38 minute read
Notables
Important handwritten draft for Reagan’s first inaugural address as governor of California: “We are participating in the orderly transfer of administrative authority by direction of the people”
76. Ronald Reagan Handwritten Draft of Inaugural Address as Governor. Early and
important handwritten draft by Ronald Reagan for his first inaugural address as governor of California, six pages, 8.5 x 10.75, delivered on January 5, 1967. A partial draft of the beginning of Reagan’s historic first inaugural address as governor, differing substantially from the speech as delivered but maintaining many of the same phrases and concepts. The speech begins: “To a number of us this is a first and hence a solemn & momentous occasion and yet on the broad page of state & national history it is almost a commonplace routine. We are participating in the orderly transfer of administrative authority by direction of the people. What makes this commonplace routine a near miracle to much of the world is the continuing fact that the people relinquish this authority yet remain its custodian with power to delegate or withhold as they see fit. There has been a question raised in recent years as to whether the people are capable of exercising this right. Some have used the temporary authority granted by the people to give govt. control not only of the means of production but also of those who produce. Always this is explained as being for the people’s ultimate good. But if the people are incapable of governing themselves—where will we find those capable of governing them? Govt. is the peoples business. Every man, woman & child is a paying participant. We who have been elected to Const. office or to the legislature are of the people, chosen by them to see that no permanent structure of govt. is ever allowed to encroach on the people’s freedom and that such laws and regulations as we have are those designed to keep any individual or group from infringing on the rights of another.
It is inconceivable to me that anyone could accept this delegated authority without asking God’s help. I pray that we who legislate & administer will not be misled by false prophets offering easy expedients. I pray that with his divine guidance we act wisely to build a state where liberty under law & justice can triumph; where compassion can govern and where the people can participate in & prosper because of govt. and not in spite of it.”
Reagan goes on to discuss the path forward for the state and nation, outlines some specific proposals and programs, and sets forth policies related to education, fiscal responsibility, and crime control. In fine condition. This remarkable autograph manuscript offers a behind-the-scenes look at Ronald Reagan’s development of his inaugural address for his first term as governor of California. While many of the themes and sentences used here remain in the speech as delivered, the final draft became more polished and precise than this early version—which is full of Reagan’s own strikethroughs and emendations. Take, for example, the end of the opening paragraph of the published version: ‘We are participating in the orderly transfer of administrative authority by direction of the people. And this is the simple magic which makes a commonplace routine a near miracle to many of the world’s inhabitants: The continuing fact that the people, by democratic process, can delegate this power, yet retain custody of it.’ The final version retains the sentiment and some of the phrasing found in this draft, but in a more refined mode. Thus, in these edits and revisions, we see the ‘Great Communicator’ as he hones his craft while coming into political power. Starting Bid $300
Hand-annotated draft for Gov. Reagan’s humorous “Republican Dinner” speech in July 1971: “We already have a Teddy Kennedy watch—it doesn’t have the regular numbers on it—just 72 or 76; 80 or maybe 1984”
77. Ronald Reagan Hand-Annotated Speech Draft. Ronald Reagan’s hand-annotated typed draft of a speech delivered at a “Republican Dinner” in San Diego on July 23, 1971, eleven pages plus cover sheet, 8.5 x 11, with Reagan’s handwritten amendments to five pages—sometimes a mere strike-through or single word, other times complete sentences or paragraphlength revisions. Reagan opens with some jokes about the election season (“Anyone visiting New Hampshire these days has to carry a program to keep all the Democratic presidential candidates straight. I’m probably the only office holder from outside New Hampshire whose been there and who isn’t a candidate for anything—I just went there looking for the Mayor of Los Angeles”) and pokes fun at the Democrats (“We already have a Muskie doll—you wind it up and Teddy Kennedy starts running. Then there is the Humphrey doll—you wind it and you never have to wind it again. We already have a Teddy Kennedy watch—it doesn’t have the regular numbers on it—just 72 or 76; 80 or maybe 1984”). He goes on to discuss the necessity of increased aerospace appropriations, which had been recently shot down in Congress (“If they had had to vote on that first flight at Kitty Hawk, the Wright brothers would never have gotten out of the bicycle business”).
Reagan’s lengthiest handwritten revisions come toward the end of the speech, commenting on California’s state budget: “We asked our state employees to forego a cost of living pay raise this year. This gave us no joy because Calif. is blessed with the finest type of employees to be found in govt. anywhere. This was a 1st for us after 4 straight years of salary raises totaling 21.4% but it wasn’t exactly unprecedented. The previous admin. twice during times of excessive unemp. skipped pay increases.” The final page, discussing funding reforms for various welfare programs, has also been copiously annotated by Reagan. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Declaration Signers
American Politicians and Leaders
172. Lewis Morris Autograph Document Signed
Twice. Landowner and developer from New York who signed the Declaration of Independence and served as a delegate to the Continental Congress (1726–1798). Scarce ADS signed twice as “Lewis Morris,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 8.25 x 12.75, May 2, 1792. A handwritten plea of debt document from the New York Supreme Court related to a case between Ann De Vise and John and Elizabeth Mansel as the plaintiffs and Lewis Morris as the defendant. Signed at the conclusion by Morris, who lists “Aaron Burr” as a witness and, on the reverse, incorporates his full signature into the upper docketing. In fine condition, with splitting to the ends of the folds and hinge. Starting Bid $200
Alexander Hamilton litigates a shipwreck in a scarce twice-signed handwritten legal document
173. Alexander Hamilton Twice-Signed Autograph
Document. ADS, signed twice, “Hamilton Proctor for Libellants,” three pages on adjoining sheets, 8 x 13, no date but circa 1783. Lengthy handwritten legal document by Alexander Hamilton, being a lawsuit addressed to Lewis Graham, Judge in the Court of Admiralty, made on behalf of James Dall and John Heathcote against Thomas Coates, master of the ship “Betsey,” for non-payment of a loan of one thousand pounds.
Hamilton explains that while sailing for London from New York harbor, the “Betsey” had run aground “by accident or by other means unknown to your libellants…and was disabled from pursuing her said voyage and hath ever since that time remained and still remains in the said harbour of New York not in a condition to put to sea and to perform her said voyage whereby the same hath been totally defeated.” He goes on to suggest that the ship be sold to satisfy the debt. In fine condition, with light toning to the edges and folds, and professional repairs to very minor losses. Starting Bid $1500
Rare blue-gray stamp from the Stamp Act of 1765, a leading cause of the American Revolution
174. Stamp Act: 1765 Blue-Gray Paper Stamp.
Exceedingly rare blue-gray paper stamp from the Stamp Act of 1765, one of about a dozen known. The embossed stamp on blue-gray paper reads “America / II Shillings, VI Pence” and is loosely laid into a sheet with manuscript description, within a window measuring approximately 1 3/8˝ by 1 5/8˝. The stamp is backed by vellum which bears an affixed a printed stamp (or cypher) bearing the Coat of Arms of George III numbered “211.” The explanatory text reads, in part: “The Stamp Act was passed by the British Parliament, March 22d, 1765. Its object was to raise Revenue from the American Colonies…The exasperation produced by these several Acts hastened the American Revolution and Independence. A box of those stamps (each amounting to 2/6 sterling) was found in the old Houses of Parliament when they were demolished a few years since. Those specimens with others were sent out to Mr. James Brown of New York, by his brother the late Sir William Brown M.P. from South Lancashire, England.” It is recorded elsewhere that a box of the stamps was located after the destruction of Parliament by fire in 1834 and was sent out from the well-known M.P. to his brother in New York, a founder of the Brown Brothers banking firm in New York; this stamp is likely from that group. In very good to fine condition, with several tears and fragile creases to the presentation sheet framing the significant stamp. According to the Smithsonian Institution’s National Postal Museum, fewer than fifty of these stamps are known extant, and only about a dozen are of the blue-gray variety—the others are blue, beige, or white. Starting Bid $1000
Activist and Social Leaders
“Best Wishes, Martin Luther King Jr.”— a stunningly large and beautiful signature of the Civil Rights icon
176. Martin Luther King, Jr. Signature. Amazing large ballpoint signature, “Best Wishes, Martin Luther King Jr.,” on an off-white 9.5 x 11.5 book page. This autograph was presented to producer Hugh Burnett on October 29, 1961, the day he interviewed Rev. King for the BBC television program Face to Face. In very fine condition. Included with this majestic signature, which measures 7˝ across and 4˝ in height, are four silver gelatin glossy photos of MLK with Burnett and interviewer John Freeman, two featuring contact sheet images of artist Feliks Topolski drawing King’s portrait, and another of the finished works, which were created for Burnett and Topolski’s 1964 book Face to Face; a Canadian Pacific Telegram from June 8, 1961, sent to Burnett by Barbara Vesey Brown, alerting him that “Doctor King willing to meet you Tuesday afternoon Montgomery Alabama after court hearing…He staying with Reverend Abernathy”; a typed letter signed by King’s secretary, Miss McDonald, sent to Burnett on June 19, 1962, giving consent for the text of his interview to be used in the book, Face to Face; and a first edition copy of the aforementioned book. Starting Bid $1000
Stunning 1936 autograph of Mahatma Gandhi
175. Mohandas Gandhi Signature.
Clean ink signature, “M K Gandhi, 18:5:36,” on an off-white 3.75 x 2.25 sheet. Archivally matted and framed with a portrait of the Mahatma to an overall size of 14.75 x 12.25. In very fine condition. Starting Bid $500
177. Nelson Mandela Signed
Book. Signed book: Long Walk to Freedom. Collector’s Edition. Norwalk, CT: Easton Press, 2000. Leatherbound hardcover, 6.25 x 9.5, 558 pages. Signed on the colophon in black ballpoint, “N. Mandela.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by the publisher’s original certificate of authenticity. A gorgeous edition of Mandela’s autobiography. Starting Bid $200
178. Nelson Mandela Signed Program. Program for the presidential
inauguration at Pretoria, South Africa, on May 10, 1994, eight pages, 8.5 x 11.25, signed on the front cover in black felt tip, “N. Mandela, 23.6.96.” In fine condition, with very light handling wear. Starting Bid $200
179. Raoul Wallenberg Document Signed. DS in Hungarian, signed “R. Wallenberg,” one page, 8.25 x 5.75, September 28, 1944. Document associated with the issuance of a Schutz-Pass, in part (translated): “To the National Central Authority Supervising Foreigners…We are pleased to inform you that the Royal Swedish Legation in Budapest has issued a protective passport to Miss Ernone Major according to which the above-named person must be considered a Swedish citizen. The Legation kindly requests that the above-named individual be exempt from wearing the distinguishing symbol. The Legation certifies that the reciprocity mentioned in the relevant regulation exists with Sweden.” While Wallenberg typically signed Schutz-Passes with quick scribbles, this associated issuing document boasts a more complete signature. In fine condition, with a rusty paperclip impression to the top edge. Starting Bid $1000
Businessmen Rare 1862 diploma for Barnum’s popular ‘National Dog Show’ competitions
180. P. T. Barnum Signed ‘National Dog Show’ Diploma. Mar-
velous partly-printed DS, one page, 14 x 11, May 1862. A ‘National Dog Show’ diploma from Barnum’s American Museum in New York, awarded by the judges to William M. Hyde “for his Bull Terrier.” Signed in the lower right in fountain pen by P. T. Barnum. This brilliant diploma is encircled with an array of artistic renderings of various canine breeds. Impressively matted and framed with a photo of Barnum with General Tom Thumb to an overall size of 32.5 x 20.5. In fine condition. A rare and fetching diploma from Barnum’s wildly successful Dog Show competitions. Starting Bid $200
one page, 5.75 x 7.5, Forest Hill letterhead, August 27, 1912. Letter to Charles H. Brown at the ‘Waumbek’ in Jefferson, New Hampshire: “I am pleased to hear that you are improved in health and at the golf again. I am also much pleased to learn that you are soon to take up business and wish for you the best of success in your new position. We are all well here and having a lovely summer. Our golf grounds are in fine condition. I have much to learn about golf but enjoy the game as much as ever.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Starting Bid $200
Cushing offers words of support to the “hospitalized veterans” of Arizona
182. Brass Apothecary/Gold Scale by Henry
Troemner. Brass Apothecary/Gold Scale, Henry Troemner, Philadelphia. Cherry and brass, in glass case, circa 1890-1910. Measures approximately 17.5” wide x 19” tall x 9.25” deep. Two complete sets of weights in original boxes marked “Henry Troemner Phila.” Miscellaneous measuring items included. External metal plate with inscription: “Henry Troemner Maker PHILADELPHIA, PA.” Internal ivory measuring plate with inscription “Henry Troemner Philadephia.” One knob missing, otherwise very good condition.
Henry Troemner (1809–1873) was a German-American entrepreneur who was commissioned by the United States Mint in Philadelphia to make their balances, which he did so well that he was invited to make the bullion balances for the Department of Treasury. He later made scales for the Mexican Mint, Assay Office in New York, and the San Francisco Mint. Starting Bid $200
183. Harvey Cushing (2) Typed Letters Signed. Surgeon (1869–
1939) who pioneered many modern neurosurgical techniques and investigated the functions of the pituitary gland. Two TLSs, signed “Harvey Cush” and “Harvey Cushing,” each one page, 6.75 x 8.5, Yale University School of Medicine letterhead, both dated August 18, 1936. Cushing replies to a request from Forrest E. Doucette of the Arizona State Board of Health, in full: “I hardly know whether I have anything particularly heartening to say to the hospitalized veterans that are congregated in Arizona; but if the enclosed statement will answer your purpose, I shall be glad to have you use it.” The signed statement is included, in full: “In spite of everything, I am confident that all of us who were damaged in the War, whether by wounds, exposure or illness, and have reason to know, better than others, the truth of Walt Whitman’s statement as to ‘where lies the marrow of war’s tragedy,’ would under corresponding circumstances cheerfully take the same risks again.” In very good to fine condition, with scattered small stains to the first page, and heavy adhesive staining to the left edge of each page. Starting Bid $200
184. Charles Darwin Signature. Bold ink signature, “C.
Darwin,” on an off-white 2.5 x 1 slip. Handsomely matted and framed with a color portrait of the pioneering evolutionary thinker to an overall size of 18.5 x 24.5. In very fine condition. Starting Bid $300
Six years after patenting the electric light, Edison sends “fibres, filiments and carbons” to a Milwaukee man
signed “Edison,” one page on an 8 x 10 sheet of E. T. Gilliland’s personal letterhead, September 21, 1885. Handwritten letter to “Francis R. Upton, Edison Lamp Co., East Newark, N. Jersey,” in full: “Please make up small sample box of fibres, filiments and carbons and forward to C. H. Haskins, Milwaukee, Wis., and oblige…P.S. Put in a 1/2 c.p. lamp.” In fine condition, with a short repaired tear to the top edge. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Edison’s own hand.
The recipient, Francis R. Upton (1852–1921), was hired by Thomas Edison in 1878 and worked alongside Edison in the development of incandescent light bulbs, electric generators, and electric power distribution. He later became the first president of the Edison Pioneers. Edison writes using the letterhead of Ezra Torrance Gilliland (1845–1903), an inventor who designed the telephone switchboard and the magneto bell. Gilliland was a friend and colleague of Edison and the two worked together on many projects. Starting Bid $500
“Thos. A. Edison,” one page, 8.5 x 11, From the Laboratory of Thomas A. Edison letterhead, February 6, 1923. Letter to C. S. Gardner in Washington, New Jersey, in full: “I wish you would put Morristown on your list. I want to get a dealer there as I have what may be a good salesman. You should try at once to get this town.” In fine condition. A desirable business letter by Edison, boasting a bold, crisp example of his iconic ‘umbrella’ autograph. Starting Bid $200
Edison investigates ‘creative accounting’ by his phonograph dealers: “In his own mind he will actually think he is not making as much money on his phonograph department as he really is making”
Edison,” one page, 8.5 x 11, From the Laboratory of Thomas A. Edison letterhead, November 21, 1922. Letter to one of his salesmen, Hal Starrett, in part: “When a dealer does other business and already has a truck he can put a phonograph in and out for less than 75¢. But here is the point: He will most likely credit on his books $1.00 to $1.50 to his truck and in his own mind he will actually think he is not making as much money on his phonograph department as he really is making...I am sure that $4.50 trucking expense on every sale is a reasonable figure and it can be done at that. The figures I sent were hypothetical and were based on the sale of one Heppelwhite. Of course, I know that your sales were higher...It is important that we watch the dealers expenses as they go on his books.” In fine condition, with staining along the top edge, and multiple punch holes along the edges. Starting Bid $200
188. Thomas Edison Signature. Attractive ink ‘umbrella’
signature, “Thomas A. Edison,” on the reverse of an off-white 3.75 x 4.75 menu for a Delmonico’s restaurant dated October 20, 1890. The reverse also bears a handful of signatures from other attendees. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Edison supports a creative salesman: “Encourage him to follow out his ideas as far as possible to see how the experiment works”
189. Thomas Edison Autograph Note Signed. ANS in
pencil, signed twice with his initial, “E,” one page, 6 x 8.75, no date. Handwritten note in pencil, addressed to “Hallowell,” in full: “This man Gardener seems to be ‘some’ salesman.” Below, he adds: “Encourage him to follow out his ideas as far as possible to see how the experiment works.” In very good to fine condition, with rough edges, a rusty paperclip impression to the top edge, and a tear within the underlining beneath “Hallowell” at the top. An interesting handwritten note from the celebrated inventor, widely known for both his laboratory experiments and his shrewd business acumen; this fine autograph combines the two. Starting Bid $200
190. Albert Einstein Sig-
nature. Vintage ink signature, “A. Einstein,” on a blue 5 x 3.75 album page, which bears a collector’s notation that reads: “Passing through Harmon, NY, No. 68 – 11:59 am, 3/15/33.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
Scarce signed cabinet photo of Russian immunology researcher Elie Metchnikoff
192. Elie Metchnikoff Signed Photograph. Russian biologist
and zoologist (1845-1916) best known for his pioneering research into the immune system for which he, with Paul Ehrlich, was awarded the 1908 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Rare 4.25 x 6.5 cabinet photo of the pioneering immunology researcher by Pierre Petit of Paris, nicely signed on the mount in ink, “Elie Metchnikoff.” Reverse is annotated in an unknown hand and bears an affixed newspaper clipping describing the famous Russian scientist. In fine condition, with light scuffing and silvering. Signed photographs of Metchnikoff are exceedingly rare—this is just the second we have offered. Starting Bid $200
Elusive letter from the electron discoverer
193. J. J. Thomson Autograph Letter Signed. Important English
physicist (1856–1940) who received the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1906 for his discovery and identification of the electron. Rare ALS, one page, 4.75 x 7, Cavendish Laboratory, Cambridge letterhead (struck through and altered to “Trinity Lodge”), January 12, no year (circa 1918-1919). Brief handwritten letter to distinguished Irish mathematical physicist Professor Arthur W. Conway, in full: “Could you come and dine with us very quietly at the Lodge to-morrow, (Thursday) at 8 o’clock.” In fine condition, with some light creasing. Only the third instance in which we have offered Thomson in any format. Starting Bid $300
Religious Figures
195. Pope John Paul II Typed Letter Signed. TLS in Polish, signed
“Jan Pawel II,” one page, 5.5 x 8.25, Papal regalia and insignia letterhead, July 24, 1995. Addressed from Castel Gandolfo, a letter to Dr. Grazyna Piekarska, in full (translated): “Thank you for the letter referring to my last visit to Poland and to those matters that require fervent prayers for our homeland and for the whole world. Mother of God is with us, let’s trust! I also entrust the Lady to her protection and with gratitude for remembering me in my prayers.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
“M Teresa mc,” one page, 6.25 x 3.5, stamped Missionaries of Charity letterhead on the reverse of a prayer slip, September 18, 1994. Letter to Rajhinder Thapar, in full: “Thank you very much for your kind donation of Medicines for our poor children. May God love and reward you for your loving concern and generosity. I am sure God is very pleased with your service of love for our Nirmal Hriday patients at Kalighat. The poor are very beautiful and have much to give us, Let us thank God for giving us the opportunity to serve our fellowmen who live and die in poverty and hunger.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Rare 1855 military appointment by Brigham Young as the first governor of Utah Territory
196. Brigham Young Document Signed as Governor of
Utah Territory. Scarce partly-printed DS, one page, 7.5 x 12, March 14, 1855. As Governor of the Territory of Utah, Brigham Young appoints George Wood as “Captain of Company A, of Battalion of Infantry, of Cedar Post of Iron Military District.” Signed neatly at the conclusion by Young and countersigned by Secretary A. W. Bobbitt. Left side retains the original embossed Territory of Utah paper seal. Framed and in fine condition. An exceptionally desirable and rare military commission signed by Young as the first governor of Utah Territory—the first and only example that we have ever offered. Starting Bid $200
Writing from embargoed Cuba, Fidel Castro expresses his desire for an American “to be a friend of my country”
197. Fidel Castro Typed Letter Signed. TLS in Spanish, one
page, 6.25 x 8.25, Republica de Cuba letterhead, January 9, 1986. Letter to Richard R. Reidy in Scottsdale, Arizona, in part: “I do not want that tomorrow, when you become a high personality in your country, you have motives to complain because your letter and your request were not answered. That is why I have looked for the time to send the photo and the autograph, as well as the Cuban peso you wanted to know. But the most important thing that I want to get to you is the sincere desire to be a friend of my country and have lots of success both in your studies and your life.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from University Archives. Starting Bid $200
Churchill writes from Russia during 1944’s significant ‘Moscow Conference,’ asking for Chamberlain’s biographer to consider “the requirements of official secrecy”
198. Winston Churchill Typed Letter Signed. World War II–dated
TLS, signed “Yours sincerely, Winston S. Churchill,” one page, 7.5 x 9.5, Prime Minister letterhead, October 16, 1944. Letter to British historian Keith G. Feiling, sent from Moscow during Churchill’s meetings with Josef Stalin during World War II. In full: “I shall certainly be very glad to see you after my return. Meanwhile, I see no objection to your using the proposed extracts, so long as their context is made clear. I must say however that I feel that end of next year is very early for the publication of a book of this kind. I am glad that you are showing the text to Bridges for examination from the point of view of the requirements of official secrecy.” In very good to fine condition, with scattered staining and soiling, and a light diagonal crease to the upper left corner. The work in question was probably Feiling’s The Life of Neville Chamberlain, which would be published in 1946. Starting Bid $300
Significant signed example of Churchill’s autobiography, presented to his easel-builder
199. Winston Churchill Signed
Book. Signed book: My Early Life: A Roving Commission. Later printing. London: Macmillan & Co. Ltd., 1942. Hardcover with dust jacket, 5.75 x 8.75, 392 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page in fountain pen, “To Mr. Riggenbach, from Winston S. Churchill, 1946, September.” Below, he adds a sketch of an easel, writing “Eureka!” Autographic condition: very good to fine, with irregular light toning to the signed page. Book condition: VG/VG, with a clipped portrait of Churchill affixed to the front pastedown, some light stains to spine, and minor nicks at spine head (reinforced inside with old, toned tape). Accompanied by a transmittal letter from his private secretary, Elizabeth Gilliatt, in part: “Mr. Churchill…wishes to send you the enclosed copy of one of his books as a mark of appreciation of the work you did on his easel.” It seems that Mr. Riggenbach must have built a new easel for Churchill, who held painting as one of his dearest pastimes. A unique and desirable association copy of Churchill’s autobiographical account of his early life. Starting Bid $300
200. Winston Churchill Signature. Vintage early 1960s autograph album, 6 x 4.25, signed inside in ink, “Winston Churchill.” The album also contains the signatures of Edward Heath, Dean Rusk, Judi Dench, Ian McKellen, Ian McShane, and a handful of other lesser-known names. In fine condition. Accompanied by a transmittal letter from 28 Hyde Park Gate dated to February 27, 1963, which reads, in part: “Sir Winston was happy to sign your Daughter’s autograph book. (Please do not tell anyone, as he has a rule not to give autographs which he made an exception to on this occasion.)” Starting Bid $200
After reading Mein Kampf, de Gaulle warns against misunderstanding Hitler’s intentions: “The new Germany promised to the German people cannot exist if the powerful Russia remains in its eastern marches”
201. Charles de Gaulle Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “Charles,” ten pages three sets of adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 7, December 3, 1939. Handwritten letter to a friend, commenting on his new understanding of Adolf Hitler’s designs following a reading of Mein Kampf, and anxiously observing the readiness of Russian forces to the east. In part (translated): “Will this war finally begin? I measure all your anguish, you two of whose sons are waiting for the moment to defend the fatherland, and as a father, I share it. I intend to say that the absence of a second front to the east will force us to contain the entire German army, that the French and the English will once again be faced with History and its recurrences. This is a point of view that I do not share, because it would be to misunderstand Hitler’s intentions. You who, like me, have read his writings and his works [Mein Kampf], know that the new Germany promised to the German people cannot exist if the powerful Russia remains in its eastern marches. The maneuvers carried out by Stalin in Finland and the flaws in the command demonstrate the unpreparedness of the Russian soldiers and their structural weaknesses. By letting his ally wage his own war, the Chancellor and his generals have a remarkable vantage point. This war will be a long one, the time we waste today others are utilizing. History and future generations will never understand that such a large army, uniting the two most powerful countries in the world, preferred waiting to action, thus leaving the enemy the opportunity to organize the front at its sole convenience...
I come to wonder about the interest displayed for the President of the Council to see Colonel de Gaulle present to him in person his theories on the fair and proper use of modern weapons. Reynaud has done his best everywhere.” In very good to fine condition, with a partial split to the horizontal fold on the second sheet. Starting Bid $500
Iconic signed portrait of Ho Chi Minh
203. Ho Chi Minh Signed Photograph. Choice vintage matte-finish 7.5 x 9.5 head-and-shoulders photo of Ho Chi Minh, nicely signed in the wide lower border in fountain pen. In very fine condition. A rare and iconic portrait of the North Vietnamese leader. Starting Bid $500
202. Emperor Hirohito Document Signed. Handsome manuscript DS, in Japanese, one page, 23.25 x 16.5, November 3, 1975. Document by which Emperor Hirohito of Japan confers the Order of the Sacred Treasure upon Seiichiro Arai. Boldly signed at the top center by Hirohito. In fine condition. Established as the Order of the Meiji in 1888 by Hirohito’s grandfather, the Order of the Sacred Treasure is awarded to those who have made distinguished achievements in a wide variety of civil or military services, ranging from research fields, to social work, to state and local government. These documents, by which the emperor himself honors a citizen, become a part of the recipient’s family legacy and do not often leave Japan. A vibrant and highly sought-after piece. Starting Bid $500
204. William Wilberforce Autograph Letter Signed. British politician,
evangelist, and philanthropist (1759–1833) who played an important role in the movement to abolish slavery. ALS signed “W. Wilberforce,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.5 x 9, February 19, 1807. Handwritten letter to Lord Henry Petty, in part: “In consequence for a Visit from Mr. Clarkson—he tells me that your Lord’p has already received applications in his Behalf for the Professorship of Modern History of Cambridge...I have undertaken I have no right to do more, tho having know Mr. Clarkson many years in his private character & habits as well as in his peculiar pursuit (for his indefatigable & zealous perseverance in which I cannot speak too highly)…He is a man of…talents & great industry… He will be assiduous & able in discharging the Duties to any…which he may appointed.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
The tragic last Empress consort of Russia
King Charles II funds the recruitment of “tenn Companies of Foot”
205. Alexandra Feodorovna Signed Photograph. Excep-
tionally rare matte-finish 3.25 x 4.5 photo of Tsaritsa Alexandra Feodorovna seated in an elegant half-length pose, signed beautifully in black ink, “Alexandra.” The photo is affixed to its original 4.75 x 6.5 mount. In very good to fine condition, with fading to the image and some creasing to the mount. Accompanied by a vintage leather picture frame. An appreciably rare photo of the last Empress consort of Russia, who along with her husband, Emperor Nicholas II, and her five children, Olga, Tatiana, Maria, Anastasia, and Alexei, were murdered by Bolshevik revolutionaries in 1918. This marks only the second signed portrait of Alix of Hesse that we have ever offered. Starting Bid $200
206. King Charles II Document Signed. British monarch (1630–
1685) who ushered in the Restoration of 1660 and ruled until his death. Manuscript DS, signed “Charles R,” one page, 9.25 x 13.75, March 9, 1677. A document informing Colonel Sir Henry Goodrich of a warrant for £1,000 to be delivered to raise “tenn Companies of Foot…one hundred Soldiers in each Company…within six weekes.” A seal remains mostly intact at upper left. In very good to fine condition, with scattered foxing, a stain to the lower left corner, and edge tears and loss repaired with old tape along the back edges. Starting Bid $200
207. King Charles III Typed Letter Signed. TLS signed “With every best
wish—Yours most sincerely, Charles,” one page, 8 x 13, Balmoral Castle letterhead, April 19, 1993. Letter to “Susan,” in part: “I wanted to thank you most warmly for all the work that you have done for my Trust over many years. John Pervin tells me that under your leadership the Prince’s Youth Business Trust in South Wales has helped 1,000 businesses with total funds of £2 million in bursaries and loans. This is a wonderful achievement and a reflection of your dedication and commitment to helping disadvantaged young people who set themselves up in business.” In fine condition, with some light creasing, and a short tear, to the top edge. Starting Bid $200
Charles pitches a two-for-one marketing strategy for Duchy Originals: “Helping small farmer communities to become more ‘sustainable’ & making money for charity”
208. King Charles III Autograph Letter
Signed. ALS signed “Charles,” seven pages on four sheets, 7.5 x 9.5, August 23, 2002. Handwritten letter to Robert M. Higdon of the Prince of Wales Foundation, corresponding on several separate points. In part: “There is an increasingly good story to tell about Duchy Originals—which I believe is the secret of marketing!—and one of them is the ‘virtuous cycle’ approach I am trying to develop with organic raw materials, this ‘killing two birds with one stone’—helping small farmer communities to become more ‘sustainable’ & making money for charity. The best example of this approach is in Guyana—the old British Guiana, in S. America—and we now have Amerindian communities producing organic cocoa from previously abandoned cocoa plantations. I can’t help feeling that this sort of approach might go down well with the U.S. consumer if it is explained properly!” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Starting Bid $200
Remarkable 1937 coronation portrait signed by King George, Queen Elizabeth, Princess Elizabeth, and Princess Margaret
209. King George VI and Family Signed Photograph. Amazing vintage matte-finish 8.25 x 10.25 coronation portrait of King George VI, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, Princess Elizabeth, and Princess Margaret, taken by Dorothy Wilding on the day of George VI’s coronation—May 12, 1937—affixed to its original 8.5 x 11.5 mount, signed on the mount in ink, “George R. I.,” “Elizabeth R,” “Elizabeth,” and “Margaret.” Also signed in the lower left corner in white ink by the photographer, “Dorothy Wilding, London.” Reverse bears Wilding’s studio label. In fine condition, with trimmed edges, some light silvering along the top, and some light rippling along the bottom. A marvelous image of the royal family on their important day, signed by two British monarchs—a simply stunning piece. Starting Bid $1000
210. King Louis XIV Autograph Letter Signed. King of France (born 1638) from 1643 until his death in 1715, known as the ‘Sun King’ for the glittering splendor of his court at Versailles and the unparalleled glory of France during his 72-year reign. Rare ALS in French, signed “Louis,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 7.75, January 29, 1701. Addressed from Versailles, an untranslated handwritten letter from King Louis XIV. In fine condition. Starting Bid $500
211. Peter III of Russia Letter Signed.
Emperor of Russia (1728–1762) who was overthrown by his wife, Catherine the Great. He was deposed by troops loyal to his wife, who succeeded him as Empress Catherine II. Despite his generally poor reputation, Peter III made some progressive reforms during his short reign: he proclaimed religious freedom and encouraged education, sought to modernize the Russian army, abolished the secret police, which had been infamous for its extreme violence, and made it illegal for landowners to kill their serfs without going to court. Scarce LS in Cyrillic, one page, 7 x 9.25, February 27, 1756. An untranslated document issued from Saint Petersburg and signed at the conclusion by Peter III of Russia. The interior of the second integral page bears an affixed German translation of the letter. In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
212. Princess Diana and King Charles III Signed Photograph
(1983). Appealing color semi-glossy 4 x 5.5 portrait photo of the Royal couple, affixed to its original mount, signed on the mount in fountain pen, “Charles 1983” and “Diana.” Displayed in its original green leather Jarrolds of Knightsbridge frame to an overall size of 5.25 x 7.5. In fine condition, with scattered light foxing. Starting Bid $200
Marvelous oversized signed portrait of the newly crowned Queen Elizabeth II, captured by royal photographer Dorothy Wilding
213. Queen Elizabeth II Signed Photograph.
Resplendent oversized vintage matte-finish 15 x 18 portrait of Queen Elizabeth II wearing her glimmering crown jewels, taken by Royal Court photographer Dorothy Wilding, affixed to its original 18.5 x 25.5 mount, signed on the mount in fountain pen, “Elizabeth R, 1955.” Framed without glass to an overall size of 21.25 x 28.25. In very good to fine condition, with some light creasing to the borders, and small dings to the image (the largest of which is on her right elbow). A beautiful signed photograph of the beloved British monarch. Starting Bid $500
214. Queen Elizabeth II Signed Christmas Card (1960). Desirable Royal Christmas card from 1960, with their crests embossed on the front, measuring 16 x 8.25 open, featuring a lovely image of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip posing with their three children on the front lawn of Balmoral Castle, signed below the image in fountain pen, “Elizabeth R, 1960.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by the original envelope. Starting Bid $200
215. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip Signed Photograph (1957). Wonderful vintage
matte-finish 8.25 x 11.25 full-length portrait of the royal couple standing together in front of a large window, with the queen looking at the camera and wearing a lovely strapless dress with the Riband and Star of the Order of the Garter and the Diamond Diadem crown, and Prince Philip standing at her side and wearing his Admiral of the Fleet uniform, signed on the original studio mount in fountain pen, “Elizabeth R., 1957” and “Philip.” Mounted and framed to an overall size of 11 x 14. In fine condition. A particularly desirable official royal photograph—Queen Elizabeth has perhaps never looked so beautiful.
The consignor notes that the photograph was presented to the late Noel Vernon Lough on the occasion of the Queen’s visit to the United States of America in 1957. Noel Lough was a New Zealand diplomat stationed in Washington, D.C., who later became Secretary of the Treasury. Starting Bid $500
216. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip Signed
Photograph. Attractive matte-finish official royal family portrait, 6 x 8, depicting Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip posing outdoors with their two young children Charles and Anne, affixed to the original 7.5 x 9.75 mount, which is signed below in fountain pen, “Philip” and “Elizabeth R. 1954.” In very good to fine condition, with foxing and staining to the mount, and light silvering to the darker areas of the image. Starting Bid $200
American West
Rare autograph of the Wild West legend
217. Texas Jack Omohundro Signature. John Baker
Omohundro (1846–1880) was an American frontier scout, actor, and cowboy who became a legendary figure in the American Old West as a Western showman performing dramas on the stage throughout the country, and was immortalized in dime novels published around the world. Bold ink signature, “J. B. Omohundro, Texas Jack, Sept. 30th, 1875,” on an off-white 3.25 x 2 sheet. Impressively cloth-matted and framed with a portrait photo to an overall size of 13.5 x 18.5. In fine condition, with a very faint stain to the center. Starting Bid $200
Notorious Figures and Lawmen
John Wilkes Booth’s signed personal copy of the play Lend Me Five Shillings, performed by him in 1858
218. John Wilkes Booth Signed One-Act Play. John
Wilkes Booth’s personal copy of the play “Lend Me Five Shillings, A Farce in One Act, by John Maddison Morton,” neatly signed on the front wrapper in ink, “John W. Booth, Arch St., June 1858.” Published in New York by William Taylor, [circa 1855–58?]. Bound in the publisher’s original printed orange wrappers, 4.5 x 7.5, 31 pages. Booth performed in dozens of plays at Wheatley’s Arch Street Theatre in Philadelphia from August 15, 1857, through June 19, 1858. This run included “Lend Me Five Shillings” on June 16 and 19, 1858, in which Booth played the secondary role of Captain Spruce. He did not usually mark up his scripts—although Spruce’s lines are ticked off in pencil throughout this text—but he did sign and date the covers, as is evident here and in another script held by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. The booklet is in very good to fine condition, with light staining to the interior pages, and small stains to the covers. Accompanied by a 2.25 x 4 carte-de-visite portrait—the most famous image of the Booth ever taken, showing the dashing actor clad in formal theater attire, with walking cane in his right hand—with an ink identification notation below, penned in an unknown hand. Starting Bid $1000
