Remarkable Rarities
Live Sale February 19, 2015 at 1:00 pm EST | Cambridge, Massachusetts
How to participate Bid in person
Thursday, February 19 Attend the auction and bid live. The auction will be held at the Royal Sonesta Boston, 40 Edwin Land Boulevard, Cambridge, MA 02142, and starts promptly at 1:00 pm EST.
Bid by internet
Thursday, February 12 - Wednesday, February 18 Visit www.RRAuction.com to place bids on lots before the live auction begins. Pre-live auction bidding will close at 12:00 pm EST, February 18. Thursday, February 19 Live bidding begins at www.RRAuction.com at 1:00 pm EST.
Bid by phone
Please call (603) 732-4280 today to schedule a live auction phone call. You may also call to leave absentee bids if unable to attend.
Bid by email
You can email your bids to Sue Recks (Sue@RRAuction.com). Please list lot numbers and maximum bids. Include your name, address, and phone number as well as a statement confirming that you accept the terms and conditions of the auction.
Questions
If you have any questions please call (603) 732-4280.
REMARKABLE RARITIES
February brings exciting opportunities as we continue with our monthly live auctions, in addition to our long-time monthly internet sales. Hosted during a month dedicated to America’s presidents, our second live gaveled auction of 2015 celebrates several of our most beloved leaders, including JFK, FDR, and Ike.
Auction Highlights LOT 2027 Spectacular dual-signed JFK and RFK Oval Office image LOT 2028 (pictured here) JFK’s senior portrait inscribed to Lem Billings LOT 2040 Unpublished candids of Mrs. Kennedy smoking and JFK shirtless LOT 2047 Jackie pours her heart into building a Virginian retreat for Jack
Specialists John Reznikoff, University Archives PSA/DNA Authentication Services
Contributors Bob Eaton CEO, Acquisitions bob.eaton@rrauction.com
Jon Siefken Consignment Director jon.siefken@RRAuction.com
Evan Mugford Writer evan.mugford@rrauction.com
Carla Eaton Owner, Auctioneer carla.eaton@rrauction.com
Kelly Daniell Consignment Representative kelly.daniell@rrauction.com
Adam Karr Shipping Supervisor shipping@rrauction.com
Bobby Livingston Executive Vice President, Public Relations bobby.livingston@rrauction.com
Linda Hernandez Consignor Customer Service linda.hernandez@rrauction.com
Joe Doucette Inventory Executive joe.doucette@rrauction.com
Erika Rosenfeld Managing Editor erika.rosenfeld@rrauction.com
Sue Recks Customer Service Executive sue.recks@rrauction.com
Tricia Eaton Specialty Editor, Handwriting Expert tricia.eaton@rrauction.com
Sarina Carlo Creative Director sarina.carlo@rrauction.com
Bill White Handwriting Expert bill.white@rrauction.com
Annie Nichols Junior Art Director annie.nichols@rrauction.com
Dan McCarthy Writer, Researcher dan.mccarthy@rrauction.com
Robert S. Eaton Sr. 1940–2001
Bobby Eaton Vice President of Operations Auctioneer, MA/Lic. #3214 bobby.eaton@rrauction.com Mandy Eaton-Casey Finance Manager amanda.casey@rrauction.com Elizebeth Otto Consignment Director elizebeth.otto@rrauction.com
contents LOT 2004 Abraham Lincoln Lock of Hair
03 Presidents & First Ladies 08 Thomas Jefferson 09
Andrew Jackson
10 Abraham Lincoln 13 U. S. Grant 13 Theodore Roosevelt
LOT 2012 FDR’s Presidential Limousine Lap Robe
14 Herbert Hoover 16 Franklin D. Roosevelt 23 Harry Truman 24 Dwight D. Eisenhower 31 John F. Kennedy & Family LOT 2088 Albert Einstein Autograph Letter Signed
59 Lyndon B. Johnson 60 Kennedy Assassination 64 English Royalty 66 Military 68 Inventors & Industrialists 75 Scientific Minds
LOT 2096 Martin Luther King, Jr Typed Letter Signed
80 Activists 85 Art & Literature 102 Classic Music 106 Sports
Presidents & First Ladies
Presidential Collection
Exquisite ensemble featuring ideal Washington, Adams, Jefferson, & Lincoln pieces
2001 Presidential Collection Estimate $40,000 - 60,000
Remarkable and comprehensive autograph collection featuring nearly all American presidents, entirely complete from George Washington to George Bush, comprised of a variety of formats including signatures, documents, letters, free franks, and photos, with all but the JFK and LBJ attractively framed and ready for display. The highlights of this collection are certainly the superior, bold examples of George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and John F. Kennedy.
4 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Aside from perhaps a complete collection of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence, a presidential collection represents one of the pinnacles of autograph collecting, both from a historical and a collectible standpoint. A very impressive collection celebrating almost 225 years of the American presidency.
View all the images in this collection larger at www.RRAuction.com
Complete list 1. George Washington 2. John Adams 3. Thomas Jefferson 4. James Madison 5. James Monroe 6. John Quincy Adams 7. Andrew Jackson 8. Martin Van Buren 9. William Henry Harrison 10. John Tyler 11. James K. Polk 12. Zachary Taylor 13. Millard Fillmore 14. Franklin Pierce 15. James Buchanan 16. Abraham Lincoln 17. Andrew Johnson 18. Ulysses S. Grant 19. Rutherford B. Hayes 20. James A. Garfield 21. Chester A. Arthur
22. Grover Cleveland 23. Benjamin Harrison 25. William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt 26. Theodore Roosevelt 27. William H. Taft 28. Woodrow Wilson 29. Warren G. Harding 30. Calvin Coolidge 31. Herbert Hoover 32. Franklin D. Roosevelt 33. Harry S. Truman 34. Dwight D. Eisenhower 35. John F. Kennedy 36. Lyndon B. Johnson 37. Richard Nixon 38. Gerald R. Ford 39. Jimmy Carter 40. Ronald Reagan 41. George H. W. Bush 43. George W. Bush
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 5
2001. Presidential Collection
6 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
View all the images in this collection larger at www.RRAuction.com
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 7
Thomas Jefferson Incredibly rare and majestic presidential bowl
2002 Thomas Jefferson White House China Soup Bowl Estimate $15,000 - 20,000 Original Thomas Jefferson presidential china soup bowl. Beautiful china shallow soup bowl, circa 1790, is made of white Chinese porcelain, measures 9.5˝ in diameter (the same as the Jefferson dinner plate), and is painted blue with gilt fleurde-lis edges. Center of the bowl bears an exceptional hand-painted design featuring Jefferson’s neoclassical shield studded with 13 gold stars which encloses the script initial “J,” surmounted by a plumed knight’s helmet. This particular gilt “J” dinner service has long been linked to Thomas Jefferson, including being published in Official White House China (mentioning early Chinese export) by M.B. Klapthor, with examples at one time on display at Monticello, the US State Department Diplomatic Reception Rooms, and the White House (before at least 1908). Jefferson’s 19th century direct lineal descendants strongly believed in Jefferson’s ownership of the 1790s “J” service, sought to re-acquire it, and then gifted four “J” pieces to the White House in the early 1900’s—where each piece has remained for over 100 years. An incredibly rare opportunity to acquire such an attractive piece of US history, as most, if not all, of the other china from the first three presidents were destroyed when the British ransacked and burned the Executive Mansion during the War of 1812. The historical significance of such a rare piece of presidential porcelain from a well-known collection, in such truly superb condition, is not to be understated. The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection.
8 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Andrew Jackson
Substantial lock of Old Hickory’s hair—sold at NYC’s Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1927
2003 Andrew Jackson Lock of Hair Estimate $4,000 - 6,000
Significant lock of Jackson’s hair, measuring approximately 3˝ long, tied together and affixed with a period wax seal to a 6 x 3.25 personal notecard of Forest H. Sweet bearing a contemporaneously handwritten provenance note, in full: “Hair of General Andrew Jackson, a portion of lot 96 of the Personal Relics of President Andrew Jackson consigned and guaranteed genuine by Andrew Jackson the Fourth.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a photocopy of the auction listing referenced in the note, which was held on April 13–14, 1927, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This highly desirable lock of hair, potentially the biggest lock to hit the market in years, is complemented by ironclad familial provenance—direct from his great-grandson.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 9
Lincoln’s hair
Acquired upon his death by the attending physician and crafted into exquisite artwork 2004 Abraham Lincoln Lock of Hair Estimate $60,000 - 80,000 Unique pair of artistically fashioned locks of Abraham Lincoln’s hair originating from a lock clipped by Dr. Charles Sabin Taft, who attended to the president on the night of his assassination. Most impressive is an ornately decorated oval locket, 2 x 1.5, which opens to reveal a superb rendering of the log cabin in Kentucky where Lincoln was born, accomplished using strands of his hair and set against a mother-of-pearl background. A handwritten notation displayed on the opposing side describes the piece, in full: “Sketch of Abraham Lincoln’s Birthplace, Harding, Ky, Feb. 12 1[80]9, Made from a lock of Lincoln’s hair secured by Dr. Sabin Taft on the night of the assassination, April 14, 1865, Washington.” A smaller brooch, 1 x .5, is decorated with jewels around the perimeter and displays a matching depiction of the cabin, also made using strands of this lock. A simple description is engraved on the reverse, in full: “Lincoln. Apl. 14. 1865.” In overall fine condition. Dr. Taft was a member of the audience watching Our American Cousin on the night of April 13, 1865, and was one of three doctors to attend to the president at the theatre after he was shot. Taft remained with Lincoln until his death the next day at the Petersen House and Images are larger than actual size. participated in the post-mortem examination, during which time he obtained a lock of the president’s hair. These two wonderful presentations of this hair—fine pieces of folk art in their own right—were acquired directly from a Connecticut family descending from Abraham Pierson, a founder of Yale. The lock may have come into the family’s possession via Julia Taft Bayne, the half-sister of Dr. Charles Sabin Taft, who married a congregational minister in Greenwich, Connecticut, in 1869; incidentally, Julia was a playmate of Willie and Tad Lincoln during the first two years of Lincoln’s tenure in the White House, later writing a memoir on the subject. An amazing set of truly extraordinary historical relics.
10 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Abraham Lincoln Wartime ship’s papers for an ill-fated whaling vessel
2005 Abraham Lincoln Signed Document Estimate $6,000 - 8,000 Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 21.25 x 16.5, August 26, 1861. Four-language ship’s papers issued to “Alfred C. Davis, master and commander of the Barque called Nimrod…lying at present in the port of New Bedford, bound for Pacific Ocean and laden with Provisions, Stores, and utensils for a whaling voyage.” Signed in the third panel by Lincoln and countersigned by Secretary of State William Seward. Intersecting folds, some tape reinforcement on reverse to folds and edges, and a bit of mild toning, otherwise fine condition. The white wafer seal is crisp and intact. Departing from New Bedford, Massachusetts, the whaling capital of the world, at the close of August 1861, the Nimrod spent sixteen months in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, landing over 350 barrels of sperm oil—a sought-after product during the war, as it was the ideal lubricant for light, rapid machinery and one of the best oils to burn for light. The ship would embark upon only one voyage after this one; on June 26, 1865, it was burned in the Bering Sea by the C.S.S. Shenandoah, one of the most feared commerce raiders in the Confederate Navy, responsible for capturing, sinking, or bonding almost 40 Union merchant vessels. An attractive and crisply signed document for one of the soon-to-be victims of the rebel navy.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 11
Gardner Execution Photograph ‘Adjusting the Ropes’ at the Lincoln conspirators execution
2006 Alexander Gardner Photograph Estimate $6,000 - 8,000 Remarkable 8.75 x 6.75 albumen photograph of the public execution of the Lincoln assassination conspirators, affixed to an 11.75 x 10 mount, featuring a contemporaneously penned caption on the mount in bold ink, “Preparing for the Execution of President Lincoln’s Conspirat[ors], Jail yard Washington, D. C. July 7th 1865.” The image shows the preparations for the hanging of Mary Surratt (who kept a boarding house where the conspirators met), George Atzerodt (charged with the attempted assassination of Vice President Johnson), David Herold (who assisted Booth on his flight from Washington), and Lewis Payne (who attempted to assassinate Secretary of War Stanton). Most importantly, the photograph itself is in exceptionally fine condition; the mount is in very good condition, with some border imperfections and tiny tear to last letter of caption (all of which could potentially be matted out). A print of an unidentified older gentleman is affixed to the reverse. Entitled ‘Adjusting the Ropes,’ this famous photograph is one of a series of ten images, ‘Hanging of the Lincoln Conspirators,’ captured by Alexander Gardner (assisted by Timothy O’Sullivan) on July 7, 1865, representing the official record of the execution at the Washington Penitentiary. The Scottish-born photographer was the sole photographer permitted to document the execution, but the photographs were considered too graphic for public consumption and were recreated as illustrations for Harper’s Weekly. Gardner’s vivid series of images retelling this event was an important development in the craft of photojournalism, a precursor to the longer picture-story format that would increase in popularity over the ensuing decades. A scarce and supremely desirable oversized example of this important historical photograph.
12 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
2007 U. S. Grant Signed Check Estimate $600 - 800 Jay Cooke & Co. Bankers check, 8.25 x 2.75, filled out and signed by Grant, payable to Maj. Webster for $251.60, May 22, 1867. A two-cent revenue stamp is affixed to the right side. Handsomely double-matted and framed with a bust-length photograph of Grant to an overall size of 15 x 16. In fine condition, with a light vertical fold, and expected bank stamps (affecting a single letter of the signature) and cancellation cuts to the body. A desirable example dating to the passing of the Reconstruction Acts, a period in which Grant’s influence protected the rights of more than 1,500 African-Americans elected to political office.
2008 Theodore Roosevelt Signed Check Estimate $600 - 800 Astor Trust Company bank check, 8.25 x 3.25, filled out in another hand and boldly signed by Roosevelt, payable to Rogers Peet & Co. for $26.63, August 21, 1910. Double-matted and framed with an engraved image of Roosevelt to an overall size of 14.75 x 18. In fine condition, with expected cancellation holes. Founded in 1874, Rogers Peet was an innovative men’s clothing company that introduced several key marketing tools to the garment and apparel industry, including: refunds, price tags, and detailed illustrations for their merchandise. The last Rogers Peet store closed in the mid-1980s.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 13
White House Roof Remarkable Christmas gift from the Hoover administration, one of only 13
2009 Piece of the White House Roof Estimate $1,000 - 2,000 Scarce presidential Christmas gift box artfully fashioned from wood that was once a part of the White House roof, presented by Herbert and Lou Henry Hoover as a Christmas gift to secretary Lillian Rogers Parks in 1930. The box measures 4 x 2.5 x 1.5 and features a lovely notched design on the sides, with a sliding cover prominently engraved “WH.” Includes a poem printed on a sheet of embossed White House stationery, entitled “Recollections of a Piece of Wood,” authored by the first lady to describe the historic wood. Also accompanied by a matching engraved card, reading: “The President and Mrs. Hoover take Christmas pleasure in presenting this historic bit of pinewood with their greetings”; with this is the original White House transmittal envelope, addressed in Mrs. Hoover’s hand to “Miss Lillian Rogers.” In overall fine condition. The Hoovers’ thoughtful Christmas gifts are photographed and described in the book Season’s Greetings from the White House by Mary Evans Seeley, stating that the old White House roof was replaced near the end of Calvin Coolidge’s administration, and the discarded wood was reclaimed by the Hoovers to be used in creating presents for their staff. But only 13 of these small wooden Christmas gift boxes were created out of a total of about 230 gifts, which included bookends, ashtrays, letter openers, trays of various shapes and sizes, candlesticks, and a cane. Lillian Rogers Parks was a second-generation White House seamstress and maid who went on to become a bestselling author with her 1961 memoir My Thirty Years Backstairs at the White House, filled with anecdotes and personal recollections from her unique insider perspective. She began her 30–year White House career at the start of the Hoover administration in 1929. A rare and superbly documented White House relic. The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection.
14 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Herbert Hoover
The Republican lashes out against “destructive aspects” of his successor’s “New Deal” 2010 Herbert Hoover Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 TLS, one page, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, November 17, 1938. Letter to Mrs. J. Hector McNeal. In part: “It was very good of you to write to me as to the contribution I have made concerning the outcome of this campaign. We have to congratulate ourselves. Nearly every place where the Republicans fought the issue systematically against the New Deal, they met with success. And our success has been so great that with sense and courage from now on we ought to be able to end the destructive aspects of this episode in American history in 1940.” In fine condition, with a light area of toning to the lower right corner. After being voted out of office in favor of Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1932, Hoover became one of the nation’s most prominent spokesmen against the New Deal and FDR’s domestic policies. Hoover’s presidency had been characterized by the Great Depression, and throughout the 1930s he opposed every substantive measure taken for economic relief, attacking the ‘radical influence’ in Washington. The 1938 midterm elections were held on November 8, 1938, and the Democratic Party suffered a substantial defeat, losing 72 seats in the House of Representatives and seven seats in the Senate. Despite these losses at the hands of Hoover’s Republicans, Democrats still maintained majorities in both houses of Congress. Excellent political content from the former president.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 15
FDR and Hoover riding in the presidential limousine whilst wearing the lap robe
Presidential Limousine Lap Robe Shared by FDR and his predecessor in the 1933 inaugural limo
2012 Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Presidential Limousine Lap Robe Estimate $4,000 - 6,000
Rare fantastic quality light brown woolen limousine lap robe used by Herbert Hoover and Franklin D. Roosevelt together on the occasion of FDR’s inauguration in 1933. The presidential lap robe blanket measuring approximately 69 x 48, is crafted from an extremely high quality material and lined with a contrasting color brown fur-like fabric for warmth. An impressive and large 6.5˝ diameter presidential seal adorns one corner, expertly embroidered using vibrantly colored threads and adding an attractive 3D effect to the blanket. In fine condition. Includes a detailed and historic letter of provenance on White House letterhead from F. Vaughn Ferguson, who was a technical service representative at the White House. Mr. Ferguson’s sole role at the White House was to oversee the care of the presidential limousine, where this lap robe was used. In part: “This tan wool Presidential Limousine Lap Robe dates back to at least President Hoover. It was used Inauguration Day 1933 by outgoing President Hoover and the newly elected President Franklin D. Roosevelt, as well as on many other historical occasions… The Lap Robe was used by Presidents Herbert Hoover, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and President Harry Truman used it for at least a year or so.” Accompanied by an image of Herbert Hoover and Franklin D. Roosevelt together under this lap robe on the day of the inauguration, March 4, 1933, and a photocopy of a newspaper article about Ferguson. The inauguration of President Franklin D. Roosevelt marked an important transition of power at the height of the Great Depression, with FDR’s promise of a ‘New Deal’ for the American people soon to begin. FDR rode to the inauguration in an open-topped limousine alongside President Hoover—both kept warm by this inordinately rare presidential lap robe—as they made their way to the East Portico of the Capitol, where Roosevelt would receive the oath of office from Chief Justice Charles Evans Hughes. Once sworn in, President Roosevelt delivered a speech that remains one of the most well-known in American political history, opening with the strong and oft-quoted assertion ‘that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.’ With the nation embroiled in economic depression and the world facing the specter of fascism’s rise, Roosevelt’s inauguration marked a crucial turning point around the globe—and this well-documented lap robe is a fantastic relic from that historic 1933 inauguration day. Direct from the presidential limousine, and used over several administrations, research indicates this is the first lap robe of such historical consequence ever offered. The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 17
Franklin D. Roosevelt FDR’s historic bedside curio box which housed his most personal correspondence
2013 Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Bedside Curio Box Estimate $8,000 - 10,000 President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s handsome personallyowned and -used wooden box, kept on his bedside table and dresser at the White House. Beautiful wood inlaid box measures 9.5 x 7 x 3.5, with the President’s initials, “FDR,” handsomely inlaid in ebony on the cover. The box’s lock has been disabled and has no key, but easily opens and closes. Accompanied by a detailed 1990 letter of provenance on White House letterhead from the wife of White House valet and steward Irineo Esperancilla. Letter reads, in part: “The lovely wood inlay box…was kept in the White House by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on his bedside table…In this box President Roosevelt kept his most personal correspondence. It was so personal that when the President passed away…my husband promptly picked up the locked box…and brought it home…The contents of FDR’s most personal correspondence was burned by my husband in our own kitchen sink—He did this act out of loyalty and respect for the President.” Also included is a second letter of provenance from Esperancilla’s wife on a White House card, a copy of a letter to Esperancilla from Naval Aide to the President Edward Leach, written on the occasion of Esperancilla’s retirement, thanking him for his loyal service to four presidents, as well as a photocopy of Esperancilla’s obituary. In very fine condition, with expected light wear, that does not detract from its aesthetic appeal. President Roosevelt once told his valets they were his ‘lifeline and keeper of his secrets,’ which was certainly the case with the disposition of the contents of this box. One could only wonder what secrets this box might have held at the time of Roosevelt’s death, with the truth known by only two men, the president and his loyal valet. A particularly stunning and impressive FDR relic of the most personal order, deserving of a place in a distinguished collection. The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection.
18 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
2016 Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1942 Christmas Gift Estimate $400 - 600
2014 Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Handkerchief Estimate $600 - 800 President Roosevelt’s personally-owned and -used off-white linen handkerchief, folded to an overall size of 9.25 x 4.75, featuring an exquisite monogram embroidered in deep blue thread to imitate his signature, “FDR.” In fine condition, with a few light stains, that do not detract from overall presentability. Includes a letter of provenance on a White House card from the wife of Irineo Esperancilla, formerly chief steward of the Navy. In full: “The White House Handkerchief with the large blue initial ‘F.D.R.’ was owned and used by him. My husband, Irineo Esperancilla, served Franklin D. Roosevelt as one of his valets during WWII.” The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection.
Quality black leather folder given to Dorothy Dow by President Roosevelt as a Christmas gift in 1942, embossed in gold with a presentation inscription on the front, “Christmas, 1942, from F. D. R.” The folder measures 3 x 6.75 and features two inside pockets. In fine condition. Includes a letter of provenance on a White House card from Dow, in part: “The Christmas 1942 leather wallet was a gift to me from the President. I worked as a secretary for the Roosevelts from 1933–1945.” In 1984, Dorothy Dow authored a book on her relationship with the first family entitled, Eleanor Roosevelt, An Eager Spirit: Selected Letters of Dorothy Dow, 1933-1945. Further information regarding the rarity of this White House Christmas gift may be found in Mary Evans Seeley’s book Season’s Greetings. The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection.
The 32nd president’s premium embossed matchbook 2015 Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Leather Matchbook Estimate $800 - 1,000 President Roosevelt’s personally-owned and -used fine quality brown leather matchbook, measuring 2 x 2.25 closed, featuring his gilt-embossed initials on the front flap, “FDR.” The matchbook is fully stocked with 15 matches and features a small black fastener at the bottom, allowing the matches to be replaced—a function of FDR’s valet. In excellent condition. Includes a photocopy of the original detailed letter of provenance on White House letterhead from the wife of Arthur S. Prettyman, who had served as Roosevelt’s valet from 1939 until his death in 1945, and continued to work for President Truman, as his personal valet, until he left office, in 1953. In brief part: “President Roosevelt once said of his Valet, ‘You are my lifeline, the keeper of my keys’… the keys to FDR’s secrets,” and, in part: “It gives me pleasure to present to you one of the leather matchbook covers that was owned and used by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. It was given to my husband, Arthur S. Prettyman sometime during World War II, by the President…The personal matches of the President have 1/2 inch FDR initials embossed in gold on the leather cover…This personal matchbook cover is most attractive.” A cogent piece of FDR history—a necessity for the lifelong cigarette smoker. The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 19
Franklin D. Roosevelt
Remarkable 1944 war-dated letter referencing Germany and avoiding WWIII 2017 Franklin D. Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed Estimate $2,000 - 3,000
World War II-dated TLS as president, one page, 6.75 x 7.5, White House letterhead, October 9, 1944. Letter to Pierre Jay (Federal Reserve Bank of New York chairman), in part: “I am afraid you have based a large part of what you write on what you have read in the newspapers—which does not happen to be true. I think the whole matter will require a good deal more careful study. There is obviously no ‘idea of turning German economy upside down and expecting it to work’ but that in itself will not prevent rearming and a third World War. I hope you will study some solution.” Double-matted and framed with a handsome portrait of Roosevelt to an overall size of 19 x 14.25. In fine condition.
ries, Germany’s military economy collapsed in 1945. Having placed the issue of economic planning for post-war Germany in control of the Foreign Economic Administration, Roosevelt was promptly criticized by the press for his apparent backing of the Morgenthau plan, a memorandum designed to eliminate Germany’s ability to wage war by the removal or destruction of industries key to military strength. Although FDR was quoted as stating that ‘Every story that has come out is essentially untrue in basic facts,’ even Eleanor Roosevelt affirmed that she never heard her husband disagree with the basics of the plan; a proposal that was only partially implemented when civilian factories were dismantled for war reparation. Frank in its content, this insightful letter finds Roosevelt at a period of unique indecision.
“There is obviously no ‘idea of turning German economy upside down and
expecting it to work’ but that in itself will
not prevent rearming
and a third World War”
Crippled by insufficient production and the relentless Allied bombings of cities and facto-
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 21
Eleanor Roosevelt The first lady applauds an important NAACP activist during WWII
2018 Eleanor Roosevelt Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $1,000 - 2,000 ALS, one page, 7.75 x 10.25, no date but circa 1943–44. A letter praising Walter Francis White for his work with the NAACP. In full: “I want to add my words of appreciation & gratitude to this twenty-fifth anniversary of your service in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. What you do for your own people is indirectly done for us all, since, when conditions are bad for the colored they are usually bad for the white as well. You have been patient & courageous & inspired others to unselfish service & I send you my best wishes for many more years of profitable work.” Nicely double-matted and framed with a portrait of Roosevelt to an overall size of 20 x 17. In fine condition, with light toning to borders. White was a prominent civil rights activist who began by taking on the dangerous task of investigating lynchings and race riots throughout the 1920s. He became an executive officer of the NAACP in 1918 and the executive secretary in 1931, serving in that capacity until his death in 1955. Eleanor Roosevelt’s support for Civil Rights increased after she met White, who opened her eyes to the institutional racism present in America. This piece dates to World War II during her time as first lady, when she fought hard against segregation in the military and offered her prominent support to the Tuskegee Airmen. She also fought against racial discrimination in the general workforce, arguing that African-Americans and other racial minorities should be given equal pay, equal work, and equal rights A superb, boldly penned letter with excellent content concerning the Civil Rights movement as it began to reach its peak.
22 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Harry S. Truman
Massive 1949 National Security Act portrait 2019 Harry S. Truman Signed Photograph Estimate $800 - 1,000 Impressively large matte-finish 19.5 x 15.5 photo of Truman signing the National Security Act Amendments of 1949, affixed to a 24 x 20 mount bearing a descriptive label, signed on the mount in fountain pen. Scattered marks and dings to the mount, a line of toning to the right side, and a surface impression above the signature. This act amended the National Security Act of 1947, which was a major restructuring of the American military following World War II. The 1947 Act merged the Department of War and the Department of the Navy into the National Military Establishment. This 1949 amendment was important in unifying the Army, Navy, and Air Force under the control of the secretary of defense, and renamed the National Military Establishment as what it remains today—the Department of Defense. Among the dignitaries invited to the bill signing that are seen here surrounding Truman are: Louis A. Johnson, leaning on the desk; General Omar Bradley, seen over Johnson’s shoulder; Secretary of the Army Gordon Gray, behind Truman and with his eyes closed; and Secretary of the Navy Francis Matthews, to the right side. A remarkable image of an important moment in the modernization of the US military.
2020 Truman White House Celluloid Powder Box, Tray, Comb, and Brush Estimate $800 - 1,000 Stunningly well crafted celluloid powder box, presented by President Harry S. Truman to longtime White House seamstress and housekeeper Lillian Rogers Parks, shortly before the 1948 renovation of the White House. The ivory powder box measures 7.75 x 2.5 x 5.25, and is marked on the bottom, “Lucite Empire,” with the lid trimmed in brown and black. Center of the lid bears an intricate full-length image of a Grecian woman wrapped in a flowing sash, and contained within a feathered-diamond border. The accessory set includes a tray, brush, and comb, all a matching aged golden-yellow color. The comb is marked “Ivory Pyraun.” Accompanied by two detailed letters of authenticity from Mrs. Parks (images available at www.RRAuction.com). In overall fine condition, with the aforementioned hole to the tray—the overall displayability of the set remains. An excellent 1920s example of superior quality early celluloid—direct from the Executive Mansion. The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 23
General Eisenhower Remarkable letter to Mamie while preparing for D-Day
2022 Dwight D. Eisenhower Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $4,000 - 6,000
War-dated ALS signed “Ike,” three pages, lightly-lined, 8 x 10.25, [March 26, 1944]. Fantastic letter to his wife, Mamie. In part: “I’m so glad you like your coat. Nothing I ever tried to buy caused me as much grief and trouble as that did. But as long as you like it, all the trouble and misunderstanding was well worth while…A V-mail just arrived from Johnny. He said he had 80 days to go, and is still scratching his head over ‘branch!’ It’s a tough one, but he must decide for himself. He had just received a note from you, and said ‘Mom is fine.’ It has been some days since I’ve had a direct letter from you…The pressure stays up at a high level—but I think I carry the burdens sufficiently well to keep my equilibrium. It would be a lot easier if I could see you if only for an hour a week. I wish so often and so much for you. Must be I love you!!” Superbly matted and framed with
a photo of Eisenhower to an overall size of 24 x 29. In fine condition. During this period Eisenhower was busy planning for the invasion of Normandy in Operation Overlord, which has come to be known as D-Day— an understandably stressful time as he painstakingly prepared the greatest amphibious assault in history. Despite the pressure and sleepless nights, Eisenhower’s vitality shines through in this wonderful letter home to his beloved wife, providing an intimate glimpse into his personal relationships. His son John Sheldon Doud Eisenhower was about to graduate from West Point, ironically graduating on June 6, 1944—the same day that Eisenhower was commanding the Normandy landings. An amazing letter from this pivotal time in both his family and military life.
“The pressure stays up at a high level— but I think I carry the burdens
sufficiently well to
keep my equilibrium”
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 25
President Eisenhower
Custom-made tool chest complete with Eisenhower’s thank-you letter 2023 Dwight D. Eisenhower’s Tool Chest Estimate $1,000 - 2,000 President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s personally-owned and -used tool chest, given to him at Christmas by his valet John Moaney and his wife Delores, who was Eisenhower’s personal cook for over 25 years. Large tool chest, made by White House carpenters, measures 33 x 15 x 15, with “D. D. E.,” engraved into the inside of the lid, and a handsomely engraved brass presentation plaque affixed to the top of the lid which reads: “To the President from Sgt. and Mrs. John Moaney, Christmas 1959.” Chest features three creative sliding compartmentalized trays, and replacement hinges, closing latch, corner guards and handles. All of the chest’s original brass ware is included. Chest was presented to President Eisenhower as a Christmas gift in 1959, and is accompanied by a thank-you letter sent by President Eisenhower, on White House letterhead as president, dated December 26, 1959, to the Moaneys which reads, in full: “I think you probably know how proud I am of that handsome tool chest, and consequently, how grateful I am for your thoughtfulness in having it made—and handsomely identified—for me. It was a wonderful idea, and I am more grateful than I can say.” Also included is a 1985 letter of provenance, on a White House card, from
Moaney’s wife Delores. Letter reads, in part: “The large wood tool chest with a brass plaque on top was owned and used by President Eisenhower. It was a gift from my husband, Sgt. Moaney, to him in 1959. After the President died on 3/28/69, Mamie gave it back to my husband.” It is exceptionally rare for any presidential relic to appear accompanied by direct provenance from the president himself, directly referencing the item. Chest retains some tools and other instruments, some labeled with Moaney’s name, and others unidentified, but most likely the remainder are President Eisenhower’s. In very fine condition. Moaney became Eisenhower’s valet in 1942 during World War II, meeting the general at England’s Telegraph Cottage, and spent the next 27 years as his valet, including both his terms as president. After serving the Commander-in-Chief during his two terms, Moaney moved to the Eisenhower family farm in Gettysburg, and lived right in the mansion with Dwight and Mamie, finally retiring from the Army in 1969 after the President’s passing. But Sgt. Moaney would continue to work for Mamie Eisenhower until his death in 1978. A very thoughtful gift from one of the president’s most trusted and loyal companions, and deeply appreciated by the president as evident from his thank-you letter sent just one day after the Christmas holiday. This handsome and impressive piece has the potential to be the centerpiece in the room of the most discriminating collector. The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 27
“It is my personal conviction that the Democrats have become the Party of ‘promise and untried theory’; the Republicans are the Party of ‘common sense policies and vigorous performance’” All images are available to view online at www.RRAuction.com
Dwight D. Eisenhower Ike outlines his centrist Republican ideals following Goldwater’s defeat
2024 Dwight D. Eisenhower Typed Letter Signed Estimate $2,000 - 3,000 TLS signed “D. E.,” one page, 10.25 x 7.25, personal letterhead, December 2, 1964. Letter to William Scranton, governor of Virginia. In part: “This is still in a stage of preparation; but it is a reflection of my present thinking and it might be of some help to you in some of your own conclusions. I would not want it quoted, but when you get an opportunity I would like you to let me know whether or not you agree with the basic effort.” In fine condition, with a rusty paperclip mark to the top edge. Includes the unsigned seven-page typescript originally enclosed, in which Ike outlines the key elements of Republican philosophy in the aftermath of the humiliating defeat of Barry Goldwater in 1964. Eisenhower discusses several key issues facing the nation, including civil rights, Medicare, poverty, and education. In part: “There is an obvious need to achieve without delay a considerable degree of unity among us; an accomplishment that will require intelligence, tolerance, judgment and energy…As of this moment I am trying, roughly, to outline my personal views as to a satisfactory Republican concensus [sic]…(Incidentally, it is my personal conviction that the Democrats have become the Party of ‘promise and untried theory’; the Republicans are the Party of ‘common sense policies and vigorous performance.’)…Here are some basic convictions in which I have long believed: A) Americans, individually and collectively, should strive constantly for greater excellence. B) The individual is of supreme importance. The purpose of government is to serve, never to dominate. C) The spirit of the people is the strength of our nation. D) To stay free we must stay strong. E) Government must have a heart as well as a head. F) America cannot truly prosper unless all major areas and groupments in our society prosper. G) To protect all our citizens, and particularly workers and all those who are, or will be, dependent on pensions, savings and insurance in their declining years, we strive always to prevent deterioration of our currency. H) Under God we espouse the cause of freedom and justice and peace for all people…
Increasing debt weakens confidence in our currency; encourages inflation and adds to the tax burden. Republicans believe we must reduce expenditures below income…In a system of self-government the finest possible education is an obvious necessity for the individual, for the locality and for the nation… Taxes should be levied so as to obtain necessary revenues and to fall heaviest upon those best able to pay them. The graduated income tax is logical and right but confiscatory rates will, in the long run, slow up the economy, reduce revenue, and eventually impinge upon the freedom of the citizen. We believe it is unjust and immoral to make the distribution of wealth the basic aim of the taxing process… The Party of Lincoln will never abandon its traditional position of insisting upon equal rights and opportunity—legal, economic, educational and political—for all citizens. In 1957 a Republican Administration proposed and fought successfully for the first Civil Rights law in eighty years. Republican leaders in Congress made possible the enactment of the Civil Rights bill of 1964 and the Party as a whole supports its equitable enforcement. If the above seemed sound then a second part of our problem could be discussed, namely that of reorganization and preparation for the Congressional contests of 1966. (We should not mention 1968 now).” After Goldwater’s crushing defeat in the 1964 presidential election—President Lyndon B. Johnson was re-elected by the largest popular vote margin in US history—Eisenhower advocated for a return to moderate conservatism rather than the sharp turn to the right the party had taken by embracing Goldwater’s politics. Although he was out of office, Eisenhower continued to stay active in politics, occasionally providing advice to JFK and LBJ while they were in office. Despite Eisenhower’s plea for a pragmatic centrist platform, the Republican Party continued to shift toward the extreme. Ignoring Ike’s advice proved successful—the Republicans made gains in Congress during the 1966 midterm elections, and Richard Nixon won the White House in 1968, backed by the ‘silent majority.’ This significant piece in which one of America’s greatest leaders outlines plans for his party—and, indeed, the nation—is remarkable in its independent thought and of the greatest historical interest.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 29
Personally-owned by “Ike,” with excellent provenance 2025 Dwight D. Eisenhower’s Handkerchief Estimate $400 - 600 President Eisenhower’s personally-owned off-white linen handkerchief, folded to an overall size of 5.25 x 5.25, finely embroidered in dark blue thread, “Ike.” In fine condition. Includes a letter of provenance on a White House card from Delores Moaney, the Eisenhower’s longtime personal cook and wife of Sgt. John Moaney, who served as Dwight D. Eisenhower’s valet beginning in 1942. In part: “The linen handkerchief with one corner monogrammed ‘Ike’ in medium blue letters was owned by President Eisenhower. My husband packed the President’s personal effects as they traveled together from 1942–1969.” An important personal artifact, straight from the pocket of the general to his own long-standing valet, Sgt. John Moaney. The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection.
2026 Dwight D. Eisenhower’s Apron Swatch Estimate $200 - 400 A swatch of the fabric used to make President Eisenhower’s apron, measuring 10.5 x 11.5 unfolded, printed with small depictions of various presidents. Includes a detailed letter of provenance on White House letterhead from Lillian Rogers Parks, who was a best-selling author as well as housekeeper and seamstress at the White House for over 30 years, from President Hoover through President Eisenhower. In part: “I am proud to say I made one of President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s favorite garments—his cooking apron. It was made of the most unusual fabric—a piece of tan material with the pictures of many Presidents…The President loved to wear the apron, and he would sit down among his guests when he was cooking over the charcoal grill at the White House or Gettysburg still wearing it.” Also accompanied by a most fortunate and historic photo of President Eisenhower actually wearing the apron described. The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection.
30 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Jack & Bobby
Spectacular dual-signed Oval Office image 2027 John and Robert Kennedy Signed Photograph Estimate $20,000 - 25,000 Supremely rare glossy 7.5 x 9.5 photo of John F. Kennedy and his brother Robert in the Oval Office, both men relaxed and smiling, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Terence McCarten, with every good wish, John F. Kennedy” and “To Terence, with thanks, Robert F. Kennedy.” Affixed to a slightly larger piece of mat board, with photo edges slightly trimmed, and a bit of irregular ink adhesion to RFK’s last name, otherwise fine condition. Almost all of the writing is contained in light portions of the photo away from the Kennedys’ dark suits, resulting in remarkable clarity; JFK’s signature is exceptionally bold. Additionally included is an original contact sheet picturing eleven images of JFK and RFK from McCarten’s session (including the dual-signed image being offered here, located at the top right). Accompanied by full letters of authenticity from PSA/DNA and JSA. Terence McCarten was an award-winning news photographer who worked at the New York Herald Tribune and New York Post during his career, and became friendly with the Kennedy brothers while covering the 1960 presidential campaign. Showing both leaders at the height of their political clout, with JFK as president and RFK as attorney general, this image captures a remarkable candid moment between brothers. Photographs signed by both Jack and Bobby Kennedy are virtually nonexistent; this is the sole example we’ve encountered in 35 years. An extraordinary image of these American icons and an absolute rarity of great historical significance.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 31
Jack Kennedy
Choate senior portrait inscribed to his life-long best friend Lem Billings 2028 John F. Kennedy Signed Photograph Estimate $10,000 - 15,000
Superlative sepia matte-finish 7 x 11 Choate senior portrait, boldly signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Lemmer, The gayest soul I know—In memory of two tense years and in hopes of many more—your Pal and supporter! Ken.” Also signed by the photographer in pencil and dated 1935. Archivally triple-matted and framed to an overall size of 13 x 16.5. In very good to fine condition, with nearly imperceptible pencil shading to JFK’s eyebrows and lower lip and a small indentation to lower border affecting nothing. There is significant surface loss to the upper border edge (easily trimmed if desired) which is perfectly hidden by the tasteful matting to produce a remarkably attractive display, in which 6 x 9.25 of the photo is visible. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
Jack spent much of his time at Choate very ill, and it was Billings who gave him the unwavering support he needed to persevere. In pain most of his life, JFK hardly ever complained—Lem was the first and virtually only person with whom he shared his physical suffering. He lifted Jack’s spirits at such a formative time when the future president could have easily sunk into despair. Lem (a closeted gay man) secretly loved Jack and made an unrequited pass at him early in their relationship. The resulting awkwardness didn’t put a damper on their friendship, and upon their 1935 Choate graduation they exchanged senior portraits. The here-offered example was Jack’s gift to Lem (confirmed on page 26 of David Pitt’s 2007 book, Jack and Lem).
“To Lemmer, The gayest soul I know—In memory of two tense years and in hopes of many more— your Pal and supporter! Ken”
John F. Kennedy and Kirk LeMoyne Billings met at Wallingford, Connecticut’s prestigious Choate Preparatory School in 1933 and formed an instant connection. Consummate pranksters, “Ken” and “Lemmer” were just two of their quirky nicknames for one another. The boys found comfort away from home in their similar senses of humor—during their senior year, they formed a secret society known as ‘The Muckers Club.’ The bane of their Choate headmaster’s existence, Jack and Lem were known as Public Enemy Number 1 and Number 2 and were nearly expelled on several occasions.
At all the difficult turns in Kennedy’s presidency, Lem was there—he talked him through the Cuban Missile Crisis and even had his own room at the White House. Their inseparable 30-year friendship lasted right up to that fateful day on November 22, 1963. This exceptional piece—one of the youngest known Kennedy signed photos in existence—is an integral part of JFK history and worthy of inclusion in the finest presidential collection. Provenance: The Lem Billings Estate.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 33
Peace Corps Pen Used to sign JFK’s iconic legislation
2029 John F. Kennedy US Peace Corp Bill-signing Pen Estimate $4,000 - 6,000 Extraordinary dipping pen used by President Kennedy to sign the Peace Corps Act of 1961. The Esterbrook pen measures 6.25˝ long and features a black plastic grip with a Lucite handle imprinted with “The President—The White House.” Includes an ALS from Sargent Shriver to Congressman Michael J. Kirwan of Ohio, two pages, Foreign Service of the United States letterhead, November 9, no year. In part: “We have been receiving excellent receptions here in South America as we visit various countries which have expressed an interest in the Peace Corps. The demand for P. C. Volunteers is great—we could place 2,000 down here alone. The press has been fine so far, & I’m asking our Washington office to mail you copies of the editorials which have appeared so far…. Please accept my sincere thanks for your help, guidance, &
encouragement.” These are beautifully matted and framed together with a photo of the bill signing to an overall size of 30.5 x 18.25. In overall fine condition. The Peace Corps was established in 1961 to assist other countries in their development efforts by providing skilled workers in the fields of education, agriculture, health, trade, technology, and community development. Congressman Kirwan was a friend and political ally of President Kennedy, and served as chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Public Works. The Peace Corps was reliant on Kirwan for approval of the costs involved in supporting their volunteers, as well as financing for infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, water and flood controls, schools, and power plants being constructed in developing countries. Shriver, a member of the Kennedy family, was a driving force behind the creation of the Peace Corps, and served as the director from the time of its establishment until 1966. An amazing artifact from one of the most influential acts passed during JFK’s presidency.
34 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
John & Robert
Epochal oversized Lowe portrait—‘Brothers’ 2030 John and Robert Kennedy Photograph by Jacques Lowe Estimate $1,000 - 1,500
Iconic original matte-finish 12 x 18 photograph of John and Robert Kennedy entitled ‘Brothers,’ taken by Jacques Lowe at the Biltmore Hotel, Los Angeles, on July 14, 1960—the day after JFK received the Democratic presidential nomination. The reverse bears Lowe’s photographer’s stamp, reading: “Studio One / #345 / Photographer / Jacques Lowe.” Attractively double-matted and framed to an overall size of 22 x 28. In fine condition, with trivial edge chips and dings seen only when removed from the frame. Lowe began working as John F. Kennedy’s campaign photographer in 1958, and documented his presidential administration until 1962. Taken on the day that Lyndon B. Johnson accepted Kennedy’s offer of the vice presidential nomination, the image is said to depict them discussing the choice of LBJ, which Robert F. Kennedy was adamantly against. Lowe passed away in early 2001, and his archive of negatives was destroyed with the World Trade Center, making this an especially scarce and desirable image.
2031 John F. Kennedy Photograph Estimate $200 - 400 Uncharacteristic original matte-finish 14 x 11 photo of Kennedy smoking a small cigar, with notes on the reverse from Paris Match magazine: “Kennedy / John F / Portraits / Contacts a: Album Famille.” Subtle overall toning, scattered creases, and some marks and streaks inherent to the original negative, otherwise fine condition. Paris Match, a weekly French magazine, published several Kennedy cover stories both before and after his death. Kennedy enjoyed smoking cigars—he famously ordered over one thousand Cubans before signing the 1962 trade embargo—but did not like to be photographed while doing so, making this an especially scarce image from one of these private moments.
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2032 John F. Kennedy: Jamie Wyeth Signed Photograph Estimate $200 - 400 Desirable 5.5 x 4.25 magazine photo of Wyeth’s iconic portrait of Kennedy, matted to an overall size of 10 x 8, signed and inscribed on the mount in black felt tip, “For Kay Carter—Jamie Wyeth.” In fine condition.
2033 John F. Kennedy Photograph
2034 John F. Kennedy Photograph
Estimate $1,000 - 2,000
Estimate $800 - 1,200
Remarkable original matte-finish 13 x 10.5 photo taken by photojournalist James Atherton, showing a young boy who has broken through the barricades to reach President Kennedy during the motorcade to West Berlin City Hall on June 26, 1963. Affixed to a 16 x 20 mount and signed below the image in black ink, “James K. W. Atherton.” Labeled on the reverse in another hand, “NEWS / ‘Young Berliner cought [sic] in the Middle’ 6/26/63 / by / James K.W. Atherton / United Press International Photos.” In fine condition, with toning to edges of the mount.
Classic original matte-finish 13.25 x 10.25 photo taken by award-winning photojournalist James Atherton on June 26, 1963, showing President Kennedy reaching out to a man and his son who have broken through police barriers to touch him as his motorcade makes its way to Berlin. Affixed to a 16 x 20 mount and signed below the image in black ink, “James K. W. Atherton.” Labeled on the reverse in another hand, “NEWS / ‘Berlin Motorcade Spectacular’ 6/28/63 [motorcade was 6/26/63] / by / James K.W. Atherton / United Press International Photos.” In fine condition, with toning to edges of the mount.
36 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
2035 John F. Kennedy Photograph Estimate $1,000 - 2,000 Impressive original matte-finish 19 x 15.5 photo taken by award-winning photojournalist James Atherton on June 26, 1963, showing President Kennedy standing on the platform at Checkpoint Charlie as he surveys the dilapidated landscape across the Berlin Wall, his entourage standing below. Affixed to a slightly larger 20 x 16 mount, signed vertically along the left edge in black ink, “James K. W. Atherton.” Some dings, creases, and chipping to mount corners, otherwise fine condition. This iconic photograph was printed with the caption, ‘A view over the Wall,’ in the June 27, 1963, edition of the New York Times. Following Kennedy’s visit to Checkpoint Charlie, he delivered the speech now seen as a turning point in the Cold War, a speech that boosted the morale of the West Germans and gave a strong defiant message to the Soviet Union, ‘All free men, wherever they may live, are citizens of Berlin, and therefore, as a free man, I take pride in the words, ‘Ich bin ein Berliner.’’
Mr. & Mrs. Kennedy
Scarce affectionate image captured after Patrick’s passing 2038 John and Jacqueline Kennedy Photograph Estimate $800 - 1,200
Striking oversized original matte-finish 15 x 19 photo of John and Jacqueline Kennedy exiting a building hand-in-hand, trailed by a pair of uniformed military officers. Affixed to a slightly larger 16 x 20 mount. In fine condition, with dings and some chipping to corners of the mount. This uncharacteristically loving photo of the couple holding hands was taken as they exited Cape Cod’s Otis Air Force Base’s hospital following baby Patrick’s August 1963 death.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 37
John & Jackie
“With all our wishes for a happy Christmas”
2039 John and Jacqueline Kennedy Signed Book Estimate $2,000 - 3,000
Signed book: The White House. Special presentation edition. Washington, DC: The White House Historical Association, 1962. Hardcover, 7.25 x 10.5, 129 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page in blue ballpoint, “For Paul—with all our wishes for a happy Christmas, and with admiration and appreciation, Jackie. December 25, 1962” and “John Kennedy.” Autographic condition: fine, with light toning to the top of the page. Accompanied by an official presidential card and envelope with a large golden seal. First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy oversaw the publication of this guide to the Executive Mansion as part of her restoration and preservation of the White House, releasing a softcover version for the general public with the intent of spreading knowledge of the house’s historic importance. The Kennedys had some examples specially made to give as Christmas gifts; in addition to this version, there was a red leatherbound edition limited to 75. The recipient of this copy acted as the Kennedys’ agent in building their ‘Wexford’ estate in Virginia. An exceptional piece with superb provenance.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 39
John & Jackie Cape Cod Photographs Unpublished candids of Mrs. Kennedy smoking and JFK shirtless
2040 John and Jacqueline Kennedy Cape Cod Photographs Estimate $1,000 - 2,000 Incredible, never-before-released original photographic proof booklet, 10 x 3, containing 27 unique crystal-clear images produced directly from the original negatives. Booklet contains nine 10 x 3 sheets of Mimosa Kiel photo paper, each composed of three separate 3 x 2 images (a mixture of vertical and horizontal). The lot also includes 15 high-quality original photographs of various finishes; two are 2 x 3.5 and the remaining thirteen are 5.75 x 3.75. Nine of them are not included in the booklet itself, while the other six are. These unpublished images, taken by Washington Post heiress Katharine Graham at Bunny Mellon’s Cape Cod beach shack, show JFK and Jackie on an August 1961 visit. The cover of the booklet bears a handwritten notation stating: “The President of the USA and Mrs. Kennedy taken at Mrs. Melon [sic] in Mass. (Cotuit), Aug. 1961, Photos by Mrs. Graham.”
40 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
JFK smoking a cigar with Washington Post publisher Phil Graham Pictured in these scarce photos are: Jack’s closest sister Eunice (shown in a floral patterned sleeveless shirt); the Kennedy’s powerful friends Mr. and Mrs. Rachel Bunny Mellon (Paul is pictured wearing sunglasses and across from Jackie, Bunny is pictured wearing a sun hat); Washington Post owners Katherine and Philip Graham (Katherine in a white dress and Phil in a checkered buttondown shirt); and artist William Walton (close friend of Jackie, shown shirtless on the larger boat with the first lady). The astonishing images include: Jackie smoking freely; the first lady sitting cross legged, bare feet and hands clearly on display; a back-brace-free, shirtless JFK swimming (proof strip notated on reverse, “hold”), Jack enjoying himself on a yacht and exhibiting uncharacteristic strength by pulling himself up the boat ladder; the president sitting at a round table whilst intently speaking with Bunny Mellon about redesigning the White House Rose Garden; and JFK smoking a cigar and behind the wheel of a small boat. All but one of the photos (contained in the proof book) picture Jack and Jackie, either together or separate.
Most images show the Kennedys and their friends gathered on the back patio of the sprawling Mellon estate’s quaint beach shack (confirmed by Katherine Graham’s memoir Personal History, page 288), but there are a few on the beach front, in the water, on a larger boat, and on a small boat with just Jack, Jackie, and Eunice Kennedy (the family’s famous compound was one town over). These exceptionally private, unrehearsed moments of Camelot’s first couple exude a carefree happiness seldom found during their brief White House tenure. Jackie, the iconically refined first lady, is pictured doing many things she took great care to shield the public from: her incessant smoking habit and large feet and hands (actions and bodily attributes of which she was extremely self-conscience). Here Jack revealed his brace-free chest and permeated the vitality we prefer to remember him by. Among these close friends—Washington’s elite—no one is trying to make a good impression. Such insight into John and Jackie Kennedy’s behind-the-scenes behavior could scarcely be imagined.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 41
Jackie’s Golden Purse The extravagance of Camelot
2042 Jacqueline Kennedy’s Gold Purse Estimate $6,000 - 8,000 Jacqueline Kennedy’s attractive personally-owned and -used golden clutch, measuring 7 x 4.5 x 1, featuring a stylish metallic gold exterior typifying the luxurious celebrity status associated with the first lady and her legacy. The interior is lined in creamcolored vinyl decorated with a pattern of tiny golden dots, and the purse is secured at the top with a fine gold-tone kisslock clasp. Noticeable overall creasing, otherwise fine condition. Originates from the Robert L. White collection and includes a detailed letter of provenance on White House letterhead signed by Evelyn Lincoln, who served as JFK’s only personal secretary for 12 years. In part: “When Jackie was moving out
of the White House in December 1963 she was moving to the Harriman home in Georgetown. So she set up a room in that house with several long tables. On these tables she placed their discarded clothing. She also had blankets for smaller items. She then invited friends to come over to this room and choose any items or items which they desired. This gold evening bag, which you now have in your possession, was in one of the baskets of items belonging to Jackie.” Also accompanied by the original auction tag and catalog for the Guernsey’s sale of the Robert L. White collection, held in 2005. Following JFK’s assassination, Undersecretary of State W. Averell Harriman and his wife generously offered to vacate their Washington home for Jackie’s use. With superior provenance from one of the most famous Kennedy collections ever assembled, this lovely clutch purse is the epitome of Jackie Kennedy’s classic style as one of America’s greatest fashion icons of the era.
42 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Jacqueline Kennedy The stylish first lady’s designer heels from her Georgetown closet
Imaged above: Delman brand name printed on the insoles Imaged below: Handwritten manufacturer’s notations
2043 Jacqueline Kennedy’s Delman Linen Shoes Estimate $6,000 - 8,000
Jacqueline Kennedy’s personally-owned and -worn pair of cream-colored low-heeled designer shoes with finely textured linen uppers and leather soles, printed with the brand name in gold script on the insoles, “Delman, New York-Paris.” Manufacturer’s notations are written inside the heel of each shoe, reading: “C18288 / P70980 / 913 / Marquise.” In well-worn condition with expected wear. These shoes originate from the estate of Officer James H. Boyer, Sr., who served on the US Capitol police force beginning in 1949. Accompanied by a letter of provenance from a descendent of Boyer, in part: “While continuing to serve on the Capitol police force, Boyer became a personal driver for the Kennedy family, often being called on at late hours, and was employed by Jackie Kennedy as a handyman at the Kennedy’s Georgetown home. Once, while she was clearing her closet, Jackie offered Boyer some of her worn shoes and handbags to give to his wife. This pair of off-white linen-type fabric shoes…is one of those gifts.” Jackie was quite self-conscious about the size of her feet, with each of these measuring 10˝ long. A premier shoemaker, Delman offered a custom-made service and worked with some of the era’s most notable women, with clientele including the likes of Marlene Dietrich and Audrey Hepburn. With superior provenance, these high-fashion heels represent a fabulous pairing of American cultural history.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 43
Direct from Camelot’s equestrian first lady 2044 Jacqueline Kennedy’s Horse Blanket Estimate $400 - 600 Jackie Kennedy’s personally-owned and -used large horse blanket made of soft fabric, measuring approximately 66 x 52, given to Bill Elder by Mrs. Kennedy due to their shared love of horses. Also present is an ALS to the blanket’s recipient referencing horses, signed “J,” one page, 5 x 8, White House letterhead, no date. A letter to Bill, in full: “I do wish you’d stop buying cars—apartments—horses—and the like and stay in the office—please.” Accompanied by a letter of provenance from Elder’s niece Eugenia Moore and a matte-finish 8 x 10 photo of Jacqueline and Caroline Kennedy riding horses together. In overall fine condition. William Voss Elder III, a retired Baltimore Museum of Art curator, assisted Mrs. Kennedy with his vast knowledge of antiques during her 1960s White House renovation. She became fond of him given their shared love of horses and similar backgrounds, and appreciated that he did not try to impress anyone or develop any airs while working for her in the White House. A unique collection associated with one of Jackie’s favorite activities.
2045 Jacqueline Kennedy Doll Estimate $200 - 400 An appealing Hispanic female dancer doll, measuring 9˝ tall, displayed on a wooden base which was initialed on the bottom in blue pencil by Jacqueline Kennedy, “J.” The well-detailed doll features a meticulously painted face and is clad in a vibrant red, yellow, and black dress, as well as attractive green and white-beaded jewelry. Accompanied by a typed note on White House letterhead, reading: “Have just hear [sic] that Boudin is leaving for Puerto Rico tomorrow—hope you both have a wonderful time.” Scattered soiling, otherwise fine condition. The consignor’s uncle’s name was Bill, and he helped Jackie redecorate the White House.
44 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
White House Wallpaper Removed by Jackie during renovation
2046 Jacqueline Kennedy Wallpaper Swatch on White House Card Note Estimate $6,000 - 8,000 Remarkable light blue swatch of the wallpaper removed from the White House while Jackie was redesigning the interior, measuring approximately .75 x 1.25, affixed to a White House card, signed and inscribed in blue ballpoint, “For Juichi, With all my very best wishes, Jacqueline Kennedy.” In fine condition, with scattered areas of insignificant toning to the swatch. Juichi Tsushima, a Japanese bank financier, was once an ambassador to the embassy of Japan. As first lady, Jacqueline Kennedy’s major project was the restoration of the White House. She was disappointed to find that the decor and furnishings were dated and often reproductions of antique period pieces, and used her acute sense of style to refurnish and redecorate the household in a manner that accentuated the elegance and historical importance of the Executive Mansion. The bold endeavor took Jackie from a shy first lady to the iconic Queen of Camelot, lauded for her impeccable taste. This piece is of the utmost rarity and potentially the first of its kind offered for public sale. An excellent piece of presidential history, personifying Jackie’s most well-known accomplishment.
The Diplomatic Reception Room prior to Jackie’s restoration
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Exterior view of Wexford
Jackie’s hand-drawn sketch of the layout
Similar green paint used in Wexford’s dining room
Jackie’s magazine page design notes on paint samples
Kennedy bedroom with bay window
Jackie’s magazine page design notes on windows
Wexford Archive
Jackie pours her heart into building a Virginian retreat for Jack
2047 Jacqueline Kennedy Wexford House Archive Estimate $4,000 - 6,000 Extensive archive of over 400 pieces covering nearly all construction and design aspects of the Kennedy’s Wexford home built near Middleburg/Atoka Virginia. Included here is all of the 1961–1964 correspondence between Jacqueline Kennedy and the building agents, with an emphasis on 1963, the main year of construction.
JFK, Jackie, John Jr., and Lem Billings at Wexford’s stables
Jackie’s Personal Touches
The most important items in the archive are those which Jackie herself penned. Included are ten letters handwritten by Jackie (five particularly lengthy and detailed ones written on large yellow legal pad paper); two are signed “Jackie,” one “J,” and two are unsigned—all are undated. In one of these long letters Jackie exclaims, “This house may not be perfectly proportioned— but it has everything—all the places we need to get away from each other—so husband can have meetings...wife paint...all things so much bigger houses don’t have. I think it’s brilliant!” In another she raves, “You have done the most fantastic job and everyone agrees that house is really a dream. One could not wish for anything more perfect—if only we could live there all year long! And Jack loves it.” The five shorter ALSs are on various types of letterhead (three White House, one mourning, and one plain). Three of them are signed “J,” one “Jackie,” and one “JBK.” Also present are eight typed letters, dated from December 1962 through September 30, 1963, on White House letterhead, and all signed, “Jackie.” Of particular interest are the ten 11 x 14 magazine pages (mostly French but one Home and Garden) which the first lady tore out and wrote interesting design notes on. Also present in the archive are five layout sketches in Jackie’s own hand, each in various levels of detail. On a 6.5 x 5 plain scrap of white paper, she sketched out in pencil nearly the entire home, and labelled it, “19 units, 16 x 16, 4864 sq. ft.” There are also two lists (one on White House letterhead, the other on yellow legal paper) where Mrs. Kennedy wrote out all of the rooms (dimensions were added later in another hand).
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An Overview
The majority of the collection is made up of three large binders containing over 300 pages of material, including the original 1962 deed, letters (many transcription copies of letters the building agent mailed out), paperwork, ‘special account’ bank records, and receipts spanning 1961–1964. The majority of the archive is centered on 1963 but there is also a sizeable portion from 1962 and 1964, and a tiny sampling from 1961. Also present are two large brown folders containing 18 oversized building plans, most measuring around 35 x 20. Subjects include: building elevation, kitchen, fireplaces, bedrooms, barn, and pools. Additionally included are 26 spectacular official White House photographs of the Wexford home: seventeen are of the complete and fully furnished home’s individual rooms, and five are of the outside of the completed home, each stamped on the reverse, “Robert L. Knudsen, The White House, May 22, 1963.” The remaining five are aerial shots of the home taken during construction, stamped on the reverse, “By R. L. Knudsen, PHC, USN Office of the Naval Aide to the President,” and dated either December 5, 1962, or December 31, 1962. There are also two unofficial black and white photos of the home’s interior. The Kennedy’s building agents were a husband and wife who were close personal friends of theirs and lived Middleburg, VA. Jackie knew the couple from their mutual equestrian pursuits; the husband handled most all of the Wexford building plans and correspondence. Well versed with the location, the couple scouted the area, purchased the land, and handled all of the building on behalf of the Kennedys. The front was also key in keeping the plans secret from the American public to avoid an outcry over Jackie’s extravagant spending.
Jackie Plans Her Dream Home for JFK
With construction beginning in late 1962 and completed in Summer 1963, Jackie worked tediously to build the perfect retreat for her husband. As if to sway his opinion, she named it Wexford—a nod to JFK’s Irish roots. The Middleburg/Atoka, VA estate, located in the heart of hunt country exhibits telling attributes centered around what the first lady enjoyed most: the sprawling countryside, boundless room for fox hunting, and horses. It appears, Jackie intended to share her life-long passions with her husband to strengthen their bond, as these activities were in such strong contrast to JFK’s own loves, namely: the Kennedy family’s Hyannis Port compound, sailing, and the open ocean. Throughout her correspondence, Jackie shows her impressive attention to detail and penchant for frugality. Though seemingly uncharacteristic given her wealthy upbringing and privileged marriage, her cost conscious nature stemmed from the 1929 stock market crash which cast a shadow of uncertainty over the Bouvier’s finances. Given the American public’s scrutiny of every move of the Kennedy purse strings, coupled with JFK’s watchful eye, the first lady was understandably perched on high alert of overspending—she walked a thin line of keeping her lavish lifestyle with her cost conscience mentality. This detailed paper trail reveals that Joe Kennedy Sr. paid for the entirety of the project; one letter documents the final amount his firm put out as just over $127,000. This one-of-kind archive—on which an entire book could potentially be written—breathes life into Jacqueline Kennedy’s deep-seated desire to construct a countryside oasis for the president. Her heartfelt, painstakingly detailed notes are preserved here in her letters, sketches, and hand-notated
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Jackie congratulates their building agents on a job well done and raves, “Jack loves it”
designs. At the time, the first lady was struggling amidst Jack’s continual infidelities and the heartbreaking August 1963 loss of their son Patrick. Jackie went to great lengths to ensure her husband’s every need was met—especially when it came to his fragile health—debating over the size of his closet and location of his bedroom window. Thurston Clarke’s book JFK’s Last Hundred Days, chronicles the Kennedy family’s Wexford timeline, confirming that they spent three straight weekends there—the last of October and the first two of November—just over a week before his death. The author bluntly states that the president was strongly opposed to the building of this Virginia home, only giving in upon his wife’s persistent pouting: an act that had a knack of winning Jack over. His one insistence was that the home be modest. The first lady agreed to keep the cost under $40,000, but it soon grew to $60,000 and eclipsed $100,00 upon completion. Though skeptical on their first visit, Jack had warmed up by the final retreat on November 10—all of which is documented in the JFK Library’s heartwarming videos taken by White House photographer Cecil Stoughton. Jackie must have felt that all her hard work was rewarded when she confided in her close friend, artist Bill Walton, “I think we’re going to make it. I think we’re going to be a couple. I’ve won.” Wexford was the Kennedy’s first real home as a complete family unit, fashioned in light of Jackie’s ideals and built from the ground up. Tragically, President Kennedy only spent three weekends at the Wexford estate before his assassination on November 22, 1963. This collection serves as proof of Jackie’s profound, continual love for Jack—a chance to revive their marriage following their renewed closeness—and serves as a tangible remembrance of the vibrancy and hope of Camelot.
September 1963 Jackie TLS mentioning the family’s upcoming visit upon her return from Greece
Handwritten letter from Jackie to secret service agent Clint Hill referring to “JFK” twice
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Kennedy Wedding China and Silver Massive collection present at their extravagant Newport reception
2048 Kennedy Wedding China and Silverware Collection Estimate $10,000 - 15,000 Comprehensive collection of a portion of the china and silver servingware and flatware believed to have been used at John and Jacqueline Kennedy’s 1953 Hammersmith Farm wedding reception in Newport, Rhode Island. The impressive lot contains over 1,000 pieces including approximately 172 pieces of china (17 plates, 8 soup bowls, 65 cups, 81 saucers, and one sugar bowl); 158 pieces of silver servingware, made of a mixture of solid and electroplated silver (seven pitchers, 16 footed bowls, three coffee urns, eight candlestick holders, one candelabra and top, one large punch bowl, one handled tea pot, nine warming stands, one soup tureen, three oval covered serving dishes, five gravy boats, four large and three small salt and pepper shakers, five salt cellars, seven bowls, one small round handled bowl, four round covered sauce pans/serving dishes, two silver pans, two pie servers, one creamer, one sugar bowl, two small sugar holders, ten oval serving bowls, four silver ladles, 16 square serving dishes, and 41 platters. Also included are 779 pieces of silverware (240 knives, 373 forks, and 166 spoons). The set of gorgeous white porcelain china plates features an elegant Victorian filigree gold leaf pattern along the scalloped rim and starburst in the center; the soup bowls feature a gold Grecian lock pattern; the cups are a mixture of the gold filigree, gold Greek lock pattern, and a floral rose pattern. The china and silver servingware and flatware was originally produced in the 1940s for Henry Cole, of New York; his monogram is still present on some of the pieces. It was later purchased from
Cole by E. Henry Evitts, a former Butler from England, who established himself as the most successful post WWII-era caterer in Newport. Evitts had china and silver on hand for the wealthy families on Bellevue Ave in Newport, who had to cut back on their lavish entertainment style following the war. Evitts catered the Kennedy wedding in 1953; several pieces have the catering company’s sticker attached to the bottom. Paul LaMond, a waiter for Evitts for more than 35 years, acquired the china and silver from Evitts in 1991. The current consignor, purchased the china and silver from an auction of LaMond’s belongings in August of 2014. Other items from Evitts catering were auctioned at the time as well, such as chairs and serving tables used at the Kennedy wedding. Overall condition is very good to fine; please note that several pieces of the silver-plated servingware and flatware have been polished for photographic display purposes but the majority remains in its original state (which, for the most part, could easily be cleaned). All item counts are approximate, extra shipping charges will apply, and buyer is responsible for arranging shipment; no returns will be accepted. American Royalty renting wedding china and servingware may appear unseemly, but it was traditionally the bride’s family’s responsibility. Her stepfather, stockbroker Hugh Auchincloss, likely covered the costs. The September 12, 1953 post-ceremony gala was held at his family’s long-time residence, Hammersmith Farm of Newport, Rhode Island. While over 700 guests attended the official Catholic ceremony, 1,200 guests were invited to join Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy at their reception. Possessing these elegant pieces of Kennedy matrimonial history, present at the inception of Camelot, is an exceptional honor.
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2049 Kennedy Family Photographs Estimate $600 - 800 Three exceptional oversized original photos of the Kennedy family on vacation taken by photographer Mark Shaw, including: a matte-finish 13.25 x 9 photo of John, Jackie, and baby Caroline at Cape Cod, bearing Shaw’s 1964 copyright stamp on the reverse and publication notations from Paris Match magazine; a matte-finish 13.5 x 9.25 photo of the three on the beach in Hyannis Port, bearing Shaw’s 1964 copyright stamp on the reverse and publication notations from Paris Match magazine; and a glossy 15.5 x 11.75 photo of the Kennedy family in a small boat, bearing Paris Match magazine stamps on the reverse with date stamp of November 15, 1966. In overall very good to fine condition, with mild scattered marks and creases to the first two photos; the largest photo exhibits some discoloration and substantial edge tears and creasing.
2050 John and Caroline Kennedy Photograph Estimate $800 - 1,200 Adorable oversized original matte-finish 15.5 x 19.25 photo of John F. Kennedy walking hand-in-hand with his young daughter Caroline, who holds a small bouquet of flowers as she presses her face into her father’s reassuring hand. Affixed to a slightly larger 16 x 20 mount. In fine condition, with some surface marks to the upper right and trivial dings to corners of the mount.
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Kennedy Family Elegant oversized Bachrach of America’s Royal Family 2052 Kennedy Family Bachrach Photograph Estimate $6,000 - 8,000 Extremely rare, striking original matte-finish 12.75 x 9.75 photo showing the Kennedy family in the living room of their home in Bronxville, New York, taken by acclaimed photographer Fabian Bachrach in 1938. This incredibly high quality formal image originates from Bachrach’s personal collection and was obtained directly from his family. A portrait of this caliber is something that few would possess, with the Kennedy’s themselves hanging a similar portrait in their own home. Shown left to right are Joseph P. Kennedy, Sr.; Patricia Kennedy; John F. Kennedy; Jean Kennedy; Eunice Kennedy; Robert Kennedy; Kathleen Kennedy; Edward Kennedy; Rosemary Kennedy; Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr.; and Rose Kennedy. Gilt-stamped in the lower right by Bachrach. Affixed to a slightly larger high quality contemporaneous mount. In exceptionally fine condition. Although they are very closely associated with Boston, the Kennedy clan moved from Brookline, Massachusetts, to Bronxville in 1927, where the family lived until 1942. At the time this image was captured, JFK was 21 years old and attending Harvard, RFK was 13 and soon to enter the Portsmouth Priory School, and Ted Kennedy was a mere six years of age. For the Kennedy’s to be captured together like this is exceptionally rare. Joe Jr, would be shot down in the war in 1944, Kathleen died in a plane crash in 1948, and Rosemary, their mentally ill eldest sister, would undergo a lobotomy at the behest of Joe Sr., three years after this picture was taken and forever be committed to an institution. Bachrach was one of America’s most prominent portrait photographers of the 20th century, especially of US commanders-in-chief, and remains most well-known for JFK’s iconic 1961 presidential portrait. The rarity of this photograph is immense and this is possibly the only formal portrait of this quality in private hands and to ever come to auction. A stunning, crystal-clear portrait of America’s greatest political dynasty—direct from Bachrach’s own files.
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View additional images of the sailboat online at www.RRAuction.com
John & Caroline’s Sailboat The vessel that introduced JFK Jr. to sailing
2053 John Jr. and Caroline Kennedy’s Childhood Sailboat Estimate $10,000 - 15,000
John Jr. and Caroline Kennedy’s childhood sailboat, built in Massachusetts and mainly used in the Mediterranean, measuring 12 feet long by 6 feet wide. The boat, constructed in the Winter of 1969–1970, exhibits the original builder’s plate on which is stamped, “Old Beetle Cat, No. 1426, Concordia Co. Inc., South Dartmouth, Mass.” It has been restored to its original colors, with a sky blue deck and a bright yellow hull. The unusually colored original paint became evident when the boat was stripped down to bare wood and was additionally confirmed in a letter from Caroline Kennedy. On the stern’s transom is fastened contemporary cast bronze letters placed in the original drill holes, spelling out the boat’s name as christened by the Kennedys, “Scallop.” In overall very good condition, with expected wear from use and restoration. Boat is currently in storage in Cape Cod, Massachusetts and buyer is responsible for covering extra shipping costs from origin to destination. Accompanied by a copy of an “Original Wooden Beetle Cat Boats” 1969–1970 builder’s inventory page. Listed is this boat, confirmed as “No. 1426,” with the owner listed as “Mrs. Aristotle Onassis,” and location of the boat as “John F. Kennedy, Jr, New Y[York] & Greec[e].” Also included is a 2006 letter from Caroline Kennedy to boat owner Peter Eastman, stating in full: “Thank you for writing in regard to our family’s Beetle Cat. Your letter brought back so many memories. I always wondered what happened to the only Beetle Cat in the Mediterranean. In answer to your questions, it was painted more like a Greek fishing boat than a typical Beetle Cat with a bright yellow hull, and a sky blue deck. It was called the Scallop. I would love to know what happens to it.” Additionally included is a detailed letter of provenance from Peter Eastman, owner of Howard Boats in Barnstable, MA, explaining the boat’s unique background history, and detailing the process of matching up the builder’s plate number and original colors. When Eastman first obtained the boat it was painted white and the “Scallop” name had been removed. Delving deeper, he contact Caroline Kennedy and removed the white color, both of which revealed the unique blue and yellow coloring underneath. Though the original “Scallop” letters were not present at the time of Eastman’s purchase, the restorers located old fashioned cast bronze letters which perfectly fit into the original drillholes on the transom. This cherished sailboat—similar in style to those the family used in Hyannis Port—was commission by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in 1969, shortly after her Fall 1968 marriage to shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. The boat was then shipped overseas for John Jr. and Caroline Kennedy to learn to sail while in Greece and returned to Hyannis Port in the 1970s. Jackie later sold it to the Gallaghers, a well-respected Hyannis Port family, and Eastman purchased it from them in the early 2000s. With it’s impressive documentation, including a page from the builder’s inventory; piece of correspondence from Caroline Kennedy; and a letter detailing the boat’s history directly from current owner, Peter Eastman—this is a solid piece of Kennedy family history—especially poignant given JFK’s own love of the sea.
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‘Honey Fitz’s early political pull 2054 John F. Fitzgerald Typed Letter Signed Estimate $200 - 400 Democratic mayor of Boston, father of Rose Kennedy, and namesake of his grandson John F. Kennedy (1863–1950). TLS signed “John F. Fitzgerald,” one page, 8.5 x 7.25, personal letterhead, November 19, 1917. Letter to Secretary of War Newton D. Baker. In full: “I beg to introduce Mr. Arthur Goldsmith of New York whom I have known favorably for a number of years. He was at Harvard while I was Mayor and I got to know him very intimately. He is a young man of fine character and splendid endowment and will do credit to the government in any position which he may be called upon to fill.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds (one vertical fold passing through a single letter of the signature), partial edge separations at folds, a thin area of paper loss to the upper right edge, and a few tape-repaired tears. Goldsmith was the friend and Harvard classmate of Fitzgerald’s son-in-law, Joseph P. Kennedy. He went on to become a Wall Street stockbroker and maintained a close relationship with the Kennedy family.
“The youngest Banker at the age of twenty-five” tells his Harvard chum, “Be sure to show that to all my girls” 2055 Joe Kennedy, Sr. Collection of Three Letters Estimate $200 - 400 Collection of three letters, comprised of one ALS and two TLSs, sent by Joe Kennedy to Harvard friend Arthur J. Goldsmith, dated between 1913 and 1940. The ALS is signed “Joe,” one page, Columbia Trust Company letterhead, no date but circa 1913, in part: “The youngest Banker at the age of twenty-five, tells Mr. Arthur J. Goldsmith to go straight to Hell…Be sure and show that to all my girls. It ought to make a big hit.” The earlier TLS is signed “Joe,” one page, Old Colony Realty Associates letterhead, November 17, 1913, in part: “I will know about Thursday whether I can land those tickets for the Army and Navy game or not. I have two or three parties working on them and have fair hopes of landing it.” The last is a war-dated TLS, signed “Joseph P. Kennedy,” two pages, Foreign Service, American Embassy, London letterhead, June 28, 1940, in part: “We have been doing everything we can here to facilitate supplies of mica for American requirements…If the mica on order is not what is classified by the British Government as munitions mica, the necessary export licenses can be granted by the Indian authorities without reference to London.” In overall fine condition, with staple holes to the corner of the 1940 letter. Goldsmith was a close friend and Harvard classmate of Joe Kennedy, and evidently they maintained a lifelong correspondence. Given Kennedy’s notorious womanizing, the line “Be sure and show that to all my girls” is especially intriguing.
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With her son causing Joe Sr. tummy aches, “Grandma” Kennedy warns Bobby to refrain from dinnertime politics 2056 Rose Kennedy Collection of Three Letters Estimate $200 - 400 Collection of three TLSs, each one page, dated between 1941 and 1955. One is to Robert F. Kennedy, signed in pencil, “Grandma,” one page, personal letterhead, February 19, 1958, in part: “This is just to remind you again to please not telephone to your father around 7:15 p.m., as we have dinner then and if he gets too excited before dinner, as he did the other night when he talked to you about the labor legislation, it is not very good for his little tummy. It is nothing to worry about, dearest Bobby. It is just a little help for the grandfather of eleven or maybe twelve.” Another letter is to a friend and describes a luxurious vacation to the French Riviera, signed “Rose,” one page, August 29, 1955, in part: “We…have been going to Eden Roe where the Queen of Iran goes water skiing...There are various other beauties and celebrities about, and many beautiful yachts which ply along the coast.” The third is to Joseph P. Kennedy’s friend and Harvard classmate Arthur J. Goldsmith, signed “Rose,” one page, personal letterhead, August 5, 1941, in part: “We’ve had a wonderful summer and it is marvelous, or course, to have Joe back again after all the worry of this time last year.” In overall fine condition, with scattered creases to the 1955 letter. A desirable assemblage of intimate letters, lending insight into the personal lives of ‘America’s Royal Family.’
“What an extraordinary friend you were to Jack and Bobby and Jackie” 2057 Ethel Kennedy Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $200 - 400 ALS signed “Ethel,” three pages, 5.75 x 7.75, personal Hickory Hill letterhead, notated 1975. Letter to Robert S. McNamara, who served as secretary of defense in the cabinets of both John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson. In part: “We had our first meeting of the board last week without you—and I know what Jack meant when he said: ‘one man can make a difference’…I thought back over the years about what an extraordinary friend you were to Jack and Bobby and to Jackie and me. In that first year of searching for the right direction—lost in a bewildering cloud of doubt and confusion, your judgment, strength and bold spirit encouraged us to continue Bobby’s quest to seek a newer world. Bob—you were the rock on which all of us leaned. Your optimism was contagious, and your constant urging to look at the bigger picture resulted in improving the quality of life for many thousands. Bob—you were there when I needed you. What more can be asked of a friend?” In fine condition. Ethel Kennedy founded the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights in 1968, which is likely what she is referring to when she mentions continuing “Bobby’s quest to seek a newer world.” A choice association between sender and recipient, highlighted by excellent Kennedy family content.
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2058 Robert F. Kennedy Signed Program Estimate $400 - 600 Page removed from a program for the Seventh Annual Dinner-Dance honoring Congressman James C. Corman, 8 x 10.5, no date but circa 1965–68, featuring an image of Kennedy near the top as a special guest, signed in blue ballpoint. Nicely double-matted and framed to an overall size of 14.75 x 17.5. In fine condition. Corman was a longtime Democratic Congressman from California, known for his push to pass the 1964 Civil Rights Act. As RFK was also renowned as a champion of Civil Rights, this is a nice association piece.
2059 John F. Kennedy, Jr. Photograph Estimate $800 - 1,200 Iconic glossy 10 x 8 photo of John F. Kennedy, Jr., saluting his father’s flag-draped casket as it passes by on a horsedrawn caisson during the funeral procession down Pennsylvania Avenue, on November 25, 1963. Reverse bears press stamps that read, “This Picture May Not Be Published” and “Star Staff Photo by Francis Routt.” In fine condition, with scattered surface creases. While the young Kennedy’s salute at his father’s funeral is one of the most recognizable images of the era, this one taken by Routt appears to be the only photograph with the flag-draped casket also in view—a stunning and unique variation of this classic photo.
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2060 John F. Kennedy Funeral Photographs Estimate $200 - 400 Two glossy 5 x 4 candid photos of John F. Kennedy’s state funeral taken by DC Metropolitan Police officer Cecil Wayne Kirk on November 24 and 25, 1963. The first was taken from the rotunda of the Capitol on the 24th, showing mourners passing by each side of Kennedy’s flag-draped casket. The second, taken on the following day, depicts the funeral service at Arlington Cemetery. In overall fine condition. A nice set of rare candid angles from these days of sorrow.
Lyndon B. Johnson LBJ’s engraved cigar box, presented to a longtime White House secretary
2062 Lyndon B. Johnson’s Wooden Cigar Box Estimate $600 - 800 President Johnson’s personally-owned and -used wooden cigar box, measuring 10.25 x 7.25 x 2.25, constructed primarily of light wood with dark accents on the sides, engraved on the top in fine script, “President Johnson.” As would be expected, the wood is of superior, first-class quality. Includes a letter of provenance on a White House card from Toi Bachelder, a White House secretary and member of FDR’s inner circle. In part: “The wooden cigar box imprinted ‘President Johnson’ was owned and used by him…I met F.D.R. when I was 14 and began my White House service as a secretary in 1933. When I retired in 1967, President Johnson held a private reception for me in the Cabinet Room and the Oval Office.” In fine condition, with a few tiny dings and cracks that do not detract from use or display. Toi Bachelder first met Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1925 when, afflicted with polio, she became one of the first 25 test patients to be rehabilitated at FDR’s newly established Warm Springs Foundation in Georgia. On her first night there she was a bridge partner with the future president, and the two became friends of long duration. When FDR assumed the presidency in 1933, Bachelder was invited to work as one of his major secretaries at the White House. She accepted the job and became one of the most trusted members of his inner circle. A truly extraordinary presidential piece. The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection.
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Lee Harvey Oswald “If we finally get back to the states, and maybe we’ll be able to settle in Texas”
2063 Lee Harvey Oswald Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $8,000 - 10,000 ALS signed twice, “Love, Lee,” two pages, lightlylined on two adjoining sheets, 5.5 x 8, December 13, 1961. A letter home to his mother, Marguerite Oswald. In full (spelling and grammar retained): “We recieded your post card today and also the first package of books which you sent us a month and a-half ago. I sure do appreciate your help. I think we’ll get together if we finally get back to the states, and maybe we’ll be able to settle in Texas. I hope everything is allright with you, why do you change address’s so often? I sent you and Robert a Christmas card, and even Aunt Lilian in New Orleans, do you write to them at all? or to Aunt Lilian. Has John been writing to you lately? When you write you can send us just post cards instead of letters they are cheaper and Marina enjoys the pictures of Texas and America. Snow is on the ground here and will be until April or May. Marina is feeling fine and everything is O.K. with that. Marina laughed when she heard your question about babies born at home or in hospitals of course allmost everyone here has their babys in the hospitial. Your choice of books is very good, thanks alot for them. Marina sends her love and hopes you recived her thank-you letter for the beautiful scraf you sent her.” He then adds a brief postscript, in full: “P. S. I wrote this letter on one day but didn’t get to send it till today, when I recivied your second package of books, (cowboys & times) so I shall thank you for them also.” In fine condition, with trivial brushing to the second signature. This letter was an official exhibit (No. 187) in the Warren Commission investigation into the assassination of John F. Kennedy, and, like most of the exhibits, is protectively and permanently soft-laminated with an identification label affixed at the top; this was also previously held in the collection of Dr. John K. Lattimer and bears his pencil identification number to a lower corner. The newly wed Lee and Marina Oswald would joyfully become parents two months later, but their optimism would soon wane as they struggled to obtain exit visas from the Russian government. In addition to the cards Oswald mentions that he sent, his mother testified before the Warren Commission that she also received ‘wonderful gifts’ of ‘a box of tea, very fine tea’ and ‘a box of candy for Christmas that has a Russian Santa Claus on it.’ An exceptional Texas content letter from the well-respected Lattimer collection.
60 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Officer Cecil Kirk
Personal papers of the Oswald rifle conspiracy investigator
Kirk testifying at the 1978 hearings 2064 Officer Cecil Kirk JFK Assassination Archive Estimate $1,000 - 1,500 Impressive archive of papers from the estate of officer Cecil Kirk, known for his investigations into the authenticity of the infamous backyard photographs of Lee Harvey Oswald holding his rifle, as well as his examination of the rifle itself. The primary material is a 41-page set of photocopies of notes from his 1978 testimony before the House Select Committee on Assassinations concerning the authenticity of the often disputed photographs of Lee Harvey Oswald in his backyard holding the rifle he allegedly used to assassinate John F. Kennedy, with copious penciled corrections and emendations in Kirk’s hand throughout. A portion of these notes concerns the photos, in part: “It has been alledged [sic] that Oswald’s shadow on the ground in these photographs is entirely black and contains no detail…This allegation of the shadow being painted on a montage—like others—is based on viewing copy prints and not on first generation photographs—When the photographs are viewed properly and with objectivity—details in the shadows are clearly visible. Grass, a small branch—stones, leaves and a newspaper are seen.” Also includes two glossy 10 x 8 photos, one of the rifle in question and one showing the various Oswald negatives, a period 8 x 10 photo of a Dallas detective holding the rifle, and two candid color snapshots of the 1978 hearings, one showing Kirk delivering his testimony and the other showing former Texas Governor John Connally, who was wounded during the assassination. A magazine with an article about Kirk’s investigation and a typed statement on Select Committee on Assassinations letterhead about Kirk’s involvement are also present. In overall fine condition.
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Front of the fingerprint card
Portion of the back of the fingerprint card
Jack Ruby
Amazing original fingerprint card from November 25, 1963 2065 Jack Ruby Fingerprint Card and Archive Estimate $4,000 - 6,000 Fantastic archive of material related to Jack Ruby and the murder of Lee Harvey Oswald, highlighted by an original Ruby fingerprint card from the investigation. The fingerprint card is filled out in type and signed in black ballpoint, “Jack Ruby,” one page both sides, 8 x 8, November 25, 1963. The front of the card lists his personal and identifying information, including his name, “Ruby, Jack Lyon”; alias, “Rubenstein, Jack Lyon”; his Sheriff’s Department file number, “129175”; and amputation, “left index AMP 2d Jnt 1952.” Ruby’s mugshot photograph The lower portion contains the original ink prints of all fingers and thumbs individually (except the amputated left index finger), as well as all nine prints taken simultaneously. The reverse lists his arrest information, including the date arrested, “11/25/63,” and charges or offense, “Murder with Malice.” Also present are two original small glossy booking photos of Ruby, one showing him standing up and the other a mugshot of his face and profile. The rest of the archive comprises 18 original period photos, including one of the sheriff’s office in the jail on the day Ruby was arrested, several of Ruby’s trial, and many of the Texas School Book Depository; some photocopied documentation from the trial is also included. In overall fine condition, and accompanied by a notarized letter of provenance from James Cron. An absolutely outstanding collection of the utmost historical importance. This material originates from the collection of James Cron, who worked as a civilian employee of the Dallas Police Department from 1958 to 1964, and as a deputy sheriff with the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office from 1964 to 1993, where he served as a crime scene investigator. Cron created the Physical Evidence Section and was its Lieutenant Commander until his retirement; he now serves as a crime scene consultant. While in these positions he met many figures associated with the Kennedy and Oswald investigations, and was able to save some files and documents from those marked for destruction, receiving some material from supervisors as they retired. The sheriff’s office began to remove fingerprint cards from their records after instituting a computerized system. According to Cron, six fingerprint cards were created on the day Ruby entered the Dallas County Jail on November 25, 1963—two were kept by the Dallas Sheriff’s Office, one by the Texas Department of Public Safety, and three went to the FBI, making this an exceedingly rare item and quite possibly the only example in private hands.
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English Royalty
2066 King George III Signature Estimate $200 - 400 Ink signature, “George R,” on an off-white 8 x 3.5 slip clipped from a larger document. Retains the original official paper seal affixed to the right side. Nicely double-matted and framed with a full-length portrait of the King to an overall size of 15.25 x 21.75. In fine condition, with light toning and wear to trimmed edges (most prevalent along right side).
Signed on the third day of his reign 2067 King George III Signed Document Estimate $400 - 600 King of Great Britain and Ireland from 1760 until his death in 1820 whose reign was marked most notably by the loss of British control over the American colonies. Partly-printed vellum DS, signed “George R,” one page, 13.75 x 9.5, October 27, 1760. King George appoints John Duncanson to be “Surgeon to Our Battalion of Fencible Men of Argyllshire, commanded by Our Trusty and Welbeloved John Campbell.” Signed in the upper left by King George III and countersigned by William Pitt the Elder. The white paper seal affixed to the upper left remains fully intact. Impressively double-matted and framed with a color image of the king to an overall size of 21 x 28. In very good condition, with three heavy vertical folds, and scattered creases and soiling; both signatures are especially strong and bold. The plan of raising a fencible corps in the Highlands was first proposed and carried into effect by William Pitt the Elder in 1759. Dating to the following year, this exceedingly early appointment was signed on just the third day of King George’s reign.
64 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Edward, Duke of Windsor The former king trades in his Buick for a luxurious Humber
2068 Edward, Duke of Windsor Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 TLS signed “Edward,” one page, 6 x 8.75, personal royal crest letterhead, April 11, 1947. Letter to Sir Williams Rootes at Devonshire House in London. In part: “The Duchess and I will be arriving in Great Britain from New York in ‘Queen Elisabeth’ on May 14… We shall be stopping at ‘Charters.’ Sunninghill, and I would like to hire a Rootes automobile for this period. Will you therefore have your office communicate with Colonel Gordon Sheriff…who will give the chauffeur you will assign to drive me instruction as to meeting us…I wish to thank you for storing my Buick-51 automobile…I am afraid you have been subjected to great hardships at the hands of the weather and the Socialist government since I last saw you, and the reports I hear from our country are not encouraging.” Expertly doublematted and framed with a photo of Edward to an overall size of 17 x 14.5. In fine condition. Accompanied by an original typed telegram from Edward to Rootes, thanking him for the loan of a “Special Humber” and saying that the Buick will be used as a secondary car. Rootes was a British automaker whose Rootes Group owned the Humber brand, a maker of luxury vehicles; during World War II, Rootes oversaw the manufacture of armaments ranging from armored fighting vehicles to airplanes, and also organized the reconstruction of Coventry after its saturation bombing by the Luftwaffe in 1940. A wonderful letter combining the extravagance of British royalty with the legacy of an important industrial leader.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 65
Military
Samuel Adams
As head of the Massachusett’s senate: “S Adams Presid” 2069 Samuel Adams Signed Document Estimate $2,000 - 3,000 Manuscript DS, signed “S Adams Presid,” one page, 7 x 7, February 22, 1785. A document issued by the Massachusetts State Senate. In part: “The Committee of both Houses appointed to prepare Instructions to the Delegates of this Commonwealth in Congress have attended that Service—and take leave to request the Resolves accompanying.” Adams adds his endorsement at the conclusion, “Read & accepted with Amendment at A on the annexed paper.” A manuscript addition below confirms that the Massachusetts House of Representatives also read and concurred with the resolves, but added an amendment. Attractively double-matted and framed with a portrait of the patriot to an overall size of 18.5 x 13.75. In very good condition, with professionally repaired partial separations to intersecting folds, scattered toning, and fading to portions of the writing and signature (not affecting legibility). During this period Adams was a prominent figure in public life, serving as president of the Massachusetts Senate. This unique version of his signature, in which he adds his presidential designation, is quite uncommon.
66 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
2070 Duke of Wellington Free Frank Estimate $200 - 400 Hand-addressed and free franked mailing envelope panel, 4.75 x 2.75, addressed by Wellington to “Mr. Malcolm,” dated “London, April Second 1830,” and franked in the lower left, “Free, Wellington.” Also postmarked London, April 2, 1830. Double-matted and framed with an engraved portrait to an overall size of 11 x 15. A rough top edge from opening and light soiling, otherwise fine condition.
P. G. T. Beauregard
The Confederate commander gathers his 1862 military staff 2072 P. G. T. Beauregard Signed Document Estimate $400 - 600 Brigadier general of the Confederate Provisional Army (1818– 1893) who commanded the forces at Charleston, where he ordered the bombardment of Fort Sumter at the start of the conflict. Manuscript DS, signed in pencil, “G. T. B.,” one page, 8 x 11.75, notated December 8, 1862. A list in another hand headed “List of Personal & General Staff,” with a statement lightly written in pencil by Beauregard at the conclusion, in full: “I think it is time to publish the names of my staff I recollect. Do you think it is well to book Walker’s and Manning’s names down now? & Polignac’s?” The list includes names of members of the adjutant general’s department, inspector general’s department, and medical department, as well as some other aides and officers. Double-matted and framed with an engraved portrait to an overall size of 21 x 18. In very good condition, with edge separations to horizontal folds, tears and paper loss to edges, and Beauregard’s statement struck through in ink. Beauregard assumed command of his regiment at Shiloh after the death of Albert Sidney Johnston, but in the spring of 1862 Jefferson Davis permanently replaced him with Braxton Bragg after Beauregard took an unauthorized medical leave. Beauregard then returned to Charleston, where he protected the harbor from repeated naval and land attacks by Union forces during 1863.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 67
Winston Churchill
Honoring the success of British tanks in World War I 2073 Winston Churchill Signed Menu Estimate $1,000 - 1,500 Menu for the Third Reunion Dinner of the Officers of the Tank Corps, held at the Hyde Park Hotel on November 19, 1921, 4 x 5.5, signed on the back cover in pencil by Winston Churchill, “W. Churchill,” General Sir Hugh Elles, “Hugh Elles,” and one other, “F. W. Butler (The Baron).” The menu retains its original decorative green and red ribbon on the left side of the cover. Attractively double-matted and framed unfolded with a portrait of Churchill to an overall size of 20.75 x 12.75, with a window on the reverse for viewing the menu inside. In very good condition, with moderate scattered soiling, brushing to graphite, and ink marks. This dinner was held to remember the British success at the Battle of Cambrai during World War I, in which Elles led 350 tanks into battle to great success in overcoming the seemingly impenetrable German trench defenses. Church bells rang throughout England in celebration, and each year the anniversary of the battle was commemorated as ‘Cambrai Day.’ As First Lord of the Admiralty, Churchill played an instrumental role in pushing the idea of armored tanks through the bureaucracy and onto the front lines. A terrific association between Churchill’s experience in World War I, which he drew upon in his position as prime minister in the Second World War.
2074 Omar Bradley Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 War-dated TLS signed “O N Bradley,” one page, 7.5 x 9.75, July 16, 1945. “I was pleased to have your letter of 14 June 1945 acknowledging your services of the first World War. As a veteran, you will be glad to know that the young men of this war have fought with a skill and courage that shall always be memorable in the traditions of our American fighting forces.” In fine condition, with light scattered creasing and toning to upper edge. As a member of the 19th Infantry Division, a 25-year-old Bradley was denied European deployment during WWI following the devastating flu pandemic of 1918. Following his role in the Battle of the Bulge, and mere months after this letter was written, Bradley led his Ninth Armored Division across the Rhine in Operation Lumberjack, the river’s first major crossing and a maneuver that effectively captured the Ludendorff bridge and 300,000 German prisoners. The large-scale exercise enabled US forces to envelop the industrial area of Ruhr and expedite the war’s end.
68 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Inventors & Industrialists
2075 John Jacob and Sarah Astor Signatures Estimate $200 - 400 Business magnate and merchant (1763–1848) who became the first multimillionaire in the United States; Sarah was his only wife, with their nearly 50-year-long marriage ending upon her 1834 passing. Ink signatures, “John Jacob Astor” and “Sarah Astor,” presumably on a pair of off-white 6.25 x 1.5 vellum slips clipped from a document, with a window on the reverse for viewing Sarah’s signature on opposing side. Both documents retain original light blue ribbons and red seals affixed to the right of signatures. Double-matted and framed with a head-and-shoulders portrait of the prominent fur-trader and investor to an overall size of 13.5 x 13.5. In overall fine condition, with some irregular ink adhesion to John’s first name.
2076 Cornelius Vanderbilt, Jr. Signed Stock Certificate Estimate $200 - 400 American tycoon, businessman, and philanthropist (1794– 1877) who built his wealth in railroads and shipping. Partlyprinted DS, signed “C. Vanderbilt,” one page, 12.5 x 8.5, March 1, 1883. Bond certificate in the amount of $5000 issued by the Michigan Central Rail Road Company to the Connecticut Mutual Life Insurance Company, to be repaid at a rate of fivepercent per annum. Signed at the conclusion by Vanderbilt as the company’s vice president and countersigned by two other officials. Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 18.75 x 15. Expected document wear, mounting remnants to left edge, and expected cancellation holes (three affecting Vanderbilt’s signature), otherwise fine condition.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 69
2077 Collis P. Huntington Signed Stock Certificate Estimate $200 - 400 Industrialist (1821–1900) known as one of the Big Four of western railroading, building the Central Pacific Railroad as part of the first US transcontinental railroad. Partly-printed DS, signed “C. P. Huntington,” one page, 11 x 7.5, September 26, 1889. Stock certificate issued to Huntington for 100 shares of capital stock in the Newport News and Mississippi Valley Company. Signed at the conclusion by Huntington as the company’s president and countersigned twice by the secretary, J. E. Gates. Handsomely double-matted and framed with a portrait of the industrialist to an overall size of 24 x 13.5. In fine condition, with expected document wear and cancellation holes to the lower right corner.
2078 Jay Cooke Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 American Civil War financier and railroad magnate (1821–1905). ALS, one page, lightlylined, 5.5 x 6.5, personal letterhead, June 19, 1880. Letter to Barney, in part: “I enclose a postal—please reply to it for me.” Handsomely double-matted and framed with a bustlength portrait of Cooke to an overall size of 17.5 x 12.75. In fine condition, with central vertical and horizontal folds (one vertical fold passing through a single letter of the signature) and a small indentation to the upper edge. Despite the 1873 collapse of the Jay Cooke & Company bank, Cooke would regain his wealth just seven years later through a lucrative silver mine investment in Utah.
70 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Samuel F. B. Morse
“Work hard and don’t listen to others’ criticism” 2079 Samuel F. B. Morse Autograph Quote Signed Estimate $400 - 600 Choice AQS in French on an offwhite 4.75 x 4.75 sheet, signed at the conclusion, “Saml. F. B. Morse.” Morse pens a French proverb, in full (untranslated): “Faites bien, laisser dire.” Double-matted and framed with an engraved portrait to an overall size of 10.5 x 6.25. In fine condition. Morse invokes a French proverb, which essentially translates to ‘Work hard and don’t listen to others’ criticism,’ or ‘Do well, let them say what they will.’ An especially bold, clean example with a nice sentiment from the inventor of the telegraph.
2080 Richard Gatling Signature Estimate $400 - 600 Inventor (1818–1903) of the eponymous machine gun which has been estimated to have killed over 250,000 men since 1862. Ink signature, “R. J. Gatling, Hartford, Conn, Augt 12th, 1887,” on an off-white 3.75 x 2.25 card. Attractively double-matted and framed with a bust-length picture of the inventor to an overall size of 11.25 x 16. In fine condition. A bold example written near the end of his final term as president of the American Association of Inventors and Manufacturers.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 71
P. T. Barnum
“Please get a slip saying Will Soon Close on all the Tom Thumb bills” 2082 P. T. Barnum Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 ALS, one page, 4.5 x 7.5, no date but circa 1840s. Letter to Mssrs. Tucker, in part: “Please get a slip printed immediately in some peculiar color and run it diagonally across all your bills saying Will Soon Close & get it posted on all the Tom Thumb bills before Sunday morning next.” Barnum adds a handwritten postscript, “I think Will Shortly Close reads better and should be printed large type…you had better order them at once.” Docketed on the reverse, most likely by Barnum, “Mr. Barnum Regent Street.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds. Barnum was a self-made millionaire whose riches and wildly popular circuses were the direct result of his cutting edge advertising tactics. His experimentation with ad content—from deadlines and guarantees to active tense and dramatic visuals—revolutionized the modern marketing practices. Barnum’s specific mention of Tom Thumb here is an uncommon treat.
2083 Thomas Edison Signed Check Estimate $600 - 800 Edison Botanic Research Corporation business check, 8.5 x 3, filled out in another hand and signed by Edison, payable to Parke Davis & Co. for $4.24, stamp-dated April 10, 1928. Handsomely double-matted and framed with an image of the inventor to an overall size of 15 x 15.75. In fine condition, with a pair of diagonal folds (passing through two letters of the signature), and expected cancellation holes (affecting the first name).
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2084 Henry Ford Signature Estimate $400 - 600 Bold ink signature, “Henry Ford,” on an off-white 2.25 x 3.25 portion of an FDC bearing the Norwegian coat of arms and reading “The United States Honors The Over-Run Countries of Europe.” Nicely doublematted and framed with a bust-length portrait of the famed American industrialist to an overall size of 10.25 x 16.75. In fine condition, with an area of light adhesive remnant to right edge.
2085 Orville Wright Signed Check Estimate $400 - 600 The Winters National Bank & Trust Co. bank check, 8.25 x 2.75, filled out in another hand and signed by Wright, payable to Carrie Grumbach for $26.69, January 21, 1947. Attractively double-matted and framed with a bust-length picture of the younger Wright brother to an overall size of 14.25 x 14.75. In fine condition, with a central vertical fold, and expected bank stamps and cancellation holes (none affecting the bold signature). Grumbach served as Wright’s housekeeper for nearly 50 years. Starting as a 14-year-old, she primarily cooked and cleaned before assuming full duties when Wright’s sister, Katharine, married in 1926. Orville Wright passed away on January 30, 1948, a little over a year from the day this check was signed.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 73
William Randolph Hearst “I did not support or oppose Mr. Henry Ford for presidency”
2086 William Randolph Hearst Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 TLS signed “W. R. Hearst,” two pages, 7.75 x 10.5, San Francisco Examiner letterhead, July 31, 1923. Letter to Herman Bernstein, editor of the Jewish Tribune. In part: “I have been in Mexico and out of the way places and have not heard much of the details of the Henry Ford incident you allude to, but the article from the Jewish Tribune is illuminating. That article says ‘We are glad to know that Mr. William Randolph Hearst denies he ever said he favors Henry Ford for the presidency.’ I did not support Mr. Henry Ford for presidency or oppose Mr. Henry Ford for presidency. I simply said in effect that I was surprised to find that Henry Ford had so much strength in various parts of the country, even in the south…The slightest investigation would have made this fact obvious…I did not see any correspondent of the New York Times and consequently did not give him any interview at all and this statement…published in the Times is a pure fake. This correspondent probably saw an interview published in the New Orleans States and added to it…his own inventions making me say what I did not say, namely that I was with Ford for the presidency and that he was the man that should have all the peoples support…My choice for the presidency is Senator Reed on the Democratic ticket and Senator Johnson on the Republican because I know how those men stand on the issue which I consider most important before the American public today, namely, the question of keeping free from foreign entanglements according to the injunction of Washington and the other fathers of our republic.” Handsomely double-matted and framed with a photo of Hearst to an overall size of 28.75 x 17. In fine condition, with intersecting folds passing through the signature. Ford as a presidential candidate appealed to several disparate political factions as a ‘self-made man’ and the ‘people’s tycoon,’ who latched on to his neo-Populist rhetoric against ‘profiteers’ and ‘Wall Street.’ A poll conducted by Collier’s magazine in the spring of 1923 even had Ford as the front runner for the 1924 election, leading all candidates including the incumbent Warren G. Harding. In addition to the political content and discussion of Ford, Hearst’s letter is intriguing in its assertions against competing newspapers, harkening back to the newspaper wars that Hearst had fought during the rise of his publishing empire.
74 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Scientific Minds
Charles Darwin
The father of evolutionary thought
2087 Charles Darwin Signature Estimate $800 - 1,000 Ink signature, “Yours sincerely, C. Darwin,� on an off-white 3.25 x 1.25 slip clipped from the close of a letter. Nicely double-matted and framed with an image of Darwin in his later years to an overall size of 10 x 14. Intersecting folds (passing through inscription and two letters of the signature), a small separation to right edge, and some light toning, otherwise fine condition.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 75
Albert Einstein
Amazing letter discussing God, creation, and his theory of relativity 2088 Albert Einstein Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $40,000 - 60,000 ALS in Italian, signed “A. Einstein,” one page on a 3.5 x 5.5 postcard, July 12, 1925. Letter to Italian electrical engineer Giovanni Giorgi. In full (translated): “I agree with your opinion on the fact that the movement of an ether with a [mathematical expression] so high is particularly impossible. God created the world with more intelligence and elegance. You right to compare with Miller’s works, the laws of aberration. The theory of Stokes-Planck is very artificial and can not—in my opinion— explain this law of aberration. I would be very curious to know the real cause of the Miller’s phenomenon. I do not doubt the validity of the theory of relativity.” Also addressed on the reverse in Einstein’s hand. In fine condition, with overall toning, slight soiling and creases to corner tips, and a stray ink mark to the lower left.
theory of relativity at the conclusion. Einstein had dedicated much of the previous decade to refining the study of relativity after introducing his ‘General Theory of Relativity’ in 1915. As Einstein’s revolutionary theory grew in acceptance within the scientific community through the 1920s, a small but vocal minority emerged in opposition. Dayton Miller, an advocate of aether theory and absolute space, was one such opponent and offered Einstein experimental evidence to support his ideas. While Einstein acknowledged that a positive result for the existence of aether would invalidate the theory of special relativity, he asserted that Miller’s results were erroneous and tainted by environmental factors.
“God created the world with more intelligence and elegance. I do not doubt the validity of the theory of relativity”
This magnificent letter is rife with intriguing content—each and every sentence contains a revelatory turn and could be expounded upon at length within the context of Einstein’s life and work. That it is written in Italian is notable in itself—his family had moved to Italy for a few years in the mid1890s and, although he was fluent, letters in Italian are seldom seen. While in Italy at just 16 years old, Einstein published what is generally considered his first scientific paper, entitled ‘On the Investigation of the State of the Ether in a Magnetic Field.’ This presents a nice connection to the letter, which refutes some of the concepts surrounding that very topic. Especially interesting is the strong stance he takes in defense of the
The discussion of God as a creator is also fascinating. Although he did not believe in a personal deity, Einstein was not averse to speaking of God in a scientific context when discussing differing interpretations of quantum physics. In 1929, he said that he believed ‘in Spinoza’s God, who reveals himself in the harmony of all that exists,’ and in the 1950s would write, ‘If something is in me which can be called religious then it is the unbounded admiration for the structure of the world so far as our science can reveal it.’ It is this conception of God that appears in the present letter, with the idea of a world designed with “intelligence and elegance” corresponding with these later notions of structural harmony. It was these harmonious structures—the things at the very core of creation—that Einstein hoped to uncover and describe in his quest for knowledge as a physicist, forming a bridge between the scientific and the spiritual. All together, this is a truly exceptional letter that encompasses a varied range of Einstein’s thoughts during this period.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 77
Sigmund Freud The Future of an Illusion takes precedence for the neurologist
2089 Sigmund Freud Typed Letter Signed Estimate $2,000 - 3,000 TLS signed “Freud,” one page, 5.5 x 7.5, personal letterhead, March 25, 1927. Letter to a female colleague, in part: “As I said before, it will be impossible for me to come to the World Congress for Psychotherapy to be held in your town. Thank you for your friendly invitation.” Double-matted and framed with an image of the neurologist enjoying a cigar to
an overall size of 16.5 x 13.75. In fine condition, with light surface impressions near the top edge. Founded in 1995, nearly seventy years after this letter was written, the World Congress of Psychotherapy is a triennially held convention highlighted by the bestowment of the Sigmund Freud Award on the basis of lifework, project development, and scientific publication. Freud was presumably unable to attend due to the imminent release of his 1927 book The Future of an Illusion, a short yet meditative psychoanalysis on religion’s need and basis within modern civilization.
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Harvey Cushing
Neurosurgery pioneer seeks Culpeper texts 2090 Harvey Cushing Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 Surgeon (1869–1939) who pioneered many modern neurosurgical techniques and investigated the functions of the pituitary gland. TLS, one page, 6 x 7.75, Yale University School of Medicine letterhead, June 29, 1936. Letter to Mr. Albert Berthel, in part: “I am greatly interested in old medical books but do not go in for engravings and portraits. If you run across any interesting rare copies of books by Nicholas Culpepper [sic], the astrologer, I will be glad to have you quote them for me.” Doublematted and framed with a portrait of Cushing to an overall size of 17.25 x 14. In fine condition, with a few scattered surface creases and intersecting folds (one vertical fold passing through signature). An avid book collector, Cushing amassed an enormous library of scientific literature throughout his life, ranging from medieval and Renaissance medical manuscripts to works of obscure scientists—including over a hundred different editions of botanist Nicholas Culpeper’s works. A desirable letter related to his famous collection, the majority of which is now housed at his alma mater, Yale University.
2091 Niels Bohr Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 Danish physicist (1885–1962) who was awarded the 1922 Nobel Prize in Physics for his theory of atomic structure. TLS signed “Niels Bohr,” one page, 5.25 x 8, Universitetets Institut for Teoretisk Fysik letterhead, August 15, 1949. Letter to Professor Harald Nielsen, in part (translated): “I am very pleased to hear that you and your wife will visit Denmark in December. It will be a great pleasure for all of us at the Institute to see you again and talk about new things as well as old.” Double-matted and framed with a head-and-shoulders image of the physicist to an overall size of 17 x 14.25. In fine condition, with a central vertical and horizontal fold and scattered creases.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 79
Activists
Henrietta Szold
The Hadassah founder saves children during the Holocaust 2092 Henrietta Szold Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 Zionist leader (1860–1945) who worked for the Jewish Publishing Society of America before she founded Hadassah in 1912. TLS, one page, 6.5 x 9.5, Hebrew letterhead, January 29, 1942. Letter to Hanna Elbert. In part: “You failed to give me several important details in your letter…the age of the boys, where they were born and if they came from abroad, when their parents arrived here and from what country they came. In the Youth Aliyah all these details are limiting circumstances…I cannot say beforehand whether they can be entered in Ben Shemen which is a costly arrangement…You must understand that the Youth Aliyah Movement is not a social service undertaking. It rather belongs in the category of immigration…If the mother has a regular employment, she will be expected to contribute to the care of the children, whether it be at Ben Shemen through the Youth Aliyah or in any place through the Vaad Leumi.” Double-matted and framed with a photo of Szold to an overall size of 18 x 15.5. In very good condition, with central vertical and horizontal folds, scattered creases and soiling, an area of dampstaining to the lower border, and show-through from postmark ink near the signature. The Youth Aliyah organization rescued thousands of Jewish children from the Nazis during World War II, with Szold overseeing their resettlement in Palestine in kibbutzim and youth villages. A remarkable wartime letter written as Szold struggled to use all possible resources.
2093 Maria Montessori Typewritten Message Signed Estimate $400 - 600 Italian physician and education theorist (1870–1952) who devised the innovative approach to early childhood learning that bears her name. Uncommon TNS in Italian, one page, 4.25 x 6, Apostolic Delegation letterhead, April 19, 1943. A message transmitted to her cousin via Vatican Radio. In full (translated): “Thanks reassuring news kids; we best health, happy Easter and affectionate thoughts to all of you.” Her cousin’s initial transmission is typed on the reverse. Double-matted and framed with an image of Montessori to an overall size of 16 x 13.25, with a window on the reverse for viewing the reverse. In fine condition, with scattered creases, slight show-through from typing on the reverse, and an ink stamp affecting a portion of her last name.
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2094 Frederick Douglass Signed Document Estimate $400 - 600 Former slave (1818–1895) who lent his eloquent, powerful voice to the abolitionist movement. Manuscript DS, signed “Fred’k Douglass,” one page, 3 x 7.75, December 18, 1885. The docketing panel of an official bill of sale for a land transaction between Jesse D. B. Peters and W. S. Deardorff. Crisply signed by Douglass as recorder of deeds. Nicely double-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 14.5 x 14. In fine condition, with expected document wear and light toning.
Booker T. Washington
“Collis P. Huntington agreed to give $50,000” 2095 Booker T. Washington Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 TLS, one page, 8.25 x 10.75, Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute letterhead, December 8, 1899. Letter to Rev. Geo. L. Chaney, in part: “You will be glad to know that as a result of the meeting held in Madison Square Garden Concert Hall last Monday night in New York that a lady in the West, through Mr. Cleveland, has subscribed $25,000 towards our endowment fund on condition that we can raise the whole endowment to $500,000. Yesterday Mr. and Mrs. Collis P. Huntington agreed to give $50,000 for our endowment fund. Other smaller gifts have also been made towards this fund within the last few days.” Double-matted and framed with a bust-length photo of Washington to an overall size of 20.5 x 17.5. In fine condition, with intersecting folds and some minor spots of foxing. It took Washington 20 years to accrue nearly $300,000 to purchase the land and equipment for his Tuskegee Normal School, but only one amazing evening at Madison Square Garden, highlighted by the participation of wealthy philanthropists like Andrew Carnegie, John D. Rockefeller, and former president Grover Cleveland, to attain the permanent endowment fund necessary towards defining the legacy of Tuskegee University.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 81
Martin Luther King Content-rich 1964 letter, written as his dream began to take hold
2096 Martin Luther King, Jr Typed Letter Signed Estimate $6,000 - 8,000
TLS, one page, 7.75 x 10.25, Southern Christian Leadership Conference letterhead, July 31, 1964. Letter to David F. Seiferheld of New York. In full: “This letter comes to express my deep appreciation to you for your generous contribution of $100.00 to the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Such moral and financial support are of inestimable value for the continuance of our humble efforts. Without your dollars for freedom, the Conference would be unable to work effectively towards its goal of the full integration of the Negro into all aspects of American life. Your contribution will help our work in communities all across the South. At present, SCLC has staff members in more than twenty communities seeking through nonviolent direct action and voter registration campaigns to break down the barriers of racial segregation and discrimination.
our financial problem a little less burdensome. We are enclosing an official receipt for your contribution.” Nicely double-matted and framed with an image and engraved plaque to an overall size of 32 x 23. In fine condition. The year 1964 was tremendously important in King’s activism and the progress of civil rights in America. As leader of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, King led successful marches and protests to invigorate public support for the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which was being debated in Congress. Earlier in July, King had observed President Johnson sign this influential act into law—a landmark piece of legislation for equality in United States, outlawing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. In December, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his remarkable efforts in the advancement of his cause. Dating to this period of great historical importance, this letter features exceptional content on furthering his impactful activism. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
“You are telling the world that the rights of Negroes cannot be trampled in any community without impairing the rights of every other American”
Without your moral support we would be caught in a dungeon of despair without knowing that many people all over the nation are supporting us in our struggle. By aiding us in this significant way, you are telling the world that the rights of Negroes cannot be trampled in any community without impairing the rights of every other American. Thank you again for making
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 83
Mohandas Gandhi
Exceptional letter to a jailed student protester, encouraging Indian economic freedom 2097 Mohandas Gandhi Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $8,000 - 10,000 ALS in English, signed “Bapu (M. K. Gandhi),” one page on a 5.5 x 3.5 postcard, February 18, 1942. Letter to Sihri R. Achuthan, a freedom fighter, student revolutionary, and later a member of the first parliament of free India. In full: “I have your letter. I am glad you are all spinning & make wise use of your time. I am asking Dr. Pattahbi to attend to your requirements.” Addressed on the reverse to Achuthan at the Central Jail, Rajamundry, Andhra. A central vertical crease, a few small stains, and a fingerprint near the signature, otherwise fine condition. Shri R. Achuthan was general secretary of the Madras students and imprisoned in 1941 after speaking out against ‘police terrorism,’ and became one of Gandhi’s followers and correspondents during his time in prison. Gandhi’s mention of “spinning” is exceptionally important, as he had adopted the spinning wheel as a symbol of economic independence very early on in his movement. His platform started to become popular shortly after World War I, and he developed a broad base of support from both Hindus and Muslims to support peaceful noncooperation. After assuming control of the Indian National Congress in December 1921, Gandhi expanded his nonviolence program to include the swadeshi policy—the boycott of British goods. From this originated his spinning wheel, as he encouraged all Indians to wear khaki (homespun cloth) instead of British-made textiles. He furthered this concept by exhorting Indian men and women, rich or poor, to spend time each day spinning khadi in support of the independence movement. Thus the spinning wheel—and the textile itself—became symbolic of the movement toward Indian independence. An outstanding letter of great historical importance.
84 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Art & Literature
Samuel Johnson
First edition of the pioneering 1755 Johnson’s Dictionary 2098 Samuel Johnson Dictionary Estimate $8,000 - 10,000 Immensely significant first edition of Johnson’s remarkable A Dictionary of the English Language: in which the words are deduced from their originals, and illustrated in their different significations by examples from the best writers. Printed by W. Strahan for J. and P. Knapton, London, 1755. Leatherbound hardcover, 11 x 17. Title pages in red and black ink, lexicon in double columns. Both volumes have been rebound in brown speckled leather, with stunning stamped gilt embellishments and titles, five raised bands to each spine, and marbled endpapers. Both volumes have soiling and discoloration to textblock edges; waterstains affecting portions of the edges and margins; scattered foxing; and small scattered tears to edges of individual pages. First dozen or so pages of volume one (including the title page) suffered significant damage and paper loss, and have been restored and remargined, as has the last page of the volume. Volume two also has several repaired and remargined pages (including the first and last several). Universally recognized as one of the most influential books in the history of the English language, Johnson spent nine years compiling a comprehensive dictionary of words, with the important innovations of illustrating meanings through literary quotation and adding notes on usage. The dictionary contained 42,773 words and well over 100,000 quotations, with some favored authors being Shakespeare, Milton, Dryden, and Swift. This edition was inordinately expensive to produce and limited to just 2,000 copies. Johnson’s dictionary codified the English lexicon and the genius of his work remains impressive today.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 85
Washington Irving
“She returned in triumph from the discovery of a world, and beheld her furling her sails in their harbor” 2099 Washington Irving Autograph Manuscript Estimate $800 - 1,200 American author (1783–1859) best known for his stories ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ and ‘Rip Van Winkle.’ Desirable handwritten manuscript, one page, 6.25 x 8.5, no date but circa 1826. Page from a working draft of Irving’s History of the Life and Voyages of Christopher Columbus, numbered 450. The body, in part: “Over wild and desert wastes of water without a shore; or as perishing amidst rocks, and quicksands, and whirlpools; or a prey to those monsters of the deep with which credulity, in those days, peopled every distant and unfrequented sea [note]. There was something more awful in such a mysterious fate, than in death itself, under any defined and ordinary form. When the news arrived, therefore, that one of the adventurous ships was standing up the river, the inhabitants were thrown into great agitation; but when they heard that she returned in triumph from the discovery of a world, and beheld her furling her sails in their harbor, the whole community burst forth into a transport of joy. The bells were rung, the shops shut, all business was suspended; for a time there was nothing but the hurry and tumult of hidden exultation and breathless curiosity. Some were anxious to know the fate of a relative, others of a friend, and all to learn particulars of so wonderful a voyage. When Columbus landed.” Irving strikes through six words, and adds a footnote along the bottom, “In the maps and charts of those times, and even in those of a much later date, the variety of formidable and hideous monsters depicted in all remote parts of the ocean, evince the terrors and dangers with which the imagination clothed it. The same may also be said of distant and unknown lands. The remote parts of Asia and Africa have monsters depicted in them which it would be difficult to trace to any originals in natural history.” Double-matted and framed with a half-length portrait of Irving to an overall size of 17 x 14.75. In fine condition, with light horizontal folds, a small area of toning, and scattered surface creasing. When invited to Madrid to translate Spanish-language source material into English, Irving accepted and subsequently used the material to write his own history of the Genoese explorer. Noted for its imagination and ‘fanciful’ sentimentality, the work, in spite of Irving’s patriotic and historic intentions, was influenced by Irving’s inexperience with historical writing and his ‘ambivalence about the character of his hero and the imperialism that established the American colonies.’ Published in 1828, Irving’s multi-volume biographical account of Christopher Columbus exists as one of the first examples of American historical fiction. A fantastic, boldly penned page from what is considered the most painstaking effort of Irving’s life.
86 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Charles Dickens
Bold example penned the year he wrote ‘The Signal-Man’ 2100 Charles Dickens Third-person Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $800 - 1,200 Third-person ALS, signed within the text, one page, 4.5 x 4.5, personal Gads Hill Place letterhead, May 29, 1866. Letter to Mr. Barker, in part: “Mr. Charles Dickens presents his compliments to Mr. Barker, and begs to say (in reply to Mr. Barker’s note of enquiry) that he believes he has never seen the picture in question.” Double-matted and framed with a photo of Dickens writing at his desk to an overall size of 16 x 11. In fine condition, with a few light surface creases and trimmed edges. After separating from his wife Catherine in 1858, Dickens undertook an immensely popular and lucrative reading tour that would absorb most of his creative energies for the next decade; his lone output during the year of this letter was a collaborative set of short Christmas stories which includes the famous ghost story The Signal-Man, a story likely based on the Clayton Tunnel rail crash of 1861. A particularly clean and bold example of the famed English novelist’s penmanship.
2102 Robert Browning Hand-addressed Envelope Estimate $200 - 400 English poet and playwright (1812–1889) known for his mastery of dramatic verse, especially in monologues. Desirable hand-addressed and signed mailing envelope panel, 4.5 x 3.25, addressed by Browning to “The Right Hon’ble, The Lord Mayor, Mansion House,” and neatly signed in the lower left, “Rob’t Browning.” Postmarked London, May 23, 1881. Double-matted and framed with a color image to an overall size of 16.25 x 11. In fine condition, with three noticeable sets of tack holes.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 87
2103 Edward Burne-Jones Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $200 - 400 British artist and designer (1833–1898) closely associated with the later phase of the Pre-Raphaelite movement. ALS signed “EB.J,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.25 x 6.5, personal letterhead, July 14, 1887. Letter to English actress Ellen Terry, in part: “So in default I send you a little sign of my homage and admiration: I made it purposely for you, which is its only excellence, and thought nothing but gold good enough for you to paint with—and now it is done I am woefully disappointed—it looks such a poor little wretch of a thing, and there is not time to make another before you go—not holding it up to the light, but putting it in a corner—and never shewing it…But I wanted it to be so different and my old eyes cannot help me to finish as I want.” Nicely double-matted and framed with a portrait of the painter at his easel to an overall size of 19.5 x 12.75, with a window on the reverse for viewing the inside of the letter and the original envelope. In fine condition, with scattered soiling (most noticeable to the pages on the reverse). Burne-Jones was an avid admirer of Terry, and after having watched her in Amber Heart on three different occasions, he described her performance as ‘not acting—it is a glimpse of Nature itself.’ The actress soon became a source of artistic inspiration for Burne-Jones, who designed Terry’s costumes for her 1895 role in King Arthur.
Julia Ward Howe
“Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord”
2104 Julia Ward Howe Autograph Quote Signed Estimate $400 - 600 Boldly penned AQS on an off-white 6.25 x 2.75 slip, signed at the conclusion, “Julia Warde Howe, September, 1899.” Howe pens a line from her most famous patriotic verse, ‘The Battle Hymn of the Republic.’ In full: “‘Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.’” Nicely double-matted and framed with an engraved portrait to an overall size of 12.25 x 16. In fine condition, with a central vertical fold. A fabulous example of this iconic quote.
88 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Stanford White
Brooklyn’s Civil War Arc de Triomphe 2105 Stanford White Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 Distinguished American architect (1853– 1906) who was a leading figure of the ‘Beaux Arts’ movement. He was fatally shot and killed in the roof garden theatre of the Landmark by the husband of actress Evelyn Nesbit in retribution for a longago affair. Scarce TLS, one page, 7.5 x 9.75, McKim, Mead & White letterhead, September 20, 1898. Letter to American sculptor F. W. MacMonnies. In part: “I just received your letter of September 7th, stating that you had telegraphed me to know if the Arch pedestal was ready for putting up the Quadriga, but that you had not heard from me…I let you know this long ago, namely, that the Arch had been ready for the statuary since the beginning of July. The bronzes have been received, and I finally got permission to store them under the Arch, in order that a large bill for storage should not be rendered against you. They have fenced this off with an ugly wooden fence, and the Commissioners, as I cabled you, are getting very much annoyed as there is no sign of the work progressing.” White adds a brief handwritten note at the closing, in part: “All well with me—I hope all is well with you.” Double-matted and framed with a portrait of White to an overall size The Quadriga atop Brooklyn’s Soldier’s and Sailor’s Memorial Arch of 19.5 x 16. In fine condition. This letter concerns the construction of the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch in Brooklyn, a monument dedicated to ‘The Defenders of the Union, 1861–1865.’ The impressive arch was designed by John H. Duncan and built over the course of three years from 1889 to 1892. When White’s architectural firm was hired to overhaul the plaza in 1893, they recommended that sculptural elements be added to the arch. They commissioned MacMonnies to create three bronze groups, the most spectacular being the ‘Quadriga’ on top, portraying the winged goddess of victory between two trumpeting winged attendants. A highly uncommon example with superior architectural and artistic content.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 89
O. Henry
“Sydney Porter, 28 West 26th St” 2106 O. Henry Signature Estimate $400 - 600 Short story writer born William Sydney Porter (1862–1910) known for his use of the surprise ending. Uncommon pencil signature, “Very truly, Sydney Porter, 28 West 26th St, Phone 2031 Madison,” on an off-white 3.75 x 3.5 slip clipped from the close of a letter, affixed to another slip of the same size. Double-matted and framed with a photo of the author lounging on his side to an overall size of 10.25 x 17. In very good to otherwise fine condition, with partial separation to horizontal folds (one passing through three letters of the signature), uniform toning, and three areas of surface loss to irregularly trimmed edges. A remarkable and seldom-seen instance of the American scribe’s given name.
2107 George Sand Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 Eminent French author (1804–1876), born Amantine-Lucile-Aurore Dupin, better known by the masculine pen name she adopted early in her career. An early feminist, she also earned a footnote in musical history as the longtime romantic companion of pianist/composer Frédéric Chopin. ALS in French, signed “G Sand,” one page, 5.25 x 8, personal letterhead, July 16, 1875. Letter to M. Verdot, in part (translated): “Two more shipments which I am entrusting to your good offices. The salon at Nohant, framed as simply as possible, for Monsieur S. Maulmond, St. Loup, near Gouzon, Creuse. The facade—large format—framed in the same way, for Dr. Paul Darchy, Chambon-sur-Voneze, Creuse. Put the total cost on my bill, even the postage.” Nicely double-matted and framed to an overall size of 11.75 x 14.75. In fine condition, with scattered toning. Sand was a talented watercolorist who frequently painted scenes in and around Nohant for her friends; Dr. Darchy had been her doctor for years, and Sigismond Maulmond had been an old friend. Less than a year after this letter was written, Sand passed away at the age of 71 and was buried in the grounds of her home in Nohant.
90 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Oscar Wilde
The Women’s World editor coaches a contributor on the writing craft “What excellent prose you write! So full of colour and feeling, yet so self-restrained”
2108 Oscar Wilde Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $4,000 - 6,000 Irish writer (1854–1900) and leader of the Aesthetic Movement, known for such works as The Picture of Dorian Gray, The Importance of Being Earnest, and The Happy Prince. ALS, four pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.25 x 6.75, personal letterhead, no date but circa late 1880s. Letter to Mrs. Pfeiffer, written while Wilde was editor of the magazine The Woman’s World. In full: “With a different beginning the Rossetti article will do very well. What excellent prose you write! So full of colour and feeling, yet so self-restrained. It is not poetical prose, it is the prose of a poet. What would you think of taking as a ‘peg’ for the article the drinking fount just erected in front of Rosetti’s house, and unveiled by Holman Hunt. Are there ‘living waters’ in Rossetti’s poetry? Do men thirst again when they drink of it? This is merely a suggestion. Thank you very much for the article.” Expertly double-matted and framed unfolded with a portrait of Wilde to an overall size of 15.5 x 21.5, with a window on the reverse for viewing the complete letter. A central vertical fold, light scattered foxing, and adhesive remnants to the blank portion of the reverse, otherwise fine condition. Wilde was editor of The Woman’s World from November 1887 to July 1889, during which time he transformed the magazine from a lady’s fashion publication to a bastion of cultural importance, with articles on literature, culture, the arts, society, and politics. Journalism was an industry dominated by men, and Wilde’s magazine recognized the thoughts and opinions of men and women as equal, doing much good for the early feminist cause. Still, Wilde exercised control over the publication as demonstrated in this letter, which displays his editorial manner and style—one of flattery and gentle coercion—in dealing with potential contributors. An extremely desirable letter by the sought-after writer, enhanced by its fine artistic associations and his personal commentary on literary technique.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 91
2109 Bret Harte Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $200 - 400 American author (1836–1902) best known for his colorful tales of California pioneers, including the much-anthologized story ‘The Outcasts of Poker Flat.’ ALS, two pages, 3.5 x 5.75, personal letterhead, May 16, 1887. Letter to Miss Alexandre, in part: “This is not the photograph I promised you, but one that was taken…as much as two [years] ago. I find that the negative of the one I meant for you has been sent…for engraving, and consequently I cannot get you a copy until it is returned. Until then will you kindly accept this…” Double-matted and framed with a half-length picture of Harte to an overall size of 20.25 x 13.5. In fine condition, with minor soiling and some scattered spots of discoloration.
Joel Chandler “Uncle Remus”
2110 Joel Chandler Harris Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 American journalist and folklorist (1848– 1908). ALS signed “Joel Chandler Harris, ‘Uncle Remus,’” two pages both sides, 4.25 x 5.75, no date. Letter to Miss Lillian Lewis, in part: “I was very glad indeed to hear from you as well as to receive the story, which was indeed charming. I would have answered sooner—though excuses are weak—had I not been thoroughly tied up with the Press League convention.” Double-matted and framed with a drawing of Uncle Remus conversing with Brer Rabbit to an overall size of 16 x 13.5, with a window on the reverse for viewing the first page. In fine condition, with a pair of stray ink marks. This seldom-seen “Uncle Remus” addition makes for an exceptionally desirable example.
92 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
2111 James Abbott McNeill Whistler Signature Estimate $200 - 400 Ink signature, “With our best regards, Always, sincerely, J. McN. Whistler,” on an off-white 2.75 x 1 slip clipped from the close of a letter. Nicely doublematted and framed with a full-length portrait of Whistler standing on a lawn to an overall size of 9.5 x 13. In fine condition, with a few spots of light soiling.
William Butler Yeats
Early editorial instructions for Wind Among the Reeds 2113 William Butler Yeats Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 Highly regarded Irish poet and playwright (1865–1939) recognized as one of the key figures in 20th-century literature. ALS signed “W. B. Yeats,” one-page both sides, 4.25 x 6.75, September 20, no year but likely circa 1902. Letter to Elkin Mathews, in part: “I see by account sent you from A P Watt that you had only 98 copies of ‘The Wind Among the Reeds’ last March. You must therefore have about exhausted the edition. I think it will be better in future to print the design in gold on a few vellum copies & to bind the ordinary copies in plain boards with a paper label. People will be all the more glad to buy the vellum copies if the design is not made common by printing it on all copies in some poorer way.” Attractively double-matted and framed with a portrait of Yeats and the original mailing envelope to an overall size of 16.25 x 16.5, with a window on the reverse for viewing the signed side. In fine condition. Published in 1899, The Wind Among the Reeds was a stylized collection of 37 poems that made use of both theosophy and Irish folklore. Mathews, the letter’s recipient and a neighbor of Yeats, was an important British publisher in the late 19th and early 20th century, printing the works of Lionel Johnson, James Joyce, Ezra Pound, and Robert Bridges. His friendship with Yeats may have played a role in allowing the poet to have such liberal say during the design and marketing processes.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 93
Rudyard Kipling The Jungle Book author seeks refuge in the Swiss mountains
2114 Rudyard Kipling Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 ALS signed twice, “Rudyard Kipling” and “RK,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.75 x 7.5, Grand Hotel and Kurenstalt letterhead, January 25, 1911. Letter to C. H. S. Taylor, in part: “John came down on the 15th with no end of a cold, fever, glands, &c. which might have been anything and under the fostering care of the local fool (Muller) probably would have been. He sailed up to the verge of 104o and got us rather a hectic time but he came down again and is now hungry, rude and in great need of amusement. When I chuck up writing I am going to be a sicknurse. I have great gifts that way-when the wife is nearby to support me. We’d had two days of valley fog after a long stretch of fine weather and today it looks as if it might snow. There isn’t quite enough snow for the ski-ers and the monastery slopes are about as hard as road-pavement. Still, beginners go out there and wonder why skiing is such hard work and why falling never gets softer. Waddy told me last night that a hockey-team from Lucerno had challenged us. He says that he understands that they have never handled a hockey-stick more than three times and so we shall win. It strikes me I heard the same yarn before Zurich took us on...Today will be a paper-chase on skis starting at the boys jump across the valley. Minor abrasions, contusions, lesions, wrenches & sprains are reported from the bob-run, but no deaths, and the percentage of objectionable people is much lower. I do wish you & the Patons were here.” Double-matted and framed unfolded with a head-and-shoulders portrait of Kipling to an overall size of 21.75 x 15, with a window on the reverse for viewing the second page. In fine condition, with intersecting folds. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Kipling’s hand. Awarded the Nobel Prize four years prior, Kipling had reached the peak of his literary career by 1911. Eager to escape London’s various entrapments, he would seek refuge amid the Swiss mountains of Engelberg; a necessary annual sojourn for Kipling, who, according to biographer Lord Birkenhead, longed for ‘the snow, the wind lipping over a pass…the icicles glittering from the rock-face and the racing mountain torrent that fed the sawmills.’ An insightful letter from the zenith of the English storyteller’s career.
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Three years before he went missing, the author writes of publisher Walter Neale 2115 Ambrose Bierce Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 American writer (1842–c.1914) best known for the classic short story ‘An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge.’ Bierce mysteriously disappeared in 1913 while traveling with Pancho Villa’s troops during the Mexican Revolution. TLS, one page, 6 x 6, November 18, 1911. Letter to Mr. Newbegin, in part: “I have Mr. Neale’s assurance in writing that ‘all Mr. Newbegin’s books have been sent to him by freight. I should have ‘reported progress’ before but have been in bed for three weeks, helpless with lumbago. It is now feared that I may recover. I trust that all is now right between you and Neale, and that the incident has left no unfriendly feeling in either of you.” Nicely double-matted and framed with a head-and-shoulders portrait of Bierce to an overall size of 17.75 x 12.5. In fine condition, with scattered creasing and central vertical and horizontal folds (one vertical fold passing through a single letter of the signature). A close friend of Bierce for over a decade, Walter Neale was responsible for publishing Bierce’s massive twelve-volume Collected Works in 1909 through his own Neale Publishing Company. The two remained friends until Bierce’s disappearance in 1913, after which Neale published the biography Life of Ambrose Bierce.
Superb portrait of the Bengali Nobel laureate 2116 Rabindranath Tagore Signed Photograph Estimate $1,000 - 2,000 Bengali poet, playwright, philosopher, and author (1861–1941) who became the first non-European to win a Nobel Prize (Literature) in 1913. Exceptional mattefinish 3 x 5 photo of Tagore in a well-known head-and-shoulders pose, signed in the lower border in fountain pen. Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 9.5 x 12. In fine condition, with moderate silvering to dark areas of the image (mainly visible from an angle). A supremely appealing signed photograph of this world-renowned literary figure.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 95
“Real poetry has no relation to intellectual or moral purpose or to anything else except the poet’s ecstasy at the sight of beauty and his inconquerable will to sing of what moves him”
H. P. Lovecraft
Rare literary criticism from the Cthulhu mythmaker 2117 H. P. Lovecraft Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $2,000 - 3,000 ALS signed “Viceroy of Rhode Island,” two pages both sides, 5.75 x 6.5, personal letterhead, February 14, [1928]. Letter to Walter J. Coates, editor of the literary journal Driftwind, headed “To His Worship, the Chief Counsel, The lowly President of the Committee sends greeting,” with a date of “Idibus Februarii, Anno Reipublicae Viridmontanae I.” In part: “As for my comments on the new Driftwind—they really represent merely the spontaneous preferences dictated by my personal bias rather than any objective estimate of relative intrinsic merit. River in Spring seems to win the straw vote…Laboratorically Speaking seems to be too much of philosophical concoction to be a poem. It’s clever stuff, whatever it is, but it hasn’t the singing beauty & ecstasy that make poetry. Land of Allen came yesterday afternoon…It is surely a major contribution to Vermontiana, & carries the sturdy spirit of the undefeated republic to gratifying lyric heights… How sincerely can I subscribe to the spirit of Winter on page 56! That’s just what I would have written myself if I were a poet!… As you know, I believe very profoundly that ethics & philosophy have no place in art, & that they merely dilute poetry instead of constituting it. The true function of aesthetics is simply to describe & symbolize the actual scenes, objects, & phenomena of the universe in poignant & ecstatic fashion, without any infusion of personal opinion or philosophic theory. It was the fault of Victorianism to read a pack of non-existant ‘laws’ & values & trends into the impersonal cosmos, & then get excited about them, as if they represented realities of Nature in the same way that the tangible & genuine beauties of objective existence do. Real poetry has no relation to intellectual or moral purpose, or to anything else except the poet’s ecstasy at the sight of beauty, & his unconquerable will to sing of what moves him—purely for the joy of singing & for nothing else. Poe, Swineburne, & Oscar Wilde had the right idea about this. As a matter of fact, the only use of opinions & convictions, or ideas of good & evil, in poetry, is to get the poet emotionally excited enough to sing at the required pitch of ecstasy. If he can sing thus without the added stimuli—as Keats did—so much the better. All the poet ought to do is to sing whatever is in him, & the excellence of the result can properly be judged on only two counts aside from technique: (a) Truth to human experience…& (b) Intensity of the emotion of lyrical impulse.” Double-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 24.5 x 13.5, with a window on the reverse for viewing the opposing sides of both pages. In fine condition, with some writing at the edges obscured by the mat (including a portion of his “Viceroy” signature), and a rusty paperclip mark to the top edge. Walter J. Coates was the editor of Driftwind and author of the collection of poems Lovecraft mentions, Land of Allen, published by the noted Recluse Press in 1928. The publishing firm was established in 1925 by Lovecraft’s friend W. Paul Cook, created as a traditional private press which issued fine books written mostly by members of ‘The Lovecraft Circle,’ including Frank Belknap Long, Samuel Loveman, Donald Wandrei, Walter H. Coates, and Lovecraft himself, who was directly involved with production. As Lovecraft is one of the most significant fiction writers of the 20th century, his commentary on poetry and aesthetics make this an absolutely remarkable letter.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 97
“I am so glad you enjoy the Peter Wimsey books” 2118 Dorothy Sayers Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 British author (1893–1957) best known for her series of mysteries featuring fictional detective Lord Peter Wimsey. TLS signed “Dorothy L. Sayers,” one page, 8 x 10, April 26, 1937. Letter to Stewart Dick, in part: “I am so glad you enjoy the Peter Wimsey books. I am not Scotch, though my husband is; and your approval of my dialect is very flattering. I have stayed a good deal in Galloway, and know the Red Herrings country very well. I expect you are right about my having made Ferguson put the Flake White in the wrong pocket. The palette used was that of Helen Johnston who, unhappily, died some years ago, and who was a very good friend to me when I was writing the book.” Doublematted and framed with a photo of Sayers to an overall size of 19.5 x 17. In fine condition, with a stain to right edge, and a central vertical fold passing through a single letter of signature. Sayers is referring to her 1931 detective novel The 5 Red Herrings, which featured staple character Lord Peter Wimsey. In the book, the ingenious sleuth questioned John Ferguson and many others around Scotland’s southwestern region of Galloway concerning the murder of a talented local painter. An impressive piece of literary correspondence.
RKO document for Mourning Becomes Electra 2119 Eugene O’Neill Signed Document Estimate $400 - 600 American playwright and Nobel laureate in Literature (1888–1953) known for his dramatic realism and use of vernacular dialogue. DS, one page, 8 x 10.5, October 19, 1948. O’Neill certifies a document from RKO Radio Pictures “relating to the literary property entitled ‘Mourning Becomes Electra,’” confirming his receipt of “an itemized statement of the negative cost of the motion picture.” Signed at the conclusion by O’Neill and countersigned by RKO’s vice president. Attractively double-matted and framed with an image of the playwright to an overall size of 20.5 x 18. In fine condition, with expected document wear. Directed by Dudley Nichols, the screen adaptation of O’Neill’s 1931 play cycle starred Rosalind Russell and Michael Redgrave, both of whom received Academy Award nominations for their skillfully played roles. Despite the fine cast and acting, the movie was a box office failure and recorded a loss of $2,310,000, making it one of RKO’s biggest financial disasters.
98 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Recalling Monte Carlo—where she would hand-pick a young Audrey Hepburn for Gigi 2120 Colette Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 Pen name of the French novelist Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette (1873– 1954), best known for such works as the Claudine series, La Chatte, and Gigi. ALS in French, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 7, no date but postmarked September 28, 1951. Letter to Emilie Biedermann, in part (translated): “What a charming ‘music box’ dear friend! And how fittingly it comes to cure my horrible flu, complicated, for the first time in my life with conjunctivitis! Eyes stuck shut, swollen face, eyedrops, eyelid rinses, all the horrors...It is questionable, if like last year, we would accept for three weeks the so amiable hospitality (Hotel de Paris) of Prince Ranier in Monte Carlo.” Nicely double-matted and framed unfolded (such that the signature is correctly oriented) with a portrait of Colette with her cats to an overall size of 19.25 x 17.75, with a window on the reverse for viewing the first page. In fine condition, with intersecting folds. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope addressed in her own hand. On a trip to Monte Carlo the spring prior, Colette happened upon a young Audrey Hepburn, who was filming a scene for Monte Carlo Baby. Charmed by Hepburn’s ‘piquant quality,’ Colette instantly cast her for the starring role of the upcoming Broadway adaptation of her book Gigi, and although the play earned mixed reviews, Hepburn’s performance captivated.
Alluding to Tennessee Williams: “Hope T.W.’s play was uprorious success” 2122 Ezra Pound Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 American modernist writer and critic (1885–1972) whose works, particularly his poetry, occupy a central place in 20th-century letters. TLS signed “EP,” one page, 8 x 9.75, no date but postmarked February 23, 1957. Letter to Maria, in full: “Thanks for bringing the enclosed. Hope T.W.’s play was uprorious [sic] success and that the actors didn’t unduly lacerate his sensibilities. I enclose, as usual bits of news and/or sale-talk as you choose to regard’em.” Double-matted and framed with a portrait of Pound to an overall size of 20 x 16.75. In fine condition, with scattered creases and intersecting folds. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. The playwright whom Pound mentions is presumably Tennessee Williams, whose “uprorious success” may very well have been Orpheus Descending, Williams’s follow-up to his Pulitzer Prize-winning Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 99
2123 Georges Braque Signature Estimate $200 - 400 Important French painter (1882–1963) who, along with Picasso, was one of the seminal figures in the development of Cubism. Ink signature, “G Braque, 1950,” boldly penned across a Spanish postal stamp honoring the artwork of Goya. The stamp is affixed to a white 3.25 x 2.25 card. Double-matted and framed with a portrait of the artist to an overall size of 10 x 16. In fine condition.
Lillian Hellman
“I have never thought of writing a play with a Jewish theme” 2124 Lillian Hellman Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 American playwright and screenwriter (1905–1984) best known for such classics as The Children’s Hour, The Little Foxes, and Watch on the Rhine. TLS, one page, 5.25 x 6.5, personal letterhead, January 10, 1952. Letter to Mr. Fetters, in part: “I have never thought of writing a play with a Jewish theme for the very simple reason that I don’t think of plays as themes…but maybe, some day. ” Double-matted and framed with a bust-length portrait of Hellman to an overall size of 18 x 13.5. In fine condition. Two years after this letter was written, Hellman declined the chance to adapt Anne Franks’s Diary of a Young Girl for the stage, stating that ‘it would run one night because it would be deeply depressing’ and that the play would ‘need someone who has a much lighter touch.’ Under different direction, the 1955 Broadway adaptation earned Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett the Tony Award for Best Play.
100 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
T. S. Eliot
Concerning a French translation of his most famous play, Murder in the Cathedral 2125 T. S. Eliot Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 TLS, one page both sides, 6.5 x 7.5, Faber and Faber Limited letterhead, December 22, 1953. Letter to Anne Munro-Kerr of London’s League of Dramatists. In part: “I am not quite clear, I am afraid, as to how we have been dealing with productions of my plays in the French translation, outside of France itself—that is to say, in Brussels and Geneva…I excepted France in my arrangements with you for the reason that Monsieur Henri Fluchere, the translator, who had taken the whole initiative in getting the successful production of Meurtre dans la Cathedrale in 1945, likes to deal with these matters himself, as he has theatrical connections and also considerable financial interest in the success of my plays in his translation, he has seemed wholly competent to do so…He would like, however, to make his responsibility inclusive—that is to say, have the four plays that he has translated whenever they are produced in French…and I am prepared to sign an agreement to that effect. This will not, of course, have any retroactive value for any of the productions previously in Brussels or Geneva that have been arraigned by yourselves.” Double-matted and framed with a portrait of Eliot to an overall size of 18.5 x 14.5, with a window on the reverse for viewing the rest of the letter and the signature. In fine condition, with central vertical and horizontal folds and staple holes to one upper corner. Fluchere was a prominent literary critic and translator, best known for his studies of Shakespeare, who served as Eliot’s primary French translator. In addition to his plays, Fluchere translated several of Eliot’s poems and critical essays; the collaboration was mutually beneficial, with Eliot contributing the foreword to the English version of Fluchere’s 1956 scholarly work Shakespeare and the Elizabethians. This letter, in particular, refers to the translation of Murder in the Cathedral, which was first performed in 1935. A fabulous letter revealing the worldwide appeal of Eliot’s acclaimed literary work.
2126 Jack Kerouac Signed Check Estimate $400 - 600 Highly influential American writer (1922–1969) widely acknowledged as the most dynamic and brilliant figure of the ‘Beat’ movement. His classic autobiographical novel, On the Road (1957), takes a place among the high points of 20th-century American literature. Bankers Trust Company bank check, 5.75 x 2.5, boldly filled out and signed by Kerouac, payable to Schlossmans, Inc. for $100, August 6, 1958. Neatly double-matted and framed with a picture of the author in a flannel shirt to an overall size of 12 x 16.5. In fine condition, with expected cancellation holes and bank stamp.
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Classic Music The operatic genius hopes a music fragment will provide “half the pleasure” he had composing 2127 Gioacchino Rossini Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $1,000 - 2,000 Important Italian composer (1792–1868) who became one of the seminal figures in the history of opera with such repertoire staples as The Barber of Seville and William Tell. ALS in Italian, signed “G. Rossini,” one page, 6.5 x 7.25, April 12, 1835. Letter to an inquiring fan, in part (translated): “Enclosed is the small musical fragment you wished. I hope it can give you half the pleasure which I had in composing it. I am adding (as you requested) the little bill for the two concerts.” Rossini then itemizes the bill, which totals 72 francs. Double-matted and framed with a seated portrait of Rossini to an overall size of 18.25 x 13.25. In fine condition with intersecting folds and scattered creasing. Having penned 38 operas in as many years, Rossini proved a prolifically talented and beloved composer, diminishing his contributions from 1832 up until his death in 1868. Dated during his artistic lull, this correspondence is evidence that the composer, while not producing novel works, continued to glean satisfaction from the musical process.
2128 Hector Berlioz Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $1,000 - 1,500 Influential French composer (1803–1869) of such repertory staples as the programmatic ‘Symphonie fantastique’ and the opera ‘Les Troyens.’ ALS in French, signed “H. Berlioz,” one page, 5.25 x 8, no date. Letter to Johann Peter Pixis, in part: “As a result of your conditional promise and Miss Francilla’s success, I went to your house twice yesterday to ask you if she would be so kind as to sing the Two Romances for me next Sunday. If this is possible, please let me know so that I may post the notice tomorrow.” Nicely double-matted and framed with a bust-length portrait of Berlioz to an overall size of 14.75 x 13.5. In very good condition, with central vertical and horizontal folds, scattered creasing and toning, paper loss to edges (upper right and bottom left corners missing), and substantial brushing to the text. The adopted daughter and protege of German composer and pianist Pixis, Francilla was so admired by Berlioz that he dedicated his orchestration of Franz Schubert’s Le Roi des Aulnes to her in 1859.
102 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Impressively penned excerpt from his opus 27, “Lacerta” 2129 Hans von Bulow Autograph Musical Quote Signed Estimate $400 - 600 German conductor, virtuoso pianist, and composer (1830–1894) who was at one time a pupil of Liszt. Large AMQS on an off-white 11 x 6.5 musically lined sheet, lengthily signed and inscribed below in French, and dated in Paris, April 30, 1885. Bulow pens four bars of music for piano, adding the title, “Lacerta,” his opus 27, also known as ‘Impromptu for Piano.’ Handsomely double-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 23.25 x 13, with a window on the reverse revealing an AMQS by another composer. In fine condition. A choice, impressively sized example by one of the earliest European musicians to tour the United States.
“I believe Bulow is about to sign with Pollini” 2130 Johannes Brahms Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $2,000 - 3,000 ALS in German, signed “JB,” one page, 5.25 x 3, February 3, 1887. Letter to a correspondent in Berlin, in part: “If my reservations on the variations seem valid to you and if you are even partly in agreement, then I request you urgently not to put off the changes and not to publish the catalogue without them! For instance in the Paganini variations it must really be laughable. Between ourselves, I believe Bulow is about to sign with Pollini and additionally to take over the concerts in Bremen, for one year in the first instance. Then nothing would come of Berlin. He is in excellent spirits, is doing marvelous work, and gave us a fine evening yesterday in the Tonkunstler-Verein.” In fine condition, with some brushing to ink. In addition to establishing the successes of Wagner and Liszt, German conductor Hans von Bulow did the same for Brahms, working diligently to elevate the reputation of a composer he so graciously inserted into the ‘Three Bs’ lineup with Bach and Beethoven.
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2132 Johann Strauss, Jr. Signature Estimate $200 - 400 Eminent Viennese composer (1825–1899), known as the ‘Waltz King,’ best known for such all-time favorites as ‘The Beautiful Blue Danube’ and the ‘Emperor Waltz,’ and for the operetta staple Die Fledermaus. Bold ink signature, “Johann Strauss Jr.,” on an off-white 3.5 x 2.25 card. Double-matted and framed with a portrait of the composer to an overall size of 9.25 x 12.75. In fine condition, with a couple tiny spots of foxing.
2133 Jean Sibelius Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 Distinguished Finnish composer (1865–1957) of Romanticnationalistic tendencies, best known for his seven completed symphonies and the tone poem ‘Finlandia.’ TLS, one page, 5.5 x 7.5, October 28, 1949. Letter to Harry O. Henneman concerning his request for autographs, in part: “The Musical Stamp Albums have arrived here safely. Six copies I have autographed and returned to you separately.” Double-matted and framed with an introspective portrait of the composer to an overall size of 16.5 x 14.25. In fine condition.
2134 Sergei Rachmaninoff Signature Estimate $200 - 400 Ink signature, “Sergei Rachmaninoff,” on an off-white 4.25 x 2.5 slip. Handsomely double-matted and framed with a profile image of the Russian composer to an overall size of 16.5 x 13. In fine condition, with scattered creases and a subtle block of toning.
104 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
2135 Jules Massenet Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $200 - 400 French composer (1842–1912) best known for such operas as ‘Manon,’ ‘Werther,’ and ‘Thais.’ ALS in French, signed “Massenet,” one page, 4.5 x 6, May 9, 1912. Letter to a friend, in part (translated): “With the greatest joy, and being very honored by your letter, I say to you: See you next Sunday, 12 May, at 5:30 (sharp, alas!), 48 rue de Vaugirard.” Double-matted and framed with a head-and-shoulders photograph of the composer to an overall size of 15 x 12. In fine condition, with a red pencil notation within the body of the text. Having suffered abdominal cancer for months, Massenet’s condition worsened sharply following a visit to his doctor in Paris. He died days later at the age of 70, only a few months after writing this letter.
Maurice Ravel
Busy finishing Bolero, “a very long and important work” 2136 Maurice Ravel Typed Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 TLS, one page, 7 x 9.75, September 2, 1927. Letter to an inquiring fan, in part: “I have received your letter ot [sic] August 29th. in which you kindly ask me to write a new work for the THREE CHOIRS FESTIVEL [sic] which is to be held in Gloucester in September 1928. I thank you most sincerely for it but I am sorry to say that I think it impossible for me to write a new work, even a very short one, before that time, for I am very busy presently as I am leaving soon for America, and on my return I’ll have to end a very long and important work, and will surely have no free time to write it till then.” Double-matted and framed with a head-and-shoulders image of Ravel to an overall size of 18.5 x 15. In fine condition, with vertical and horizontal folds, uniform toning, and light scattered creasing. After touring the United States and Canada from January to April of 1928, Ravel fulfilled a promise to the famed Russian actress and dancer Ida Rubinstein by finishing a previously commissioned ballet. The result was Bolero, Ravel’s most famous musical composition, which premiered at the Paris Opera in November, 1928.
Live Auction | February 19, 2015 105
Sports 2137 James J. Corbett Autograph Letter Signed Estimate $400 - 600 American boxer (1866–1933) who was the first gloved heavyweight boxing champion of the world from 1892 to 1897. ALS signed “Jas J Corbett,” one page, 4.25 x 6.5, E.F. Albee Theatre letterhead, January 28, 1926. Letter to Vance, in part: “My mail is so large I just reached your letter, and when I played Phila last week had not read your letter. The story is very good but I don’t think I will ever go out, in a play again.” Double-matted and framed with a three-quarter portrait of the southpaw to an overall size of 15.75 x 12.5. In fine condition. After retiring from boxing in 1903, Corbett’s natural competence as an actor enabled him to make a living as a performer for over two decades, appearing in plays, silent films, vaudeville, and one-man shows recounting his boxing career.
2138 Jesse Owens Signature Estimate $200 - 400 Bold ink signature, “To Dick–Good Luck, Jesse Owens,” on an off-white 3.25 x 2 slip. Attractively double-matted and framed with a striking image of Owens captured in midair to an overall size of 14 x 19.5. In fine condition. Pre-certified Steve Grad/PSA/DNA.
106 Remarkable Rarities | www.RRAuction.com | (603) 732-4280
Bobby Jones
A decade after his rare syringomyelia diagnosis, the golf great insists, “My illness was much over-advertised” 2139 Bobby Jones Typed Letter Signed Estimate $800 - 1,200 TLS signed “Bob Jones,” one page, 6.75 x 9.75, personal letterhead, April 18, 1958. Letter to fellow golfer Pete Kosky, in part: “Actually my illness was much over-advertised, and I made a very quick recovery.” Double-matted and framed with a photo of Jones admiring his shot to an overall size of 19 x 16.5. In fine condition. In 1948 Jones was diagnosed with the rare central nervous system disease syringomyelia, a debilitating disorder in which a cyst forms within the spinal cord. Five months after this letter was written the people of St. Andrew’s, Scotland, awarded Jones the Freedom of the City and the Royal Burgh of St. Andrew’s awards in what has been called the most moving ceremony in the history of golf.
2140 Vince Lombardi Signed Check Estimate $400 - 600 Green Bay Packers, Inc. business check, 8.25 x 3, filled out in another hand and signed by Lombardi, payable to Jack A. Vainisi for $356.87, March 15, 1960. Countersigned by Packers president Dominic Olejniczak, and endorsed on the reverse by Vainisi. Double-matted and framed with a profile of the legendary coach to an overall size of 20.5 x 13.75, with a window on the reverse for viewing the opposite side. In fine condition, with two light vertical folds, and expected cancellation holes and bank stamps. Vainisi was the Packers’ full-time talent scout, and was responsible for discovering six future Hall of Famers drafted between 1953 and 1958.
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AUCTION GENERAL GUIDELINES Conditions of Sale: Before you bid, you must read the Terms and Conditions of Sale, immediately preceding these pages. They represent a contract between RR Auction and you, and they contain important terms and conditions such as jurisdiction, payment terms, warranties and remedies. The Conditions of Sale are controlling over these general guidelines in the event of any conflicts between their respective terms. 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. 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. Estimates 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). Reserves: The reserve is the minimum price the seller is willing to accept and below which a lot will not be sold. 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. Buyer’s Premium and Sales Tax: 10. The Bidder acknowledges and agrees that a twenty-five percent (25%) buyer’s premium for the first $100,000 and twenty percent (20%) of any amount over will be added to the hammer price on all individual lots. RR Auction will only accept cash, check, money order, or wire. 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 later. All purchases delivered to Massachusetts are subject to the Massachusetts 6.25% sales tax unless the purchaser possesses a Massachusetts sales tax exemption number. Before the Auction: You may attend pre-sale viewing for all of our auctions at no charge. All property to be auctioned is usually on view for several days prior to the sale. You are encouraged to examine lots thoroughly. You may also request condition reports (see below). RR Auction’s staff are available at viewings and by appointment. Contact Information: 5 Rt 101A, Suite 5 • Amherst, NH 03031 Local/International: 1-603-732-4280 Local/Int’l fax: 1-603-732-4288 Website: www.RRAuction.com Email bidding: Bid@RRAuction.com Hours of Operation: Office hours are Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. -5 p.m. eastern standard time; hours on the last night of the auction are dictated by the 30 Minute Rule (see below). Any item in the auction can be viewed in our offices during normal business hours. Please call to set up an appointment. You must acknowledge having read your agreement with all of the Terms and Conditions of Sale prior to your registration and prior to your bidding on any lot. Bidding 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 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 at or above the reserve. The auctioneer will not specifically identify bids placed on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve. Maximum Bids – Internet Auction Only: To maximize your chance of winning, we strongly encourage the use of maximum bids. For example, assume an item you want currently has a high bid of $100. Your bid would then be $110 (10% over $100), and you could tell us, “I’d like a maximum bid of $242 for that item.” We will enter your bid at $110, and we will then bid for you until the lot reaches your
maximum of $242. If competitive bids only reach $148, you would win the item at $163—10% over the highest previous bid. To prevent tie bids, all maximum bids should be made in proper increments. 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. Bid Increments – Internet Auction Only: Bids on an item must raise the current high bid by at least 10% or at the discretion of the auctioneer. Checking Bids – Internet Auction Only: You can open, monitor, and/or raise bids as often as you wish. However, all bidding is governed by the 30 Minute Rule and extended bidding. Extended bidding always goes into effect at 6 pm on the last day of the auction. At 7 pm, the extended bidding ends and the 30 Minute Rule goes into effect. Callbacks – Internet Auction Only: RRAuction offers a callback service on auction night for any bidder who has the high bid on an item whose current bid is over $1,000 and who has placed a maximum bid. At your request, we will call you if your maximum bid is topped. We will need your correct telephone number(s) where you can be reached until the auction closes. Callbacks begin after 6 pm on auction night. You must request this service; it is not automatic. We make every effort to ensure that bidders who request a callback are contacted if outbid; however, we do not guarantee this service. Bidding - Internet Auction – Live Auction: 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. If you have questions about this feature, please call RR Auction well in advance of the auction. Winning bidders will be notified by RR Auction. RR Auction is not and cannot be 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. Bidding - Internet – Live Auction: During live Auctions, internet bids can be placed in real time through one or more of the following services: www.RRAuction.com, www.liveauctioneers.com, www.invaluable.com and www.icollector.com. On some occasions beyond the control of RR Auction, the bid software or the Internet itself may not physically keep up with the pace of the auction. In order to help avoid disappointment, RR Auction recommends placing a realistic absentee bid now. Since Invaluable and iCollector (hereinfafter referred to as “Third Party sites”) bids are not shown to RR Auction until RR Auction opens the lot on the floor, RR Auction treats those bids the same as floor or telephone bids. In most cases, however, the floor and/or telephone responds before the Third Party sites bid is presented, due to Live Internet bid software or Internet lag time, so for consistency it is RR Auction’ policy that floor bids and telephone bids are always considered first over Third Party sites bids with floor bids being considered before telephone bids. Also please note that all RR Auction lots purchased through the Third Party sites carry an additional Buyer’s Premium. RR Auction strongly urges the bidder to resolve any questions about these policies or their implementation PRIOR TO BIDDING. Successful Bids: The fall of the auctioneer’s hammer indicates the final bid. RR Auction will record the paddle number of the buyer. If your salesroom or absentee bid is successful, you will be notified after the sale by mailed or emailed invoice. 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. The Auctioneer 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. After the Auction - Payment: You are expected to pay for your purchases in full within thirteen (13) calendar days of the auction or within twelve (12) calendar days of the invoice date. (See Generally “Payment” §27 through 34 of the Term and Conditions of Sale). Shipping: After payment has been made in full, RR Auction may, as a service to buyers, arrange to have property packed, insured and shipped at your request and expense. For shipping information, please contact RR Auction at (603)
732-4280. In circumstances in which RR Auction arranges and bills for such services via invoice or credit card, we will also include an administration charge. Packages shipped internationally will have full value declared on shipping form. (See Generally “Delivery; Shipping; and Handling Charges” §36 and 37 of the Term and Conditions of Sale). At our discretion, some orders of high value may be sent via overnight or two-day service. Insurance is added to each invoice, with a minimum of $2 for the first $200 of value and 80¢ per $100 of value over $200. Oversized orders will have additional postage added to their invoices. Within the United States, rates for shipping and handling only are: $0–$100..........................................$10 $101–$500.......................................$15 $501–$1,000....................................$20 $1,001–$3,000.................................$35 $3,001–$10,000...............................$45 Over $10,000.................................$100 Additional Cataloging, Warranties and Disclaimers: NO WARRANTY, WHETHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, IS MADE WITH RESPECT TO ANY DESCRIPTION CONTAINED IN THIS AUCTION OR ANY SECOND OPINE. Any description of the items or second opinion contained in this Auction is for the sole purpose of identifying the items for those Bidders who do not have the opportunity to view the lots prior to bidding, and no description of items has been made part of the basis of the bargain or has created any express warranty that the goods would conform to any description made by Auctioneer. Color variations can be expected in any electronic or printed imaging, and are not grounds for the return of any lot. Auctioneer is selling only such right or title to the items being sold as Auctioneer may have by virtue of consignment agreements on the date of auction and disclaims any warranty of title to the Property. Auctioneer disclaims any warranty of merchantability or fitness for any particular purposes. All images, descriptions, sales data, and archival records are the exclusive property of Auctioneer, and may be used by Auctioneer for advertising, promotion, archival records, and any other uses deemed appropriate. Release: In consideration of participation in the Auction and the placing of a bid, Bidder expressly releases Auctioneer, its officers, directors and employees, its affiliates, and its outside experts that provide second opinion, from any and all claims, cause of action, chose of action, whether at law or equity or any arbitration or mediation rights existing under the rules of any professional society or affiliation based upon the assigned description, or a derivative theory, breach of warranty express or implied, representation or other matter set forth within these Terms and Conditions of Auction or otherwise. In the event of a claim, Bidder agrees that such rights and privileges conferred therein are strictly construed as specifically declared herein; e.g., authenticity, gross cataloging error, etc. and is the exclusive remedy. Bidder, by non-compliance to these express terms of a granted remedy, shall waive any claim against Auctioneer. Some Property sold by Auctioneer are inherently dangerous e.g. firearms, and items that may be swallowed or ingested or may have latent defects all of which may cause harm to a person. Bidder accepts all risk of loss or damage from its purchase of these items and Auctioneer disclaims any liability whether under contract or tort for damages and losses, direct or inconsequential, and expressly disclaims any warranty as to safety or usage of any lot sold. Dispute Resolution and Arbitration Provision: Bidder and RR Auction agree that any agreements between the Bidder and RR Auction including but not limited to these Conditions of Sale are entered into in Boston Massachusetts, Suffolk County, which is where the agreements are to be performed and the auction to take place, 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. Both RR Auction and the Bidder agree that any disputes under these Conditions of Sale, the subject matter hereof, the entering into, or any aspect of the auction, shall be exclusively governed by Boston Massachusetts, Suffolk County law, and that any and all claims or actions shall be brought and maintained only in Boston Massachusetts, Suffolk County. THE PARTIES EXPRESSLY WAIVE ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY. The Bidder hereby consents that any dispute shall be presented in confidential binding arbitration before a single selected Arbitrator selected by the American Arbitration Association. The Bidder and RR Auction herby agree that the dispute shall go to binding arbitration in accordance with the commercial rules of the
American Arbitration Association. The American Arbitration Association arbitration shall be conducted under the provisions of the Federal Arbitration Act and the Bidder consents to jurisdiction in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Any dispute, claim, cause of action must be brought within one (1) year of the alleged breach, default or misrepresentation or the claim is waived. After one (1) year, the Bidder hereby releases and discharges RR Auction from any and all legal, equitable, administrative and/or other claims, counterclaims, demands, setoffs, defenses, accounts, suits, debts, dues, actions, causes of action, proceedings, arbitrations, damages, executions, judgments, findings, controversies and disputes, whether known or unknown or suspected or unsuspected, whether in law or equity, that the Bidder have or may have had against RR Auction arising from or relating to any claim whatsoever. Both Bidder and RR Auction agree that these provisions are intended to be binding on all parties in the event of any dispute specifically including third party claims and cross-actions brought by either RR Auction or Bidder, and that absent such agreement, RR Auction would not permit Bidder to bid hereunder. Any violation of the terms of this Paragraph shall entitle RR Auction to reasonable attorney fees and litigation costs in addition to all other available remedies, all of which remain reserved. 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. An award granted in arbitration is enforceable in any court of competent jurisdiction. The arbitrator’s award may be enforced in any court of competent jurisdiction. This agreement and any claims shall be determined and construed under Boston Massachusetts, Suffolk County law. 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 the Auctioneer’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, Auctioneer 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 “do-not-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. Rules of Construction: Auctioneer 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 Terms and Conditions of Auction by these additional rules and shall be construed to give force and effect to the rules in their entirety.
TERMINOLOGY Condition: Each item in the catalog is described with a statement of opinion indicating its overall condition. The condition of the items we offer generally falls into the following range: good—very good—fine—very fine. Treated as a scale of 1 to 4, good describes an item that has as many as several flaws, which are described in detail; very fine describes an item whose condition and appearance may be regarded as flawless and superior in every respect. Most of the items we offer are in fine condition, meaning that there are no serious flaws. While we make every effort to describe flaws that materially affect appearance and value, we generally do not specify minor or routine flaws, such as (but not limited to) pencil or secretarial notations, mailing folds to letters, normal aging to paper, or tiny bends or creases from normal handling. We encourage prospective bidders to examine the image(s) of each item closely and to contact us with specific inquiries regarding condition. Group Lots: In descriptions of group lots of two or more items, every effort is made to mention any obvious flaws. Bidders should note that condition for group lots is given as a general statement or range, and that specific flaws to single items within the group may be omitted in the interest of catalog space. Questions about group lots, or specific items within a group lot, should be addressed before the close of the auction to Sue Recks (Sue.Recks@RRAuction.com).
Matted and Framed: Many of the items offered for sale in our monthly auctions are described as matted and/or framed. We do not remove items from frames; the given dimensions of items housed in a frame and/or mat indicate sight size only. Photographs and other ephemera used with matted and framed items are not subject to description and condition statements, nor are they considered a reason for return. Condition refers only to the item and not the mat or frame. Our terms of return apply only to the item and not the matting and framing. Any item that is removed from the frame cannot be returned. Returns are only accepted when there is an authenticity question or the description of the item is incorrect. Abbreviations and Terms:
ALS - Autograph Letter Signed (a letter entirely handwritten and signed
by the given personality)
ANS - Autograph Note Signed (a shorter ALS) AQS - Autograph Quotation Signed
AMQS - Autograph Musical Quotation Signed DS - Document Signed
Endorsement - A signature on the reverse of a check, or a signature
on a document indicationg approval or further instructions
Ephemera - An unsigned item FDC - First Day Cover
Inscribed - “Personalized”
ISP - Inscribed Signed Photograph
LS - Letter Signed (a letter in a secretary’s hand, but signed by the given personality)
Souvenir Typescript - An excerpt from a speech, book, film, etc. or an
account of an incident, typed by a collector and signed by the individual noted
SP - Signed Photograph
Sweet spot - The area on the baseball where the stitched lines are
closest together.
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. Both RR Auction and the Bidder agree that any disputes under these Conditions of Sale, the subject matter hereof, the entering into, or any aspect of the auction, shall be exclusively governed by Boston Massachusetts, Suffolk County law, and that any and all claims or actions shall be brought and maintained only in Boston Massachusetts, Suffolk County. THE PARTIES EXPRESSLY WAIVE ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY. The Bidder hereby consents that any dispute shall be presented in confidential binding arbitration before a single selected Arbitrator selected by the American Arbitration Association. The Bidder and RR Auction herby agree that the dispute shall go to binding arbitration in accordance with the commercial rules of the American Arbitration Association. The American Arbitration Association arbitration shall be conducted under the provisions of the Federal Arbitration Act and the Bidder consents to jurisdiction in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Any dispute, claim, cause of action must be brought within one (1) year of the alleged breach, default or misrepresentation or the claim is waived. After one (1) year, the Bidder hereby releases and discharges RR Auction from any and all legal, equitable, administrative and/or other claims, counterclaims, demands, setoffs, defenses, accounts, suits, debts, dues, actions, causes of action, proceedings, arbitrations, damages, executions, judgments, findings, controversies and disputes, whether known or unknown or suspected or unsuspected, whether in law or equity, that the Bidder have or may have had against RR Auction arising from or relating to any claim whatsoever. Both Bidder and RR Auction agree that these provisions are intended to be binding on all parties in the event of any dispute specifically including third party claims and cross-actions brought by either RR Auction or Bidder, and that absent such agreement, RR Auction would not permit Bidder to bid hereunder. Any violation of the terms of this Paragraph shall entitle RR Auction to reasonable attorney fees and litigation costs in addition to all other available remedies, all of which remain reserved. 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. An award granted in arbitration is enforceable in any court of competent jurisdiction. The arbitrator’s award may be enforced in any court of competent jurisdiction. This agreement and any claims shall be determined and construed under Boston Massachusetts, Suffolk County law.
TLS - Typed Letter Signed
RR Auction is in compliance, to the fullest extent possible, with Boston Massachusetts, Suffolk County procedures regarding the bonding of auctioneers.
Terms and Conditions of Sale
Auctioneer and Auction: 1. This Auction is presented by RR Auction, a d/b/a/ of R&R Auction Company, LLC, as identified with the applicable licensing information on the title page of the catalog or on the www.RRauction.com Internet site (the “Auctioneer”). The Auction is conducted under these Terms and Conditions of Sale and applicable state and local law. Announcements and corrections from the podium at live auctions and those made through the Terms and Conditions of Sale appearing on the Internet at RRauction.com supersede those in the printed catalog.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE AGREEMENT BETWEEN R&R AUCTION COMPANY, LLC AND BIDDER BY EITHER REGISTERING TO BID OR PLACING A BID, THE BIDDER ACCEPTS THESE CONDITIONS OF SALE AND ENTERS INTO A LEGALLY, BINDING, ENFORCEABLE AGREEMENT WITH RR AUCTION. The following terms and conditions constitute the sole terms and conditions under which R&R AUCTION COMPANY (“RR Auction”) will offer for sale and sell the property described in the Catalog. These Conditions of Sale constitute a binding agreement between the Bidder and RR Auction with respect to the auction. By bidding at auction, whether in person, through an agent or representative, by telephone, facsimile, on-line, absentee bid, or by any other form of bid or by any other means, the 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. NO BID MAY BE PLACED IN ANY MANNER UNLESS THE BIDDER HAS FULLY REVIEWED AND AGREES TO ALL OF THE “CONDITIONS OF SALE” EITHER PRINTED IN THE CATALOG OR ON-LINE, AS WELL AS THE TERMS OF THE REGISTRATION FORM. BY PLACING ANY BID, THE BIDDER REPRESENTS AND WARRANTS TO RR AUCTION THAT HE OR SHE HAS FULLY REVIEWED AND AGREES TO BE BOUND BY ALL OF THESE “CONDITIONS OF SALE” AND THE TERMS OF THE REGISTRATION FORM. WITHOUT SUCH REPRESENTATION, WARRANTY AND AGREEMENT, RR AUCTION WOULD NOT PERMIT THE BIDDER TO BID. Bidder and RR Auction agree that any agreements between the Bidder and RR Auction including but not limited to these Conditions of Sale are entered into in Boston Massachusetts, Suffolk County, which is where the agreements are to be performed and the auction to take place, no matter
Bidder/Bidders: 2. “Bidder” or “Bidders” shall mean the original Bidder of the property from 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. 3. The rights granted to Bidders under these Terms and 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. Any attempt to assign or transfer any such rights shall be absolutely void and unenforceable. No third party may rely on any benefit or right conferred on any Bidder by these Terms and Conditions of Sale. 4. Bids will not be accepted from minor persons under eighteen (18) years of age without a parent’s written consent containing an acknowledgment that the Terms and Conditions of Sale herein and indicating their agreement to be bound thereby on behalf of the Bidder. 5. Any person participating or registering for the Auction agrees to be bound by and accepts these Terms and Conditions of Sale. 6. All Bidders must meet Auctioneer’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. 7. 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. 8. By accepting the Terms and Conditions of Sale, Bidder personally and unconditionally guarantees payment. If the Bidder is a corporation, the officers, directors, and principals of the corporation hereby agree to personally and unconditionally guarantee payment as part of the corporation’s agreement to bid. 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 each principal, director and officer that they each personally and unconditionally guarantee any payment due RR Auction Credit: 9. In order to place bids, Bidders who have not established credit with the Auctioneer must either furnish satisfactory credit information (including two collectibles-related business references) or supply valid credit card information, 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. Credit will be granted at the discretion of Auctioneer. 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 their social security number or the last four digits thereof so a credit check may be performed prior to Auctioneer’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. Buyer’s Premium: 10. The Bidder acknowledges and agrees that a twenty-five percent (25%) buyer’s premium for the first $100,000 and twenty percent (20%) of any amount over will be added to the hammer price on all individual lots. RR Auction will only accept cash, check, money order, or wire. 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 later. Bidding: 11. By submitting a bid, whether online, in person, by mail, by phone, by facsimile or through an employee or agent, the Bidder acknowledges (i) receipt of the catalogue, (ii) that the Bidder has read the Terms and Conditions of Sale and the descriptions for the lots on which they have bid, and (iii) that they agree to adhere to these Terms and Conditions of Sale. 12. Each Bidder’s determination of its bid should be based upon its own examination of the item(s), rather than the strict reliance as to what is represented in this Catalogue, online or elsewhere. In any purchase or sale, the value of the item(s) is determined by the price. THE BIDDER HEREBY ASSUMES ALL RISKS OF VALUATION CONCERNING ANY AND ALL PURCHASES. 13. 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 25% Buyer’s Premium) that the Bidder is willing and able to pay. Since other Bidders (by mail, facsimile and in person) will be present, and since a re-offering could damage the momentum of the sale, once the hammer has fallen and the Auctioneer has announced the winning Bidder, such Bidder is unconditionally bound to pay for the lot, even if the Bidder has made a mistake. 14. If the description of any lot in the catalogue is incorrect (e.g. gross cataloging error), the lot is returnable if returned within five (5) calendar days of receipt, and received by RR Auction no later than twenty-one (21) calendar days after the sale date. NO RETURN OR REFUND OF ANY AUCTION LOT WILL BE CONSIDERED EXCEPT BY REASON OF LACK OF AUTHENTICITY, UNLESS OTHERWISE PROVIDED IN THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE. 15. 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. 16. 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. RR Auction reserves the right to require payment in full
before delivering any lot to the successful Bidder. 17. 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 once the lot(s) is in Bidder’s possession. 18. 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 further grants RR Auction a purchase money security interest in such sums or items to the extent applicable, and agrees to execute such 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 expenses, until the indebtedness is paid. 19. By bidding in this sale, Bidder personally and unconditionally guarantees payment. If the Bidder is a corporation, the officers, directors, and principals of the corporation hereby agree to personally and unconditionally guarantee payment as part of the corporation’s agreement to bid. 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 each principal, director and officer that they each personally and unconditionally guarantee any payment due RR Auction. 20. RR Auction may at its sole and absolute discretion, make loans or advances to Consignors and/or prospective Bidders. 21. If a dispute arises concerning ownership of a lot that has been bid upon during the course of the sale, RR Auction reserves the right to commence a statutory interpleader proceeding at the expense of the Consignor and successful Bidder and any other applicable party, and in such event shall be entitled to its reasonable attorney’s fees and costs. 22. In the event of a successful challenge to the title to any goods purchased, RR Auction agrees to reimburse any Bidder in an amount equal to the successful bid price actually paid by Bidder at auction plus any Buyer’s Commission actually paid, in full and complete satisfaction of all claims, which once tendered by RR Auction, relieves and releases RR Auction from any responsibility whatsoever to the Bidder, even if the instrument is not cashed or is returned. Bidding Options: 23. Non-Internet bids (including but not limited to podium, fax, phone and mail bids) are treated similar to floor bids in that they must be on-increment. Any podium, fax, 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 your high bid. 24. When identical mail or FAX 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. Auctioneer is not responsible for executing mail bids or FAX bids received on or after the day the first lot is sold, nor Internet bids submitted after the published closing time; nor is Auctioneer responsible for proper execution of bids submitted by telephone, mail, FAX, e-mail, Internet, or in person once the Auction begins. 25. In internet only Auctions, bids on an item must raise the current high bid by at least 10%. 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 the auctioneer. 26. 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 the Auctioneer 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). Bidders participating in both live and online auctions acknowledge that the law provides for substantial penalties in the form of treble damages and attorneys’ fees and costs for those who violate these provisions. For live auctions the auctioneer will have final discretion in the event that any dispute should arise between bidders. The auctioneer 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 our sale record is conclusive. Payment:
27a.Subject to fulfillment of all of the Terms and Conditions of Sale set forth herein, at the close of the Auction, title to the offered lot will pass to the highest bidder acknowledged by RR Auction, and such 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 we 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 thirteen (13) business days following its sale and if it is not so removed, (i) a handling charge of 1% of the total purchase price per month from the 13th day after the sale until its removal will be payable to RR Auction by the Bidder, with a minimum of 5% of the total purchase price for any property not so removed within 60 days after the sale, and (ii) RR Auction may send the purchased property to a public warehouse for the account, at the risk and expense of the Bidder. 27b. All purchases delivered to Massachusetts are subject to the Massachusetts 6.25% sales tax unless the purchaser possesses a Massachusetts sales tax exemption number. Exemption numbers from other states are accepted in Massachusetts if presented with a business card or letterhead. Dealers, museums, and other qualifying parties can apply for a Massachusetts exemption number prior to the auction by contacting the Massachusetts Department of Corporation and Taxation at 100 Cambridge Street in Boston. 28. Payment is due upon closing of the Auction session, or upon presentment of an invoice. Auctioneer 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, Auctioneer’s election to void a sale does not relieve the Bidder from their obligation to pay Auctioneer its fees (seller’s and buyer’s premium) on the lot and any other damages pertaining to the lot. 29. All sales 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). 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) business day hold, and ten (10) days when drawn on an international bank. Clients with pre-arranged credit status may receive immediate credit for payments via Check, personal or corporate checks. All others will be subject to a hold of five (5) days, or more, for the funds to clear prior to releasing merchandise. 30. 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. 31. If any Auction invoice submitted by Auctioneer is not paid in full when due, the unpaid balance will bear interest at the highest rate permitted by law from the date of invoice until paid. Any invoice not paid when due will bear a one and one-half per cent (1.5%) late fee on the invoice amount. If the Auctioneer refers any invoice to an attorney for collection, the buyer agrees to pay attorney’s fees, court costs, and other collection costs incurred by Auctioneer. If Auctioneer 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. 32. If any applicable conditions herein are not complied with the Bidder will be in default and in addition to any and all other remedies available to RR Auction and the Consignor by law, including, without limitation, the right to hold the Bidder liable for the total purchase price, including all fees, charges and expenses more fully set forth herein, RR Auction, may (a) cancel the sale of that, or any other lots sold to the defaulting Bidder at the same or any other auction, retaining as liquidated damages all payments made by the Bidder, or (b) resell the purchased property, whether at public auction or by private sale, or (c) effect any combination thereof. In any case, the Bidder will be liable for any deficiency, any and all costs, handling charges, late charges, expenses of both sales, RR Auction’s commissions on both sales at our regular rates, legal fees and expenses, collection fees and incidental damages. RR Auction may apply any proceeds of sale then due or thereafter becoming due to the Bidder from RR Auction or any affiliated company, or any payment made by the Bidder to RR Auction or any affiliated company, where or not intended to reduce the Bidder’s obligations with respect
to the unpaid lot or lots, to the deficiency and any other amounts due to RR Auction or any affiliated companies. In addition, a defaulting Bidder will be deemed to have granted and assigned to RR Auction a continuing security interest of first priority in any property or money of RR Auction’s owing to such Bidder in RR Auction’s possession, and RR Auction may retain and apply such property or money as collateral security for the obligations due to RR Auction. Payment will not be deemed to have been made in full until RR Auction has collected good funds. In the event the Bidder fails to pay any or all of the total purchase price for any lot and RR Auction elects to pay the Consignor any portion of the sale proceeds, the Bidder acknowledges that RR Auction shall have all of the rights of the Consignor to pursue the Bidder for any amounts paid to the Consignor, whether at law, in equity, or under these Terms and Conditions of Sale. 33. Auctioneer shall have a lien against the merchandise purchased by the buyer to secure payment of the Auction invoice. Auctioneer is further granted a lien and the right to retain possession of any other property of the buyer then held by the Auctioneer or its affiliates to secure payment of any Auction invoice or any other amounts due the Auctioneer or affiliates from the buyer. With respect to these lien rights, Auctioneer 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 buyer waives any and all rights of offset he might otherwise have against the Auctioneer and the consignor of the merchandise included on the invoice. If a Bidder owes Auctioneer or its affiliates on any account, Auctioneer 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. 34. Title shall not pass to the successful Bidder until all invoices are paid in full. It is the responsibility of the buyer to provide adequate insurance coverage for the items once they have been delivered to a common carrier or third-party shipper. 35. All checks, cashiers checks or money orders are payable to R&R Auction Company, LLC. Orders paid by cashier check, money order, wire are shipped upon receipt. Delivery; Shipping; and Handling Charges: 36. Bidder is liable for shipping and handling. Auctioneer 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 the credit card on file with Auctioneer. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, all merchandise is stored at Auctioneer’s facilities in Amherst, New Hampshire. The purchases shall be shipped from that facility unless bidder makes arrangements to take possession at the facility. 37. Successful international Bidders shall provide written shipping instructions, including specified Customs declarations, to the Auctioneer for any lots to be delivered outside of the United States. NOTE: Declaration value shall be the item’(s) hammer price together with its buyer’s premium and Auctioneer shall use the correct harmonized code for the lot. Domestic Buyers on lots designated for third-party shipment must designate the common carrier, accept risk of loss, and prepay shipping costs. Title: 38. On the fall of the auctioneer’s hammer, title to the offered lot will pass to the highest bidder acknowledged by RR Auction but fully subject to Buyer’s compliance with all of the terms of the Conditions of Sale and the Registration Form. Rights Reserved: 39. RR Auction reserves the right to withdraw any lot before or at the time of the auction, 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 or postponement under any circumstances. RR Auction reserves the right to refuse to accept bids from anyone. Conducting the Auction: 40. RR Auction reserves the right to postpone the auction sale 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. 41. RR Auction reserves the right to withdraw any lot at any time, even after the hammer has fallen, until the Bidder has taken physical possession of the lot. No Consignor who has registered to bid at the sale (or at any other time unless otherwise provided in the consignment agreement), or any Bid-
der or prospective Bidder shall have a right to claim any consequential damages if a lot is withdrawn, even after the sale. 42. The highest qualified Bidder recognized by the Auctioneer shall be the Buyer. In the event of a tie bid, the earliest bid received or recognized wins. In the event of any dispute between any Bidders at an Auction, Auctioneer may at his sole discretion reoffer the lot. Auctioneer’s decision and declaration of the winning Bidder shall be final and binding upon all Bidders. Bids properly offered, whether by floor Bidder or other means of bidding, may on occasion be missed or go unrecognized; in such cases, the Auctioneer may declare the recognized bid accepted as the winning bid, regardless of whether a competing bid may have been higher. Auctioneer reserves the right after the hammer falls to accept bids and reopen bidding for bids placed through the Internet or otherwise. 43. Lots bearing bidding estimates shall open at Auctioneer’s discretion. In the event that no bid meets or exceeds that opening amount, the lot shall pass as unsold. 44. All items are to be purchased per lot as numerically indicated and no lots will be broken unless decided by RR Auction. Auctioneer reserves the right to withdraw, prior to the close, any lots from the Auction. 45. Auctioneer reserves the right to rescind the sale in the event of nonpayment, breach of a warranty, disputed ownership, failure to execute the reserve, auctioneer’s clerical error or omission in exercising bids and reserves, or for any other reason and in Auctioneer’s sole discretion. 46. Auctioneer occasionally experiences Internet and/or Server service outages, and Auctioneer periodically schedules system downtime for maintenance and other purposes, during which Bidders cannot participate or place bids. If such outages occur, RR Auction may at our discretion extend bidding for the Auction. Bidders unable to place their Bids through the Internet are directed to contact Client Services at 1-603-732-4280. 47. The Auctioneer 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. Internet Auction – Extended bidding & the 30 Minute Rule: 48. Any bidder may bid on any lot prior to 6 pm. At that time, the Extended Bidding goes into effect. If you have not bid on a lot before 6 pm, you may not bid on that lot after 6 pm. Only those bidders who have placed bids on a lot before 6 pm will be allowed to bid on that lot after 6 pm. If you are the only bidder on a lot at 6 pm, that lot is awarded to you. During the extended bidding period, a lot will remain open only to those who bid on that lot prior to 6 pm. All lots WITHOUT an opening bid at 6 pm will remain OPEN to ALL bidders until 7 pm or until they receive their first bid. These lots will close immediately upon receipt of a bid or at 7 pm, whichever comes first. For all lots that are active after 7 pm, bidding will remain open until 30 minutes pass without a bid being placed on THAT lot. 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. On a PER LOT BASIS, the 30 minute timer will reset each time a bid is placed after 7 pm. If you are the high bidder, raising your maximum bid will NOT reset the timer. RR Auction reserves the right to close the auction at any time at its sole discretion. Auctioneer’s Discretion: 49. RR Auction shall determine opening bids and bidding increments. The auctioneer has the right in its absolute discretion to reject any bid in the event of dispute between bidders or if the auctioneer 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 Auction’s record of final sale shall be conclusive. The auctioneer also may reject any bid and withdraw the lot from sale if the auctioneer decides either that any opening bid is below the reserve of the lot or article or that an advance is insufficient. Unless otherwise announced by the auctioneer at the time of sale, no lots may be divided for the purpose of sale.
ability, 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. RR Auction’ Remedies: 52. Failure of the Bidder/Buyer to comply with any of these Conditions of Sale or the terms of the Registration Form is an event of default. In such event, RR Auction may, in addition to any other available remedies specifically including the right to hold the defaulting Bidder/Buyer liable for the Purchase Price or to charge and collect from the defaulting Bidder/Buyer’s credit or debit accounts as provided for elsewhere herein: (a) cancel the sale, retaining any payment made by the Buyer as damages (the Bidder/ Buyer understands and acknowledges that RR Auction will be substantially damaged should such default occur, and that damages under sub-part (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/Buyer interest on the Purchase Price at the rate of one and one-half per cent (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’ rights and remedies. Should RR Auction resell the property, the original defaulting buyer 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 buyer 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 buyer 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 buyer’s obligations to RR Auction, any property in RR Auction’ possession owned by such buyer. 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. Warranties: 53. RR Auction does not provide any warranties to Bidders or Buyers, whether expressed or implied, beyond those expressly provided for 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 merchant ability 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 Buyer acquires rights in copyright or other intellectual property (including exhibition or reproduction rights) or whether the property is subject to any limitations or other rights. RR Auction does not make any representation or warranty as to title.
Reserves: 50. 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.
54. All descriptions, photographs, illustrations, and terminology including but not limited to words describing condition (including any condition reports requested by Bidder, see also Generally 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.
Off-Site Bidding: 51. Bidding by telephone, facsimile-transmission (fax-in), on-line, or absentee bidding (advance written bids submitted by mail) are offered solely as a convenience and permitted subject to advance arrangements, avail-
56. FIREARMS. Auctioneer complies with all Federal and State rules and
55. 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.
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. Important Notice: Many identical versions of props and costumes are created for film and television productions in the normal course of a production. RR Auction does not warrant or represent that the screen shots referenced are exact images of the offered item (unless specifically noted in the written description). Use of a screen shot does not constitute a warranty or representation of authenticity or provenance. There is not a right of return or refund based upon a claim arising out of or pertaining to any reference to a screen shot. 57. Lots and property are not returnable to RR Auction for any reason except under Buyer’s limited Remedies set forth in Sections 58 and 59 below and under the express terms and conditions of Section 58. Limitation of Damages: 58. In the event that RR Auction is prevented for any reason from delivering any property to Buyer or Buyer is otherwise dissatisfied with the performance of RR Auction, the liability, if any, of RR Auction, shall be limited to, and shall not exceed, the amount actually paid for the property by Buyer. In no event shall RR Auction be liable for incidental, special, indirect, exemplary or consequential damages of any kind, including but not limited to loss of profits, value of investment or opportunity cost. Unauthorized Statements: 59. 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 Terms and Conditions of Sale, any term or condition set forth on the 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 by all parties, are statements of personal opinion only and are not binding on RR Auction, and under no circumstances shall be relied on by Bidder as a statement, representation or warranty of RR Auction. Buyer’s Remedies: 60. Under no circumstance will RR Auction incur liability to a Bidder in excess of the purchase price actually paid. The terms and conditions of sale herein described shall be enforced in accordance with, and governed by the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 61. This section sets forth the sole and exclusive remedies of Buyer in conformity with Sections 51-55 (“Warranties”) and 56 (“Limitation of Damages”) herein, and is expressly in lieu of any other rights or remedies which might be available to Buyer by law. The Buyer hereby accepts the benefit of the consignor’s warranty of title and any other representations and warranties made by the consignor for the Buyer’s benefit. In the event that Buyer proves in writing to RR Auction satisfaction that there was a breach of the consignor’s warranty of title concerning a lot purchased by Buyer, RR Auction shall make demand upon the consignor to pay to Buyer 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 Buyer within thirty days after such demand, RR Auction shall disclose the identity of the consignor to Buyer and assign to Buyer all of RR Auction’ rights against the consignor with respect to such lot or property. Upon such disclosure and assignment, all responsibility and liability, if any, of RR Auction with respect to said lot or property shall automatically terminate. RR Auction shall be entitled to retain the premiums and other amounts paid to RR Auction - this remedy is as to the consignor only. The rights and remedies provided herein are for the original Buyer only and they may not be assigned or relied upon by any transferee or assignee under any circumstances. 62. All Lots sold by RR Auction are accompanied by an Auction Certificate. On any lot presented with a Auction Certificate (“AC”) issued by RR Auction, that warranty insures only to the original Bidder (as shown in Auctioneer’s records) “Bidder”. Bidder may not transfer the rights afforded under the AC and it is null and void when Bidder transfers or attempts to transfer the lot. The AC warranty is valid from date of the auction in which Bidder was awarded the lot to five (5) years after its purchase. The AC warranty is valid as to its attribution to the person or entity described or to the lot’s usage.
When the lot is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (or its equivalent) from a third-party authentication provider, buyer has no right of return. On lots not accompanied by third-party authentication or under extremely limited circumstances not including authenticity (e.g. gross cataloging error), a Bidder who did not bid from the floor may request Auctioneer to evaluate voiding a sale; such request must be made in writing detailing the alleged gross error, and submission of the lot to Auctioneer must be pre-approved by Auctioneer. A Bidder must notify the appropriate department head in writing of the Bidder’s request within three (3) days of the non-floor bidder’s receipt of the lot. Any lot that is to be evaluated for return must be received at the office of RR Auction within 35 days after Auction. AFTER THAT 35 DAY PERIOD, NO LOT MAY BE RETURNED FOR ANY REASONS. Lots returned must be in the same condition as when sold and must include any Letter of Authenticity. If a bidder wishes to challenge the Letter of Authenticity within the five (5) year warranty period, Bidder must present with the claim, authoritative written evidence that the lot is not authentic as determined by a known expert in the field. If Auctioneer concurs that the lot is not as represented, Bidder shall be refunded their purchase price. If the Auctioneer denies the claim, the Bidder may file the dispute with the American Arbitration Association with locale in Boston Massachusetts, Suffolk County, before a single selected Arbitrator selected by the American Arbitration Association. The American Arbitration Association arbitration shall be conducted under the provisions of the Federal Arbitration Act and the Bidder consents to jurisdiction in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The challenge to Authenticity must be brought within one (1) year if the Auctioneer denies the claim. After one (1) year, the Bidder hereby releases and discharges RR Auction from any and all legal, equitable, administrative and/or other claims, counterclaims, demands, setoffs, defenses, accounts, suits, debts, dues, actions, causes of action, proceedings, arbitrations, damages, executions, judgments, findings, controversies and disputes, whether known or unknown or suspected or unsuspected, whether in law or equity, that the Bidder have or may have had against RR Auction arising from or relating to any claim whatsoever. Specifically, the AC provided by RR Auction, does not provide for incidental or consequential damages or other indirect damages. Any lot sold with a certificate of authenticity or other warranty from an entity other than Auctioneer is subject to such issuing entity’s rules and such conditions are the sole remedy afforded to Bidder. For information as to third party authentication warranties the bidder is directed to contact RR Auction. RR Auction’ Additional Services: 63. For Buyers who do not remove purchased property from RR Auction’ premises, RR Auction, in its sole discretion and solely as a service and accommodation to Buyers, may arrange to have purchased lots packed, insured and forwarded at the sole request, expense, and risk of Buyer. 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 or credit card, RR Auction will include an administration charge. Headings: 64. Headings are for convenience only and shall not be used to interpret the substantive sections to which they refer. Entire Agreement: 65. These Conditions of Sale constitute the entire agreement between the parties together with the terms and conditions contained in the 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. 66. If any section of these Terms and Conditions of Sale or any term or provision of any section is held to be invalid, void, or unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining sections or terms and provisions of a section shall continue in full force and effect without being impaired or invalidated in any way. 67. These Terms and Conditions of Sale and the auction shall be construed and enforced in accordance with, and governed by, the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, whether or not the auction is and these Terms and Conditions of Sale are fully performed in Boston Massachusetts, Suffolk County.
ill Preview w be online 23 February
POP POP CULTURE CULTURE
n.com
RRAuctio
Our third live gaveled auction of the year, highlighting pop culture and the collection of Jimmie Collings, will take place in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on March 19, 2015. Jimmie Collings’s amazing assemblage took a lifetime of passion to cultivate and includes: Over 50 fantastic vintage Hollywood signed photographs Scarce Houdini and magicians signed material Ed Wood’s personal effects and horror and sci-fi posters Rare Shirley Temple posters