first American patients treated by the new drug. Though it was too late for him to reverse the damage to his brain, it did slow down the progression of the disease. The Marc and Mary Perkins Collection. Starting Bid $2500
“Well only 1 day here but I have been having alot of fun, 12 more days at sea to Japan”—
en route to the Atsugi Naval Air Station, Oswald writes to his mother from Hawaii during his first year of enlistment in the Marines
302. Lee Harvey Oswald Autograph Letter Signed to His Mother - Written from Hawaii During His First Deployment as a U.S. Marine. ALS in pencil, signed “Love, Lee, XX,” on the reverse of a 5.5 x 3.5 postcard with a front image of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, postmarked August 31, 1957. Addressed from Honolulu, Hawaii, a handwritten letter from Oswald to his mother, Marguerite Oswald, in Fort Worth, in full: “Well only 1 day here but I have been having alot of fun, 12 more days at sea to Japan.” In fine condition, with some surface loss to the image side. At the time of writing, Oswald was in his first year of enlistment in the Marines and was en route to his assignment at Atsugi Naval Air Station in Japan.
In June 1957, the Marine Corps gave Oswald the occupational specialty of Aviation Electronics Operator. The next month, he reported for duty to the Marine Corps Air Station in El Toro, California, and was attached to the 4th Replacement Battalion. His unit departed for Japan on August 22nd, and nine days later, during a stop in the Hawaiian Islands, he mailed this postcard home.
One wonders what type of “fun” Oswald was having during his brief stay in Hawaii, as most of his short-lived military career revealed evidence of a troubled man. He was court-martialed twice, including once for shooting himself in the elbow with an unauthorized handgun. In a separate incident in the Philippines, Oswald inexplicably began firing his rifle into the jungle while on guard duty. After falsely claiming that he had to care for his mother, the Marines granted him a hardship discharge in 1959. Four years later, he would alter the course of history.
Provenance: Charles Hamilton Galleries auction, New York, September 30, 1965. Starting Bid $300
Military
442. Marquis de Lafayette Autograph Letter Signed. ALS in French, signed “Lafayette,” one page, 5 x 7.5, April 16, 1822. Handwritten letter by Lafayette to Madame Armande Roland, addressed on the integral leaf in his own hand. In full (translated): “I am very touched, Madam, by the renewed tokens of your goodwill, and by the interest you have taken in the nomination of my son [George Washington Lafayette] to the electoral college along with Victor Tracy [his son’s brother in law]. Having returned to the countryside, to the bosom of my family, I had the pleasure of finding again the young Bostonian. The partiality you have shown toward one of her pages has earned my deep gratitude; but however much I may value the expressions of your kindness and friendship toward me, I cannot fail to recognize the merit of the entire work. I shall ask your permission, Madam, to place at your feet, upon my return to Paris, the assurance of my most devoted admiration.” In very good to fine condition, with overall creasing, and seal-related paper loss to the integral address leaf. Starting Bid $200
443. Marquis de Lafayette Letter Signed. LS in French, signed “Lafayette,” one page, 7 x 8.75, August 15, 1827. Letter signed by Lafayette to Madame Armande Roland, addressed on the integral leaf in another hand. In full (translated): “I am very happy, Madame, with the feelings that you have been kind enough to express to me [on his election as congressman in June] and my apologies for this late response which in no way diminishes my sincere gratitude offered with all my heart. Please accept the expression of my most respectful consideration.” In very good to fine condition, with a few stains, overall creasing, and seal-related paper loss to the integral address leaf. Starting Bid $200
Patton arrives in Europe amidst World War I: “Paris is just as usual and very interesting, the theatres are running and we can hardly realize there is a war except that now and then one sees a man with a leg or so missing”
445. George S. Patton World War I-Dated Autograph Letter Signed: “We can hardly realize there is a war except that now and then one sees a man with a leg or so missing”. World War I-dated ALS signed “George S. Patton, Jr.,” one page both sides, 8.25 x 10.5, July 3, 1917. Handwritten letter to his “Mama,” sent while deployed in England during World War I. In part: “It is funny to see us getting more and more English, we wear their belt and several officers have taken to using the light colored English breeches. I have a pair myself. There’s going to be a big parade in the morning in honor of Lagayette and the fourth combined. A battalion of the 16th inft. and Col. Allvin are to be the chief attraction. Our men look fine compated to the other troops they are so much bigger…Well so far we are just as safe as if we were at El Paso and a lot more comfortable. I and two other young chaps have an apartment…Paris is just as usual and
very interesting, the theatres are running and we can hardly realize there is a war except that now and then one sees a man with a leg or so missing.” In fine condition.
In 1917, George S. Patton was promoted to captain and joined General Pershing’s advance party to Europe, arriving in Liverpool, England, on June 8th. He initially served as Pershing’s aide and oversaw troop training in Paris until September. Unhappy with a desk role, Patton became interested in tanks. Encouraged by Colonel Fox Conner, he shifted focus from infantry to armor. Assigned to create the AEF Light Tank School in November, Patton trained with French tanks and studied British tank operations at Cambrai. He was promoted to major in January 1918 and later to lieutenant colonel in April. At Bourg, he received the first U.S. tanks and trained crews, advocating for tank use in infantry support. Starting Bid $300
Rare Fort Lincoln equipment
inventory, signed by George A. Custer and his brother Thomas—both of whom would die at Little Bighorn
444. George A. Custer and Thomas W. Custer Document Signed - 7th Cavalry Inventory Report at Fort Abraham Lincoln. Rare partly-printed DS, signed “G. A. Custer” and “T. W. Custer,” one page, 24 x 15.75, February 6, 1875. An “Inventory and Inspection Report of Clothing, Camp & Garrison Equipage…inspected and reported on by Lieut. Colonel G. A. Custer,” completed at Fort Abraham Lincoln in the Dakota Territory. The report lists a large amount of equipment including “Crossed sabres,” “Bed sacks,” “Mess pans,” “Axes,” “Spades,” “Shovels,” “Pickaxes,” “Trumpets,” “Shelter tents,” “Guidon,” and “Hatchets,” much of which is designated as “Worn out, broken, worthless,” with allusions to their service in the field: “Broken & worn out on expeditions to Black Hills, etc.” Only the shelter tents were deemed worth saving, and recommended “to be used for Horse covers.” Signed at the conclusion in ink by Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer (“G. A. Custer”), and countersigned by his younger brother, First Lieutenant Thomas W. Custer (“T. W. Custer”)—both of whom would perish at Little Bighorn. In very good condition, with full separations along folds. An outstanding report from the last frontier post Custer and his immediate command were stationed, one year before marching to the Little Bighorn. Starting Bid $300
Scarce military approval from Napoleon Bonaparte’s ‘Hundred Days’
447. Napoleon Document Signed - Scarce Military Approval from His ‘Hundred Days’. Manuscript DS in French, signed “Np,” one page, 8 x 12.5, April 21, 1815. An official letter to Napoleon from his Minister of War, Nicolas Louis Davout, asking him to approve a table or listing of the forces then under the command of General Chevalier Victor Marion de Gaja, with additional mention of troops under the command of the Duke de Angouleme. Napoleon has hastily penned his assent in the left margin, “Ap[prouvée], Np.” In fine condition, with uniform overall toning. Signed documents from Napoleon’s ‘Hundred Days,’ which followed his brief return to power after escaping from his confinement on Elba and ended with his crushing defeat at Waterloo, are quite scarce. Starting Bid $200
Rommel readies his tank division for the invasion of France: “The new Panzer Division has the most up-to-date equipment. If only we’d had weapons like that in 1917!”
446. Erwin Rommel World War II-Dated Autograph Letter Signed, Preparing to Invade France: “The new Panzer Division has the most up-to-date equipment. If only we’d had weapons like that in 1917!”. World War II-dated ALS in German, signed “Heil Hitler! Yours, E. Rommel,” one page both sides, 8 x 11.75, Der Divisionskommandeur letterhead, April 4, 1940. Handwritten letter from Saint-Quentin, in part (translated): “Many thanks for your Easter greetings and the report. I read your words with great interest and will bring them to the notice of the authorities. Thank you especially for the sculptor’s pictures. I find the busts of the Fuhrer very good and expressive. I also return the photographs of General Gallenkamp.
I was at home for Easter the weather was not very cheerful. Here in my new command I am in my element, and am looking forward to the day when we can advance. The new Panzer Division has the most up-to-date equipment. If only we’d had weapons like that in 1917!” In fine condition, with small splits to the ends of the intersecting folds, two of which bear
small old tape repairs. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Rommel’s own hand. Rommel soon had his opportunity to advance, as reported by B. H. LiddellHart in The Rommel Papers: ‘On the 10th May, 1940, Hitler launched his long-expected invasion of the West. It achieved a lightning victory that changed the course of history, with far-reaching effects on the future of all peoples. The decisive act in this world-shaking drama began on the 13th-when the Meuse was crossed by Guderian’s panzer corps near Sedan and by Rommel’s panzer division near Dinant.
The narrow breaches were soon expanded into a vast gap. The German tanks, pouring through it, reached the Channel coast within a week, thus cutting off the Allied armies in Belgium. That disaster led on to the fall of France and the isolation of Britain. Although Britain managed to hold out behind her seaditch, rescue came only after a prolonged war had become a world-wide war. The price of that mid-May breakdown in 1940 has been tremendous, and remains immeasurable.’ Starting Bid $1000
Nelson reallocates his fleet in the Mediterranean Sea:
“If the two
Portuguese
ships can be spared from
Naples...send
them directly off Malta”
448. Horatio Nelson Autograph Letter
Signed, Redirecting His Mediterranean Fleet. ALS signed “Nelson,” one page, 7.5 x 9, August 11, 1799. Letter to Sir John Acton, written a month after the French garrison on St. Elmo surrendered. In part: “I shall be very much obliged if your Excellency will have the goodness to send the enclosed letter to Commodore Troubridge. It is to say that if the two Portuguese ships can be spared from Naples to send them directly off Malta. I am satisfied there only wants now a little exertion to reduce the place, which would give me more pleasure to see, than all the fetes which will be given at Palermo. It is contrary to my feelings to be at entertainments ‘till all our work is finish’d.” In fine condition.
Early in 1799, Naples had capitulated to the French, but under the leadership of Cardinal Fabrizio Ruffo a successful revolt against the French was realized. On June 21, Nelson set sail for Naples, whereupon he learned that Ruffo had negotiated a three-week armistice with the Jacobins, an arrangement which was unacceptable to Nelson. There could be neither an armistice nor a treaty with rebels; he decided, therefore, that a joint declaration should be signed by Ruffo; but the cardinal refused.
On June 28, Emma Hamilton received a letter from the Neapolitan Queen expressing dismay at the prospect of a compact with the rebels. Nelson was urged ‘to treat Naples as if it were a rebellious Irish town.’ It was an injunction that appealed to Nelson’s temperament and judgment. Jacobins who, believing themselves protected by the truce, had embarked for their evacuation, were captured in their boats. Summary executions immediately began, and by early July, the French garrison on St. Elmo surrendered.
It was also during this period that the relationship between Nelson and Lady Hamilton became notorious, and it was she who urged him to accept the duchy of Bronte that King Ferdinand had offered. Initially he was reluctant to accept a foreign title, but upon discovery that Bronte meant ‘thunder’ the title was particularly attractive and he graciously accepted it. Nelson spent the next two months sailing out of Palermo, anxious for King Ferdinand to return to Naples, desperate to serve on another station but fearful of losing Emma HamiIton’s company. Starting Bid $300
492. Amelia Earhart Signed BookThe Fun of It. Signed book: The Fun of It. Second printing. NY: Brewer, Warren & Putnam, 1932. Hardcover, 5.5 x 8.25, 218 pages. Signed neatly on the half-title page in black ink by Amelia Earhart. Autographic condition: fine. Book condition: G-/None, with cracked hinges (rear board completely detached), rubbing to boards, fraying to spine ends, and mottled toning to the title page and frontispiece. Complete with its 78 rpm Silvertone phonograph record recording of Earhart’s international broadcast address from London in May 1932. Starting Bid $200
Aviation
493. Great Moments in Aviation History MultiSigned (15) Print with Armstrong, Doolittle, Yeager, Tibbetts, and More (Ltd. Ed. #807/1100) - 24.5˝ x 23˝. Limited edition color 24.5 x 23 print of a 1982 William Reynolds painting entitled ‘Great Moments in Aviation History,’ depicting a gathering of legendary aircraft and spacecraft soaring high above the cloud-covered Earth, numbered 807/1100, signed below in pencil by fifteen aviation heroes: Neil Armstrong, James H. Doolittle, Chuck Yeager, Paul Tibbets, Curtis LeMay, William Knight, George Vaughn, Leigh Wade, Joe Foss, George Gay, John Mitchell, Gail Halverson, Francis Gabreski, Michael Novosel, and Robin Olds. Also signed in the lower right by the artist. Matted and framed sans glass to an overall size of 30 x 29.5. In fine condition, with light spotting to the right of the signature area, a few small scratches to the print’s upper area, and some wear to the mat. Accompanied by a booklet dedicated to the signers of the print. Thirteen of the 15 signers completed the signing of the 1100 prints at Maxwell Air Force Base in June 1982 as a part of the first of what would become the Gathering of Eagles. In May 1982, Armstrong signed the prints at his office in Lebanon, Ohio, and Doolittle signed the prints at his home in Carmel Valley, California. Starting Bid $300
Apollo 11 insurance cover from the Buzz Aldrin Family Collection Space Exploration
503. Apollo 11 Crew-Signed ‘Type 1’ Insurance Cover
- From the Buzz Aldrin Family Space Collection. Soughtafter Apollo 11 ‘Type 1’ insurance cover with a color cachet portraying lunar surface activities, postmarked at Houston on July 20, 1969, the moon landing date of the Lunar Module Eagle, signed in black felt tip prior to launch by Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins, and Buzz Aldrin. These historic covers were flown to Houston after launch for cancellation by Apollo 10 Commander Tom Stafford in his T-38 jet. In fine condition, with the signatures slightly faded. Accompanied by a printed informational sheet stating that the cover originates from the “Buzz Aldrin Family Space Collection.” These famous insurance covers, produced immediately prior to space missions in order to provide financial security for astronauts’ families in case of disaster, have earned near-legendary status as the ultimate space-related philatelic item, and exist as one of the most coveted formats for astronaut autographs. Starting Bid $500
504. Apollo 11 (3) Signed Photographs. Fantastic trio of photos signed by the pioneering crew of the Apollo 11 moon landing, all uninscribed: a highly sought official color 7.75 x 10 NASA lithograph of Neil Armstrong posing in his white space suit against a lunar background, signed in black
felt tip, “Neil Armstrong”; a color satin-finish 8 x 10 photo of Buzz Aldrin posing in his white space suit, signed in black felt tip, “Buzz Aldrin, Apollo XI”; and a color satin-finish 8 x 10 photo of Michael Collins posing in his white space suit, signed in blue felt tip, “Michael Collins, Apollo XI.” In overall fine condition, with a few small surface creases, and fading to Armstrong’s very slightly trimmed photo. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from Zarelli Space Authentication for the Aldrin autograph, and a certificate of authenticity from Novaspace for the Collins autograph. Starting Bid $300
505. Apollo 11 Crew-Signed $1 Dollar Bill. Extremely desirable Series 1969 one-dollar bill, signed nicely on the portrait side in black ink by the full Apollo 11 crew: “Neil Armstrong,” “Buzz Aldrin,” and “M. Collins.” Mounted and framed to an overall size of 9.5 x 6. In fine condition. Starting Bid $500
“With the Best Wishes of a Langley Fan— Neil Armstrong, Apollo 11”
506. Neil Armstrong Oversized Signed Photograph at Langley’s Lunar Landing Research Vehicle. Outstanding color matte-finish 15.5 x 19.5 photo of Neil Armstrong in front of the Lunar Landing Research Vehicle (LLRV) at Langley Air Force Base’s Lunar Landing Research Facility, signed and inscribed in blue ballpoint, “To Curtiss Burt—With the Best Wishes of a Langley Fan—Neil Armstrong, Apollo 11.” Affixed to a slightly larger mount and in fine condition, with light fading to the image, and slight trimming to the edges of the mount. Armstrong trained extensively at Langley’s Lunar Landing Research Facility, where the LLRV simulated one-sixth of Earth’s gravity to mimic lunar conditions. Using overhead cables, a full-size model lander, and a working jet engine, Armstrong and other Apollo astronauts practiced lunar touchdowns, while the Reduced Gravity Simulator allowed them to rehearse walking, running, and performing tasks on the lunar surface. Armstrong himself later credited this training as vital to Apollo 11’s success, remarking that landing on the Moon felt ‘like Langley.’ NASA’s Lunar Landing Research Vehicle Monograph (SP-2004-4535) discusses the history and application of the LLRV, which was superseded by an improved version, the Lunar Landing Training Vehicle (LLTV). Bill Anders described the LLTV as ‘a much unsung hero of the Apollo Program,’ while Neil Armstrong emphasized its importance in an address before the Society of Experimental Test Pilots in 2007: ‘The Lunar Landing Training Vehicle, or LLTV, proved to be an excellent simulator and was highly regarded by the Apollo Lunar Module crews as necessary for lunar landing preparation.’ Starting Bid $200
Art, Architecture, and Design
8-foot-long scroll sketch by
Mormon artist Arnold Friberg, introducing George Washington to Joseph Smith’s
‘Prayer in the Grove’
571. Arnold Friberg Massive Original Charcoal Study of Two Founders - Joseph Smith and George Washington (100˝ x 47˝). American illustrator and painter noted for his religious and patriotic works (1913–2010). Impressive original study in graphite by Arnold Friberg, accomplished on a 100 x 47 roll of brown kraft paper, portraying Mormon founder Joseph Smith kneeling in the sacred grove on the left side, with George Washington on horseback to the right. Two of Friberg’s most famous paintings would return to these subjects: ‘The Prayer in the Grove,’ which portrays Joseph Smith’s ‘First Vision,’ a foundational experience for the Latter Day Saint movement; and ‘The Prayer at Valley Forge,’ showing George Washington, dismounted from his horse, kneeling in a moment of private devotion during one of the darkest chapters of the Revolutionary War. Rolled and in very good condition, with overall creasing, several vertical folds, dampstaining along the bottom edge, and wear to edges (including numerous small tears), as well a six-inch tear to the right edge.
Provenance: consignor notes that this was purchased from Utah art dealer Clayton R. Williams (1926-2023), who reported that he acquired the drawing directly from Arnold Friberg and that it had been used by him in his studio. In 2017–18, it was exhibited at the Springville Museum of Art in Utah with other charcoal sketches that Friberg made and used in his Salt Lake City studio over the years.
This large-scale study by Arnold Friberg is significant as it unites two of his most iconic spiritual-historical subjects—Joseph Smith, the ‘Father of Mormonism,’ and George Washington, the ‘Father of the Country’—on a single sheet. Beyond its rarity as a working studio piece, it illustrates Friberg’s process in shaping the compositions that would become central to his legacy as a painter of American faith and patriotism. Starting Bid $1000
“I still hope to place a small painting of 400F which will allow us to wait for Durand who apparently is doing very well in New York”
573. Camille Pissarro Autograph
Letter Signed on the Sale of Artwork. ALS in French, signed “C. Pissarro,” five pages on adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, June 14, 1888. Handwritten letter to his wife, Julie Vellay, sending her a hundred francs. In part (translated): “I will receive the rest at the end of the exhibition…I still hope to place a small painting of 400F which will allow us to wait for Durand who apparently is doing very well in New York.—I know that all this will not console you for the inconvenience we feel, but my dear little wife, you will take into consideration the efforts we are making…I think of you and our children every time I consider the future.”
He comments on his son, Lucien: “So far his newspaper business is holding up well.—As for the drawings which were used to make the wood, which Dumas is asking for again, I have taken information: we only owe the wood to the publisher unless there are special agreements, but the publisher, being the strongest with the capital, can send you packing, take the bread out of your mouth.” In fine condition. Celebrated art dealer Paul Durand-Ruel was the most important commercial advocate of the Impressionists, representing the likes of Degas, Monet, Manet, and Renoir along with Pissarro. A desirable, boldly penned letter with direct relation to Pissarro’s artwork. Starting Bid $200
575. Bob Ross Signed Print. Color 8.75 x 6.75 cardstock print of a snowy mountain landscape painting by Bob Ross, signed and inscribed in blue ballpoint, “To Mabel, A beautiful lady—Wishing you the very best, Happy Painting, Bob Ross.” In fine condition, with trimmed edges. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
“Man v. Toro”— a sketch by Picasso sent to Man Ray
572. Pablo Picasso Signed Sketch on Postcard to Man Ray - “Man v. Toro”. Exquisite signed ink sketch of a bull accomplished by Pablo Picasso on the reverse of a 6 x 4 postcard depicting horses in Provence et Camargue, boldly titled and signed in ink, “20.10.1957, Man v. Toro, Picasso,” playing off the name of the recipient, the important Dada/Surrealist photographer Man Ray. Also signed in ink by Jacqueline Roque (his second wife), Eduoard Pignon (French artist), Hélène Parmelin (French journalist), Roland (likely artist and art collector Roland Penrose), and one other. Addressed to Man Ray at his studio, “2 bis Rue Ferou, Paris.” In fine condition, with a small stain touching the date.
With a wonderful sketch of a bull—a frequent subject in Picasso’s works, including the iconic ‘Guernica’—this is a quintessential Picasso autograph, sent to an important visual artist. The two had a long association, with Man Ray making several portraits of Picasso during the 1920s and 1930s. A simply marvelous modern art piece. Starting Bid $5000
20th Century Fox hires Norman Rockwell to create the advertising artwork for Stagecoach—the film that marked
Rockwell’s
Hollywood debut
574. Norman Rockwell (3) Documents Signed for ‘Stagecoach’ Artwork. Three DSs, each signed “Norman Rockwell,” totaling nine pages, 8.5 x 11, May 28, 1965. Rockwell signs two copies of a “Synopsis of Contract for Acquisition of Art Works” with the Twentieth CenturyFox Film Corporation, by which the famous illustrator agrees to deliver “Art Works for ‘Stagecoach,’” including: “(a) Logotype for Photoplay, (b) Large thematic oil painting in color of a stagecoach under attack by Indians…(c) Portraits in color in oil of each of nine stars in costume.” Rockwell is to be paid $35,000 and retain physical ownership of the works, while granting Twentieth Century-Fox sole and exclusive worldwide reproduction rights. Additionally includes a three-page letter relating their mutual understanding of the deal, signed in ballpoint by Rockwell and a Twentieth Century-Fox executive. In overall fine condition.
Rockwell created the promotional artwork for 20th Century Fox’s 1966 remake of John Ford’s 1939 classic Stagecoach. The film starred an ensemble cast of ten—AnnMargret, Red Buttons, Mike Connors, Alex Cord, Bing Crosby, Bob Cummings, Van Heflin, Slim Pickens, Stefanie Powers, and Keenan Wynn—all of whom Rockwell painted in oils for the movie poster. In addition to his efforts in advertising the film, the great painter would also make a cameo appearance as poker player ‘Busted Flush.’
An article published in Look Magazine on March 8, 1966, describes Rockwell’s role as ‘a mangy old gambler in cowboy costume, with a bad-guy black hat and high-heeled boots that hurt his feet.’ Starting Bid $200
“Taliesin really stands for high-minded achievement in substantial human thought and rare fine feeling”—Wright pens an open letter to the people of Spring Green, denouncing the press’s attempt to “demoralize” his home-studio—“Taliesin is not what you are led to think”
577.
Frank
Lloyd
Wright Handwritten Statement of Apology to the People of Spring Green, Wisconsin (June 1926). Early handwritten draft for a public statement by Frank Lloyd Wright, who wrote this statement both as an apology and an explanation to the people of Spring Green, Wisconsin, for recent events surrounding his house-studio, Taliesin. The statement, entitled “Taliesin III,” penned in black ink on five pages, 7.75 x 11, is signed at the conclusion, “Faithfully, Frank Lloyd Wright, Taliesin June 8th – 1926,” who discusses the public misconceptions of Taliesin, whilst reflecting on the property’s various hardships and tragedies.
It reads, in part: “I have learned long-since that no personal animus nor intent to do harm lie behind most ‘news’ references to Taliesin or myself. A pestilential vulgar touch is laid on both – ‘natural’ I say because somehow Taliesin is mixed up in popular imagination with ‘women’; ignorant because regardless of true circumstances. ‘The public,’ is there is really any such foolish animal, takes for granted that where there are ‘women’ there must be demoralization – blame and disgrace. And journalism of the base sort suppressing facts it may privately know to the contrary…That ‘demoralization’ should enter the popular mind with women is not fair…
Taliesin really stands for high-minded achievement in substantial human thought and rare fine feeling. It is essentially a workshop and a home for intelligent student workers and their wives, mostly from foreign countries. It is beautiful – but there is nothing ‘loose’ or luxurious or ‘palatial’ about it. It depends for its support solely on what its master can earn by his work. It is home-made by the man who lives in it…It is seriously bent upon a useful mission in this wagging world. And could the results it has already achieved by hard work be seen by you you would understand that what I say is true. The unfortunate comrade whose shelter Taliesin originally was, met her death here in one of those unaccountable strokes of human fate that is like a streak of lightning. Those privileged to touch the personal life of the Taliesin of that time in its difficult circumstances respected it highly. Only those who did not know it imagined it eccentric or profane.
Tragedy suddenly destroyed that life forever and left a black hole, the smoking crater of a volcano upon the hill where once Taliesin stood. I was left to rebuild it – better and stronger than before. I tried to share the life I had dedicated to high purposes and great work there with another poor woman whose refuge it became at a time when I was ill and she was destitute. This phase of Taliesin was ill-starred from its unsuitable beginning…Always I intended to give my support to the unfortunate victim of – of what? Of her own evil passions? But the seeds of decay were already there and the process on its way when
her life with me began ten years ago…I had no chance against it from the first and now less than none since heartless ‘news’ mongers have caught its theatrical, irrational, jealous fury and professional sob-sisters exploit it in my name in silly headlines on page one…I must be patient and hope that you my towns-folk will be kind – for Taliesin is not what you are led to think.” Another included page, 7.75 x 5.5, contains Wright’s rewritten version of the statement’s first two paragraphs. The statement bears copious handwritten corrections by Wright in both ink and pencil. In fine condition.
This statement appears to be an early, longer, and far more detailed version of a public apology that Wright had printed in The Weekly Home News, the local newspaper of Spring Green, Wisconsin, on June 10, 1926, two days after this offered ‘letter’ was written. The reason for the pubic statement was due to a recent media swarm of Chicago reporters who descended upon the village to photograph Wright’s ex-wife, Miriam Noel, and her attempts to gain entry into her former home, Taliesin
A sculptor, morphine addict, and self-proclaimed spiritualist, Noel became involved with Wright not long after the tragic death of his partner, Mamah Borthwick, one of seven murdered by a deranged Taliesin servant on August 15, 1914. After divorcing his first wife, Catherine ‘Kitty’ Tobin, Wright married Noel on November 19, 1923. The couple quarreled a great deal and, in less than a year, they were separated. Soon thereafter, Wright began a relationship with Olgivanna Lloyd, and Noel filed for a divorce, alleging desertion and cruelty.
On April 20, 1925, Taliesin caught fire for the second time in a span of ten years. Wright remained optimistic, but between the expensive rebuild and the barrage of paparazzi, the future looked glib. At the end of August 1926, one of Wright’s attorneys (Levi Bancroft) advised Wright to spend some time away from Taliesin, while he and others tried to settle things with Miriam and the Bank of Wisconsin.
Wright and his coterie—Olgivanna, her daughter, Svetlana, and Iovanna—traveled to Lake Minnetonka in Minnesota, where they stayed in a cottage for about a month. However, by driving Olgivanna across the Wisconsin-Minnesota state line, instead of having her get out and walk, Wright inadvertently violated the Mann Act. On October 21, 1926, Wright was apprehended and brought to the county jail, where he stayed for the weekend until a judge was finally made available. The charges were eventually dropped, and on August 25, 1928, in Rancho Santa Fe, California, Wright and Olgivanna were finally married. Starting Bid $500
Two Polaroid candids shot and signed by Andy Warhol at The Factory in 1972 during production of the banned ‘Warhol’ documentary
576. Andy Warhol (2) Signed Original Candid Polaroid Photographs - Shot at The Factory in 1972. Two original vintage color glossy 3.5 x 4.25 Polaroid photographs of film crew sound assistant Jim Cowan, taken at Warhol’s famous New York City studio, The Factory, during a documentary shoot in 1972, each titled, dated, and signed on the reverse in black ballpoint, “Jim, 1/20/72, Andy Warhol.” In fine condition, with scattered small stains, and some light scuffing to the images.
Accompanied by a letter of provenance from the subject, in part: “I was the sound assistant on the crew of a David Bailey documentary about Warhol in New York in January 1972. The documentary was filmed in The Factory, Andy Warhol’s studio. During a break in filming, Andy approached me and took the two Polaroids. He signed them ‘Jim’ and gave them to me. I thanked him but his response was a few grunts and he then ambled away, which was his way in those days.”
Using some of the techniques that Warhol himself pioneered, David Bailey’s documentary film ‘Warhol’ explored the artist’s life and work as a reflection of the spirit of America in the 1960s. With frank discussions revolving around sexuality, Warhol’s life at The Factory, and his experiences when he was shot, the film was banned upon release due to its alleged explicit content.
Known for his prolific and influential work in pop art, Andy Warhol favored two Polaroid cameras for capturing candid moments: the large, cumbersome Big Shot and the popular, foldable SX-70. He appreciated the efficient nature of Polaroid cameras, which allowed him to instantly produce and manipulate images, blurring the lines between art and commercialism. Warhol’s extensive oeuvre of Polaroid photographs provides an intimate glimpse into his creative process as well as the vibrant social scene of his era. Starting Bid $1000
Animation and Comic Art
595. Walt Disney Signed Photograph. Outstanding vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 portrait of the animation pioneer in a suit and tie, nicely signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Susan—with best wishes, Walt Disney.” In very good to fine condition, with rippling to the top and bottom from old mounting remnants on the back. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Phil Sears Collectibles and a brief provenance statement by a previous owner, noting that the autograph was signed for their mother-in-law, Susan Read, who was a performer and at the opening of Disney Land. Starting Bid $500
Solicited for a magazine contribution, Louisa May Alcott names her price:
“I do not write anything for less than $100 & the length makes no difference”
604. Louisa May Alcott Autograph Letter Signed: “I do not write anything for less than $100 & the length makes no difference”. ALS signed “L. M. Alcott,” two pages, 5.75 x 5.5, January 3, [no year]. Handwritten letter to a “Mr. Stockton” concerning her writing rates. In full: “Mrs. Dodge desires me to name a price for the accompanying article. I do not write anything for less than $100 & the length makes no difference. As I have not broken my rule for others I cannot even for Saint Nicholas.” In fine condition, with edge toning from prior display. Accompanied by a photogravure portrait featuring her facsimile signature.
St. Nicholas was a popular monthly American children’s magazine, founded by Roswell Smith and Mary Mapes Dodge in 1873. Alcott was a regular contributor, serializing her novels ‘Eight Cousins,’ ‘Under the Lilacs,’ and ‘Jack and Jill: A Village Story’ in the magazine. Starting Bid $300
Manuscript leaf from Louisa May Alcott’s draft of ‘Jack and Jill: A Village Story’
605. Louisa May Alcott Handwritten Manuscript Page from ‘Jack and Jill: A Village Story’. Unsigned handwritten manuscript leaf by Louisa May Alcott, one page, 7.75 x 9.75, no date but circa 1879–1880. A page from Louisa May Alcott’s original manuscript for ‘Jack and Jill: A Village Story,’ a juvenile novel first serialized in St. Nicholas magazine December 1879–October 1880. In part: “Twilight came before it was done, & a great pile of things loomed up on her table, with no visible means of repair, for Molly’s work basket was full of nuts, & her thimble down a hole in the shed-floor where the cats had dropped it in their play.
‘I’ll ask Bat for hooks & tape, & papa for some money to buy scissors & things, for I don’t know where mine are. Glad I can’t do any more now! Being neat is such hard work!’ & Molly threw herself down on the rug beside the old wooden cradle in which Boo was blissfully rocking with a cargo of toys aboard. She watched her time & as soon as her father had done supper she hastened to say before he got to his desk, ‘Please, papa, I want a dollar to get some brass buttons and things to fix Boo’s clothes with. He wore a hole in his new trousers coasting down the Kembles’ steps. And can’t I wash him? He needs it, and Miss Bat won’t let me have a tub.’” Alcott makes a number of revisions and corrections to the text, striking through and rewriting several words. In fine condition.
Jack and Jill: A Village Story was published in 1880 by Louisa May Alcott, during the later part of her career when she was already a well-established author. Though aimed at young readers, Jack and Jill reflected Alcott’s ongoing commitment to writing morally instructive stories grounded in domestic life and personal development. The Hartford Daily Courant praised Jack and Jill as ‘the best [Alcott] has written for years’ and said that some readers thought it as good as or better than Little Women. The novel was part of a wave of post–Little Women publications that cemented her reputation as a leading voice in American juvenile fiction. Starting Bid $300
New Adventures and Stories, signed by the Danish fairy tale master
606. Hans Christian Andersen Signed Book - Nye Eventyr og Historier. Beloved Danish author (1805–1875) best known for such classic fairy tales as The Ugly Duckling, The Red Shoes, and The Emperor’s New Clothes. Scarce signed book in Danish: Nye Eventyr og Historier, Tredie Raekke, Anden Samling [New Adventures and Stories, Third Series, Second Collection]. Copenhagen: C. A. Reitzel, 1872. Hardcover bound later in quarter-leather with marbled boards, 5.25 x 6.75, 73 pages. Signed and inscribed on the half-title page in Danish by Hans Christian Andersen, using a shortened version of his name, “H. C. And.” Autographic condition: very good to fine, with foxing to the signed page affecting only appearance. Book condition: VG/None, with mottled foxing to textblock. Starting Bid $200
“Before Socrates went to heaven, he had to swallow the poison!”
607. Hans Christian Andersen Autograph Quotation Signed: “Before Socrates went to heaven, he had to swallow the poison!”. Beloved Danish author (1805–1875) best known for such classic fairy tales as The Ugly Duckling, The Red Shoes, and The Emperor’s New Clothes. AQS signed “H. C. Andersen,” on an off-white 6.5 x 4.75 sheet, dated September 17, 1847. From Leipzig, Andersen writes (translated): “Don’t fear the powerful winds, the strong streams—Before Socrates went to heaven, he had to swallow the poison!” Affixed to a slightly larger off-white card and in fine condition, with some minor wrinkling from mounting.
Andersen references the death of Socrates, who drank a cup of poison hemlock after being convicted of impiety and sentenced to death. The author had recently returned from a trip to Britain, where he enjoyed literary acclaim and popularity among high society, and he wrote these encouraging lines in his post-trip exaltation. Interesting words of wisdom from a sparkling literary light of the nineteenth century. Starting Bid $200
Lengthy 1849 letter from Honoré de Balzac to his publisher, handwritten from Ukraine while courting his future wife, Countess Ewelina Hańska
608. Honore de Balzac Autograph Letter Signed to His Publisher. Lengthy ALS in French, signed “de Balzac,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 8.25 x 10.75, January 3, 1849. Untranslated handwritten letter from Honore de Balzac, addressed to his publisher, Hippolyte Souverain, from Berdychiv, a city in Ukraine, where, toward the end of his life, the novelist resided with his love, Ewelina Hanska, whom he married in 1850. In very good to fine condition, with edge toning, minor loss to the upper right corner, and repaired loss to the lower right corner.
After publishing his final two masterworks, La Cousine Bette and Le Cousin Pons, Balzac traveled to Ukraine to join Ewelina Han´ska, a Polish noblewoman with whom he loved dearly and had shared an intimate correspondence since 1832. After years of delayed marriage plans, Russian authorities finally acquiesced to Balzac’s earlier petition of December 1847 and granted the couple permission to marry on July 2, 1849.
They were wed on March 14, 1850, by which time Balzac’s health was already in steep decline. When the newlyweds departed for Paris in late April, Han´ska confided to her daughter that her husband was ‘in a state of extreme weakness’ and ‘sweating profusely.’ Only five months after the wedding, on August 18, 1850, Balzac died of gangrene brought on by congestive heart failure. His friend Victor Hugo visited him that day and later served both as pallbearer and eulogist at Balzac’s funeral. Starting Bid $500
“Mark Twain”—desirable uninscribed portrait of the iconic American humorist
609. Samuel L. Clemens Signed Photograph as “Mark Twain”. Wonderful glossy 3.5 x 5.5 postcard photo of Samuel L. Clemens by H. T. Reed of London, which shows the writer seated in a wicker chair with a newspaper on his lap, signed vertically in black ink, “Mark Twain.” In fine condition. An exemplary, uninscribed portrait of the adored American writer, desirably signing with his famous nom de plume. Starting Bid $300
610. Samuel L. Clemens Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “S. L. Clemens,” one page, 5.5 x 8.5, September 27, 1886. Addressed from his home in Hartford, Connecticut, a handwritten letter from Samuel Clemens to an unidentified gentleman, in full: “I should be very glad to do it, but my engagements & occupations are such as to put it out of my power.”
Mounted, matted, and framed with a portrait of Mark Twain to an overall size of 21 x 18.5. In very good to fine condition, with light wrinkling and some stains to the top. Starting Bid $200
611. Charles Dickens Autograph Letter Signed to His Biographer. ALS, one page, 4.5 x 7, Gad’s Hill Place letterhead, October 7, 1867. Handwritten letter to John Forster, Dickens’s friend and biographer, in full: “I have been very much interested and gratified by that pleasant Passage from Mr. Bigelow’s letter concerning me. As you say you are going to write to him, pray tell him as much, and I assure him that I shall hope to become his friend on the other side of the Atlantic.” Mounted, cloth-matted, and framed with an engraved portrait of Charles Dickens to an overall size of 20 x 17.5. In fine condition.
The referenced “Mr. Bigelow” refers to John Bigelow (1817–1911), an American lawyer, diplomat, and historian who edited the complete works of Benjamin Franklin and the first autobiography of Franklin taken from Franklin’s previously lost original manuscript. He played a central role in the founding of the New York Public Library in 1895 and served as the first president of the New York Law School Board of Trustees. Starting Bid $200
“I beg to enclose you a few scraps of my hand-writing”—Dickens forwards a brief passage from his 1848 novel Dombey and Son
612. Charles Dickens (2) Signed Items - Autograph Letter and Handwritten Quote from Dombey and Son. Two signed and handwritten items from Charles Dickens: an ALS, one page, 4.25 x 7, August 10, 1848, addressed from Broadstairs, Kent, a letter to the Reverend William Valentine: “I beg to enclose you a few scraps of my hand-writing. Allow me to add that I feel obliged to you for your letter, and that my best wishes attend your christian enterprise.” Included is the referenced “few scraps of my hand-writing,” an AQS on an off-white 4.25 x 7 sheet, dated August 10, 1848, which contains a brief extract from his 1848 novel Dombey and Son: “‘Poor Wal’r! said the Captain. ‘And he’s dead, my pretty. Ain’t he?’” In overall very good to fine condition, with overall creasing and light soiling, and light pink lines affecting nothing. Starting Bid $200
“Glad you like Alice”— Dodgson writes to a teenage girl
613. Charles L. Dodgson Autograph Letter Signed: “Glad you like Alice”. ALS signed “C.L.D.,” one page, 4 x 6.25, July 23, 1869. Addressed from Christ Church, Oxford, a handwritten letter to Edith Argles, in full: “I have only time today to send you my best thanks for the book of pictures. Some of them I think very good. Fear I can’t come just yet to see you. Glad you like Alice. B. .t l. .e to Dolly. [She knows how to spell ‘boot lace,’ of course?].” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original hand-addressed mailing envelope, as well as a rare ‘The ‘Wonderland’ Postage-Stamp-Case,’ published by Emberlin and Son of Oxford, which includes a 39-page booklet entitled ‘Eight or Nine Wise Words About Letter-Writing’ by Lewis Carroll. Also included with the lot are notes related to Dodgson’s correspondence with the Argles family; Edith (1853-1935) the recipient, aged 16 at the time of the letter, later became vice president of Lady Margaret Hall, where Dodgson gave lectures to the young ladies at the college. Starting Bid $200
Outstanding Elliott & Fry portrait
signed by the
Sherlock Holmes author
614. Arthur Conan Doyle Signed Photograph. Choice matte-finish 3.5 x 5.5 postcard photo of the author in a handsome head-and-shoulders pose by Elliott & Fry, signed in the lower border in fountain pen, “Arthur Conan Doyle.” In very good to fine condition, with silvering to the perimeter of the image, and old mounting remnants on the back. An outstanding autographed portrait of the Sherlock Holmes creator. Starting Bid $300
615. Robert Frost Signature. Fountain pen signature, “Robert Frost, 1930,” on an off-white 5.5 x 7.25 sheet imprinted with the first verse of his poem ‘The Road Not Taken.’ In fine condition. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
“I don’t know the source of the quotation you sent me. Have you tried the two volumes of Poems?”
617. C. S. Lewis Autograph Letter Signed, in a First Edition of His Collected Poems. Influential Irish author and scholar (1898-1963), a former atheist who became an eloquent convert to Christianity, best known for his works on Christian theology and his much-beloved, seven-book juvenile fantasy series The Chronicles of Narnia. ALS, one page, 5.25 x 7, March 2, 1959. Handwritten letter from Magdalene College, Cambridge, in full: “I hope this letter will reach you, but I have found your signature very difficult to read and am not at all sure that my solution is the right one. I don’t know the source of the quotation you sent me. Have you tried the two volumes of Poems? They are the part of his work that I know the least.” Affixed inside the front cover of a first edition of Poems by C. S. Lewis, hardcover with dust jacket, published by Geoffrey Bles of London in 1964. Autographic condition: fine, with faint toning over most of the letter. Book condition: VG/G+, with an ink notation to the first free end page, and chipping and toning to the jacket. Accompanied by an authenticity analysis prepared by C. S. Lewis expert Charlie W. Starr. Starting Bid $200
Zane Grey’s day-by-day account of a month-long fishing trip: “I hardly believed it was a sword-fish. I let him run. He was heavy, but not hard fighting”
616. Zane Grey
Autograph Manuscript
Signed on Swordfish and Tuna Fishing - Initialed “Z.G.” Nine Times!. Autograph manuscript fishing diary by Zane Grey, mostly in pencil, 43 pages, 8 x 10, many pages blindstamped “Zane Grey,” recording a month-long fishing trip from August 2nd to August 29th, signed nine times with his initials, “Z.G.” Grey’s initials come at the heads of several pages, noting observations of big fish, e.g. “Sighted 1 swordfish— Z.G.,” “4 swordfish sighted, Z.G.,” “3 swordfish sighted, Z.G.,” and “3 sighted by Z.G.”
Grey’s manuscript describes his fishing journey, with observations on weather, route, conditions, and catches. It begins, in small part: “Foggy cool morning—fine mist almost rain, falling. Sea smooth, like oil. Left dock at 9 a.m. Two miles out saw school of small tuna. Sighted a fish we mistook for swordfish. He made for the bait and took it. I hardly believed it was a sword-fish. I let him run. He was heavy, but not hard fighting. I had him near the boat in 10 minutes. It was a Bonito shark—about 150 lbs. We trolled up & down, and out 7 miles. Nothing. Now was no breeze. In the afternoon we saw birds (Sheerwater) by the hundreds, and they were resting over schools of tuna. By & by they began to feed on the anchovies (little minnows).” This entry is characteristic of the manuscript as a whole, which offers a day-by-day account of the trip.
Zane Grey, best known for his Western novels, was also an avid fisherman who considered the sport one of his greatest passions. He traveled the world in pursuit of game fish, from the rivers of the American West to the deep seas off New Zealand and Tahiti. Grey wrote extensively about his angling adventures in books like Tales of Fishes and Tales of Swordfish and Tuna, blending vivid storytelling with technical detail. His fishing writings not only reflected his love of nature but also helped popularize big-game fishing in the early 20th century. Starting Bid $200
Jack London carefully counts his words, observing the economics of authorship: “You ought to have dropped that into two books. They would have earned you at least twice as much, and you would have felt that you had done twice as much”
619. Jack London Autograph Letter Signed on the Economics of Authorship, Counting His Words: “Call of the Wild 30,000, The Game 15,000, Before Adam 40,000, White Fang 70,000”. ALS, nine pages, 5 x 8, May 2, 1909. Handwritten letter to “Jim,” fellow author Herman Whitaker, commenting on the economics of writing. From “on board S.S. Tymeric bound from Australia to Ecuador,” London writes, in part: “I thought this was a good chance to get experience on board a Tramp steamer, so started home the long way around. Shall run up to Quito, see a bull-fight, look around, and hurry along home. Expect to be in California some time in July. Gee! that’s a crackerjack—’The Planter,’ 168,000 words! I swear, Jim, you’re making a mistake. Your stuff is all readable, ever line of it, & 168,000 words for $1.08 (department store) is too full a measure. You ought to have dropped that into two books. They would have earned you at least twice as much, and you would have felt that you had done twice as much.
Look at me: Call of the Wild 30,000, The Game 15,000, Before Adam 40,000, White Fang 70,000, No collection of short stories more than 50,000, ‘Adventure’ 70,000. This last one I’ve just finished—have placed it to-day in Soloman Islands. Love & adventure. I was running over my stuff yesterday not yet published in book-form to show you that I, too, have not been idle, I found that when I had completed present short story & written one more short story that I shall have 9 books to be published. Most of them are collections, & one of them is ‘Martin Eden’ which doesn’t go on the market till this fall.—
All told, 28 books, but they were not 168,000-word books. You’d better reform, Jim, & give less generous measure to your public. I agree with you heartily about Lewis in all you say. Two things he lacks: (1) imagination in style; (2) biology in its relation to sociology…
Your speaking of Percy reminded me of the days we used to box…I’ll look for a bout with him when we meet. I’m boxing every day with the three mates of the Tymeric. Black eyes & bloody noses all the time. We’re going it hard, I can tell you. I took the third clean off his feet yesterday with a left hook. All I can say, despite two game thumbs and a dozen face-bruises, that I am the least marked of any of them. They are all husky young English fellows and they not afraid of taking punishment—nor are they afraid to give it. There isn’t a muscle in my body that isn’t aching and sore.
Charmian has had four attacks of fever since coming on board, & I’ve had one. Also our Jap. boy has had a touch. So you see we’re not free from it yet, & it’s eight months since we contracted it—nay, nine months. If you want the raw edge of the world the Solomons are hard to beat.” Each page has been tipped-in to a larger 10 x 13.5 full morocco volume, which also houses original bookplates of Jack London and his wife Charmian; an ALS signed “Charmian London (Mrs. Jack London,” regarding the sale of this letter by Whitaker’s estate; and two signed photographs of Charmian London (one also bearing a Jack London signature stamped in facsimile). In overall fine condition, with scattered light staining to the last page of the letter. Starting Bid $1000
“I’ve got an idea of writing a story, a companion book to the ‘Call of the Wild’”—London prepares to publish White Fang: “Instead of tracing the devolution, the decivilization of a dog, I’m going to trace the evolution, the civilization of a dog”
618. Jack London ‘White Fang’ Archive, with Autograph Letter Signed and Publishing Agreement: “I’ve got an idea of writing a story, a companion book to the ‘Call of the Wild’”. Comprehensive archive regarding Jack London’s popular novel White Fang, released in 1906 as a companion to his best-known work, The Call of the Wild. This rich literary archive traces the origins, publication, and legacy of Jack London’s classic novel White Fang, conceived as a ‘companion story’ to The Call of the Wild. It includes a remarkable 1904 autograph letter signed by London, in which he outlines his vision for a reverse narrative—a tale of a wild wolf-dog’s gradual civilization. Also featured are a memorandum outlining terms for White Fang’s publication in Great Britain, and later correspondence from London’s estate, managing reprints and the distribution of royalties. Together, these materials offer a vivid portrait of the creative and commercial life of one of London’s most enduring works.
Includes:
ALS signed “Jack London,” six pages, 9.25 x 6, stamp-dated December 6, 1904. Handwritten letter to Richard Watson Gilder, editor of The Century, in which London announces his plan for a companion to The Call of the Wild. In full: “Say, I’ve got an idea of writing a story, a companion book to the ‘Call of the Wild.’ I shall begin it three or four months from now. This is distinctly not to be a sequel. It is to be a companion story—literally, a contrast story. I am going to reverse the idea of the ‘Call of the Wild.’ Instead of tracing the devolution, the decivilization of a dog, I’m going to trace the evolution, the civilization of a dog. I shall take the dog, a half-wolf, at the very beginning, in its puppyhood, in the most savage of environments. Let it grow up in that environment, & there have it step by step begin the journey which ultimately lands it in California. The development of morality, faithfulness, love, etc., etc., gives a good opportunity. Of course, it will be just as concrete & realistic as ‘Call of the Wild.’ I am confident I can make a crackerjack of it. Now, outside of you, I’ve mentioned this only to Mr. Brett. So don’t say anything about it. If it comes, it would be well to leave it come as a surprise. And now, what all this letter is about is this: do you think you’d care to tackle it for the ‘Century’? And if so, what would it be worth to you. In conclusion I’ll say this, & say it flatly, the story positively will be no longer than 40,000 words, and the chances are it will be nearer 35,000 than 40,000.” He adds a postscript: “I’m still monkeying with this play I’m writing, and so am not turning
out any more short stories for the time being.”
Manuscript cable sent by London to his British literary agents A. P. Watt & Son, clerically signed on his behalf, one page, 7.5 x 9.5, Direct United States Cable Company Limited letterhead, stamp-dated June 29, 1906. London directs his agents to draw up an agreement with Methuen & Co. for the publication of White Fang with a one-word reply: “Yes.”
Memorandum of agreement between Jack London and Methuen & Co., two pages, 8 x 10, July 9, 1906. Drawn up by agents A. P. Watt & Son, the contract includes many illuminating details about the publication of a “new book at present entitled ‘White Fang’ written by the Author the nominal selling price of which shall be six shillings.” London is to receive a royalty of 20% for the first 5,000 copies sold, increasing to 25% thereafter. London is promised an advance of £350, and retains “the serial rights, all American and Canadian rights, and the rights of translation and dramatisation.”
Four letters to A. P. Watt from London’s estate, dated from 1924 to 1940, concerning reprints of the book and the disposition of royalties, including three ALSs by London’s sister, Eliza London Shepard, and one by his son, Irving Shepard. In one of Eliza’s letters, she writes: “Mrs. London & myself are both very much opposed to the cutting down idea—as ‘White Fang’ is a book that is hard to cut, but if this has to be done, Mrs. London would like to have the book as cut submitted to her before printing.” In other letters, Eliza expresses confidence in Watt’s negotiations for royalties and agrees to a £20 advance for White Fang. In Irving’s letter, he notifies Watt of Eliza’s death and informs them that he will assume responsibilities for London’s literary estate.
In overall fine condition.
White Fang by Jack London, published in 1906, is a novel that explores the wildness and domestication of a wolf-dog hybrid in the Yukon Territory during the Klondike Gold Rush. The story follows White Fang’s journey from the brutal wilderness to life under human care, highlighting themes of survival, nature versus nurture, and the transformative power of kindness. A companion to London’s earlier novel The Call of the Wild, White Fang indeed reverses the trajectory—showing an animal’s gradual movement from savagery to civilization. Starting Bid $1000
Ayn Rand goes Hollywood: “I have to keep in mind the fate of The Fountainhead: it was rejected by all the studios on the basis of the synopses... Blanke bought it after Barbara Stanwyck talked him into reading the book itself”
620. Ayn Rand Typed Letter Signed on the Film Adaptation of The Fountainhead: “It was rejected by all the studios on the basis of the synopses”. TLS signed “Ayn,” two pages, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, October 10, 1948. Letter to literary agent H. N. Swanson, in part: “I am enclosing copies of my contract with Hal Wallis and all its subsequent amendments.
I am returning the synopsis of We the Living made at Fox, which you sent me. Unfortunately, this synopsis is quite awful. It is so confused that I could not untangle the story from it myself. It is loaded with unessential details and all the dramatic scenes are missing which is the usual trouble with synopses. So I don’t think that we can use this synopsis to submit to anyone who might be interested in the novel. I think the best thing to do would be as follows:
I will send you a copy of the book, and after you have read it, you can tell me whether you feel that there is a good chance of selling it for pictures at present. If there is, I may hire a young writer myself and pay him to make a real synopsis of the novel for us, which you may then use for submissions. If you know of any prospective buyers who could be induced to read the book itself, that, of course, would be the best procedure.
I have to keep in mind the fate of The Fountainhead: it was rejected by all the studios on the basis of the synopses they had and after I had seen some of these synopses, I cannot say that I blame them. Blanke bought it after Barbara Stanwyck talked him into reading the book itself.” In fine condition.
After the publication and initial success of The Fountainhead in 1943, author Ayn Rand adapted the novel into a screenplay—a format with which she was well familiar, as she worked as a reader and script-doctor for Paramount. She completed the screenplay in 1944, and the film, produced by Henry Blanke, was released some five years later by Warner Bros., directed by King Vidor and starring Gary Cooper as Howard Roark, Patricia Neal as Dominique Francon, and Raymond Massey as Gail Wynand. Despite her early soft feelings towards the film—Rand initially called it a ‘triumph’ and ‘more faithful to the novel than any other adaptation of a novel that Hollywood has ever produced’—she later exclaimed that she ‘disliked the movie from beginning to end.’ Starting Bid $200
Rare Jekyll and Hyde-era portrait of Robert Louis Stevenson
621. Robert Louis Stevenson Signed Photograph. Exemplary 4.25 x 6.5 cabinet photo of Robert Louis Stevenson in a three-quarter-length pose by W. J. Hawker of Bournemouth, neatly signed on the mount in ink, “Robert Louis Stevenson.” In fine condition. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Just the fourth signed photograph of Stevenson that we have offered, this marvelous portrait dates to circa 1886, when Stevenson was living in coastal Bournemouth, England, and writing the tale of Jekyll and Hyde. A superlative literary piece. Starting Bid $300
Chopin sells foreign publishing rights to some of his most famous piano pieces: Polonaise in A-flat major, Ballade No. 4, and Nocturnes Music
660. Frederic Chopin (2) Documents Signed, Selling Copyright to Five Famous Piano Compositions - Including Polonaise in A-flat major, Ballade No. 4, and Nocturnes. Two rare partly-printed self-contained DSs in French, each signed, “Frederic Chopin,” two pages, 9.75 x 10 and 9.75 x 6.5, August 1843. An assignment of copyright for five of his significant works, plus the receipt confirming payment. In part: “I have this day sold to Messrs. Christian Rudolph Wessel & Frederic Stapleton, Importers and Publishers of Foreign Music…at the price or sum of Forty Nine Pounds, Nineteen Shillings sterling, all my Copyright and Interest, present and future…for the Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, of and in the following works for the pianoforte: Op. 52 Quatrieme Ballade, Op. 53 8eme Polonaise, Op. 54 Quatrieme Scherzo, Op. 55 Deux Nocturnes, Op. 56 Quatre Mazurkas.” Next to each title is a brief musical quote from the beginning of the piece, penned by an amanuensis. By the second document, apparently cut from the conclusion of the above, Chopin acknowledges his receipt of £49.19.0 for the sale of the publishing rights to these works. On both, Chopin signs in ink over a still-visible pencil guideline. In very good condition, with edge staining touching the tail end of each signature, and professional archival backing to reinforce paper loss to the edges.
This document concerns some of Chopin’s most famous and best-loved works, particularly his Polonaise in A-flat major, Op. 53, which is one of Chopin’s most widely admired compositions. It has long been a favorite of the romantic piano repertoire, and is a piece that requires great virtuosity to be interpreted at a high degree of proficiency; the legendary pianist Arthur Rubinstein, one of the greatest Chopin interpreters of his time, calling it ‘the composition which is the closest to my heart.’ Chopin also sells the publishing rights to the Fourth Ballade (Op. 52) and the Nocturne (Op. 55, No. 1), both works in F minor. The Ballade is considered one of the masterpieces of 19th-century piano music, and the Nocturne remains a staple of the piano repertoire: the piece was performed by Vladimir Horowitz in his television debut concert at Carnegie Hall in 1968, which was broadcast nationwide by CBS. Starting Bid $2500
661. Daniel Liszt Autograph Letter Signed. The only son (1839–1859) of Hungarian composer Franz Liszt. Scarce ALS in French, signed “D. Liszt,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.75 x 5.75, October 3, 1857. Untranslated handwritten letter from Daniel Liszt to his childhood friend, Marie de Wittgenstein, the daughter of Princess Caroline de Sayn-Wittgenstein. In very fine condition. This letter dates to the year that Daniel Liszt, the only son of Franz Liszt and Marie d’Agoult, moved to Vienna to study law under the watch of his uncle, Eduard Liszt. The move had been agreed upon by Daniel and his famous father after the former had been awarded his baccalaureate and won the national prix d’honneur while studying at the Lycée Bonaparte in Paris. However, by 1859, Daniel, who had never had a strong physique, was already ill with consumption. He arrived for a late summer holiday in Berlin with his sister Cosima and her husband, Liszt’s former pupil Hans von Bülow, but weakened quickly over the following months. Fortunately, Liszt arrived in time to be with Daniel in his last days and could grieve together with his daughter. The death, exacerbated by the 1862 death of his daughter, Blandine, was a massive blow to Liszt, who, in recent years, had grown much closer to his son. Starting Bid $200
663. Sergei Rachmaninoff Signed Photograph. Outstanding vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 portrait photo of the celebrated Russian composer by Kubey-Rembrandt Studios of Philadelphia, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Mr. William Schmidt, Serge Rachmaninoff, 1927.” Blindstamped in the lower left by the studio. In fine condition, with slight fading to the ink. The recipient, William Schmidt, was a cellist in the Philadelphia Orchestra. Starting Bid $200
Mendelssohn prepares a festival program: “I would very much like to see a Bach composition on the program (no matter how short it is)—some quite forceful double-chorale or a cantata...
Has Beethoven’s Eroica been performed recently?”
662. Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy Autograph Letter
Signed on Performing Bach, Beethoven, and Handel, with AMQ and Partial ALS (Lot of 3): “It seems to be so timely to at last use one of Bach’s great chorales besides Handel’s music”. Prodigiously gifted German Romantic composer (1809–1847) whose musical output represents virtually every form and genre of the era. ALS in German, signed “Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 8 x 9.5, January 18, 1838. Handwritten letter to the president of the Lower Rhenish Music Festival, in part (translated): “You will have heard that the Committee has asked me to go to Cologne and to conduct at this year’s Music Festival during the weekend of Pentecost. And therefore you also know that, since receiving that letter, I think of you and your family with redoubled intensity, wishing to hear from you personally, longing to ask you several questions: this is the purpose of my letter now. Regarding your previous Music Festivals, I know that, long before the actual performance, you had involved yourself with the selection of the musical offerings and with other important matters, and that many of your quietly thought-out ideas benefitted the other people engaged in this undertaking. No doubt you prepared things in the same way this time also and, if I am not wrong in this supposition, I would like to ask for your opinion.
On the one hand, you are so well informed about musical matters, but you are also intimately acquainted with the circumstances there, so that your views are very important for me to learn. Through one of its members, the Committee has sent me some suggestions which I liked, but which seemed to me not progressive enough for a Music Festival that had previously distinguished itself by performing original Handel music on the organ. It seems to me that such a development is extremely important, even though it might not have been noticed at the time. In any case, my main interest points in that direction. I would very much like to see a Bach composition on the program (no matter how short it is)—some quite forceful double-chorale or a cantata with some lively chorales (I own several of these) and I feel if something like that is played on the first day, before the Handel Oratorio, which should be one of the shorter ones, the Festival could only profit from such a performance. But I think the Committee will be fearful of such a step. And yet, it seems to be so timely to at last use one of Bach’s great chorales besides Handel’s music, and I feel that it would be of considerable merit to set the pace with something like this. What is your opinion?
I would also like to know if Haydn’s Four Seasons has been performed yet at one of the Music Festivals? The Creation? Handel’s Saul? A symphony by Haydn and which one? Has Beethoven’s Eroica been performed recently? You alone can answer these questions satisfactorily for me and, above all, give me your views about the approaching festival.
Thank God my wife and I are, so far, well. My wife expects her confinement any day now, and I pray that everything will go well at the moment I can hardly think of anything else. My mother-in-law and my sister-in-law, whom you have met, have arrived from Frankfurt, and they will remain with us for the next month.” In fine condition, with small mounting strips to edges and the seal clipped off.
Among the works featured at Cologne’s 1838 Lower Rhenish Music Festival were Ries’s ‘Symphony in C minor,’ Handel’s ‘Joshua,’ Mozart’s ‘Prague’ Symphony, and compositions by Luigi Cherubini and Ludwig van Beethoven. Ries, Beethoven’s pupil, had died on January 13th, just five days before these lines were penned, and the performance of his symphony was considered a ‘memorial offering.’ Mendelssohn himself performed Handel’s oratorio with the organ accompaniment intended by its composer. Haydn’s oratorios, ‘The Creation’ and ‘The Seasons’ are still frequently performed, and Beethoven’s Eroica symphony was offered at Dusseldorf’s Lower Rhenish Festival that same summer. However, Mendelssohn’s reference to Johann Sebastian Bach is, perhaps, of greatest importance, given his devotion to the master’s music. It was Bach’s Himmelfahrts-Kantate that was offered in July 1838, the first Bach cantata to be performed at a music festival.
Additionally includes:
- a scarce autograph musical quotation in pencil by Mendelssohn on an off-white 4.25 x 3.25 album page, identified along the bottom in another hand, “Napoli, Mendelssohn-Bartholdy,” perhaps a recording of a piece that he heard played by street musicians while staying in Naples in April–June 1831. In fine condition, with scattered light foxing.
- a partial ALS signed “Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy,” one page, 7.5 x 2.25, no date, containing four lines from an untranslated handwritten letter sent to a gentleman in Bonn. In fine condition, with trimmed edges. Accompanied by a carte-de-visite portrait of Mendelssohn, as well as an engraved portrait featuring his facsimile signature. Starting Bid $1000
Maurice Ravel pens a familiar bar from his classic work Bolero
664. Maurice Ravel Autograph Musical Quotation from ‘Bolero’. Highly influential French composer (1875-1937) who remains unsurpassed in his imaginative use of instrumental color in his operas, brilliantly scored orchestral music, and virtuosic piano pieces. Scarce AMQS on a light green 4.5 x 6 album page, signed neatly below in fountain pen, “Maurice Ravel,” who above adds two measures from his best-known piece, the 1928 orchestral work Bolero. Collector’s notation to the left edge dates the signature to June 13, 1933. In fine condition, with faint toning from prior display. Accompanied by a book photo of Ravel with a facsimile signature. A scarce and sought-after musical quotation of this 20th-century classic. Starting Bid $200
Rare musical quotation from Finland’s foremost composer, Jean Sibelius— crisply penned three-bar passage from his staple work, Valse triste
665. Jean Sibelius Autograph Musical Quotation Signed for ‘Valse triste’. Scarce, boldly penned AMQS on an off-white 4.5 x 6 album page, prominently signed below in fountain pen, “Jean Sibelius,” who above pens a few bars of music from his signature short orchestral work, Valse triste, the title of which he has added above. Collector’s notation to the left edge dates the signature to June 1933. In fine condition, with a central horizontal fold, a faint crease, and a few small spots of foxing. A large and impressive autograph from the great Finnish composer, who remains exceptionally rare in this format, this being only our fourth-ever example. Starting Bid $300
Tony Bennett gifts an original painting of his to the great Doris Day—an overhead view of San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood
666. Tony Bennett Original Painting of a San Franciso ‘Cityscape’ - Presented to Doris Day. Original artwork by legendary singer Tony Bennett under his real name of Anthony Benedetto, which he presented to his friend, the famous actress and singer Doris Day, who hung this painting in her home in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. The painting, entitled ‘Cityscape,’ accomplished in oil on artist board, depicts an overhead view of the North Beach area of San Francisco, with sundry buildings, a nearby harbor, and the side of Vanessi’s Restaurant, a historic Italian establishment that was a landmark in the city’s dining scene. The painting is signed by Bennett in the lower right corner, “Benedetto.” Included is a first edition of the book A Letter to My Dog by Robin Layton, which is signed and inscribed inside in blue ink by Bennett: “Dear Doris, ‘Happy’ knows how much we love you, and she’d like to meet you, and so do we. You know we love and miss you – ‘Happy,’ Susan and ‘Tony’ Bennett, We miss you.” The previous page bears a printed ‘love letter’ from Bennett to his beloved Maltese pooch, Happy. In fine condition.
Bennett appeared as himself on Day’s CBS television series The Doris Day Show, in the season three episode ‘Tony Bennett Is Eating Here,’ which aired on November 23, 1970. The show famously ended with Bennett and Day performing a duet of ‘I Left My Heart in San Francisco.’ It was one of the few episodes of her series in which Day, one of the best-selling recording artists of the 20th century, chose to sing.
Provenance: Julien’s Auction, Property from the Estate of Doris Day, April 2020. Starting Bid $500
Bold red signatures of the Beatles from the spring of 1963
667. Beatles Signatures - Obtained at the Music Hall in Shrewsbury, England (April 26, 1963). Vintage 1963 tartan-cover autograph book, 5.25 x 4.25, signed inside by the Beatles on the same page in red ballpoint, “Beatles, Paul McCartney,” “John Lennon,” “George Harrison,” and “Ringo Starr, xx.” The consignor notes that the autographs were obtained at the Music Hall in Shrewsbury, England, on April 26, 1963. Condition: The album itself is slightly warped from onetime exposure to moisture, but the Beatles page within is very fine and completely unaffected. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks. These signatures date to the band’s second and final performance at the Music Hall in Shrewsbury, Shropshire. Like their previous Music Hall show on December 14, 1962, the concert was promoted by Lewis Buckley. Starting Bid $1000
668. Beatles Signed Menu: McCartney, Harrison, Starr, and Aspinall. Vintage circa 1964 TEAL (Tasman Empire Airways Limited) airline menu, two pages, 4.5 x 6.5, signed on the front in blue ballpoint by Paul McCartney on behalf of himself and his celebrated songwriting partner (“Paul McCartney, John Lennon”) and in faded fountain pen by Beatles bandmates, “George Harrison” and “Ringo Starr.” Also signed on the reverse in black ballpoint by their road manager, Neil Aspinall. The menu’s cover features an illustration of a smiling aboriginal boy with a Beatles ‘mop-top’ hairstyle, symbolizing the band’s universal appeal as ‘Beatlemania’ took hold worldwide. Below, the menu is imprinted “Your Beatle Menu,” with the “TEAL” acronym intersecting it diagonally. In very good to fine condition, with the Harrison and Starr signatures uniformly faded but legible, and tiny pinholes to the corners.
Accompanied by letters of authenticity from noted Beatles experts Perry Cox and Frank Caiazzo, the latter writing: “Paul has autographed beautifully in blue ballpoint pen and has also signed on behalf of John Lennon, who evidently wasn’t available for an autograph at the time. Additionally, George Harrison and Ringo Starr have signed as well—but their signatures have faded significantly and are very light, yet visible…This menu was signed in June of 1964, when The Beatles were performing live in concert in Australia and New Zealand.” Starting Bid $300
John Lennon and George
Harrison attend a
special private screening for the Beatles film Magical Mystery Tour,
autograph a ‘Christmas Time (Is Here Again)’ single record at a Beatles Fan Club party
669. Beatles: John Lennon and George Harrison Signed ‘Christmas Time (Is Here Again)’ 7-Inch Single Record - Obtained at the Magical Mystery Tour Private Movie Screening (December 1967). Lyntone Recording 7-inch flexi disc record for the Beatles single ‘Christmas Time (Is Here Again),’ issued by the Official Beatles Fan Club of Great Britain, signed on the back cover in black ballpoint by John Lennon and in blue ink by George Harrison. The consignor notes that the autographs were obtained at the private screening of the 1967 Beatles film Magical Mystery Tour, which took place at the Film and Art Theatre in Hanover Grand, London, England, on December 17, 1967. Includes the flexi disc record and a copy of The Beatles Book from February 1968, which contains images of Lennon and Harrison signing examples of this record at the screening. In fine condition.
Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks and a letter of provenance from the brother of the original recipient: “My sister Wendy attended a Beatles Fan Club party as a guest in December 1967, I believe at a London hotel. John and George were present and she was lucky enough to get the record sleeve signed by both of them. The treasured sleeve was given to me five years later as a gift for my 21st birthday. I have looked after it carefully since then.” Starting Bid $500
“It was lovely to visit you in Brighton, and even though it was for such a short time I think we managed to pack in a lot of good vibes and emotion”
670. Beatles: Paul Typed Letter Signed to Actor Victor Spinetti. TLS signed “love, Paul,” who adds a smiley face sketch, one page, 7.25 x 9.75, personal letterhead, September 2, 1999. Letter to friend and actor Victor Spinetti, in full: “I got a message that you rang while I was away… We had a really great August and were very lucky with the weather. Stella and James were with me for the duration (as our American cousins would say) and Heather, Mary, Alistair, and baby Arthur also managed to spend some time with us. So all in all we had a great holiday. It was lovely to visit you in Brighton, and even though it was for such a short time I think we managed to pack in a lot of good vibes and emotion. Hope all continues to go well with you, you lovely boy!” In very good to fine condition, with light overall creasing. Accompanied by a letter of provenance and a certificate of authenticity from Tracks. Victor Spinetti (1929-2012) appeared in dozens of films and stage plays throughout his fifty-year career, including the three 1960s Beatles films A Hard Day’s Night, Help!, and Magical Mystery Tour. He also appeared on the Beatles’ 1967 Christmas recording, released to members of their fan club. The best explanation for this long-running collaboration and friendship might have been provided by George Harrison, who told Spinetti, ‘You’ve got to be in all our films…if you’re not in them, me Mum won’t come and see them – because she fancies you.’ But Harrison also later told him, ‘You’ve got a lovely karma, Vic.’ McCartney once described Spinetti as ‘the man who makes clouds disappear.’ Starting Bid $200
671. Bob Dylan Signed BookLetras Completas, 1962–2012. Signed Spanish-language book: Bob Dylan: Letras Completas, 1962–2012. First edition. Barcelona, Spain: Malpaso, 2016. Hardcover, 7 x 9.5, 1297 pages. Signed on the half-title page in black felt tip by Bob Dylan. Includes its original bookmark and belly band that reads (translated): “Nobel Prize For Literature 2016, Complete lyrical works, 1962-2016 / All songs in bilingual edition / Expanded and revised edition by Bob Dylan.” In fine condition, with bumped and worn corners, and some creasing to the belly band. Starting Bid $300
“Make me surrender sugar / When you call my name ( My name is Rick)... Baby you can call me up (you know my number)”
673. Rick James Original Handwritten Song Lyrics for ‘Call Me Up’. Early original handwritten song lyrics by Rick James for the song ‘Call Me Up,’ the seventh track on his fifth studio album, Street Songs, which was released in 1981 on Gordy Records. The lyrics, unsigned, are handwritten in pencil on both sides of an off-white 8.5 x 11 sheet of notebook paper. The lyrics read, in part (spelling retained): “Love me tender baby / I don’t like no pain (I don’t like no pain) / Make me surrender sugar / When you call my name ( My name is Rick) / Rock me roll me / Baby don’t you stop (don’t you ever stop) / Wake me, shake me / When your love gets hot / I can feel your body burning to my flesh / Like fire, hot fire / Baby you can call me up (you know my number) / Hey baby you can call me up / Call me up.” In fine condition.
Accompanied by a letter of provenance from Lisa Sarna, an original member of Rick James and the Stone City Band during the late 1970s and early 1980s, who states: “During our studio sessions at the Record Plant in Sausalito, Rick would often ask me to rewrite lyrics so that Motown executives could understand his handwriting. I kept these handwritten versions as reference materials in case the label had questions about the songs. Recording ‘Street Songs’ was one of my most exciting and favorite albums. So many artists I had grown up listening to were in the studio with Rick and Stone City Band. Stevie Wonder, The Water Sisters, Narada Michael Walden, The Temptations and other artists sang background vocals with us or played on different songs throughout the album.”
From the personal collection of Lisa Sarna, an original member of Rick James and the Stone City Band, who worked as one of James’ backup singers, a group coined ‘The Colored Girls.’ Sarna’s distinct voice can be heard on several notable tracks and albums, in particular as the ‘Say What’ girl on the track, ‘Give It to Me Baby.’ Her contributions extend to albums such as Street Songs, Fire It Up, Urban Rhapsody, Throwin’ Down, In & Out, Garden of Love, Bustin’ Out, Temptations Reunion, Teena Marie’s Wild & Peaceful, and Laura Branigan. Starting Bid $200
672. Grateful Dead Signed T-Shirt Pelon - ‘House of Cards’. Fantastic color t-shirt pelon featuring Grateful Dead ‘House of Cards’ artwork on white cloth, 14 x 19.5, signed in black felt tip by Jerry Garcia, Phil Lesh, Mickey Hart, Bob Weir, Bill Kreutzmann, and Vince Welnick. Matted and framed to an overall size of 18 x 23.5. In fine condition, with dampstaining to the bottom of the mat, and the glass slightly loose within the frame. Starting Bid $200
‘Immigrant
Song’ single signed by Led Zeppelin’s Bonham and Page
674. Led Zeppelin: John Bonham and Jimmy Page Signed 45 RPM Single‘Immigrant Song’. Atlantic 45 RPM single record for Led Zeppelin’s ‘Immigrant Song / Hey, Hey What Can I Do,’ signed on the back of the picture sleeve in blue ballpoint by John Bonham and Jimmy Page. In very good to fine condition, with some faint stains and light soiling.
Led Zeppelin’s ‘Immigrant Song,’ released in 1970 on Led Zeppelin III, is a hard-driving track inspired by the band’s tour of Iceland. John Bonham’s thunderous drumming and Jimmy Page’s fierce, riff-driven guitar power the song, which is punctuated by Robert Plant’s piercing wail. With its relentless rhythm and intensity, it has become one of Led Zeppelin’s most recognizable tracks. Starting Bid $300
Amazing multi-signed program for the legendary Live Aid USA benefit concert, signed by nearly every musical artist on the bill, including musical icons like Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones, Tom Petty, Madonna, Neil Young, and many more
675. Live Aid USA Multi-Signed (75+) Program with Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin, Rolling Stones, Black Sabbath, Eric Clapton, Madonna, Tom Petty, and More. Incredible multi-signed official program for the Live Aid USA benefit concert, which was held at John F. Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 1985. The program, 9 x 12, is signed in ink and felt tip by nearly every musical artist on the bill, in addition to a host of other stars and people involved with the concert. Signers include: Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin (Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones), the Rolling Stones (Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood), Black Sabbath (Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, Bill Ward), Madonna, Phil Collins, Neil Young, Carlos Santana, Crosby Stills & Nash (David Crosby, Stephen Stills, Graham Nash), Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers (Tom Petty, Mike Campbell, Stan Lynch, Howie Epstein, Benmont Tench), the Beach Boys (Brian Wilson, Bruce Johnston, Al Jardine, Mike Love, Carl Wilson), The Cars (David Robinson, Greg Hawkes, Elliot Easton, Ric Ocasek, Benjamin Orr), The Pretenders, Duran Duran (Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, Roger Taylor, John Taylor, Andy Taylor), The Four Tops (Lawrence Payton Jnr, Renaldo ‘Obie’ Benson, Abdul ‘Duke’ Fakir, Levi Stubbs), Judas Priest, Paul Stanley of KISS, Bryan Adams, Joan Baez, Daryl Hall and John Oates, Ashford & Simpson (Nickolas Ashford, Valerie Simpson), The Temptations (Eddie Kendrick and David Ruffin), The Hooters, Patti LaBelle, Kenny Loggins, Pat Metheny, Billy Ocean, Power Station, REO Speedwagon, Run DMC, Simple Minds, Rick Springfield, The Thompson Twins, Tina Turner, Lionel Richie, Eddie Martin, Bo Diddley, George Thorogood, Albert Collins, and Grace Slick.
Other signers include various 1984 USA Olympic team members and gold medallists, as well as celebrities like Bette Midler, Jeff Bridges, Don Johnson, Timothy Hutton, and Dick Clark. The consignor notes that these signatures were obtained by Judy Polkow, one of the event supervisors for the company that broadcast the concert. Polkow began collecting the autographs at the concert and personally obtained all of the additional signatures over the course of the next two years. In fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks. Starting Bid $1000
676. Elvis Presley Signature (July 27, 1956) - Includes Autographs of D. J. Fontana, Hugh Jarrett, and Members of The Blackwood Brothers and The Statesmen Quartet. Pencil signature, “Thanks, Elvis Presley,” on an off-white 5 x 2.25 sheet. Includes three additional sheets containing signatures of Blue Moon Boys drummer D. J. Fontana, Jordanaires singer Hugh Jarrett, and several members of the southern gospel groups The Blackwood Brothers and The Statesmen Quartet, which includes Jake Hess, Hovie Lister, James ‘Big Chief’ Wetherington, James Blackwood, Jim Cole, Cecil Blackwood, Connor B. Hall, Fred Daniel, Doy Ott, and Denver Crumpler. In very good to fine condition, with light folds and creases. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Rockology Nashville and a letter of authenticity from The Elvis Pawn Shop, which states that the Presley autograph was obtained by a young fan at the Ellis Auditorium in Memphis, Tennessee, on July 27, 1956. It was on this date when Presley made a surprise appearance on stage at the Blackwood Brothers’ All-Night Gospel Singing and sang the two songs ‘Jesus Filled My Every Need’ and ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ with The Statesmen Quartet. The event was of particular importance as it was the first time that Presley sang with The Statesmen Quartet, a group he had idolized as a child, and Hess, whose singing style made a profound impression on him. Starting Bid $200
677. Rolling Stones Signatures (ca. 1964). Vintage ballpoint signatures of the Rolling Stones on two light green 6 x 4 album pages: “Keith Richard,” “Brian Jones,” and “Bill Wyman”; and “Charlie Boy, xxx” and “Mick Jagger.” Both pages bear affixed portraits of the band members. The consignor notes that the signatures date to circa 1964. In very good to fine condition, with light toning and small tape stains. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks. Starting Bid $200
678. Rolling Stones Signed Photograph. Semi-glossy 10 x 8 Rolling Stones Records / Atlantic Records publicity photo of the Rolling Stones performing together during a photo shoot, signed in black felt tip by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Bill Wyman, and in blue felt tip by Charlie Watts and Ronnie Wood. In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from REAL. Starting Bid $200
‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ single signed by Moon, Townshend, Daltrey, and Entwistle
679. The Who Signed 45 RPM Single - ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’. Polydor 45 RPM single record for The Who’s ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again / Don’t Know Myself,’ signed on the front of the picture sleeve in blue ballpoint by Keith Moon, Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, and John Entwistle. In fine condition. The record is included.
The Who released ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ in 1971 as the closing track and lead single from their album Who’s Next. Written by Pete Townshend, the song combines hard rock power with early use of synthesizers and delivers a biting critique of political revolutions that fail to bring real change; it is especially remembered for Roger Daltrey’s climactic scream near the end. A fantastic band-signed example of one of The Who’s signature anthems. Starting Bid $300
Entertainment “1994, George Foster Peabody Award, For Significant and Meritorious Achievement, Presented to ‘FRASIER’”
803. Frasier 1994 Peabody Award. Official 1994 Peabody Award plaque presented to the producers of the critically acclaimed sitcom Frasier, presented on a wooden 8.5˝ x 13.5˝ x .75˝ plaque with dual medallions representing the Henry W. Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia and a raised bottom plate with award inscription, which reads, in part: “1994, George Foster Peabody Award, For Significant and Meritorious Achievement, Presented to ‘FRASIER,’ NBC, Grub Street Productions, in assn. with Paramount Television.” In fine condition.
Created as a spin-off of the sitcom Cheers, Frasier debuted on NBC on September 16, 1993, and was an immediate hit with both fans and critics alike. The show’s first season was awarded four Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series, and also became the recipient of a Peabody Award in 1994, with the award committee praising it as ‘an uncommonly good comedy of manners and mores in contemporary times’ and for delving ‘into sensitive issues with inventive writing, exceptional characterization and unusual insight.’
The George Foster Peabody Awards (or simply Peabody Awards or the Peabodys) program, named for the American businessman and philanthropist George Peabody, celebrates what are described as the most powerful, enlightening, and invigorating stories in all of television, radio, and online media. Because of their academic affiliation and reputation for discernment, the awards are held in high esteem within the media industry.
Established in 1940 by the National Association of Broadcasters, the Peabody Award was created to honor excellence in radio broadcasting as the radio industry’s equivalent of the Pulitzer Prizes. It was later expanded to include television, and then to new media, including podcasts and streaming. It is the oldest major electronic media award in the United States. Starting Bid $200
804. Jean Harlow (3) Signed Photographs to Her MGM Hairdresser. Marvelous set of three vintage matte-finish photos of actress Jean Harlow, all of which are signed and inscribed in fountain pen to Edith Hubner, one of Harlow’s MGM hairdressers. The photos include: a 9.5 x 7.5 photo of Harlow next to Hubner on the set of the 1936 film Riffraff, “To My Darling Darling Eadie – With a Heart full of Love – Jean”; a 3 x 5 postcard photo from circa 1934, depicting Harlow smiling with her Pomeranian, Oscar, “Eadie – Here I am – a Dame that loves you Blonde – Jean”; and an irregularly trimmed 3.5 x 5.25 postcard photo from circa 1934, showing Harlow hugging her mother, Jean Bello, “To Edith – With my Biggest and Bestest Love – I can never thank you enough for your sweetness to me – Lovingly, Jean.” The large photo is in very fine condition; the smaller photos are very good to fine, with irregular trimming, small creases, and flecks of emulsion loss (one of which affects Harlow’s eye in the solo photo).
Edith Hubner was one of Jean’s MGM hairdressers, whom Harlow referred to as ‘my little mommie.’ Hubner was a member of ‘Harlow’s Gang,’ which was comprised of Edith, friend and stand-in Bobbe Brown, maid Blanche Williams, and make-up artist Violet Denoyer. Hubner is referenced and pictured in all three major books published about Jean: Bombshell by David Stenn, Harlow in Hollywood by Darrell Rooney and Mark Vieira, and Platinum Girl by Eve Golden. Starting Bid $500
“I have 75,000 to 100,000 books on spiritualism, sorcery, and the like...I am not only an illusionist, but have a real interest in finding a real medium”
806. Harry Houdini Twice-Signed Typed Carbon Letter: “I am not only an illusionist, but have a real interest in finding a real medium”. Carbon copy typed letter in German, boldly signed twice at the head of the first page, “HH,” and “Houdini,” four pages, 8.5 x 11, August 21, 1925. Letter to Dr. Paul Suenner, in part (translated): “I just received the monthly magazine ‘Physische Studien’ from one of my friends: Volume 6, Leipzig, June 1925. And to my astonishment I find an article by Dr. med. A. Freiherrn von Schrenek-Notzing,—’Der Okkultismus im Lichte der gegnerischen Kritik’ [Occultism in the light of opposing criticism], in which I am attacked in an unprecedented way.
It is hardly believable that this article was written by a well-respected man, especially when I consider that he only recently instructed a certain lady to visit me, which she did, with a letter from this same gentleman. If the Freiherr von Schenck-Notzing actually believes that I am some common trickster, why did he send this lady to me?...
I would like to inform the Freiherr von Schrenck-Notzing that I have 75,000 to 100,000 books on spiritualism, sorcery, and the like, and dedicate six months of every year to the study of these books. Two to three months a year I refuse any other employment and since I have a minimum weekly income of $2,500 to $3,000, I pay $25,000 for my studies annually. I urge Dr. Schrenck-Notzing to prove to me that any other spiritualist researcher spends so much money on research. I own the largest library on this subject in the world.
Furthermore, I possess over half a million newspaper clippings and hundreds of letters dating back to the beginnings of Spiritualism in 1848. I would also like to mention that I spend most of my money on research and do not strive to enrich myself materially. It should also be added that I spend part of my time giving lectures at American universities.
What is more, I am a member of the committee of the ‘Scientific American,’ which magazine will pay the sum of $5,000 to any medium that can produce proof that it is genuine. ‘The Journal of Abnormal Psychology’ also has a sum of $5,000 set aside for this purpose, and the editor, Dr. Morton Prince has elected me to this committee along with five professors from Harvard College in Boston. These two journals are the highest authorities of scientific psychology in America. So if Dr. Schrenck-Notzing could send a real medium here, this medium would promptly receive a sum of $10,000 after offering proof of their authenticity—and also $10,000 from Josef Rinn and $10,000 from myself: so $30,000 altogether. However, this medium would have to conjure up physical manifestations without being exposed and would have to repeat this three times before me and a committee chosen for this purpose. I am not skeptical, but I am looking for a real medium. If
I cannot prove that the medium has undertaken the manifestation in a natural way and if I cannot imitate it in a natural way or cannot cause it to be imitated, then the medium can be described as genuine…
The Freiherr flatters me when he writes: ‘an author like the Graf von Klin[c]kowström, who is willing to publicly disseminate in his work the frivolous and outrageous marriage of a materially interested professional illusionist without any verification as evidence against mediumism, although the exact minutes of the Societies of Psych. Research in English and German are available, is only aiming at Houdinist slanders which are apt to denigrate mediumistic research.’
To which I can reply that I have been a researcher of Spiritualism for 35 years and although I have letters from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in which he claims that I am an ‘occultist,’ and although J. Hewat McKenzie, President of the British College of Psychic Science says that I can dematerialize and dematerialize myself, I must still state that I perform all my mysterious experiments or demonstrations in a natural way.
It will also be of interest that in the last 18 months, through my research and exposures of false mediums, in the United States there have been more arrests of false mediums than in all of the last 50 years… Every time I left a city, mediums gathered for large protest rallies. If these people could once bring me a real medium, they would convince themselves and silence me. I stand by my book, and if anything in it is not clear, I am always ready to make it clear.
I have the greatest respect for Dr Schrenck-Notzing, and for his views. Nor do I claim to be able to do his work, but I can examine pseudomiracles and determine their authenticity. If Dr. Schrenck-Notzing and I were to be plunged into the Isar together in a wooden box, I would be the only one of us who would reappear on the surface.
I hope that the above proves to you that I am not only an illusionist, but have a real interest in finding a real medium.”
In fine condition, with a rusty paperclip impression to the top edge. Accompanied by a complete German transcript and English translation.
Harry Houdini developed a deep interest in spiritualism during the early 20th century, when séances and spirit mediums were especially popular. While he initially hoped to find genuine communication with the dead—particularly after the loss of his mother—Houdini became convinced that most mediums were frauds who preyed on grief. Using his knowledge of stage magic, he exposed their tricks, often publicly unmasking deceptive practices like hidden devices, sleight of hand, and staged apparitions. His crusade made him both a fierce critic of spiritualism and one of its most famous debunkers. Starting Bid $200
807. Harry Houdini Signed 1927 Society of American Magicians Membership Card - PSA NM-MT 8. Desirable bright orange Society of American Magicians “Life” membership card issued to L. A. Beaumont for 1927, 4 x 2.5, boldly signed at the bottom in fountain pen by Harry Houdini as president, “Houdini,” and countersigned by Richard Van Dien as secretary. The details of the Society’s “Hospital Benefit” are printed on the reverse. In very fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “NM-MT 8.” Originally founded on May 10, 1902, in the back room of Martinka’s magic shop in New York, the Society of American Magicians expanded under the leadership of Harry Houdini during his term as National President from 1917–1926. Starting Bid $200
Scarce signed image of Karloff in his iconic role as Frankenstein’s monster
809. Boris Karloff Signed Photograph as Frankstein’s Monster. Dramatic 8 x 9.5 paperstock photo of Karloff in his iconic role as Frankenstein’s monster, signed and inscribed in black ballpoint, “Best wishes to Tom Crow, Boris Karloff.” In fine condition, with intersecting mailing folds. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Karloff’s hand. Starting Bid $200
Houdini dedicates A Magician Among the Spirits to the daughter of the ‘White Mahatma,’ a pioneering stage magician and skeptic
808. Harry Houdini Signed Book - A Magician Among the Spirits, Presented to a Magic Pioneer’s Daughter. Signed book: A Magician Among the Spirits. First edition. NY: Harper & Brothers, 1924. Hardcover bound in the publisher’s original gilt-titled cloth, 6.5 x 9.5, 294 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page in fountain pen to the daughter of noted mentalist and magician Samri Baldwin, “To Shadow Baldwin, Best wishes from the author, Houdini, 4/29/24.” Autographic condition: fine, with a block of light toning along the left side of the signed page. Book condition: VG/None, with minor fraying to spine ends, edgewear, and rubbing to boards.
Harry Houdini admired Samri Baldwin, known as the ‘White Mahatma,’ for his pioneering role in popularizing stage magic and spiritualist debunking in the late 19th century. Notably, Baldwin was one of the first magicians to have practiced a stage escape from handcuffs, performing the feat as early as 1871—long before Houdini made it famous. Baldwin’s subsequent exposures of fraudulent mediums influenced Houdini’s later crusade against spiritualism and fake séances. Houdini would dedicate a significant amount of time and effort to debunking the claims of spiritualists, psychics, and mediums by exposing their fraudulent methods, publishing this book on the subject in 1924. He often cited Baldwin as an early inspiration, acknowledging his importance in shaping the skeptical side of modern magic. As a presentation copy dedicated to Baldwin’s daughter, this is a remarkable association piece. Starting Bid $300
“Big smile!”—Ledger as the Joker
810. Heath Ledger Rare Signed Photograph as The Joker: “Big smile!”. Extremely rare color satin-finish 12 x 8.25 close-up photo of Heath Ledger in his Oscar-winning role as the Joker in the 2008 film The Dark Knight, prominently signed and inscribed in silver ink, “To Jon, Big smile! Heath.” In fine condition, with a mild bend to the lower left corner. Consignor notes that the photo was acquired from an employee at Pinewood Studios in the UK, where portions of The Dark Knight were filmed.
Ledger succumbed to accidental intoxication from prescription drugs on January 22, 2008, a few months after he had finished filming his performance as the Joker in The Dark Knight. The film was in its editing phase at the time of Ledger’s death, and was released in the United States on July 18, 2008. Photos signed by Ledger as the Joker are incredibly rare and highly sought-after by cinephiles and comic book enthusiasts alike. Starting Bid $300
817. Carole Lombard Oversized Signed Photograph. Striking matte-finish 11 x 14 posed photo of Lombard in a herringbone coat, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Charley, Cordially, Carole Lombard.” Blindstamped in the lower right corner by photographer George Hurrell. In very fine condition, with moderate signature contrast. Starting Bid $200
“It’s a pleasure to work with you and know you, Marilyn Monroe”—beautiful Powolny portrait of the iconic blonde starlet
818. Marilyn Monroe Signed Oversized Photograph - “It’s a pleasure to work with you”. Vintage matte-finish 11 x 14 photo of Monroe taken during a Frank Powolny glamour shoot in 1952, showing the actress wearing a low-cut dress and diamond jewelry, flashing a lovely smile as she reclines on a pillow circa 1953, signed and inscribed in blue ballpoint, “To Bob, It’s a pleasure to work with you and know you, Marilyn Monroe.” In fine condition, with trivial wear to corners that could be easily matted out if so desired. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
Monroe and Powolny most famously teamed up in 1953 for a series of stunning, artfully framed publicity stills for the 1953 film Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Immortalized for his classic World War II pinup of Betty Grable, Powolny remained a trusted photographer for Monroe throughout her career and is noted as taking the last known still photographs of the starlet during the production of Something’s Got to Give, one week before she died in 1962. Starting Bid $1000
Marilyn buys a bouquet shortly before the release of 1957’s The Prince and the Showgirl
819. Marilyn Monroe Signed Check. Choice Marilyn Monroe Productions, Inc. business check, 8.25 x 3, filled out in type and signed by Monroe, “Marilyn Monroe,” payable to the Lexington Flower Shop for $5.67, June 5, 1957. In fine condition. Starting Bid $500
823. Marilyn Monroe Original ‘White Dress’ Photograph - PSA Type I. Iconic original vintage circa 1954 glossy 8.25 x 10 photo of Marilyn Monroe famously having the skirt of her white cocktail dress blown upwards during a scene of the film The Seven Year Itch, which was captured on Lexington Avenue between 52nd and 53rd Street in New York City on September 15, 1954. In very good to fine condition, with a thin diagonal crease passing through Monroe’s head. Encapsulated by PSA as an authentic “Type I” photograph, circa 1954. The Marc and Mary Perkins Collection. Starting Bid $200
Breathtaking 1953 Powolny portrait of Marilyn Monroe, signed in brilliant white fountain pen
822. Marilyn Monroe Signed Photograph by Frank Powolny. Beautiful vintage matte-finish 7.5 x 9.5 portrait of Monroe taken during a Frank Powolny glamour shoot in 1953, signed and inscribed in bright white fountain pen, “To Vi – My thanks to you, Marilyn Monroe.” In fine condition. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Monroe and Powolny most famously teamed up in 1953 for a series of stunning, artfully framed publicity stills for the 1953 film Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Immortalized for his classic World War II pinup of Betty Grable, Powolny remained a trusted photographer for Monroe throughout her career, and is noted as taking the last known still photographs of the starlet during production of Something’s Got to Give, one week before she died in 1962. A stunning image boasting an unusually bright signature. The Marc and Mary Perkins Collection. Starting Bid $1000
828. Marilyn Monroe: Andre de Dienes Oversized Original Photograph - PSA Type II. Original vintage circa 1970s mattefinish 20 x 23.75 silver gelatin photograph of Marilyn Monroe lying in bed with an egg and a glass of milk, originally taken in 1952 by photographer Andre de Dienes and printed from the original negative during the 1970s. Reverse bears the credit stamp of Andre de Dienes, who has signed the front in black felt tip. In fine condition, with light edge rippling. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA, certifying it as an authentic “Type II” photograph. The Marc and Mary Perkins Collection. Starting Bid $200
829. Marilyn Monroe: Milton Greene
Oversized Photograph from ‘The Black Sitting’. Striking semi-glossy 19.75 x 16 silver gelatin photograph of Marilyn Monroe taken during her ‘Black Sitting’ photo session with photographer Milton Greene in New York in February 1956, which depicts the starlet lounging on a divan, her neck wrapped with a scarf, and her hand resting on the knee of her right leg. The reverse bears Greene’s copyright stamp and authenticity stamp, the latter of which is signed and dated, “Milton H. Greene, 7–20–80.” In fine condition, with light edge rippling. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
For four hours, Milton Greene and stylist Joe Eula had Marilyn Monroe posing with hats, bustiers, and fishnet stockings during the legendary The Black Sitting in early 1956. Near the end, the shoot went a step further with Monroe going topless and wrapped in black velvet. Other than the private portfolio that Greene gifted to Monroe, the pictures were never seen by the public during her lifetime, only appearing for the first time in Norman Mailer’s 1976 book Marilyn. Photographed in Greene’s New York studio before leaving for California to make Bus Stop, the use of the bustier and fishnet stockings sparked the design for the costume worn by Cherie, the character Monroe played in the film. The Marc and Mary Perkins Collection. Starting Bid $200
Ray Bolger, the Scarecrow of Oz, takes home the Tony Award for ‘Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical’ for his titular role in the 1948 Broadway production of Where’s Charley?
830. Tony Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical - Presented to Ray Bolger for His Role in Where’s Charley?. Original American Theater Wing Antoinette Perry Award, commonly known as the ‘Tony,’ presented to Ray Bolger, who won the award for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical for his role as Charley Wykeham in the 1948 Broadway production of Where’s Charley? The sterling silver medal measures 3˝ in diameter, weighs 190 gm, and features dedication text on the reverse, “The American Theatre Wing Presents to, Ray Bolger, This Award for His Performance in Where’s Charley, 1948-49.” The front of the medal features the traditional symbolic dramatic masks raised in relief, encircled with the text, “Antoinette Perry Award.” The edge is stamped “Sterling.” In mint condition, with some light tarnishing. Accompanied by an original Playbill for a production of Where’s Charley? at the St. James Theatre, a custom-made presentation case, and a letter of authenticity from Ruth Ann Rickard, the niece of Ray Bolger.
This award was presented as part of the 3rd Annual Tony Awards, which were held on April 24, 1949, at the Waldorf-Astoria Grand Ballroom in New York City, and broadcast on radio station WOR and the Mutual Network. This event also introduced the design of the Tony Award medallion.
Immortalized for playing the Scarecrow in the 1939 MGM film The Wizard of Oz, Bolger was also an accomplished stage actor known for his rendition of the popular song ‘Once in Love with Amy’ from Where’s Charley? The song was such a show-stopper that audiences often sang along or demanded that he sing it again. Bolger reprised his Broadway role on the big screen five years later in the 1952 Warner Bros. adaptation. Bolger also starred in the 1934 Broadway show Life Begins at 8:40, and in the 1936 and 1942 Richard Rodgers musicals On Your Toes and By Jupiter. Starting Bid $1000
831. Robin Williams’s 2009 People’s Choice Award and Emmy Award Nomination. People’s Choice Award presented to Robin Williams as “Favorite Scene Stealing Guest Star” for the 35th Annual People’s Choice Awards, held at Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles on January 7, 2009. Made by Orrefors, the gorgeous crystal award, roughly 12 pounds, measures 13.75˝ tall with a square base of 4˝, neatly engraved on the front: “The People’s Choice Award, 2009, Robin Williams on Law & Order: SVU, Favorite Scene Stealing Guest Star.” The beautiful award takes the shape of a flame and is etched with the image of hands clapping. Includes a printed Emmy Award nomination certificate presented to Robin Williams by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for the 2007-2008 Primetime Emmy Awards, which nominated Williams in the category of “Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” The nomination is matted and framed to an overall size of 16.25 x 13.25. In overall fine condition.
Robin Williams guest-starred in the 200th episode of NBC’s Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, which first aired on the 29th of April 2008. Williams played the character of Merritt Rook, an engineer who, after a tragic event in his past, opposes authority.
Provenance: Creating a Stage: The Collection of Marsha and Robin Williams, Sotheby’s, October 2018. Starting Bid $200
7. Andrew Jackson Autograph Document Signed - Pay Order Issued Durin... Starting Bid $200
64. Joe Biden Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
68. George
Autograph Letter Signed as President Starting Bid $200
13. Abraham Lincoln and Hannibal Hamlin 1860 Presidential Campaign Fe... Starting Bid $200
65. Joe Biden 2021 U.S. Capitol-Flown Inauguration Flag Starting Bid $200
69. George Bush Typed Letter Signed as Vice President Starting Bid $200
62. Chester A. Arthur Document Signed as President, Sending Condolenc... Starting Bid $200
66. James Buchanan Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
70. George
Letter Signed: "Four months have now passed sin... Starting Bid $200
63. Chester A. Arthur Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
67. President James Buchanan Suspends Duties on Vessels and Goods fro... Starting Bid $200
Bush
Bush Typed
71. George Bush Signature Starting Bid $200
72. Camp David Group Lot of (22) Ephemera Items Starting Bid $200
73. Jimmy Carter Signed 'Inauguration Day' Cover Starting Bid $100
74. Jimmy Carter Signed Souvenir Oath of Office Starting Bid $100
75. Jimmy Carter Signed Souvenir Typescript Starting Bid $100
76.
77.
80.
78.
79.
82.
Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter (2) Signed Items Starting Bid $100
Rosalyn Carter Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Jimmy Carter and Gerald Ford Starting Bid $100
Grover Cleveland Document Signed as President, Examining a Bounda... Starting Bid $200
Bill Clinton Typed Letter Signed as President on a "Middle Income... Starting Bid $200
81. Bill Clinton Signed 'State of the Union' Booklet Starting Bid $200
Bill Clinton Signature Starting Bid $200
83. Bill Clinton Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
84. Bill Clinton Typed Letter Signed as President Starting Bid $200
85. Bill Clinton Signed Book - Back to Work Starting Bid $200
86. Hillary Clinton Signed White House Card Starting Bid $200
87. Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky Signatures Starting Bid $200
88. Calvin Coolidge Signed Book - The Autobiography of Calvin Coolidg... Starting Bid $200
89. Dwight D. Eisenhower Typed Letter Signed as President: "I am deli... Starting Bid $200
90. Dwight D. Eisenhower Typed Letter Signed as President: "I earnest... Starting Bid $200
91. Dwight D. Eisenhower Signed Cover Starting Bid $200
92. Dwight D. Eisenhower Oversized Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
96. Gerald Ford Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
100. Gerald Ford Signed Book - Assassination Report of the Warren Comm... Starting Bid $200
104. U. S. Grant Document Signed as President, Congratulating the New ... Starting Bid $200
93. Dwight D. Eisenhower Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $100
97. Gerald Ford Signed Book - The Tenth Convention (Ltd. Ed., "George... Starting Bid $200
101. Gerald Ford Typed Letter Signed: "It has been a tremendous honor ... Starting Bid $200
105. U. S. Grant Handwritten Letter to His Son from Cuba, Reflecting o... Starting Bid $200
94. Mamie Eisenhower Typed Letter Signed: "Besides your good southern Starting Bid $100
98. Gerald Ford Signed Book - Global Stability (Ltd. Ed. #49/100) Starting Bid $200
102. Gerald and Betty Ford Signed Inauguration Day Cover Starting Bid $200
106. Rutherford B. Hayes Document Signed as President - Thanksgiving P... Starting Bid $200
95. Gerald Ford Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
99. Gerald Ford Signed Book - Global Stability (Ltd. Ed. #134/400) Starting Bid $200
103. Gerald and Betty Ford Signed PhotographPresented to Larry King Starting Bid $200
107. President Rutherford B. Hayes Ratifies a Treaty of Friendship and... Starting Bid $200
108. Herbert Hoover Signed Book - The Memoirs of Herbert Hoover: Years... Starting Bid $200
112. Andrew Jackson Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
116. President Andrew Johnson Approves a Captainship for “gallant serv... Starting Bid $200
120. Lyndon and Lady Bird Johnson Signed Photograph as President and F... Starting Bid $200
109. Herbert Hoover Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
113. Andrew Jackson's First Inauguration: Niles' Weekly Register from ... Starting Bid $200
117. Andrew Johnson Cartede-Visite Photograph Starting Bid $100
121. Lyndon B. Johnson 1963 White House Christmas, Issued After JFK's ... Starting Bid $200
110. Herbert Hoover Typed Letter Signed, Forwarding His WWII Speech on... Starting Bid $100
114. Andrew Jackson's Second Election: Niles' Weekly Register from Nov... Starting Bid $200
118. Lady Bird Johnson Signed Book - The White House Library (Ltd. Ed.... Starting Bid $100
122. Lyndon B. Johnson Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
111. Hoover Hoover Oversized Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
115. Andrew Johnson Document Signed as President, Pardoning a Counterf... Starting Bid $200
119. Lady Bird Johnson Signed Book - Texas Wildflowers: A Field Guide Starting Bid $100
Lyndon B. Johnson Signed Book - To Heal and to Build Starting Bid $200
123.
124. Jacqueline Kennedy Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
924. Terminator II (3) Signed Photographs Starting Bid $200
Gene Tierney Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Rudolph Valentino Signature Starting Bid $200
John Wayne Signature Starting Bid $200
928. Mae West Signed Print (Ltd. Ed. 645/2000) Starting Bid $200
932. Wizard Of Oz: Bolger and Haley Signed Print (Ltd. Ed. #368/2000) Starting Bid $200
942.
Signature Starting Bid $200
929. Mae West Signed Check Starting Bid $100
933. Jane Wyman Signed Photograph Starting Bid $100
943.
Signed Religious Pamphlet Starting Bid $200
930. Western Legends MultiSigned Book (40+) with Adam West, Mickey Ro... Starting Bid $200
934. Adolph Zukor Signed Book - The Public is Never Wrong Starting Bid $100
944.
Ali Signed Religious Booklet Starting Bid $200
931. John Williams Autograph Musical Quotation Signed from 'Close Enco... Starting Bid $200
941.
Starting Bid $200
-
Hank Aaron Signed Photograph
Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali
Muhammad
945. Baseball Hall of Famers (6) Signed Books Starting Bid $200
946. Lou Brock Signed Baseball Card - 1978 Topps
PSA GEM MINT 10 Starting Bid $100
947. Roberto Clemente Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
948. Howard Cosell Signed Book - Cosell Starting Bid $100
949. Joe DiMaggio Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
950. Roger Federer (4) Signed Promo Cards Starting Bid $200
954. Sonny Liston Signed Baseball Program Starting Bid $200
958. Roger
Signature Starting Bid $200
962. Tennis
- Rene Lacoste, Jean Borotra, and
M... Starting Bid $200
951. Rocky Graziano Signed Book - Somebody Up There Likes Me: My Life ... Starting Bid $100
955. Joe Louis Signed Boxing Exhibition Program (1945) Starting Bid $200
959. Pete Rose Signed Ticket Stub - 1980 World Series - PSA GEM MINT 1... Starting Bid $200
963.
952. Jim 'Catfish' Hunter Signed Book - Catfish: My Life in Baseball Starting Bid $100
956. Diego Maradona Signed 'Argentina National Team' Jersey Starting Bid $200
960. Nolan Ryan Signed Ticket Stub - 1971 World Series - PSA GEM MINT ... Starting Bid $200
953.
Starting Bid $200
957. Roger
Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
961. Ayrton Senna Signed Autosport 1988 Grand Prix Racing Review Magaz... Starting Bid $200
Signature Starting Bid $200
Sandy Koufax Signed Home Plate
Maris
Maris
(3) Signed Items
Chuck
Ted Williams
Conditions of Sale
ANYONE EITHER REGISTERING TO BID OR PLACING A BID (“BIDDER”) ACCEPTS THESE CONDITIONS OF SALE AND ENTERS INTO A LEGALLY, BINDING, ENFORCEABLE AGREEMENT WITH R&R AUCTION COMPANY OF MASSACHUSETTS, LLC (“RR AUCTION”) TOGETHER WITH BIDDER, THE “PARTIES”).
This Agreement contains important provisions that control rights and liabilities, and specifically has provisions governing how disputes are handled as well as LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY that can be imposed upon RR Auction, WAIVER OF JURY and ARBITRATION PROVISIONS. This acknowledgement is a material term of these Conditions of Sale and of the consideration under which RR Auction agrees to these terms. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY.
The following terms and conditions (“Conditions of Sale”) constitute the sole terms and conditions under which RR Auction will offer for sale and sell the property on its website, and/or described in the catalog of items for auction (the “Catalog”). These Conditions of Sale constitute a binding agreement between the Parties with respect to the auction in which Bidder participates (the “Auction”). By bidding at the Auction, whether in person, through an agent or representative, by telephone, facsimile, online, absentee bid, or by any other form of bid or by any other means, Bidder acknowledges the thorough reading and understanding of all of these Conditions of Sale, all descriptions of items in the Catalog, and all matters incorporated herein by reference, and agrees to be fully bound thereby.
Section 1
The Parties1.1 RR Auction and Auction
This Auction is presented by RR Auction, a d/b/a/ of R&R Auction Company of Massachusetts, LLC, as identified with the applicable licensing information on the title page of the Catalog or on the www.RRauction.com Internet site. The Auction is conducted under these Conditions of Sale. Announcements and corrections from the podium at live auctions and those made through the Conditions of Sale appearing on the Internet at RRauction.com supersede those in the printed Catalog.
1.2
Bidder
Bidder shall mean the original Bidder on the property offered for sale by RR Auction and not any subsequent owner or other person who may acquire or have acquired an interest therein. If Bidder is an agent, the agency must be disclosed in writing to RR Auction prior to the time of sale, otherwise the benefits of the warranty shall be limited to the agent and not transferable to the undisclosed principal.
The rights granted to Bidder under these Conditions of Sale are personal and may not be assigned or transferred to any other person or entity, whether by operation of law or otherwise without the express written assent of RR Auction. Bidder may not transfer, assign, or otherwise convey these Conditions of Sale or any of the rights herein, and such purported transfer, assignment, or conveyance shall be null and void. No third party may rely on any benefit or right conferred on any Bidder by these Conditions of Sale, and no third party is intended as a beneficiary of these Conditions of Sale.
Bids will not be accepted from minor persons under eighteen (18) years of age without a parent or legal guardian’s written consent containing an acknowledgment of the Conditions of Sale herein and indicating their agreement to be bound thereby on behalf of the Bidder.
All Bidders must meet RR Auction’s qualifications to bid. Any Bidder who is not a client in good standing of RR Auction may be disqualified at RR Auction’s sole option and will not be awarded lots. Such determination may be made by RR Auction in its sole and unlimited discretion, at any time prior to, during, or even after the close of the Auction. RR Auction reserves the right to exclude any person from the Auction.
If an entity places a bid, then the person executing the bid on behalf of the entity agrees to personally guarantee payment for any successful bid and agrees to be bound by these Conditions of Sale in addition to company for whom the Bidder is acting
By accepting the Conditions of Sale, Bidder personally and unconditionally guarantees payment.
Section 2 Bidding Privileges
2.1 In order to place bids, Bidders who have not established an account with RR Auction must either furnish satisfactory credit information (including two collectibles-related business references) or supply additional information if requested, well in advance of the Auction. Bidders who are not members of RRAuction.com should pre-register before the close of the Auction to allow adequate time to contact references. Privileges will be granted at the sole discretion of RR Auction. Additionally, Bidders who have not previously established credit or who wish to bid in excess of their established credit history may be required to provide a cash deposit prior to RR Auction’s acceptance of a bid. Check writing privileges and immediate delivery of merchandise may also be determined by pre-approval of credit based on a combination of criteria: RRAuction.com history, related industry references, bank verification, a credit bureau report and/or a personal guarantee for a corporate or partnership entity in advance of the Auction venue.
2.2 Bidder providing any false or misleading information provided in connection with the registration shall be a material breach of the Conditions of Sale and in addition to any other remedies at law shall excuse RR Auction from performance under these Conditions of Sale, including the right to any refund.
2.2 Bidding privileges may be revoked without notice, for any reason, at the sole discretion of RR Auction .
Section 3
Buyer’s Premium
3.1 The Bidder acknowledges and agrees that a 25% buyer’s premium will be added to the hammer price on all individual lots sold in timed and live Auctions. . For payment other than by cash, delivery will not be made unless and until full payment has been received by RR Auction, i.e., check or wired funds have fully cleared. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, signed by RR Auction, payment in full is due within thirteen (13) calendar days of the Auction or within twelve (12) calendar days of the invoice date, whichever is earlier. Bidder’s failure to pay any payment in full when due required shall constitute a material breach, and in addition to other damages available under contract or law, at RR Auction’s election, RR Auction may cancel the sale and require full premium still be due along with interest at 1.5% per month from the date of breach, or at the maximum legally allowable rate.
Section 4
Bidding
4.1 Each Bidder’s determination of its bid should be based upon its own examination of the item(s) and independent investigation, rather than the any reliance as to what is represented in the Catalog, online or elsewhere. Bidder affirms that it regards any statements made by RR Auction concerning the item as solely opinion and that Bidder is making its own inspection and independent evaluation of the goods, and is not relying upon any description or statements by RR Auction (including as to quality, authenticity, provenance, ownership, liens existing, on goods legality, or value) in making its determination to bid on or purchase an item. In any purchase or sale, the value of the item(s) is determined by the price. THE BIDDER HEREBY ASSUMES ALL RISKS CONCERNING ANY AND ALL PURCHASES TO THE FULLEST EXTENT UNDER APPLICABLE LAW.
4.2 RR AUCTION IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ERRORS IN BIDDING. A Bidder should make certain to bid on the correct lot and that the bid is the maximum (plus the Buyer’s Premium) that the Bidder is willing and able to pay. Since other Bidders (by mail, facsimile, online, and in person) will be present, and since a reoffering could damage the momentum of the sale, once the hammer has fallen and RR Auction has announced the winning Bidder, such Bidder is unconditionally bound to pay for the lot, even if the Bidder has made a mistake.
4.3 All prospective Bidders who examine lots in person prior to the sale shall personally assume all responsibility for any damage they cause in so doing. RR Auction shall have sole discretion in determining the value of the damage caused, which shall be promptly paid by the prospective Bidder.
4.4 Title to any lot remains with Consignor, any secured party of the Consignor, or assignee of Consignor, as the case may be, until the lot is paid for in full by Bidder and Bidder has fully satisfied any outstanding financial obligations to RR Auction (including as it concerns aby other lots). RR Auction reserves the right to require payment in full before delivering any lot to the successful Bidder.
4.5 It is the Bidder’s responsibility and obligation to have the lots fully insured while in their possession. Bidder assumes any and all risk of loss upon the earlier of shipment to Bidder or in Bidder’s possession.
4.6 Bidder grants to RR Auction or its assigns the right to offset any sums due, or found to be due by RR Auction, and to make such offset from any past, subsequent or future consignment, or items acquired by Bidder in possession or control of RR Auction or from any sums due to Bidder by RR Auction. Bidder fur-
ther grants RR Auction a lien consisting of a senior security interest (or purchase money security interest to the extent applicable) in such sums or items to the fullest extent applicable, authorizes RR Auction to file documents concerning the interest, and Bidder agrees to execute any further documents as may be reasonably necessary to grant RR Auction such security interest. Bidder agrees that RR Auction and its assigns shall be a secured party with respect to items bought by Bidder and in the possession of RR Auction, to the extent of the maximum indebtedness, plus all accrued fees and expenses, until the indebtedness is paid.
4.7 By bidding in this sale, Bidder personally and unconditionally guarantees payment. The authorized representative of any corporate Bidder who is present at the sale shall provide RR Auction or its agent, prior to the commencement of the bidding (or at the time of registration), with a statement signed by a principal, director or officer that they he or she personally and unconditionally guarantees any payment due RR Auction.
4.8 RR Auction may at its sole and absolute discretion, make loans or advances to Consignors and/or prospective Bidders.
Section 5 Bidding Options
5.1 Non-Internet bids (including but not limited to in-person, facsimile, phone and mail bids) are treated similarly to floor bids in that they must be on-increment. Any in-person, facsimile, phone, or mail bids that do not conform to a full increment will be rounded up or down to the nearest full increment and this revised amount will be considered Bidder’s high bid.
5.2 When identical bids are submitted, preference is given to the first received. To ensure the greatest accuracy, written bids should be entered on the standard printed bid sheet and be received at RR Auction’s place of business at least twenty-four (24) hours before the Auction start. RR Auction is not responsible for executing mail bids or facsimile bids received on or after the day the first lot is sold, nor Internet bids submitted after the published closing time; nor is RR Auction responsible for proper execution of bids submitted by telephone, mail, facsimile, e-mail, Internet, or in person once the Auction begins.
5.3 In all Auctions, bids on an item must raise the current high bid by at least 10%, or as specified on a per-Auction basis. Bids will be accepted in whole dollar amounts only. No “buy” or “unlimited” bids will be accepted. In a live sale, bids on an item can change at the discretion of RR Auction.
5.4 RR Auction reserves the right to accept or decline any bid. Bids must be for an entire lot and each lot constitutes a separate sale. All bids are per lot unless otherwise announced. Live auction lots will be sold in their numbered sequence unless RR Auction directs otherwise. It is unlawful and illegal for Bidders to collude, pool, or agree with another Bidder to pay less than the fair value for lot(s). For live auctions, RR Auction will have final discretion in the event that any dispute should arise between Bidders. RR Auction will determine the successful Bidder, cancel the sale, or re-offer and resell the lot or lots in dispute. RR Auction will have final discretion to resolve any disputes arising after the sale and in online auctions. If any dispute arises, RR Auction’s sale record is conclusive.
Section 6 Payment
6.1 Subject to fulfillment of all of the Conditions of Sale set forth herein, upon the sooner of (1) the passing of title to the offered lot pursuant to these Conditions of Sale, or (2) possession of the offered lot by the Bidder, Bidder thereupon (a) assumes full risk and responsibility (including without limitation, liability for or damage to frames or glass covering prints, paintings, photos, or other works), and (b) will immediately pay the full purchase price or such part as RR Auction may require. In addition to other remedies available to RR Auction by law, RR Auction reserves the right to impose from the date of sale a late charge of 1.5% per month of the total purchase price if payment is not made in accordance with the conditions set forth herein. All property must be removed from RR Auction’s premises by the Bidder at his/her expense not later than sixty (60) business days following its sale and, if it is not so removed, RR Auction may send the purchased property to a public warehouse for the account, at the risk and expense of the Bidder.
6.2 Payment is due upon closing of the Auction session, or upon presentment of an invoice. RR Auction reserves the right to void an invoice if payment in full is not received within thirteen (13) calendar days of the Auction or within twelve (12) calendar days of the invoice date. In cases of nonpayment, RR Auction’s election to void a sale does not relieve the Bidder from their obligation to pay RR Auction its fees (seller’s and Buyer’s Premium) on the lot and any other damages pertaining to the lot.
6.3 All sales for total invoices greater than $1,000 are strictly for cash in United States dollars (including U.S. currency, bank wire, cashier checks, eChecks, and bank money orders), and are subject to all reporting requirements.
6.4 All deliveries are subject to good funds; funds being received in RR Auction’s account before delivery of the Purchases; and all payments are subject to a clearing period. RR Auction reserves the right to determine if a check constitutes “good funds”: checks drawn on a U.S. bank are subject to a ten (10) calendar day hold, and ten (10) business days when drawn on an international bank. Clients with pre-arranged credit status may receive immediate credit for payments via e-Check, personal or corporate checks.
6.5 In the event that a Bidder’s payment is dishonored upon presentment(s), Bidder shall pay the maximum statutory processing fee set by applicable state law. If Bidder attempts to pay via check and the financial institution denies the transfer from Bidder’s bank account, or the payment cannot be completed using the selected funding source, Bidder agrees to complete payment.
6.7 If RR Auction refers any unpaid invoice to an attorney for collection, the Bidder agrees to pay and shall be liable for RR Auction’s attorney’s fees, court costs, and other collection costs incurred by RR Auction in addition to the invoice amount and interest the greater of 1.5% per month or at the maximum legally allowable rate from date of invoice to collection. If RR Auction assigns collection to its house counsel, such attorney’s time expended on the matter shall be compensated at a rate comparable to the hourly rate of independent attorneys.
6.8 RR Auction shall have a lien against the merchandise purchased by the Bidder (as well as to the extent it is a consignor any other monies owed or due to Bidder) to secure payment of the Auction invoice. RR Auction is further granted a lien and the right to retain possession of any other property of the Bidder then held by RR Auction or its affiliates to secure payment of any Auction invoice or any other amounts due RR Auction or affiliates from the Bidder. With respect to these lien rights, RR Auction shall have all the rights of a secured creditor, including but not limited to the right of sale. In addition, with respect to payment of the Auction invoice(s), the Bidder waives any and all rights of offset he might otherwise have against RR Auction and the consignor of the merchandise included on the invoice (the Consignor”). If a Bidder owes RR Auction or its affiliates on any account, RR Auction and its affiliates shall have the right to offset such unpaid account by any credit balance due Bidder, and it may secure by possessory lien any unpaid amount by any of the Bidder’s property in their possession.
6.9 All checks, cashiers checks, bank checks, or money orders are payable to R&R Auction Company of Massachusetts, LLC. RR Auction clients with an invoice totaling $1,000 or under will have the option to pay by VISA, Mastercard, Discover or Paypal. All Paypal payments must be sent to FinanceDepartment@ rrauction.com. Authorize.net, a third-party service provider contracted by RR Auction for processing on-line payments, charges a nonrefundable service fee of 3%, which will be added to your final invoice should you pay by credit/debit card.
Section 7 Sales Tax
RR Auction is a remote seller and we are now required to collect Sales/Use Tax from our bidders. The states that we have nexus in we will be required to collect and remit sales tax on your behalf. Each state has different requirements to meet nexus. When RR Auction has achieved a certain monetary and/or invoice threshold in each state we will apply sales tax to your total invoice. The states that are affected are: ARIZONA, ARKANSAS, CALIFORNIA, COLORADO, CONNECTICUT, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KANSAS, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, NEBRASKA, NEVADA, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, NORTH CAROLINA, OHIO, OKLAHOMA, PENNSYLVANIA,RHODE ISLAND, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, UTAH, VIRGINIA, WASHINGTON, WISCONSIN
If we have not achieved nexus in a particular state it is still your responsibility to pay sales tax on your purchases.
The sales tax rate is determined by the State, Country, and City where purchases are shipped to. If you decide to pick up your purchases at our New Hampshire location you will not be required to pay sales tax. The State of New Hampshire does not have a general sales and use tax. All purchases picked up at our Massachusetts location will be taxed at the current rate of 6.25%.
If you have a resale number please email Sue@RRAuction.com or fax to (603) 732-4288 a copy of your state resale certificate and you will be exempt from paying sales tax.
Section 8
Delivery; Shipping; and Handling Charges
Bidder is liable for shipping and handling and providing accurate information as to shipping or delivery locations and arranging for such. RR Auction is unable to combine purchases from other auctions or affiliates into one package for shipping purposes. Lots won will be shipped in a commercially reasonable time after payment in good funds for the merchandise and the shipping fees is received or credit extended, except when third-party shipment occurs. Bidder agrees that
service and handling charges related to shipping items which are not pre-paid may be charged to a credit card on file with RR Auction.
Successful international Bidders shall provide written shipping instructions, including specified Customs declarations, to RR Auction for any lots to be delivered outside of the United States. NOTE: Declaration value shall be the item’(s) hammer price and RR Auction shall use the correct harmonized code for the lot. Domestic Bidders on lots designated for third-party shipment must designate the common carrier, accept risk of loss, and prepay shipping costs.
All duties, customs, and any other import charges are the responsibility of the bidder.
Section 9
Title
Title shall not pass to the successful Bidder until all invoices of Bidder (including those pertaining to the item(s) at issue) and amounts owed to RR Auction are paid in full. It is the responsibility of the Bidder to provide adequate insurance coverage for the items once they have been delivered to a common carrier or third-party shipper.
Section 10
Rights Reserved
RR Auction reserves the right, at any time before, during or after an auction has ended to: withdraw any lot before or at the time of the Auction, cancel any bid, and/or to postpone the Auction of all or any lots or parts thereof, for any reason. RR Auction shall not be liable to any Bidder in the event of such withdrawal, cancellation, or postponement under any circumstances. RR Auction reserves the right to refuse to accept bids from anyone at any time.
Section 11
Conducting the Auction
11.1 RR Auction reserves the right to postpone the Auction or any session thereof for a reasonable period of time for any reason whatsoever, and no Bidder or prospective Bidder shall have any claim as a result thereof, including consequential damages.
11.2 RR Auction’s Discretion: RR Auction shall determine opening bids and bidding increments. RR Auction has the right in its absolute discretion to reject any bid in the event of dispute between Bidders or if RR Auction has doubt as to the validity of any bid, to advance the bidding at its absolute discretion and to determine the successful Bidder in the event of a dispute between Bidders, to continue the bidding or to reoffer and resell the lot in question. In the event of a dispute after the sale, RR Auctions record of final sale shall be conclusive. RR Auction also may reject any bid if RR Auction decides either that any bid is below the reserve of the lot or article or that an advance is insufficient. Unless otherwise announced by RR Auction at the time of sale, no lots may be divided for the purpose of sale.
11.3 Reserves
Lots may be subject to a reserve which is the confidential minimum price below which the lot will not be sold. Consignors may not bid on their own lots or property. RR Auction may, from time to time, bid on items that it does not own. RR Auction may execute bids consecutively or otherwise up to one bid increment below the reserve.
11.4 Off-Site Bidding
Bidding by telephone, facsimile, online, or absentee bidding (advance written bids submitted by mail) are offered solely as a convenience and permitted subject to advance arrangements, availability, and RR Auction’s approval which shall be exercised at RR Auction’s sole discretion. Neither RR Auction nor its agents or employees shall be held liable for the failure to execute bids or for errors relating to any transmission or execution thereof. In order to be considered for off-site bidding in any manner, Bidders must comply with all of these Conditions of Sale and the terms contained on the Registration Form.
11.5 Estimate Prices:
In addition to descriptive information, each item in the Catalog sometimes includes a price range which reflects opinion as to the price expected at auction (the “Estimate Prices”). In other instances, Estimate Prices can be obtained by calling RR Auction at (603) 732-4280. The Estimate Prices are based upon various factors including prices recently paid at auction for comparable property, condition, rarity, quality, history and provenance. Estimate Prices are prepared well in advance of the sale and subject to revision. Estimates do not include the Buyer’s Premium or sales tax (see under separate heading).
11.6 Owned or Guaranteed Property:
RR Auction generally offers property consigned by others for sale at public auction; in very limited occasion, lots are offered that are the property of RR Auction.
11.7 Before the Auction:
Bidder may attend pre-sale viewing for all of RR Auction’s auctions at no charge. All property to be auctioned is usually on view for several days prior to the sale. Bidder is encouraged to examine lots thoroughly. Bidder may also request condition reports (see below). RR Auction’s staff are available at viewings and by appointment.
11.8 Maximum Bids In All Auctions:
To maximize Bidder’s chance of winning, RR Auction strongly encourages the use of maximum bids. RR Auction will then bid for Bidder until the lot reaches Bidder’s specified maximum. Maximum bids are strictly confidential. Placing arbitrary, non-incremental bids on lots with prior maximum bids may result in these lots being sold for less than 10% above the under Bidder’s bid.
11.9 Successful Bids:
The fall of RR Auction’s hammer indicates the final bid. RR Auction will record the paddle number of the Bidder. If Bidder’s salesroom or absentee bid is successful, Bidder will be notified after the sale by mailed or emailed invoice.
11.10 Unsold Lots:
If a lot does not reach the reserve, it is bought-in. In other words, it remains unsold and is returned to the Consignor. RR Auction has the right to sell certain unsold items after the close of the Auction. Such lots shall be considered sold during the Auction and all these Terms and Conditions shall apply to such sales including but not limited to the Buyer’s Premium, return rights, and disclaimers.
11.11 Bidding in Timed Auction:
Bidder may open, monitor, and/or raise bids at any time before the close of a lot through www.rrauction.com. RR Auction offers a callback service the day of the Auction, but Bidder is responsible for supplying a correct telephone number(s) where Bidder can be reached until the Auction closes. Bidder must request this service in writing. RR Auction will make reasonable efforts to ensure that Bidders who request a callback are contacted if outbid; however, RR Auction does not guarantee this service and it is merely a courtesy and not an enforceable right. The auctioneer may also execute a bid on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve, either by entering a bid in response to salesroom, telephone or absentee bids. Under no circumstances will the auctioneer place any bid on behalf of the consignor above the reserve. The auctioneer will not specifically identify bids placed on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve.
To ensure proper registration, those Bidders intending to bid via the Internet must visit www.RRauction.com and register accordingly at least one full day prior to the actual auction. Winning bidders will be notified by RR Auction. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids.
Any Bidder may bid on any lot prior to 6 pm EST/EDT. At that time, an extended bidding period goes into effect. If Bidder has not bid on a lot before 6 pm EST/ EDT, Bidder may not bid on that lot after 6 pm EST/EDT. Only those Bidders who have placed bids on a lot before 6 pm EST/EDT will be allowed to bid on that lot after 6 pm EST/EDT. If Bidder is the only Bidder on a lot at 6 pm EST/ EDT, that lot is awarded to Bidder. During the extended bidding period, a lot will remain open only to those who bid on that lot prior to 6 pm EST/EDT. All lots WITHOUT an opening bid at 6 pm EST/EDT will remain OPEN to ALL Bidders until 7 pm EST/EDT or until they receive their first bid. These lots will close immediately upon receipt of a bid or at 7 pm EST/EDT, whichever comes first. For all lots that are active after 7 pm EST/EDT, bidding will remain open until 30 minutes pass without a bid being placed on THAT lot (the “30 Minute Rule”). The 30 Minute Rule is applied on a PER LOT BASIS; each lot in the Auction closes individually based on bidding activity after 7 pm EST/EDT. On a PER LOT BASIS, the 30 minute timer will reset each time a bid is placed after 7 pm EST/EDT. If Bidder is the high Bidder, raising Bidder’s maximum bid will NOT reset the timer. RR Auction reserves the right to close the Auction at any time at its sole discretion.
11.12 Bidding - Internet Live Auction:
Bidder may open, monitor, and/or raise bids at any time before the close of a lot through www.rrauction.com. RR Auction offers a callback service the day of the Auction, but Bidder is responsible for supplying a correct telephone number(s) where Bidder can be reached until the Auction closes. Bidder must request this service in writing. RR Auction will make reasonable efforts to ensure that Bidders who request a callback are contacted if outbid; however, RR Auction does not guarantee this service and it is merely a courtesy and not an enforceable right.
To ensure proper registration, those Bidders intending to bid via the Internet must visit www.RRauction.com and register accordingly at least one full day prior to the actual auction. Winning bidders will be notified by RR Auction. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including
but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids.
During live internet or live auction, property is auctioned in consecutive numerical order, as it appears in the catalog. The auctioneer will accept bids from those present in the salesroom or absentee bidders participating by telephone, internet or by written bid left with RR Auction in advance of the auction. The auctioneer may also execute a bid or bids (successively or otherwise) on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve, either by entering a bid in response to salesroom, telephone or absentee bids. Under no circumstances will the auctioneer place any bid on behalf of the consignor above the reserve. The auctioneer will not specifically identify bids placed on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve. All auctions for lots are with reserve unless specifically stated otherwise.
During live Auctions, internet bids can be placed in real time through one or more of the following Third Party services: www.liveauctioneers.com, www.invaluable. com and www.icollector.com. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids. RR Auction treats any third-party site bids as floor or telephone bids. Floor bids and telephone bids are always considered first over third party sites bids, and floor bids are considered earlier than telephone bids. All RR Auction lots purchased through the third-party sites carry an additional Buyer’s Premium.
11.13 Miscellaneous:
Agreements between Bidders and Consignors to effectuate a non-sale of an item at Auction, inhibit bidding on a consigned item to enter into a private sale agreement for said item, or to utilize RR Auction’s Auction to obtain sales for non-selling consigned items subsequent to the Auction, are strictly prohibited. If a subsequent sale of a previously consigned item occurs in violation of this provision, RR Auction reserves the right to charge Bidder the applicable Buyer’s Premium and Consignor a Seller’s Commission as determined for each auction venue and by the terms of the seller’s agreement.
Acceptance of these Terms and Conditions qualifies Bidder as a client who has consented to be contacted by RR Auction in the future. In conformity with ”donot-call” regulations promulgated by the Federal or State regulatory agencies, participation by the Bidder is affirmative consent to being contacted at the phone number shown in his application and this consent shall remain in effect until it is revoked in writing. RR Auction may from time to time contact Bidder concerning sale, purchase, and auction opportunities available.
11.14 Rules of Construction: RR Auction presents properties in a number of collectible fields, and as such, specific venues have promulgated supplemental Terms and Conditions. Nothing herein shall be construed to waive the general Conditions of Sale by these additional rules and shall be construed to give force and effect to the rules in their entirety.
Section 12
RR Auction’s Remedies
Failure of the Bidder to comply with any of these Conditions of Sale or the terms of the Registration Form is an event of material breach or default. In such event, RR Auction may, in addition to any other available remedies specifically including the right to hold the defaulting Bidder liable for the Purchase Price or to charge and collect from the defaulting Bidder’s credit or debit accounts as provided for elsewhere herein: (a) cancel the sale, retaining any payment made by the Bidder as damages (the Bidder understands and acknowledges that RR Auction will be substantially damaged should such default occur, and that damages under subpart (a) are necessary to compensate RR Auction for such damages); (b) resell the property without reserve at public auction or privately; (c) charge the Bidder interest on the Purchase Price at the rate of one and one-half percent (1.5%) per month or the highest allowable interest rate; (d) take any other action that RR Auction, in its sole discretion, deems necessary or appropriate to preserve and protect RR Auction’s rights and remedies. Should RR Auction resell the property, the original defaulting Bidder shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price and all costs and expenses associated there with, including but not limited to warehousing, sales-related expenses, reasonable attorney fees and court costs, commissions, incidental damages and any other charges due hereunder which were not collected or collectable. In the event that such Bidder is the successful Bidder on more than one lot and pays less than the purchase price for the total lots purchased, RR Auction shall apply the payment received to such lot or lots that RR Auction, in its sole discretion, deems appropriate. If RR Auction does not exercise such discretion, the lots to which the payment shall be applied will be in descending order from the highest purchase price to the lowest. Any Bidder failing to comply with these Conditions of Sale shall be deemed to have granted RR Auction a security interest in, and RR Auction may retain as collateral such security for such Bidder’s obligations to RR Auction, any Bidder’s property in RR Auction’s possession or to which title has not yet passed to Bidder. RR Auction shall have the benefit of all rights of a secured party under the Uniform Commercial Code (U.C.C.) as adopted by the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Section 13 Warranties
13.1 RR Auction does not provide any warranties to Bidders, whether expressed or implied, beyond those expressly provided in these Conditions of Sale. All property and lots are sold ”as is” and “where is”. By way of illustration rather than limitation, neither RR Auction nor the Consignor makes any representation or warranty, expressed or implied, as to merchantability or fitness for intended use, condition of the property (including any condition report), correctness of description, origin, measurement, quality, rarity, importance, exhibition, relevance, attribution, source, provenance, date, authorship, condition, culture, genuineness, value, or period of the property. Additionally, neither RR Auction nor the Consignor makes any representation or warranty, expressed or implied, as to whether the Bidder acquires rights in copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property (including exhibition or reproduction rights) related to the item, or whether the property is subject to any limitations or other rights. RR Auction does not make any representation or warranty as to title.
13.2 All descriptions, photographs, illustrations, and terminology including but not limited to words describing condition (including any condition reports requested by Bidder, see also Terminology), authorship, period, culture, source, origin, measurement, quality, rarity, provenance, importance, exhibition, and relevance, used in the Catalog, bill of sale, invoice, or anywhere else, represent a good faith effort made by RR Auction to fairly represent the lots and property offered for sale as to origin, date, condition, and other information contained therein; they are statements of opinion only. They are not representations or warranties and Bidder agrees and acknowledges that he or she shall not rely on them in determining whether or not to bid or for what price. Price estimates (which are determined well in advance of the Auction and are therefore subject to revision) and condition reports are provided solely as a convenience to Bidders and are not intended nor shall they be relied on by Bidders as statements, representations or warranties of actual value or predictions of final bid prices.
13.3 Bidders are accorded the opportunity to inspect the lots and to otherwise satisfy themselves as to the nature and sufficiency of each lot prior to bidding, and RR Auction urges Bidders to avail themselves accordingly.
13.4 All lots sold by RR Auction are accompanied by an Auction Certificate (“AC”). On any lot presented with an AC issued by RR Auction, the certification is only as to its attribution to the person or entity described or to the lot’s usage and only as explicitly stated therein (the “AC”), to the exclusion of any other warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to those pursuant to the Uniform Commercial Code. The AC inures only to the original Bidder (as shown in RR Auction’s records). Bidder may not transfer, assign, or otherwise convey the AC and such purported transfer, assignment, or conveyance shall be null and void.
Section 14
Firearms
RR Auction complies with all Federal and State rules and regulations relating to the purchasing, registration and shipping of firearms. A Bidder is required to provide appropriate documents and the payment of associated fees, if any. Bidder is responsible for providing a shipping address that is suitable for the receipt of a firearm.
Section 15
Unauthorized Statements
Under no circumstances is any employee, agent or representative of RR Auction authorized by RR Auction to modify, amend, waive or contradict any of these Conditions of Sale, any term or condition set forth on a registration form, any warranty or limitation or exclusion of warranty, any term or condition in either the Registration Form or these Terms and Conditions regarding payment requirements, including but not limited to due date, manner of payment, and what constitutes payment in full, or any other term or condition contained in any documents issued by RR Auction unless such modification, amendment, waiver or contradiction is contained in a writing signed by all parties. Any statements, oral or written, made by employees, agents or representatives of RR Auction to Bidder, including statements regarding specific lots, even if such employee, agent or representative represents that such statement is authorized, unless reduced to a writing signed Bidder and by an authorized officer of RR Auction by all parties, are statements of personal opinion only and are not binding on RR Auction, and under no circumstances shall be relied upon by Bidder as a statement, representation or warranty of RR Auction.
Section 16
Bidder’s Remedies
16.1 Except as stated expressly herein, Bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy related to or pertaining to items it bids upon, views, or purchases from RR Auc-
tion, and any claims by Bidder related to authenticity, ownership, condition, title or value, shall be against Consignor only.
16.2 This section sets forth the sole and exclusive remedies of Bidder as against RR Auction (inclusive of its affiliates, officers, managers, employees or agents), or in any way arising out of, related to, or in connection with these Conditions of Sale, , and is expressly in lieu of any other rights or remedies which might be available to Bidder by law. Time is of the essence with respect to these procedures.
16.3
Title to Items
The Bidder hereby accepts the benefit of the Consignor’s warranty of title and any other representations and warranties made by the Consignor for the Bidder’s benefit. In the event that Bidder demonstrates in writing, satisfactory to the sole discretion of RR Auction, that there was a breach of the Consignor’s warranty of title concerning a lot purchased by Bidder, RR Auction may make demand upon the Consignor to pay to Bidder the Purchase Price (including any premiums, taxes, or other amounts paid or due to RR Auction). Should the Consignor not pay the Purchase Price to Bidder within thirty days after such demand (if any made), RR Auction may disclose the identity of the Consignor to Bidder and may assign to Bidder all or some of RR Auction’s rights against the Consignor with respect to such lot or property. Upon such disclosure and/or assignment, all responsibility and liability of RR Auction, if any, with respect to said lot or item shall automatically terminate related to or arising from these Conditions of Sale or such transaction operating as a complete waiver and general release by Bidder as to RR Auction and its agents, contractors, and affiliates, as to any and all claims concerning or related to the item, if any . RR Auction shall be entitled to retain the premiums and other amounts paid to RR Auction by Consignor only. The rights and remedies provided herein are for the original Bidder only and they may not be assigned or relied upon by any transferee or assignee under any circumstances.
16.4 Authenticity Challenge Process
(1) If Bidder wishes to dispute or challenge the Authenticity of the lot or item (including asserting that it is incorrect), Bidder must adhere to the following procedure: Within 30 days of the Auction Date, Bidder must present written evidence to RR Auction, that the lot is not authentic as determined by a known expert in the field (and one recognized by RR Auction within its discretion) and send the physical item or lot at issue to RR Auction along with all evidence relied upon by Bidder for contesting the Authenticity. (“Authenticity Challenge Process”) “Authenticity” shall mean a gross discrepancy in the between the description, genuiness, or attribution of the item as represented by RR Auction in the Catalog or at the auction, and the item. If RR Auction concurs that the lot is not Authentic as was represented (it is sole discretion), Bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy as against RR Auction (inclusive of its affiliates, agents, employees, and contractors) shall be a refund of the purchase price of the subject item paid by Bidder, with no other costs, liabilities or amounts recoverable by Bidder. If RR Auction does not agree with the assertion by Bidder, then the Parties shall follow the dispute resolution procedures of these Conditions of Sale. Strict adherence to the Authenticity Challenge Process is a condition of standing for Bidder to initiate suit or claim.
(2) So long as Bidder has complied with the Authenticity Challenge Process, any claim, suit or action, by Bidder concerning an AC or Certification of Authenticity, or related to the authenticity of the item must, without any exception, be brought within one (1) year of Auction Date and is subject to the other limitations and conditions stated in the Conditions of Sale.
16.5 Other Issues. Any dispute or claim by Bidder against RR Auction (or its affiliates, directors, employees, officers, agents, or contractors)) other than Authenticity, concerning any item or lot bid upon, or purchased, including value, title, condition, bidding process, or description must be asserted (if at all) in the following manner:
(1) If the description of any lot in the Catalog is materially or grossly incorrect (e.g., gross cataloging error), or there is any other gross material issue pertaining to the item or lot, the item or lot may be returned if returned within five (5) calendar days of receipt, and received by RR Auction no later than twenty-one (21) calendar days after the Auction Date with explanation in writing.. If there is any discrepancy between the description in the Catalog and a certificate of auction, then the description in the certificate of auction (“Lot Challenge Process”). This paragraph shall constitute Bidder’s sole right with respect to the return of items, and no refunds shall be given for any items not returned to and received by RR Auction within the period of time stated herein or not materially or grossly in deviation from the description. Such a refund is subject to RR Auction’s sole discretionary review, and any request for refund must be made concurrently with returning the physical item or lot to RR Auction. Any item not returned within said frame will constitute acceptance of the item and a waiver and release of
any and all claims by Bidder pertaining to the item other than with respect to authenticity; and
(2) Provided that the Bidder has engaged in the Lot Challenge Process, any claim concerning such must be brought no later than one (1) year of the Auction Date for the item or lot at issue and is subject to the other limitations and conditions stated in the Conditions of Sale.
NO RETURN OR REFUND OF ANY AUCTION LOT WILL BE CONSIDERED OR PROVIDED EXCEPT AS PROVIDED IN THESE CONDITIONS OF SALE AND BIDDERS OR AS MAY BE REQUIRED BY LAW. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH SUCH SHALL BE A COMPLETE DEFENSE TO ANY CLAIMS BY BIDDER RELATED TO THE CONDITIONS OF SALE, ANY AUCTION OR BID.
16.6 LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. For any and all claims by Bidder arising out of or related to this Agreement, Bidder’s viewing, bid, or purchase of items, or any agreement between the Parties, or otherwise, Bidder agrees that to the fullest extent such can be limited under the law, Bidder shall have no right to recover and hereby waives any and all rights to recover from against RR Auction or its affiliates, directors, employees, officers, agents, or contractors, consequential or indirect damages, lost profits damages, punitive, exemplary, statutory (or multiplier damages), physical or emotional distress damages, general or special damages of any kind (beyond amounts actually paid by Bidder for item(s) at issue), and in the event of recovery of any damages whatsoever, such shall be limited by the amounts actually paid by Bidder to RR Auction for the item(s) at issue in such claim, or if no money was paid to RR Auction by Bidder for items at issue, or there items are at issue, the amount of $150.00.
Section 17
RR Auction’s Additional Services
For Bidders who do not remove purchased property from RR Auction’s premises, RR Auction, in its sole discretion and solely as a service and accommodation to Bidders, may arrange to have purchased lots packed, insured and forwarded at the sole request, expense, and risk of Bidder. RR Auction assumes no and disclaims all responsibility and liability for acts or omissions in such packing or shipping by RR Auction or other packers and carriers, whether or not recommended by RR Auction. RR Auction assumes no and disclaims all responsibility and liability for damage to frames, glass or other breakable items. Where RR Auction arranges and bills for such services via invoice, RR Auction will include an administration charge.
Section 18
Headings
Headings are for convenience only and shall not be used to interpret the substantive sections to which they refer.
Section 19
Entire Agreement
Except to the extent Bidder is also a consignor (in which case the terms of the consignment agreement shall also govern), these Conditions of Sale constitute the entire agreement between the Parties together with the terms and conditions contained in the auction Registration Form. They may not be amended, modified or superseded except in a signed writing executed by all parties. No oral or written statement by anyone employed by RR Auction or acting as agent or representative of RR Auction may amend, modify, waive or supersede the terms herein unless such amendment, waiver or modification is contained in a writing signed by all parties.
If any section of these Conditions of Sale or any term or provision of any section is held to be invalid, void, or unenforceable by any court or arbitrator of competent jurisdiction, the remaining parts of the agreement and remainder of the sections or terms and provisions of the section and all sections shall continue in full force and effect without being impaired or invalidated in any way.
Section 20
Governing Law and Enforcement
20.1 The Parties agree that all agreements between the Parties including but not limited to these Conditions of Sale are entered into in Boston, Massachusetts, no matter where Bidder is situated and no matter by what means or where Bidder was informed of the Auction and regardless of whether catalogs, materials, or other communications were received by Bidder in another location.
20.2 The Parties agree that these Conditions of Sale, any other related agreement(s), along with all claims between the Parties, including those arising out of or related to such are governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Mas-
sachusetts, without regard for its conflict of laws principles. The Parties agree that any dispute between the Parties, including but not limited to those related to or arising out of these Conditions of Sale, or related to or arising out of any other related agreement(s) shall be submitted to confidential binding arbitration (the ”Arbitration”) before a single Arbitrator of the American Arbitration Association (the “AAA”) The Parties agree that the Arbitration shall be conducted pursuant to the commercial rules of the AAA in Boston, Massachusetts, unless the Consumer Arbitration Rules apply, in which case, such rules and venue will govern. In the event that the Parties cannot agree on the selection of the Arbitrator, then the Arbitrator shall be selected by the AAA. The prevailing Party in the Arbitration shall also recover all of its related fees and costs, whether before or after the formal institution of the Arbitration, including but not limited to its reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs, if RR Auction prevails, such recovery, in addition to all remedies available at agreement or law, shall include the Buyer’s Premium as defined in these Conditions of Sale. Federal arbitration law, including the Federal Arbitration Act apply to this agreement to arbitrate and its related provisions. The arbitration and all related proceedings shall be held strictly confidential and all documents and discovery shall be held confidential and not used, published or disclosed publically or to anyone outside the Parties or expert consultants or counsel who shall agree to hold such confidential.
20.3 The Parties consent to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as exclusive jurisdiction and venue for all claims between the Parties except as provided specifically herein and may seek confirmation of the decision in the Arbitration pursuant to the Federal Arbitration Act in any Court of competent jurisdiction, including the courts of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts. To the extent such is necessary under the law, RR Auction may enforce the Arbitration award against Bidder and any related Party in any court of competent jurisdiction. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as RR Auction consenting to jurisdiction or venue in any location outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
THE PARTIES MAY NOT BRING CLAIMS AGAINST EACH OTHER AS A CLASS OR CLASS MEMBER IN ANY CLAIMED CLASS, OR IN A REPRESENTATIVE ACTION UNLESS OTHERWISE AGREED. UNLESS OTHERWISE AGREED, THE CLAIMS AGAINST EACH OF THE OTHER CANNOT BE CONSOLIDATED OR JOINED WITH MORE THAN ONE ADDITIONAL PERSON OR ENTITIES’ CLAIMS. NO INJUNCTIVE OR DECLATORY RELIEF SOUGHT BY BIDDER IF ANY, CAN AFFECT OR BE ORDERED TO AFFECT ANY OTHER BIDDERS OR PERSONS.
20.4 Except as provided specifically in these Conditions of Sale in Bidder’s Remedies against RR Auction (along with its affiliates, directors, agents, officers, employees, and contractors) for any dispute, claim, cause of action related to or arising out of these Conditions of Sale or any other related agreement(s), brought by Bidder must be brought within the earlier of the Auction Date as it pertains to the item(s) at issue or no later than one (1) year of the acts, omissions or circumstances occurred giving rise to the alleged claim, without exception. This provision is intended as a full, complete and absolute bar to and release of any claims by Bidder initiated after one (1) year of such acts, omissions or circumstances. The Parties agree further that these waiver provisions are intended to be binding in the event of any dispute, specifically including but not limited to third party claims and cross-actions brought by Bidder. These provisions are consideration for the execution of these Conditions of Sale.
20.5 To the fullest extent under applicable law and except as specifically stated herein Bidder hereby holds harmless, releases and discharges RR Auction and its agents, officer’s directors, affiliates, successors, and assigns from any and all claims, liabilities, obligations, promises, agreements, damages, causes of action, suits, demands, losses, debts, and expenses of any nature whatsoever, known or unknown, suspected or unsuspected existing prior to these Conditions of Sale. Bidder agrees to the Conditions of Sale and upon each instance that Bidder participates in any auction, bids, or otherwise agrees to such terms and reaffirms this release as of the date of so participating or agreeing unless Bidder otherwise provides clear written notice to RR Auction prior to so bidding.
20.6 The Bidder hereby agrees that RR Auction shall be entitled to present these Conditions of Sale to a court in any jurisdiction other than set forth in this paragraph as conclusive evidence of the Parties agreement, and the Parties further agree that the court shall immediately dismiss any action filed in such jurisdiction.
20.7 Liquidated Damages for Specific Breaches
In the event that Bidder provides false information in connection with registering for bidding, fails to correct or update information or breaches the Conditions of Sale by failing to pay the purchase price when due after becoming the winning bidder, as liquidated damages associated with such breaches, R&R may obtain from Bidder the greater of (1) 150% the reserve of the item (if any); (2) the amount bidder bid; or (3), the full amount that bidder would have otherwise paid. Bidder will also be liable for an additional 20% of such amount to account for additional administrative costs, shipping, additional advertising, and other dam-
ages and liabilities fees that are difficult to calculate on an item-by-item basis.
20.8 Indemnity. Bidder agrees to defend, indemnify, hold harmless RR Auction (along with its officers, directors, agents, contractors, and affiliates) from and against any and all claims, costs, fees, damages, and liabilities arising out of or related to these Conditions of Sale, view of items, or lots, bidding, or participation in any auction by RR Auction, and/or or in any way connected to any item you viewed, bid upon or purchased through RR Auction.
Section 21: State-by-State Law Issues
This Auction is being conducted in and the sale shall take place in the State of Massachusetts. Notwithstanding, the foregoing, should these terms and conditions violate the law of any State should that state’s law be found to govern, or any provision herein determined to be invalid, the clause itself and the remainder of the Agreement shall be valid to the fullest extent allowed. Also, to the extent other states law apply to any transaction arising out of the Agreement (without admitting such), RR Auction states:
For Residents of California:
SALE OF AUTOGRAPHED COLLECTIBLES: AS REQUIRED BY LAW, A DEALER WHO SELLS TO A CONSUMER ANY COLLECTIBLE DESCRIBED AS BEING AUTOGRAPHED MUST PROVIDE A WRITTEN EXPRESS WARRANTY AT THE TIME OF SALE. THIS DEALER MAY BE SURETY BONDED OR OTHERWISE INSURED TO ENSURE THE AUTHENTICITY OF ANY AUTOGRAPHED COLLECTIBLE SOLD BY THIS DEALER.
A written express warranty is provided with each autographed collectible, as required by law. This dealer may be surety bonded or otherwise insured to ensure the authenticity of any autographed collectible sold by this dealer.
Section 22
Glossary of Condition terms
Information provided to prospective Bidders with respect of any lot, including any pre-sale estimate, whether written or oral, and information in any catalogue, condition or other report, commentary or valuation, is not a representation of fact but rather a statement of opinion held by RR Auction.
Use of the following terms constitutes an opinion as follows:
VERY FINE describes an item believed to be in virtually flawless condition, and is used sparingly for items of exceptionally attractive appearance.
FINE is the most common statement of condition, and applies to most items that we offer. It describes items that we believe to show expected handling wear, generally acceptable random flaws (such as light creases, small bends, etc.), and an overall appearance that is pleasing to the majority of collectors.
VERY GOOD describes an item that we believe exhibits more moderate flaws (such as toning, light staining, professional reinforcements or repairs, etc.). Most collectors would be comfortable with items in very good condition, and this would be the expected condition for many formats (early presidential documents, for example).
GOOD describes an item which we believe to have obvious visible flaws, including heavy wear, missing portions, or repairs that affect appearance; generally items in this condition are offered only if an item is otherwise believed to be exceedingly rare or important.
Bidder may call and request further details and information about RR Auction’s opinions concerning any item via phone or email which shall provided in RR Auction’s discretion.
Certificate of Auction, Certificate of Authenticity and Goods Acquired:
Bidder warrants that Bidder (and its agents, assigns, successors, and affiliates) shall not purposely deface, destroy, dismember, cut-up into parts the item or Lot purchased at auction from RR Auction and in the event such shall occur whether purposefully or accidently, Bidder (and its agents, assigns, successors, and affiliates) shall refrain from advertising, promoting, or marketing the item as having been purchased from RR Auction and shall in no event display, expressly claim, or imply that the item was certified or auctioned in such state by RR Auction. As liquidated damages for such breach, Bidder agrees to be liable to RR Auction for the greater of the amount of three (3) times the hammer price of the item along with all other fees and costs as otherwise provided in this Terms of Sale.
