AUTHENTICATORS AND CONSULTANTS
JOHN REZNIKOFF, UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES
John is the founder of University Archives, a leading firm specializing in the appraisal and authentication of documents and manuscripts. He is affiliated with multiple professional organizations dedicated to the autograph industry, was a contributing editor for Autograph Collector magazine, and is a PSA/DNA authenticator. Letters of Authenticity are available on certain lots. Priced upon request*
PSA/DNA
PSA/DNA is the world’s leading third party autograph authentication company. Using state of the art technology, PSA/DNA created a security system to prevent counterfeiting, forgery and piracy. As the most respected service in the industry, PSA/DNA’s years of expertise and knowledge have established an impeccable reputation for providing professional, unbiased, expert opinions. Letters of Authenticity are availableon certain lots. Priced from $25 to $200*
STEVE ZARELLI AUTHENTICATION
Steve Zarelli is a recognized authority in the field of astronaut autographs. His findings have been published in the definitive space collecting reference Relics of the Space Race, and he has contributed articles to the UACC’s Pen & Quill magazine, Autograph Times magazine, and the UACC signature study Neil Armstrong: The Quest for His Autograph. Zarelli Space Authentication also provides authentication consulting services to James Spence Authentication (JSA), Sportscard Guaranty Authentic (SGC), and PSA/DNA Authentication. Letters of Authenticity are available on certain lots. Priced from $30 to $150*
ROGER EPPERSON SIGNED, SEALED, AND DELIVERED/REAL
Roger has an extensive background as a full-time dealer in autographs and collectibles, and is a trusted authenticator in all areas of contemporary music. When supported by the REAL logo and Roger’s name, music-related autographs assume an added value. Letters of Authenticity are available on certain lots. Priced from $30 to $150*
PHIL SEARS COLLECTIBLES
For over 20 years Phil Sears has been the recognized world authority on Walt Disney’s autograph habits. Included among Phil-sears.com customers are the Walt Disney Company and the Walt Disney Family Museum. Sears’s items have been featured in Autograph Collector magazine, E Ticket magazine, Collect! magazine, and the biography Walt Disney’s Missouri. Letters of Authenticity are available on certain lots. Priced upon request*
FRANK CAIAZZO, BEATLES AUTOGRAPHS
Frank is the world’s leading authority on Beatles signed and handwritten material. Since he began his study in 1986, he has amassed the largest file of signed examples on the planet. Through decades of focused and diligent research, he has acquired great skill in identifying authentic Beatles autographs, and also has gained the insight necessary to accurately approximate the era in which they were signed.
BRIAN GREEN AND MARIA GREEN, BRIAN AND MARIA GREEN CIVIL WAR SIGNATURES
With more than 45 years combined experience in the field, Brian and Maria are two of the nation’s leading experts in Civil War autographs and manuscripts.
JAMES CAMNER
James is a leading classical music autograph dealer. With more than 35 years experience, he is a founding member of PADA, an authenticator for PSA/DNA, a member of the ABAA, and an author of over ten published books on related subjects.
RICH CONSOLA
Rich has studied Elvis Presley’s handwriting and signature for nearly 20 years, which has placed him in the forefront of Presley authenticators worldwide.
BECKETT AUTHENTICATION SERVICES
Beckett Authentication Services provides expert third party opinions on autographs from all genres and eras. Led by authentication experts Steve Grad and Brian Sobrero, the BAS experts have unmatched years of experience authenticating autographs, and are responsible for authenticating some of the rarest and most valuable items in the industry. With the most trusted and knowledgeable experts in the autograph authentication field, BAS authentication is a must for any autograph collector or dealer.
* For more information on Letters of Authenticity call (800) 937-3880
CONTENTS
Presidents and First Ladies 3
Notables 15
Military 91 Aviation 98 Space 100
Art, Architecture, and Design 103 Comic Art and Animation 105 Literature 121 Music 130 Classic Entertainment 155 Sports 165 Conditions of Sale 168 View 600+
Bob Eaton CEO, Acquisitions bob.eaton@rrauction.com
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Matt Klein
Filemaker Developer and IT Administrator matt.klein@rrauction.com
Bill White Lead Autograph Appraiser bill.white@rrauction.com
Dan McCarthy Writer, Researcher dan.mccarthy@rrauction.com
Evan Mugford Writer, Researcher evan.mugford@rrauction.com
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Nikki Brickett Photographer nikki.brickett@rrauction.com
Joe Boucher Production Assistant joe.boucher@RRAuction.com
Robert S. Eaton Sr. 1940–2001
presidents and first ladies
1. Thomas Jefferson Autograph Endorsement Signed. Revolutionary War–dated autograph endorsement signed, “In Council, Aug. 12, 1780. Referred to Col. Wood to have settled by a board of officers. Th: Jefferson,” handwritten on the reverse of an ALS written by Hugh McGavock from the Albemarle Barracks, August 5, 1780, regarding several other officers contending with him for rank, “that new officers…appointed that never had a commission before should take command of all others of the same rank.” Professionally inlaid to a slightly larger sheet and in very good to fine condition, with an area of repaired seal-related paper loss.
McGavock served as a recruiter and prison guard at the Albemarle barracks during the Revolution, and later enlisted in the Virginia State Line under Colonel Joseph Crockett. Owing to nepotism and disorderly paperwork, there were multiple instances in his military career where he encountered difficulties in obtaining the ranks and positions to which he was entitled. His own firsthand account of his wartime service can be found in the bounty-land records in the Library of Virginia. Starting Bid $500
Amidst the Revolution, Jefferson refers a rank dispute to “Col. Wood to have settled by a board of officers”
2. Thomas Jefferson Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “Th: Jefferson,” one page, 7.25 x 8.75, November 12, 1795. Handwritten letter to Joseph Mussi, a merchant in Philadelphia, penned from Monticello. In part: “I had not for some time had the pleasure of writing to you, and particularly had not intended you should know that another effort of yours to supply me with oil had miscarried, because you had been sufficiently inquieted in your repeated endeavors to forward me that article. I am however obliged to you for still sending on a box, on Mr. Pollard’s information, and as you say it is the best Florence oil, if you forward another, it will not be an over-supply for without the formality of a draught, which I cannot inclose for want of knowledge of the sum.—I intended ere this to have troubled you with a commission for some marble slabs, but I have been so much slower than I expected in beginning the alterations of my house, that the demand for them could be postponed a while. Should peace in the meantime become general, they will come the safer. If you should hear how the tobaccos I furnished you are approved at the market you sent
them to, I shall be obliged to you for the information. By this time I imagine you are beginning to shiver with the winter of Philadelphia.” Addressed on the integral leaf in Jefferson’s hand. In fine condition, with a professional repair to seal-related paper loss on the integral address leaf. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from noted bookseller Warren R. Howell, dated June 28, 1958.
Although four pieces of correspondence between Jefferson and Mussi are recorded in The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, published by Princeton University Press, this letter was not found at the time of publication; it is recorded only in a footnote, based on Jefferson’s ‘Summary Journal of Letters’ sent and received (“TJ and Mussi exchanged 15 additional letters between 2 Feb. 1795 and 10 May 1800, none of which has been found”). This letter has resided in the same collector’s family since its sale in 1958, leading to its unpublished status. Starting Bid $1000
A ‘lost’ Jefferson letter to a Philadelphia merchant, regarding an order for fine olive oil and marble slabs for renovations at Monticello
3.
James Monroe Document Signed as President.
Partly-printed vellum DS as president, one page, 11 x 8.25, November 27, 1820. President Monroe grants “David Allen, late a Private in Voses Company of the fifth Regiment of Infantry, a certain Tract of Land, containing One Hundred and Sixty acres… in the Territory of Arkansas.” Boldly signed at the conclusion by President Monroe, and countersigned by Commissioner of the General Land Office Josiah Meigs. The white paper seal affixed to the lower left corner is partially intact, with the left edge trimmed. In very good to fine condition, with significantly trimmed edges (affecting part of Meigs’s signature), light soiling, and three binder dings to the top edge. Starting Bid $200
6. John Quincy Adams Document Signed as President. Partly-printed vellum DS as president, signed “J. Q. Adams,” one page, 15.5 x 9.5, April 15, 1825. President Adams grants Benjamin Angel of Wabash County, Indiana, a tract of land “in the District of Terre Haute & State of Indiana containing eighty acres.” Signed at the conclusion by President John Quincy Adams and countersigned by Commissioner of the General Land Office George Graham. The white paper seal affixed to the lower left remains intact. In fine condition, with a light, but legible, signature. Starting Bid $200
4. James Monroe Document Signed as President. Partly-printed vellum DS as president, one page, 13.25 x 8.75, September 16, 1819. President Monroe grants a parcel of land at Cincinnati to Ebenezer Howe of Hamilton County. Neatly signed at the conclusion by President Monroe and lightly countersigned by Commissioner of the General Land Office Josiah Meigs. In very good to fine condition, with light soiling and edge toning, and the seal missing from the lower left. Starting Bid $200
7. Andrew Jackson Document Signed as President.
Partly-printed vellum DS as president, one page, 15.75 x 10, January 7, 1831. President Jackson grants Joseph Henderson of Montgomery County, Indiana, a parcel of land “at Crawfordsville, Indiana, containing Eighty acres.” Prominently signed at the conclusion in ink by President Andrew Jackson and countersigned by Commissioner of the General Land Office Elijah Hayward. The white paper seal affixed to the lower left remains intact. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
9. James K. Polk Document Signed as President.
Partly-printed vellum DS as president, one page, 13.5 x 17.25, August 11, 1846. President Polk appoints Charles S. Lovell as “Captain, in the Sixth Regiment of Infantry, in the service of the United States.” Neatly signed at the conclusion by President James K. Polk and countersigned by Secretary of War William L. Marcy. The white paper seal affixed to the upper left remains intact. In fine condition, with central vertical and horizontal folds. Following this commission, Charles S. Lovell was sent to fight in the Mexican–American War, participating in the Battle of Churubusco, the Battle of Molino del Rey, the Battle of Chapultepec, and finally the Battle for Mexico City. He remained in the new territories until the outbreak of the Civil War, when he returned east and saw action at the Second Battle of Bull Run, the Battle of Antietam, and the Battle of Fredericksburg. Starting Bid $200
10.
Zachary Taylor Document
Signed. Manuscript DS, signed “Z. Taylor, Col. Comd’g,” one page, 7.75 x 12.5, April 1834. Military document, headed “Requisition for stone for Hospital at Fort Crawford, April 1834—Eight Hundred Pounds,” endorsed below by Taylor, ordering the assistant quartermaster to comply with the request. Matted and framed with a first day cover (bearing Taylor’s facsimile signature) to an overall size of 12.75 x 22. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Hundreds of more items are listed online at
11. Abraham Lincoln Autograph Endorsement Signed as President. Civil War–dated autograph endorsement as president, signed “A. Lincoln,” penned on the reverse of a letter written to him by members of the 38th Congress, one page, 7.75 x 9.75, May 7, 1862. The letter, recommending Simeon J. Davenport “for the Position of Second Lieutenant of the U.S. Cavalry,” is endorsed by Senators Zachariah Chandler and Jacob M. Howard, and Congressmen Bradley F. Granger, Francis W. Kellogg, Rowland E. Trowbridge, and Isaac N. Arnold; it boasts further handwritten endorsements by Colonel Benjamin Lloyd Beall and Assistant Surgeon Jonathan Letterman. On the reverse, President Lincoln writes: “Let this appointment be made if there be any vacancy not already committed to any other.” In fine condition, with professional fold reinforcements.
In addition to the obvious desirability of Lincoln’s clear, legible endorsement as president, the other important signers of this document add to its significance: Chandler was a supporter of the Underground Railroad, a vocal advocate for the abolition of slavery, and later Secretary of the Interior under Grant; Arnold introduced the first resolution in Congress proposing a constitutional amendment to abolish slavery, and later wrote a biography of Lincoln; and Letterman is credited as the originator of modern methods of battlefield medical management. Starting Bid $1000
President Lincoln— along with fellow abolitionists and the ‘father of battlefield medicine’—endorses the promotion of a cavalry lieutenant in 1862
Scarce twice-signed Brady carte-de-visite of Lt. Gen. U. S. Grant, signed at his City Point headquarters in 1864
Image larger than actual size.
13. U. S. Grant Twice-Signed Photograph. Remarkable Civil War–dated 2.25 x 4 carte-de-visite photo of Lt. Gen. Grant in uniform by Brady’s National Photographic Portrait Gallery, signed on the mount in ink, “U. S. Grant, Lt. Gen. U.S.A.,” and also signed on the reverse, “City Point, Va., Sept. 27th/64, U. S. Grant, Lt. Gen. U.S.A.” In very good to fine condition, with light scuffing, soiling, and an area of surface loss on the back.
In March 1864, President Lincoln elevated Grant to the rank of lieutenant general, and named him general-in-chief of the Armies of the United States. At the time of signing, Grant was at his headquarters in City Point, Virginia, engaged in the lengthy Siege of Petersburg. Within days, he would soon launch important offensives at New Market Heights and Peebles Farm. A distinctive portrait of the Civil War hero captured by the foremost photographer of the period, ideally signed and dated by the subject. Starting Bid $500
15. Franklin D. Roosevelt Signed Photograph. Choice
vintage matte-finish 9.25 x 13.25 photo of Roosevelt by Harris & Ewing, signed and inscribed in the lower border in fountain pen, “For Dorothy & Fred Storm, from their old friend Franklin D. Roosevelt.” In very fine condition. A handsome oversized portrait of Roosevelt, boldly inscribed to his old friends. Starting Bid $200
16. Harry S. Truman Document Signed as President. DS as president, one page, 8 x 10.5, no date. President Truman awards the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Colonel Michael Ulanovich Chernishev of the Red Army for “exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service as Commander of Artillery, 38th Infantry Guards Division, from 29 April to 9 May 1945...His accomplishments contributed in great measure to the shattering of German defenses in the vicinity of Schwerin.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the Legion of Merit certificate, dated April 9, 1946, bearing autopen signatures of the secretary of war and the adjutant general. Starting Bid $200
Legion of Merit awarded to a Red Army colonel for contributing “to the shattering of German defenses in the vicinity of Schwerin”
17. Jacqueline Kennedy Signed Photograph. Wonderful matte-finish 10 x 8 photo of the Kennedys posing on the South Portico balcony with the Washington Monument looming in the background, signed in the lower border in blue ballpoint by Jacqueline Kennedy. The JFK signature is in a secretarial hand. In fine condition, with a few small creases touching JFK’s face. Starting Bid $200
18. Jacqueline Kennedy Typed Letter Signed. TLS, one page, 6.25 x 9.25, John F. Kennedy Coat of Arms letterhead, July 25, 1968. Letter to artist and needlepoint designer Leslie Tillett, in part: “Some people who used to be with Senator Robert Kennedy were talking about helping the poor Negro workers in the South—using their skills (for making quilts, etc.) so that they could market their wares and make some money. Perhaps some time this fall we could talk about this, with you, as I am certain you would be a greater help than anyone.” Jackie adds the salutation in her own hand. In fine condition, with some light creasing. Starting Bid $200
Jackie honors the memory of “Senator Robert Kennedy” by organizing welfare work in the South
19.
Caroline Kennedy Wedding Collection with Typed
Letter Signed from Jacqueline Kennedy. Collection of letters and material related to the wedding of Caroline Kennedy and Edwin Schlossberg at the Church of Our Lady of Victory in Centerville, Massachusetts, on July 19, 1986. The collection is highlighted by two letters—a TLS from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, signed “Jackie,” and an ALS from her daughter, signed “Caroline”—both addressed to artist and needlepoint designer Leslie Tillett, who designed the array of tablecloths that were used at the reception held at Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy’s house in Hyannisport. In overall fine condition. A more detailed description of this collection can be found online. Starting Bid $200
21. Lyndon B. Johnson Bill Signing Pen.
Felt tip pen used by President Lyndon B. Johnson to sign “H.R. 15131, An Act to amend the District of Columbia Police and Firemen’s Salary Act of 1958 to increase salaries...And H.R. 16409, An Act to amend the District of Columbia Teachers’ Salary Act of 1955 to provide salary increases for teachers and school officers in the District of Columbia public schools.” The official ‘bill signer’ Eversharp pen measures 5.25˝ long and features a navy-blue plastic barrel bearing a gold facsimile signature with presidential seal and a silver-tone cap section. Accompanied by the original presentation box imprinted with a presidential seal and facsimile signature of President Johnson, as well as a typed caption affirming that the pen was one of the “pens used by the President on May 27, 1968.” In fine condition, with moderately heavy foxing to the original box. A desirable bill-signing pen used by President Johnson to serve the public in the nation’s capital. Starting Bid $200
24. Bill Clinton Signed Souvenir Typescript. Souvenir typescript of President Bill Clinton’s remarks at the “Alfalfa Club Dinner,” held at the Capitol Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.c., on January 25, 1997, four pages, 8.5 x 11, signed and inscribed on the first page in black ink, “To Joel Shapiro, with thanks, Bill Clinton.” In fine condition, with staple holes to the upper left corner. Starting Bid $200
22. Lyndon B. Johnson Bill Signing Pen. Felt tip pen used by President Lyndon B. Johnson in the signing ceremony for “S. 3497, An Act to assist in the provision of housing for low and moderate income families, and to extend and amend laws relating to housing and urban development.” The official ‘bill signer’ Eversharp pen measures 5.25˝ long and features a navy-blue plastic barrel bearing a gold facsimile signature with presidential seal and a silver-tone cap section. Accompanied by the original typed caption affirming that the pen was one of the “pens used by the President on August 1, 1968, in the signing ceremony of S. 3497,” as well as a TLS by Sherwin J. Markman, assistant to President Johnson, presenting the pen to C. Howard Hill: “The president thought you might like to have the enclosed pen of the type he used in signing S. 3497, the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1964.” Nicely mounted, matted, and framed together to an overall size of 11 x 16.5. In very good to fine condition, with staining to the transmittal letter. Starting Bid $200
25. Barack Obama Signed Check. Friends of Barack Obama check, 8.25 x 3, filled out in type and signed by Obama, payable to Friends of Dick Durbin for $500, September 27, 2002. In very fine condition.
Friends of Barack Obama was his official campaign committee; at the time he signed this check, Obama was preparing for his third straight election to the Illinois Senate, which he won for the newly configured 13th district unopposed on November 5, 2002. Extremely rare in this format, this is only the second Barack Obama check we have offered. Starting Bid $500
26. Joe Biden Signed Book. Signed book: Promise Me, Dad. First edition. NY: Flatiron Books, 2017. Hardcover with dust jacket, 5.75 x 8.5, 258 pages. Signed and inscribed on the halftitle page in black felt tip to his son’s nurse, “To Roz & Howard—I know what you did for my son—I learned after the fact. You are both the definition of generosity. Roz—if they have angels in Heaven—they are all nurses. Thank you both and keep the faith. Joe Biden, 12-19-17.” In very fine condition, with a discount sticker to the front of the jacket. A significant association copy of Biden’s heart-rending tale of hope, hardship, and purpose found in his son’s cancer diagnosis. Starting Bid $200
“If they have angels in Heaven— they are all nurses”—a warm inscription from Biden to his son’s nurse
Rare ‘Friends of Barack Obama’ check donating to the campaign committee of a fellow Illinois senator
notables
Declaration of Independence
Massachusetts 1795 military commission with an exceptionally bold Samuel Adams signature
101. Samuel Adams Document Signed. Desirable partly-printed DS, one page, 13.5 x 8.75, September 24, 1795. As governor of Massachusetts, Adams appoints Samuel Henry as “Ensign of a Company in the third Regiment of the Second Brigade, Seventh Division of the Militia of this Commonwealth.” Boldly signed in the left margin by Governor Adams and countersigned at the bottom by John Avery. Matted and framed with an engraved portrait to an overall size of 28 x 16.5. In very good to fine condition, with splitting along the intersecting folds. An ideal, bold autograph from the Revolutionary leader. Starting Bid $300
102. Benjamin Franklin Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “B. Franklin,” one page, 7.25 x 7.75, circa 1759–62. Handwritten letter, evidently to noted London publisher William Strahan, regarding a new “Work of Commerce.” In full: “I have perus’d the Parts of the work you put into my Hands of the new Work on Commerce, &c, and must own myself extremely pleas’d with it. The Author appears to me to put a more laborious It is a most valuable Collection of Facts that which I should think every one in Britain, Ireland & the Colonies who has anything to do with Publick affairs, or is desirous of understanding that very interesting Subject, would gladly be possessed of. The Author appears to me, not a mere laborious Compiler, but to have collected with good Judgment; & his own Sentiments where he gives them are, I think, generally just. It would be a Miracle if in so large a Work there should not be some Mistakes; and some I think conceive there are, which the Author seems to have been almost unavoidably led into by the general Current of Commercial Writers. The Language too, I think, requires a little filing & polishing, for the Readers of this Age grow delicate.” In fine condition, with trimmed edges and professional repairs to fold separations. Accompanied by a custom-made quarter-leather presentation folder.
on Commerce”
The specific published work to which Franklin is referring is nigh impossible to identify, based on the generalities with which he appraises it. The Franklin Papers identify the recipient of the letter as William Strahan based on Franklin’s cordial greeting and closing, which are both consistent with the manner in which he addressed Strahan in the two men’s voluminous correspondence. Franklin and Strahan had been corresponding since at least 1752, and would continue as correspondents and friends for the remainder of their lives, with a brief interruption of relations during the American Revolution. At that time, with Strahan serving as a member of Parliament, Franklin penned Strahan a famous unsent letter, part: ‘You are a Member of Parliament, and one of that Majority which has doomed my Country to Destruction…You and I were long Friends: You are now my Enemy.’ Starting Bid $2500
Franklin praises a “new Work
as “a most valuable Collection of Facts” for public officials
103. John Hancock Document Signed. Partlyprinted DS, one page, 15.75 x 12.25, July 2, 1792. As governor of Massachusetts, Hancock appoints Adolphus Spring as “Ensign of a Company in the fifth Regiment first Brigade of Seventh Division of the Militia of this Commonwealth, comprehending the County of Worcester.” Boldly signed on the left side by Hancock, and countersigned by John Avery as secretary. The official seal affixed to the upper left is intact. In very good to fine condition, with light toning and creasing, and repairs on the reverse to splitting along some of the several intersecting folds (one of which cleanly passes horizontally through the signature). Starting Bid $300
104. Henry Clay Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “H. Clay,” one page both sides, 8 x 10, July 10, 1842. Handwritten letter to Indiana Senator Oliver H. Smith, in part: “I am delighted to hear of the fine speeches which prevail among the Whigs in Congress, notwithstanding the perfidy of the President. His last silly veto must open all eyes, even the blind…I sincerely hope…whether laws shall emanate from Congress, or from Mr. Tyler—our Georgia friends will rally around the Independence of the Legislature…I think Congress ought not to adjourn until it passes a Tariff, or demonstrates to the Country that it cannot pass one without a surrender of its Constitutional independence.” In fine condition, with scattered small stains, and seal-related paper loss to the integral address leaf. Starting Bid $200
Clay attacks President Tyler:
“His last silly veto must open all eyes, even the blind”
1792 military promotion from the Governor of the Commonwealth American Politicians
Secretary of the Treasury Hamilton clarifies the Tariff Act of 1789—the first major piece of American legislation
105. Alexander Hamilton Letter Signed as Treasury Secretary. LS as Secretary of the Treasury, signed “A. Hamilton,” one page, 7.75 x 9.75, August 20, 1790. Circular letter to Stephen Smith, a militia leader during the Revolution who was later appointed collector of the port of Machias, Maine. In full: “The Act of July last imposing duties on the Tonnage of Vessels, provides for the restitution of the foreign duty which has been incurred by Ships or Vessels of the United States by reason of their not having a Certificate of Registry or Enrollment and a License, when trading Coastwise or engaged in
the fisheries. This refund is to be made in each instance, at the custom house where the duty was paid and in such manner that the American Tonnage duty of Six Cents is to be retained for the United States and the extra sum of forty four cents, to which foreigners only are liable, is to be repaid.” Expertly archivally mounted, matted, and framed under Tru-Vue Optium UV Acrylic with an engraved portrait to an overall size of 20.5 x 17. In very good to fine condition, with creasing, corner loss, and some small mounting remnants along the left edge. From The Michael Allen Collection. Starting Bid $1000
Baltimore merchant’s vessel registered by “Alex. Hamilton, Sec’y of the Treasury”
106. Alexander Hamilton Document Signed.
Partly-printed DS, signed “Alex. Hamilton, Sec’y of the Treasury,” one page, 8.75 x 13.25, April 10, 1790. Early ship’s registration document, in part: “In pursuance of an act of the Congress of the United States of America, entitled ‘An act for registering and clearing vessels, regulating the coasting trade, and for other purposes,’ William Patterson of Baltimore Town, Merchant, having taken and subscribed the oath required by the said act, and having sworn that he is sole owner of the ship or vessel, called the Robert, of Baltimore, whereof John
Higgins is at present master, and is a citizen of the United States, and that the said ship or vessel was built in the State of Virginia, in the year one thousand seven hundred and eighty six.” Signed in the left margin by Secretary Hamilton under an affixed Treasury seal; also signed by former Continental Army officer Otho Holland Williams as collector beneath his red wax seal, and by one other. In very good condition, with trimmed edges, light toning and staining, and complete silking to both sides. Starting Bid $1000
107. Stamp Act: 1766 Satirical Engraving after Benjamin Wilson. Rare 17 x 12 satirical engraving after Benjamin Wilson’s celebrated political cartoon, “The Repeal. Or the Funeral Procession, of Miss AmericStamp,” published in London by Mark Baskett in 1766. Captioned in the lower border, the cartoon celebrates the repeal of the Stamp Act of 1765, which gave birth to the famed Revolution-era slogan, ‘No taxation without representation.’ The image is filled with visual puns and mischievous political allusions, showing Dr. William Scott, Lord Grenville, Lord Bute, the Attorney-General, the Solicitor-General, and a host of other political British figures mourning the repeal of the short-lived Stamp Act, portrayed as a tiny coffin. In very good condition, with overall creasing, and damage to the borders which could easily be matted out if desired.
In ‘Impolitical Prints,’ esteemed collector R. T. Haines Halsey wrote that ‘The Repeal’ quickly became ‘the most popular satirical print ever issued.’ Within three days of its initial issue on March 18, 1766, the publisher was forced to take out an advertisement asking for patience as he could not keep up with demand. Even the great Ben Franklin weighed in on the piece, commenting in a letter to his wife: ‘There are some Droll Prints in the Box, which were given me by the Painter…I think he was wrong to put in Lord Bute, who had nothing to do with the Stamp Act. But it is the Fashion here to abuse that Nobleman as the Author of all Mischief.’ Starting Bid $500
Activists and Social Leaders
109. Martin Luther King, Jr. Signature. Ballpoint signature, “Best wishes, Martin Luther King,” on an off-white 4.25 x 4.25 sheet of American Airlines stationery marked above: “Detroit Quick Reference Schedule.” Matted and framed with a photo to an overall size of 12 x 12 x 18. In fine condition, with two horizontal folds. A desirable association piece between Reverend King and the city of Detroit.
On June 23, 1963, The Walk to Freedom occurred in Detroit, Michigan, and drew crowds of an estimated 125,000 or more, becoming ‘the largest civil rights demonstration in the nation’s history’ up to that date. Among the various ministers and leaders present was Martin Luther King Jr., who, after the march, gave an impassioned speech that served as a precursor to his famous ‘I Have a Dream’ speech given weeks later in Washington, D.C. The march itself was, to King and his supporters, partly a practice run of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. At the time, however, Dr. King called it ‘one of the most wonderful things that has happened in America.’ Starting Bid $300
Rare 1766 satirical cartoon on the repeal of the Stamp Act, “the Funeral Procession, of Miss Americ-Stamp”
Autograph letter by Mohandas Gandhi to an American admirer
108. Mohandas Gandhi Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “M. K. Gandhi,” one page, 6.5 x 4, February 15, 1940. Handwritten letter to an American admirer, in full: “Dear sister, I thank you for your letter and the sentiments expressed therein.” Gandhi has struck through “Maganwadi” in the letterhead and written “Segaon” above. In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, with “Passed by Censor” label and Indian postage stamps, addressed in another hand to Mrs. McMillan Seely of Seattle, Washington; this was likely Harriet McMillan Seely, the granddaughter of Minnesota Senator Samuel J. R. McMillan, an autograph collector. Housed in a handsome custommade clamshell box with slipcase. Starting Bid $1000
110. Valdemar Langlet Signed 1944 Swedish Red Cross ‘Protection Letter’. Swedish publisher and an early Esperantist (1872-1960) who, with his wife Nina Borovko-Langlet, in Budapest, is credited with saving many Jews from the Holocaust, by providing Swedish documents saying that people were waiting for Swedish nationality. Raoul Wallenberg was inspired by Langlet and used the same method to save Jewish people when he came to Budapest. Amazing World War II-dated ‘Protection Letter’ or ‘Schutz Pass’ passport booklet produced by the Swedish Red Cross and signed by Valdemar Langlet. The cloth-bound hardcover passport, 4.25 x 6, eight pages, numbered “KM 107/944,” was issued to Arpad Rotter and his wife Ilona of Budapest on August 8, 1944. The document, with text in both Hungarian and German, reads, in part: “We confirm that Arpad Rotter and his wife have Swedish interests. We draw the attention of the six-members that the above-named is under the protection of the Swedish Red Cross.” Signed at the conclusion in fountain pen by Langlet. The second page features two side-by-side photographs of the Rotters, which have been stamped and embossed by the Red Cross. The fourth page also features the couple’s personal information such as birthdates, residency, height, and hair and eye color. The protection letter expires on April 8, 1945. In fine condition, with wear to the covers and splitting to the spine, not affecting the interior pages. Starting Bid $500
Exceedingly rare 1944 Swedish Red Cross ‘protection letter’ from Valdemar Langlet, the inspiration for Raoul Wallenberg
111. Florence Nightingale Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “Florence Nightingale,” one page both sides, 8 x 10, September 3, 1878. Handwritten letter in support of a charitable cause, in part: “I send with the very greatest interest my poor little promised £10 for your blessed Soldier’s Institute at Portsmouth. I picture to myself your comfortable rooms & refreshments for soul & body, & I wish you ‘God speed’ from the bottom of my heart.” She adds a lengthy postscript requesting anonymity, initialed “F.L.,” in part: “Will you excuse my declining to be ‘Patroness’ as you kindly desire, to your Bazaar in November? It is not that my whole heart is not with you, as I hope you know but I have so many invitations to ‘patronizing’ that I am compelled to make it a rule not to give me poor name where I cannot give my work.” In fine condition, with some light creasing. Starting Bid $200
Florence Nightingale donates to the “Soldier’s Institute at Portsmouth,” in support of “comfortable rooms & refreshments for soul & body” Supreme Court
112. Ruth Bader Ginsburg Signed Stamp Block. Fantastic block of four 3-cent postage stamps depicting the Supreme Court building, released as part of the ‘National Capital Sesquicentennial Issue,’ signed in black felt tip by Ruth Bader Ginsberg. In fine condition. A scarce and highly desirable format. Starting Bid $200
Businessmen
Scarce signed oversized photo of Musk’s Time Magazine ‘100 Most Influential People’ cover
113. Elon Musk Signed Photograph. Color satin-finish 11 x 14 photo of the 2013 Time Magazine cover portraying Elon Musk as one of the world’s 100 most influential people, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition, with a PSA/DNA label affixed to the lower corner. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity and grading from PSA/DNA, giving the autograph a grade of “8.” A hugely desirable oversized signed photograph of the tech innovator. Starting Bid $500
Scientists and Inventors
114. Charles Babbage Autograph Letter Signed. Uncommon ALS signed “C. Babbage,” one page both sides, 6.5 x 8, April 15, 1827. Handwritten letter by Babbage, in part: “As I conceive the Royal Institution would be the best place for making public the views you mention respecting the illustrations of mechanical subjects, and as I think there could be no objection to your lecturing in the same place where Davy, Dalton, Dr. Roget and Dr. Young have frequently done the same I immediately wrote a line of the managers of the R.I. in such a manner that they might if they chose propose some remuneration for the expense you might be at in bringing the necessary apparatus from Ireland. They however do not seem to have viewed it in that light, but they express a perfect willingness to allow you to give a few lectures on the subject.” In fine condition, with scattered light foxing. Starting Bid $200
“There could be no objection to your lecturing in the same place where Davy, Dalton, Dr. Roget and Dr. Young have frequently done the same”
116. Hugo de Vries Autograph Letter Signed. Dutch botanist and pioneering geneticist (1848–1935) known for suggesting the concept of genes, rediscovering the laws of heredity (unaware of Mendel’s work), and for introducing the term ‘mutation’ into the scientific lexicon. Exceedingly rare ALS, one page, 3.5 x 5.5, postmarked June 12, 1890. Handwritten letter to English botanist and taxonomist Maxwell T. Masters, in full: “I confidently hope to be able to send you seeds of my twisted teazels next winter, and have marked your letter, not to forget doing so. I will be much pleased if you and other English botanists will make experiments on these plants.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
117. Thomas Edison Typed Letter Signed. TLS signed “Thos. A. Edison,” one page, 8.5 x 11, From the Laboratory of Thomas A. Edison letterhead, December 19, 1922. Letter to J. A. Maher, explaining the Edison Records business model. In part: “Renting space in a store is the cheapest thing. The store owner could take care of selling records to those who come to the store…The profits on these sales of records shall be split fifty fifty between the salesman dealer and the store owner… In this way there would be two salesmen: a regular salesman and the dealer himself selling and between them shifting with the runabout….I want you to get thoroughly sold on these economical methods which are absolutely essential in order to show a profit in this time of depression and great competition.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds. A significant letter revealing Edison’s keen business savvy, boasting a crisp and bold example of Edison’s iconic ‘umbrella’ autograph. Starting Bid $200
“The profits on these sales of records shall be split fifty fifty”—Edison explains his sales model
The pioneering Dutch geneticist sends his seeds: “I will be much pleased if you and other English botanists will make experiments on these plants”
Images larger than actual size.
The creator of set theory explains his strategy to tackle one of the most famous open problems in mathematics
115. George Cantor Autograph Letter Signed. German mathematician (1845-1918) who created set theory, which has become a fundamental theory in mathematics. Cantor established the importance of one-to-one correspondence between the members of two sets, defined infinite and well-ordered sets, and proved that the real numbers are more numerous than the natural numbers. ALS in German, two pages on adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 3.5, April 25, 1895. Handwritten letter to important French mathematician CharlesAnge Laisant, in which Cantor explains his strategy to prove the long-standing (and, to this day, unsolved) Goldbach’s conjecture, a fascinating open problem in arithmetic which states that every even number greater than 2 is the sum of two prime numbers. This exceptional document sheds light on the efforts of the creator of set theory to tackle a fundamental question regarding the very nature of numbers, as well as on his prominent role in advocating the idea of an International Congress of Mathematicians.
In part: “My dear colleague, a few days ago I was sent a separate offprint of the Table for the Goldbach Theorem published in the ‘French Association.’ However, I have not yet received the 50 copies which I have ordered. I draw your attention to the very striking phenomenon that you may wish to highlight in your magazine.” Cantor goes on describing technical details about relative maxima in the number of decompositions of integers as a sum of prime numbers, quoting his data to make his point. He then continues: “And so it goes on without exception until the end of the table. Is it not strange? It would be extremely interesting if the table continued until 2N=2000. How are going our plans regarding the International Congress of Mathematicians? The matter has probably been discussed at the occasion of the centenary celebrations of the École Normale. From the newspaper, I see that Messrs ‘Amandus,’ Schwarz and Fuchs have been there. Incidentally, ‘the great’ Felix Klein is said to be very interested in the idea of the congress.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $1000
118. Thomas Edison Signature. Choice vintage ink signature, “Thos. A. Edison,” on an off-white 4.5 x 3 card, handsomely double-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 13.75 x 20.5. In fine condition. A clean and desirable example of Edison’s famous ‘umbrella’ autograph. Starting Bid $200
119. Thomas Edison Autograph Note Signed. ANS signed “Edison,” one page, 6 x 8.75, no date. Handwritten note praising one of his salesmen, in full: “Maxwell—Hollowell—Looks to me this man could sell anything—this is the way to do it when canvassing.” In very good to fine condition, with slightly rough edges, and a paperclip impression to the top edge. A great autograph from Edison—a notoriously ruthless businessman—in praise of one of his salesmen. Starting Bid $200
120. Thomas Edison Document Signed. DS, signed in pencil, “TAE,” one page, 8.25 x 12.5, December 7, 1914. Typed document headed “Minutes of a Special Meeting of the Board of Directors of Thomas A. Edison, Incorporated,” detailing the authorization of “a contract with the New Jersey Zinc Co….for five hundred (500) tons of ‘Bertha’ Brand Spelter, at 8 cents per lb.” Endorsed at the conclusion in pencil by C. H. Wilson, William Henry Meadowcroft, Thomas Edison, and H. F. Miller. In very good condition, with creasing, edge toning, and a stain along the right side. Starting Bid $200
121. Alexander von Humboldt Signed Engraving. German naturalist and explorer (1769-1859) who wrote Kosmos, a massive five-volume study which attempted to unify the various branches of man’s knowledge. Rare oversized 12 x 15 engraved portrait of Alexander von Humboldt by C. Bazin after F. P. S. Gérard, neatly inscribed in the lower right corner to private secretary Dr. Buschmann, in the remembrance of his brother Wilhelm von Humboldt, and signed below, “A. v. Humboldt, Berlin, Mai 1843.”. In very good to fine condition, with staining and slight damage to the lower left corner which could mostly be matted out if desired. Johann Karl Eduard Buschmann was a German philologist who worked closely with Wilhelm and Alexander von Humboldt, and was employed to prepare the original manuscript of Alexander’s ambitious Kosmos (1845-1859). Humboldt is incredibly rare in portraits of this size, and this piece boasts outstanding personal and professional associations. Starting Bid $500
122. Guglielmo Marconi Signed Photograph. Handsome vintage mattefinish 9.25 x 11.75 photo of Senator Marconi wearing his captain’s hat, signed and inscribed in the lower border in Italian in fountain pen, “Ai Batelli Bertino… Guglielmo Marconi, Genova 12 Settembre 1931 IX.” Blindstamped in the lower right corner by the photography studio. Nicely matted and framed with a biographical plaque to an overall size of 15.5 x 23.5. In very good to fine condition, with small stains and tack holes to the borders, and silvering to the bottom of the image. Starting Bid $200
Remarkable oversized portrait of Humboldt, presented to his esteemed assistant
123. Ernest Rutherford Autograph Letter Signed. New Zealand-born physicist and chemist (1871–1937) who discovered the concept of radioactive half-life; he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1908. ALS signed “E. Rutherford,” one page, 5 x 8, blindstamped personal letterhead, January 30. Handwritten letter to J. H. Platt, in full: “I shall be very pleased to take the chair at the preferred meeting on Friday in the School of Technology. I am sure the members of the Physical Colloquium will be much interested in the papers to be presented.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Starting Bid $200
Magnificent signature of Nikola Tesla
124. Nikola Tesla Signature. Crisp vintage ink signature, “Compliments from Nikola Tesla,” on an off-white 3.5 x 2.5 card, annotated on the reverse in ink in another hand, “Jan. 25, 1901.” In fine condition. A choice example of the innovator’s autograph. Starting Bid $500
Religious Figures
125. Mother Teresa Signed Book. Signed book: Mother Teresa: A Simple Path. London: Rider, 1995. Hardcover with dust jacket, 5.25 x 7.75, 192 pages. Signed on the first free end in blue ballpoint, “God bless you, M Teresa mc.” In fine condition, with a gift inscription on the half-title page. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from Beckett Authentication Services. Starting Bid $200
127.
Pope Pius XI Signed Apostolic Benediction.
Impressive illuminated manuscript apostolic benediction, signed “Pius PP XI,” one page, 17.75 x 25, boasting a large affixed portrait of Pope Pius. An apostolic blessing, in full: “Mr. & Mrs. George Hepburn humbly prostrate at the feet of your Holiness, beg the Apostolic Benediction.” Prominently signed at the conclusion in ink by Pope Pius XI. Framed to an overall size of 20 x 27. In fine condition, with a few small stains to the mount. Starting Bid $200
126. Pope John Paul II Typed Letter Signed. TLS signed “Karol card. Wojtyla,” one page, 8.5 x 11, Archiepiscopus Cracoviensis letterhead, June 29, 1967. Letter as Archbishop of Krakow, in full: “Thank you very much for your sincere gratulations to my nomination as Cardinal. I hope you will pray in my intention.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds. Starting Bid $200
World Leaders
128. Neville Chamberlain Typed Letter Signed. British politician (1869–1940) who served as prime minister from 1937 to 1940, and is remembered for his foreign policy of appeasement toward Nazi Germany; by signing the Munich Agreement in 1938, he allowed Hitler to annex Czechoslovakia’s Sudetenland in what is now recognized as one of the major early steps toward World War II. TLS, one page, 7.5 x 9.5, Derby Council Office letterhead, May 14, 1940. Letter to Sir James Marchant, in full: “I am grateful to you for your letter and for the message of sympathy and understanding which you have sent me. It is a help in these difficult days to know that the action I have taken has been understood and appreciated.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds. Chamberlain had just resigned from his position as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on May 10th, following the ‘Norway Debate’ in the House of Commons. After the failure of Allied forces to prevent the German invasion of Norway, a no confidence motion was held amidst widespread criticism of Chamberlain’s conduct in the war. Accepting that a national government supported by all the main parties was essential, Chamberlain resigned the premiership but remained leader of the Conservative Party. Starting Bid $500
Chamberlain writes to a supporter after his 1940 resignation as prime minister of the UK: “It is a help in these difficult days to know that the action I have taken has been understood and appreciated”
The future pope sends thanks for congratulations on “my nomination as Cardinal”
130. Jacques Necker and Antoine de Sartine Document
Signed. Scarce DS in French, signed “Necker” and “de Sartine,” one page both sides, 9.5 x 14.5, March 19, 1780. Beautiful and large official document, signed at the head by Necker (with an autograph word, “vu”, meaning “seen”), and also signed at the conclusion by Secretary of State for the Navy Antoine de Sartine. The document also bears a secretarial signature of King Louis XVI. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Royalty
132. King Charles III
Signed Christmas Card. Christmas
card from 1975 with the front imprinted in blue with his coat of arms, measuring 9 x 7 open, featuring an affixed color photo inside of Charles on horseback, signed and inscribed on the left side in fountain pen, “Mr. Newsam—from Charles.” In very fine condition. A scarce, early autograph from Charles III. Starting Bid $200
131.
King Charles III Autograph Letter
Signed. ALS signed “Charles,” one page both sides, 4.75 x 3.75, March 11, 1992. Handwritten letter to “Melvyn and Chris,” in full: “The dinner you produced this evening was superb—especially that delicious turbot en croute. It was an absolute triumph and I do congratulate you. Please do it again!” In very fine condition. Accompanied by the original transmittal envelope, addressed in Charles’s hand. Starting Bid $200
133. King George III Triple-Signed Document. Manuscript DS, signed “George R,” two pages both sides, 11.5 x 19, December 23, 1774. Significant military document outlining the “Establishment of Our Forces in Our Island of Minorca and Garrison of Gibraltar,” boldly and prominently signed at the head three times by King George III. Also signed three times by Charles Townshend, Viscount Beauchamp, and Charles Wolfran Cornwall as Lords Commissioners of the Treasury. The document describes the strengths of the companies to be stationed there, names the commanders, and gives their per diem and annual rates of pay. In very good to fine condition, with partial splitting along the folds. A superb document boasting three huge signatures of King George III, signed just prior to the outbreak of the American Revolution. Starting Bid $200
134. King Louis XVI Document Signed. King of France (born 1754) from 1774 to 1792. In the wake of increasing unrest that developed into full-fledged revolution, Louis and his queen, Marie Antoinette, were executed in 1793. Partly-printed DS, in French, signed “Louis,” one page, 9.5 x 14.5, January 9, 1777. The king orders Joseph Micault d’Harvelay, the Keeper of Royal Exchequer, to pay the widow of an officer 200 pounds per year. Signed below on the left side by King Louis XVI; the right side is signed “Louis” in a secretarial hand. In fine condition, with light creasing, and some old tape stains at the bottom edge. Starting Bid $200
Boldly endorsed 1786 pay order by the notorious Marie Antoinette
135. Marie Antoinette Document Signed. Manuscript
DS in French, signed “payez, Marie Antoinette,” one page, 9.5 x 14.5, July 1, 1786. An order to Treasurer General Randon de la Tour, directing him “to pay to Mr. Mollin, Maitre d’hotel de la table du Premier Maitre d’hotel, the sum of 200 livres which we granted him for the clothes of our office boys…during the first six months of the year…The present sum of two hundred pounds will be spent and allocated in the expenditure of your accounts by our dear and well beloved people of the accounts of the King, our very honored lord and husband in Paris.” Boldly endorsed at the conclusion by Marie Antoinette and
countersigned by her secretary Nicolas-Joseph Beaugeard; in 1793, Beaugeard was a conspirator in the failed plot to rescue King Louis XIV from execution. In fine condition, with scattered light foxing.
In 1785, Marie Antoinette’s public image had been tarnished beyond repair with the ‘Diamond Necklace Affair,’ when she was implicated in a fraudulent scheme to purchase an expensive necklace. A wonderful example boasting the bold, crisp signature of the infamous queen. Starting Bid $1000
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136. Princess Diana and King Charles III Signed Christmas Card (1983). Royal Christmas card from 1983 with embossed in gold on the front with the Prince of Wales’s feathers and Order of the Garter motto and the Spencer family arms, measuring 10.5 x 7.25 open, featuring an affixed color photo of Charles in a kilt and Diana sitting on a swing with toddler Prince William, signed inside in fountain pen, “from Charles and” and “Diana.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Starting Bid $200
Charles and Diana offer Christmas greetings to her fashion designer
137. Princess Diana and King Charles III Signed Christmas Card. Royal Christmas card from 1987 embossed on the front with the Prince of Wales’s feathers and Order of the Garter motto and the Spencer family arms, measuring 16 x 6 open, featuring an affixed color photo of the royal couple posing with their young sons William and Harry, signed and inscribed in fountain pen to couturier Victor Edelstein, “Victor, & much love from, Diana &” and “Charles.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Edelstein is famed for the ink-blue velvet gown he created in 1985 for Princess Diana to wear to the White House, where she danced with actor John Travolta. Starting Bid $200
138. Queen Elizabeth II Signed Oversized Photograph. Extraordinary oversized vintage matte-finish 13.75 x 17.25 portrait of Queen Elizabeth II seated and wearing her glimmering crown jewels by Royal Court photographer Dorothy Wilding, affixed to its original 15 x 20 mount, which is signed in fountain pen in the first year of her reign, “Elizabeth R, 1952.” Strikingly matted and framed by Chapman Brothers/Royal Art Frames to an overall size of 22.25 x 32, with a royal crown at the top; the original glass has been replaced with TruVue conservation glass. In fine condition. A gorgeous portrait of the newly crowned queen, beautifully presented in its ornate original frame. Starting Bid $500
139. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip Signed Christmas Card (1952). Royal Christmas and New Year’s card from 1952, with a gilt-embossed crown on the front, measuring 13.5 x 8.5 open, featuring a charming photo of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip posing with their two young children in front of Balmoral Castle, signed in fountain pen, “Elizabeth R” and “Philip.” In fine condition. A desirable Christmas card that dates to the first of Queen Elizabeth’s seven-decade-long reign. Starting Bid $200
140. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip Signed Christmas Card. Splendid royal Christmas and New Year’s card from 1953 with gilt-embossed crown on the front, measuring 16 x 10 unfolded, featuring a color family portrait of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip with their children Charles and Anne, signed below the image in fountain pen, “Elizabeth R, 1953” and “Philip.” In fine condition, with some scattered light foxing to the front cover. Starting Bid $200
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Magnificently framed portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, signed in the first year of her reign
141. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip Signed Christmas Card. Royal Christmas and New Year’s card from 1956, with a gilt-embossed crown on the front, measuring 13.75 x 9.75 open, featuring a wonderful photo of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip posing with their two young children on the deck of the HMY Britannia, signed in fountain pen, “Elizabeth R., 1956” and “Philip.” In fine condition, with light toning and soiling to the front cover, and some scattered light foxing inside. Starting Bid $200
142. Queen Victoria Signed Books. Two signed books within a five-volume set: The Life of His Royal Highness the Prince Consort, Vols. I–V, by Sir Theodore Martin. Mixed editions. London: Smith, Elder & Co., 1875–1880. Hardcovers bound in original brown cloth, 6 x 9, totaling 2,655 pages. Signed and inscribed inside the first volume in ink, “To the Hon: Mary Pitt, from VR&I—Windsor Castle, Jan: 17, 1877,” and similarly signed and inscribed inside the third volume in ink, “To the Hon: Mary Pitt, from VR&I, Windsor Castle, Christmas 1877.” Autographic condition: fine, with mild soiling to signed pages. Book conditions: overall VG, with minor foxing to textblocks and light general wear.
The set comprises mixed editions, as usual: the inscribed Vol. I is a fourth edition; Vol. II is a third edition; the inscribed Vol. III is a first edition; Vol. IV is a first edition; and Vol. V is a third edition. Each is housed in a handsome custom-made quarter burgundy morocco clamshell box, gilt lettered on spine. Starting Bid $200
143. Grigori Rasputin Autograph Letter Signed.
Exceedingly rare ALS from the Siberian holy man, signed “Rasputin,” one page, 5 x 8, undated but likely dating to the period of his greatest influence, circa 1905-1916. Penned in bold fountain pen, the letter is scrawled in his usual broken Russian and reads, in full (translated): “My dear, I’m sorry for the inconvenience. Starving. Help him feel better. Give him a job.” Rasputin has drawn a cross at the top of the letter, a mark suggesting that he is a mouthpiece of God. In fine
condition, with intersecting folds, and scattered small stains. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA. Letters and autographs of the Russian mystic are rare in any format, and most examples found are signed with his first name only. This example, fully handwritten and punctuated with his notorious surname, is of the utmost desirability. Grigori Rasputin remains among the most coveted of all the Russian autographs. Starting Bid $5000
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Elusive handwritten letter from the ‘Mad Monk,’ beseeching on behalf of a friend in need— “Starving. Help him feel better. Give him a job”
American West
Scarce volume signed by the Old West outlaw
149. Emmett Dalton Signed Book. Outlaw and train robber (1871-1937) who was the youngest of the brothers that made up the legendary Dalton Gang of the Old West. He was sentenced to life in prison after an attempted bank robbery in 1892, but was pardoned 14 years later, after which he became a reformed, respectable member of society. After moving to California to work in real estate, he also embarked on a career in the arts, capitalizing on his notoriety to publish books and begin a career in Hollywood. Signed book: When the Daltons Rode. NY: Doubleday, Doran & Company, 1931. Hardcover, 6 x 8.5. 313 pages. Signed neatly on an opening page in fountain pen, “Sincerely yours, Emmett Dalton.” Autographic condition: fine. Book condition: VG/None, with a cracked front hinge. Starting Bid $200
Deadly relic from the 1892 Dalton Gang shootout in Coffeyville—a Colt Lightning revolver formerly displayed at the Dalton Museum
147. Dalton Gang: Colt M1877 ‘Lightning’ Revolver from the 1892 Coffeyville Shootout. A Colt M1877 ‘Lightning’ double-action revolver that was carried by Lucius M. Baldwin in the Dalton Gang Shootout in Coffeyville, Kansas, which occurred on the morning of October 5, 1892, when the outlaws attempted a daylight robbery of two banks. Baldwin was shot and killed by Bob Dalton as the former turned a corner and ran into the outlaws. The revolver, serial number 16706, was made in 1879 and has a factory 2 1⁄2 inch barrel with an etched panel that reads “COLT D.A.38”. The gun is nickel-finished, has factory-checkered hard rubber grips, and was made without an ejector rod. The revolver retains about 85% original nickel, the etched barrel panel is very legible, and the grips show light wear with a large chip missing at the bottom of the right grip. The bore rates very good and the mechanism works in both the single and double-action mode. Includes a copy of a Colt factory letter. A detailed account of the shootout, Baldwin’s death, and the gun’s provenance can be found in our online description.
This Colt Lightning displayed for many years in the Dalton Museum in Coffeyville, Kansas, and, as such, the gun is accompanied by many documents relating to the Dalton Museum (including its original exhibition card) and other probate documents relating to its inheritance and ownership. Includes the book What Really Happened on October 5, 1892, by Lue Driver Barndollar, which contains pictures of the many known guns that were used in the shootout, including this Colt Lightning on page 61.
This is an antique revolver and transfers with no federal restrictions. Starting Bid $1000
A donation from the storied killer of Jesse James, a silver dollar 1891 Colorado City marshal badge
148. Robert Ford: 1891 Colorado City Marshal Badge
Donated by Ford to John H. Holt . An official “City Marshal” law enforcement badge donated by outlaw Robert Ford, the famed killer of Jesse James, to lawman John Hank Holt of Colorado City, Colorado, who served as the marshal in said city between 1891 and 1892. The beveled-edge shield badge, 2.5 x 2.5, 66 gm, custom-made from two late 1800s silver dollars, is engraved with the text, “City Marshal, Colorado, City,” and features an inverted yellow gold star to the center with Holt’s initials, “JHH.” The badge bears a one-piece wire spring pin to the reverse and comes with a leather pouch.
The badge includes a provenance package consisting of numerous microfilmed newspaper articles from The Colorado City Iris that relate to both Ford and Holt during 1891 and 1892; namely, Holt’s hiring and service as marshal and his accidental
railyard death, and Ford’s residency in both Colorado City and Creede, in addition to his 1892 killing by Edward O. Kelly. One particular article from December 26, 1891, directly mentions this very badge: “Marshal Holt received a new official badge for a Christmas present. The shield is made from silver dollars and bears the inscription, ‘City Marshal, Colorado City, Colo.’ In the center is a gold star on which are engraved the marshal’s initials. Hank is proud of it. Bob Ford was the donor.”
Accompanied by a detailed letter of provenance from a prior owner, former Deputy U.S. Marshal and Mission Kansas Police Officer Edwin P. McClain, as well as a copy of a ‘Deed of Gift’ from the Old Colorado City Historical Society, with the description reading: “Permission to photograph City Marshal–Colorado City ‘JHH’ badge”; a photograph of the badge is included. Starting Bid $5000
150. John Wesley Hardin Autograph Letter Signed.
Legendary Old West outlaw and folk icon (1853–1895) who claimed to have killed 42 men, well known for exaggerating and fabricating stories about his life. ALS signed “J. W. Hardin” and “John W. Hardin,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, February 21, 1878. Handwritten letter from jail in Austin, Texas, to his uncle, R. E. Hardin, and his cousin Mat. At this time, Hardin was twenty-two years old and awaiting a hearing to appeal his conviction in the murder of Deputy Sheriff Charles Webb. In part )spelling and grammar retained): “I now Seat myself to write you a few lines to let you know that I am injoying Good health through the Blessing of the all ruling power above. I am Doing as well as could be expected. Am Still being treated well by my Keepers. They are very kind & and attentive to me although there has been many (lies) told to them on the out-Side as well as the in Side (even, by men that some would deem my friends) Some of whom would like to Lay there crimes on me…my Load is heavier enough without being made a Scape goat for others to ride of on. It is true that I am convicted for 25 yr but nevertheless I have never took that which I could not Give without first being in emminent danger. but you Bet I have always tried to protect my life and person when imposed on. Alltho the chances have often times being against me which I hope you are well aware; but uncle it’s every hit on its own bottom…I have sent you 4 or 5 of Scot’s & S.H.R. letters. I have never heard whether you got them or not…Scot Says that he Has wrote to my uncle Thomas Hardin at Brenham…Scot & Rennick think that they will reverse my case as for Hil C. the Shariff has been to see me he says the evidence is Good that there is no evidence there…as for my South west Troubles I will have plenty of assistance there no not Dread them in the Least. But if possible deliver me from commanchie if possible…I believe I will yet be free…I do hope that you will see that my case is properly attended to in the apelit court if posible. Joe C. says he will be here and will assist in any legal way…M[anny]. Clements tries for bond today in Gonzales. I think he will be allowed Bond he will be able to give bond. he staid here with me 6 wk [waiting?] to go to Gonzales on charge of murder in ‘72…they have got no case against him in the end…he says he has yet got some friends there besides Joe, Jim & Gip….he says…he will be by to see me…and help me in the apelit court…Remember me to all the family…Jane has left Florida…for Texas…Ma said that she would be here.”
At the conclusion, he pens a separate note to his “Cousin Mat,” in part: “I have not heard from you in some time…Cousin, I got the Bass letter the other day. It was from Bill Longley of Gb. He says it is true he has never formed my acquaintance but that sympathizes with me besides he says there is a hope for me but as for himself that he has give up but will die game. It is well composed. Cousin write me at once let me know the news Love to all good by.” In very good condition, with light staining and soiling, and splitting along the fragile intersecting folds.
In May 1874, former Texas Ranger Dep. Sheriff Charles Webb came looking for Hardin in Comanche, Texas. Hardin left a card game and walked outside to meet him. There are conflicting accounts of what happened next, but in the end, Hardin was wounded in the side and Webb took a bullet to the face from one of Hardin’s two associates. Following the murder, Hardin’s wife, parents, brother, and cousins were taken into protective custody, but a large group of Texas Rangers broke into the jail and hanged several of the family members. Hardin, with a $4,000 bounty on his head, fled to Florida with his wife Jane and daughter.
In August 1877, he was finally arrested for the crime after yet another bloody gun battle in Pensacola. At appeal proceedings in Comanche in 1878, Hardin lost his case and was moved to Huntsville Prison to serve his 25-year sentence. In this historic letter, Hardin mentions many who affected his life and career. Bill Longley, a fellow fugitive who Hardin had met on a cattle drive, was in prison in Giddings for murder. Shortly after meeting Longley, Hardin had killed another man and fled to his uncle’s farm near Brenham, also mentioned in this letter. “Jim, Gyp and Joe” (along with Manny), were the infamous Clements Brothers of Texas. They were Hardin’s cousins and had hidden Hardin while he was on the run. Hardin also mentions Sam Bass, a bank and train robber who was forming a new gang at this time after former members had been apprehended. Bass was shot and killed in Round Rock, Texas, just five months later. Hardin’s wife Jane would bear three children and would die in 1892, two years before Hardin’s release. Starting Bid $2500
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Incredibly rare handwritten letter by gunslinger John Wesley Hardin, written from jail while appealing his fate: “It is true that I am convicted for 25 yr...there is no evidence there”
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151. Frank James Autograph Letter Signed. Outlaw and older brother of Jesse James (1843-1915). ALS signed “Ben,” twenty pages on five sets of adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, 1883. Handwritten letter to his wife while jailed in Gallatin, Missouri, awaiting trial for murder during a train robbery; he signs using an alias to prevent the letter from falling into the wrong hands. In this loving letter, James quotes Shakespeare, expresses his affection, refers to friends and associates such as Ebenezer Magoffin, Bill Gregg, and Frank Gregg, and updates his wife on recent happenings.
In small part: “I wish I could be with you, I would talk you to sleep and you can bet your boots it would be with you on the lounge and your ‘hubby’ on the floor...Momma, what do you think a younger lady said to me the other day. She told me she was hot as a steam engine. I came just near as could be telling her that I thought she was somewhat mistaken about it for the reason that I did not see the steam escaping from her water tank. Ask Margaret what she thinks will use such expressions in the presence and to a man. I believe the time will come when virtuous women will be as scarce as jewels and can be bought as any other commerce. It is almost that
way now. Why I see in this weeks Gazette where there has been suit brought in two cases in St. Joe for seduction by two young ladys who are wealthy and have been moving in the best circles. One of the ladys is a daughter of the wealthiest Jewelers in the town and she is soon to become a mother and the scoundrel that accomplished her ruin but a few weeks ago married another. So there is two lives blighted forever. I think all such deep dyed villains should be hung out with judge or jury or benefit of clergy. I haven’t language to express my utter contempt for such human monsters. The average American hasn’t the honor of a heathen. They will sacrifice the life and happiness of any woman simply to gratify their animal passion. I feel as I could take the life of devils of this kind and have no more remorse of conscience than to kill a snake. I think there should be a law enacted making such offences punishable by death. There is a human law to that effect and in no Southern State can you find jury that would convict a Father or brother for shooting down such men as they would a wild beast. I know this subject does not interest you. At the same time when I read such things it makes me so infernal mad that I am bound to speak of it in order to relieve myself.” In fine condition, with short splits to fold ends. Starting Bid $300
“The average American hasn’t the honor of a heathen”—content-rich jailhouse letter from Frank James to his beloved wife
Rare hand-corrected and signed biography of Dodge City legend “Wiliam Barclay (Bat) Masterson”
152. Bat Masterson Annotated Typed Manuscript
Signed. Army scout, lawman, professional gambler, and journalist (1853–1921) known for his exploits in the 19th and early 20th-century Old West; a good friend and associate of the legendary lawman Wyatt Earp in both Dodge City and Tombstone, Arizona. Remarkable hand-corrected typed manuscript, signed “Wiliam Barclay (Bat) Masterson,” six pages bound at the head with a needle, 8.5 x 11, no date, with four ink corrections in Masterson’s hand on the first page. Masterson amends the title, striking through ‘W.B. Masterson (Bat)’ and spelling out his full name in the upper margin, “Wiliam Barclay (Bat) Masterson,” and changes the ‘W.B.’ beginning the piece to “William Barclay.” He goes on to correct a date two times, changing the ‘7’ in ‘1877’ to a “6.” This extraordinary document is a short biography of Masterson written by Robert M. Wright for his book Dodge City, The Cowboy Capital (1913). Wright, a former mayor of Dodge City, Kansas sent this manuscript to Masterson, a former deputy in Dodge City, for his review.
According to Wright, Masterson was “one of the most notable characters of the West, was one of the Dodge City’s first citizens, and for this reason if no other, deserves a space in my book.” The text concerns itself with anecdotes from the lives of Masterson and his brother Ed. Wright describes Masterson’s partner in grading railroad lines having run off with their money, and then praises his character: “There is nothing low-down
about him. He is high-toned and broad-minded, cool and brave. In 1876 he became a candidate for sheriff of Ford County, of which Dodge is the county seat.”
He continues: “There was a train robbery committed at Kinsley, Kansas and one Dave Rudebaugh was the main guy…[Bat] gathered a posse…and took the trail. He caught onto a scent that led him to Henry Lovell’s cattle camp…Bat was certain the robbers would seek this camp for shelter which they did… they were captured without a shot being fired…Bat was a man most loyal to his friends…exemplified in his action saving Billy Thompson. Billy and Ben Thompson were brothers, high rollers and desperate men as well as gamblers. Billy was shot all to pieces in a gun play…Bat promised Billy to bring him out…Ben Thompson was at the only hotel there desperately wounded… friends of Thompson were to commence a sham battle at the big dance hall…by a perfect fusillade of shots…everyone ran out of the hotel…Bat landed Billy in a sleeper and locked the door…they landed next morning at William Cody’s.”
The text also sets forth details of the killing of Ed Masterson. Masterson would later make every effort to promote Wright’s book, often quoting passages in his column in the New York Morning Telegraph. A few pencil notations have been made to the text in an unknown hand. In fine condition, with light creasing, soiling, and tiny edge tears. Starting Bid $5000
Stunning signed studio portrait of ‘Little Sure Shot,’ the legendary Annie Oakley
154. Annie Oakley Signed Photograph. Celebrated American performer (1860-1926) whose legendary prowess as a markswoman earned her worldwide renown. Elegant vintage matte-finish 3.5 x 5 portrait of Oakley in a near-profile pose by Sherman of Newark, New Jersey, affixed to its original 6 x 8 studio mount, boldly signed and inscribed on the mount in ink, “For Mr. Thompson, With all good wishes, From Annie Oakley, 1908.” Housed in a handsome 6.25 x 8.25 presentation folio. In very fine condition. Starting Bid $1000
Image larger than actual size.
155. Annie
Oakley Autograph
Letter Signed. ALS signed “Annie Oakley Butler,” three pages, 6 x 9.25, The O. Henry Hotel letterhead, November 17, [1923]. Handwritten letter beginning “Dear little Lady,” in part: “Your kind letter, and papers received on our return from Pinehurst. But I have let a 10 days slip by. What a wonderful little girl you are. I hope to see more of you some day. I fully appreciate all the lovely things you said of me in your recent article. We went to Pinehurst for the opening of the Hotel Carolina, and I gave 5 exhibitions at the Fair while we were there. That being the 6th year I have worked there free. I missed last year. And Mr. Luft wrote us that the Natives went home disappointed. I could not dance & shoot at the same time on account of my brace I still have to use it. But I shot from a fast speeding Auto and that pleased them just as well. We bought a plot of ground at Pinehurst. And may build there in the early spring. So I hope
you will make me a visit in our own home. We have not been able to find what we want here, as the soil is all soft and we can often smell the smoke & I feel it in my head. But we will remain for the present.” In fine condition.
In 1922, Annie Oakley was hit by a Cadillac near Daytona, Florida, pinning her down and fracturing her hip and ankle. Oakley was forced to wear a steel brace on her right leg, which was somewhat limiting to her act—no longer could she “dance & shoot at the same time.” Nevertheless, her world-renowned marksmanship was unaffected, and she continued to thrill crowds with extraordinary shooting feats.
Past sales history: Christie’s, Fine Printed Books and Manuscripts, November 7, 2000. Starting Bid $1000
Annie Oakley reports on her Pinehurst performances: “I gave 5 exhibitions at the Fair... I could not dance & shoot at the same time on account of my brace...But I shot from a fast speeding Auto and that pleased them just as well”
Rare 1919 penny shot by Annie Oakley, with autograph presentation
156. Annie Oakley Signature and Shot Penny. Celebrated American performer (1860-1926) whose legendary prowess as a markswoman earned her worldwide renown. Scarce ink signature, “Congratulations, Annie Oakley,” on an off-white 5 x 6.5 sheet of stationery from the Carolina Hotel in Pinehurst, North Carolina, with remarkable 1919 Lincoln wheat penny shot by Oakley tied to the sheet with twine. The penny has been bent by a small-caliber bullet impact on its left edge. The crater still has a trace of lead and is consistent with that caused by a .22 bullet, the caliber that Oakley used in her performances. Includes a brief pencil note in an unknown hand, “Shot by Annie Oakley, Pinehurst, about 1920.” Oakley was hired by the Carolina Hotel (now the Pinehurst Resort) to teach and demonstrate shooting in the mid-1910s. Oakley was somewhere in her late fifties to early sixties when she shot this penny, but was still able to hit remarkably small targets like this. Items signed by Oakley are extremely rare, and the targets that she shot at in her performances are even rarer; many were shattered and destroyed when she shot them. In fine condition. Starting Bid $500
157. Cole Younger Autograph Letter
Signed. Old West outlaw (1844–1916) associated with Jesse James as a leader of the James-Younger Gang, who eventually turned from a life of crime to Wild West shows and public speaking. ALS, one page, 7.5 x 9.25, March 31, 1901. Handwritten letter while imprisoned in Stillwater, Minnesota, to “Hon. M. J. Daly, Senate Chambers, St. Paul, Minn.,” in full: “My Noble friend, Your kind favor was received yesterday Eve. Many thanks for the kind words and let me assure you and all the Noble Members of the Senate and House and old friends that we appreciate your good work in behalf of humanity with all our heart. And time will prove whether we were worthy of that. I hope Mrs. Daly and the sweet children are well and happy and believe me all ways your true and grateful but informant friend.” In fine condition, with a few light creases. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Younger’s own hand.
After two years of legislative wrangling, a parole bill was passed in Minnesota’s legislature and Cole Younger was freed from his lifetime sentence on July 10, 1901—three months after writing the present letter. State Senator Daly championed the Younger cause, and Younger soon paid a thank you visit his home. After his release, Younger wrote a popular memoir, lectured and toured with Frank James as part of a Wild West show, and eventually declared that he had become a Christian and repented for his criminal past. Starting Bid $300
Imprisoned in Stillwater, Younger writes to the man who sought his freedom:
“We appreciate your good work in behalf of humanity with all our heart. And time will prove whether we were worthy of that”
Extremely rare 1899 handwritten letter from the imprisoned Jim Younger
158. James Younger Autograph Letter Signed. American outlaw (1848–1902) and member of the James–Younger Gang who was the brother of Cole, John, and Bob Younger. ALS signed “Jim,” one page, 5.5 x 8.5, no date but circa 1899. Written while incarcerated at Minnesota State Prison, a letter to Carano, in full: “This might be of service to you some day—by way of identification in a strange place.” Stamped “Permitted” in the upper portion. Reverse features a letter written by prison surgeon and physician Dr. A. E. Heback addressed to Sara McNeil, dated October 17, 1899, in full: “Expected to see you today but sickness here prevents. May success attend you.” In very good to fine condition, with light creasing and intersecting folds. A botched bank robbery in Northfield, Minnesota, resulted in the downfall of the James–Younger Gang on September 7, 1876, after an alarm was quickly sounded and the gang was forced to retreat under a hail of bullets from enraged townsfolk. The James brothers escaped but the three Younger brothers, starving and seriously wounded, surrendered to authorities after two weeks on the run. Jim, Cole, and Bob all pleaded guilty to avoid hanging, with the latter dying in prison in 1889. A little over a year after his release, Jim Younger took his own life on October 19, 1902, despondent over parole terms that restricted him from marrying his girlfriend Alice Miller. Younger’s autograph is extremely rare in any format. Starting Bid $500
Gangsters and Lawmen
Extraordinary signed photograph of notorious Chicago gangster Al Capone, a 20th-century rarity—the largest ever offered at auction
160. Al Capone Signed Photograph. Extremely rare vintage textured matte-finish 8 x 10 photo of Chicago Outfit icon Al Capone in a relaxed, seated pose, neatly signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To My Friend Joe Cook, Al Capone.” Affixed to a same-size contemporary cardstock mount and in fine condition, with a light crease to the upper left, and the salutation a couple of shades light. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder.
The fantastic image reveals the duality of Al Capone, who assumes a left-facing pose to hide the long scar on his cheek that gave rise to his famous nickname, ‘Scarface.’ To some, Capone was a folk hero—sponsoring soup kitchens, patronizing the arts, and contributing to all manner of charitable endeavors. To others, he was a ruthless villain—hellbent on dominating Chicago’s bootlegging and vice industries by any means necessary. In this remarkable autographed portrait, the well-kept Capone looks more like a choir boy than a cold-blooded killer. Capone’s autograph is scarce in any format, and especially so in signed photographs—this is just the third we have ever encountered, and the largest by far. Starting Bid $10,000
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Remarkable private medical archive from Capone’s doctor, offering unseen insight into the gangster’s battle with neurosyphilis:
“He is still silly, childish, and mentally deteriorated”
161. Al Capone Medical Archive. Unique and groundbreaking archive spanning Al Capone’s final years from 1939–1947 (his release from prison up until his death), originally belonging to Capone’s Florida doctor Kenneth Phillips. The collection includes an official copy of Capone’s death certificate, nine original funeral photos of Capone’s casket and of him lying in state, his medical chart spanning 1940–1943, his detailed medical chart from the final four days of his life, 26 pieces of correspondence related to his neurosyphilis treatment (comprising original letters sent to Dr. Phillips and carbon copies of the doctor’s replies), a letter sent to Capone by Dr. John H. Wilson offering to treat his heart condition, two 1940 eye chart exams, one 1944 lab test, carbon copies of press releases, and the Capone estate’s bill for his final days of doctor’s care. In overall very good to fine condition.
One highlight is a sub-registrar’s true copy of Capone’s State of Florida death certificate, 8.5 x 7, with a file date of January 28, 1947. The certificate lists all of Capone’s personal and physical information, his cause of death, “Bronchopneumonia due to Apoplexy,” and names Kenneth Phillips as his physician.
Another is Capone’s detailed medical chart, chronicling the final days leading up to his death on January 25, 1947. Though the official typed front identifies the patient as Alphonse Capone, the detailed three pages of handwritten notes inside use his alias, “Mr. Al Brown.” The records begin on January 21, when at “3:30 a.m. the wife was awakened by a loud and sterterous type of breathing,” convulsions and partial paralysis followed. On January 24, the chart reads “Considerable bronchial spasm has ensued…in spite of practically continuous O2, Penicillin in the amount of 6,000,000 units by injection and inhalation, heart support by Digitalis and Coramine the condition steadily grew worse. Dr. Arthur Logie called in consultation confirming both the pneumonia and failing heart. He became sufficiently conscious to recognize attendants several times but at 7:25 p.m. this day with no prewarning whatsoever he expired [date handwritten in border 1/25/47]. Death certificate signed: Primary cause Bronchial Pneumonia 48 hours contributing apoplexy 4 days.”
Further medical records include: a 1944 laboratory slip with results from “Standard Kahn” and “Quantitative Kline” tests; Capone’s medical chart for 1940–43, briefly detailing examination results, injections received, and lab results; two “charts of A. Capone’s visual fields” from an eye exam conducted in May 1940, sent to Dr. Phillips by Francis E. Denman; and a bill from Dr. Kenneth Phillips to the “Estate of Al Capone,” January 27, 1947, for the several emergency house calls made in the days prior to Capone’s death.
Additionally includes nine original vintage glossy photos, 10 x 8 and 8 x 5, of Capone lying in his $2000 bronze casket at the Philbrick Funeral Home in Miami Beach and the surrounding funeral parlor, bedecked with large floral displays.
This astoundingly rich correspondence reveals the untold story of the world’s most famous mobster and his debilitating and irreversible mental collapse due to late-stage neurosyphilis. Astonishingly, Capone’s developmental age was pushed as far back as 7 years old, eventually improving to 14, but never moving much beyond that. The once incredibly powerful mafioso was then confined to the home for the remainder of his years, advised to be looked after by a male nurse acting as a companion, and offered the mundane choice of gardening or keeping the books on one of the family businesses. By 1941, there was much talk of moving back to Chicago, since Capone had improved and was getting restless and homesick, but for whatever reason, they never did. The kingpin lived out the remainder of his days in relative reclusiveness at his sprawling Miami estate. Mainly comprised of communications between nationally-recognized syphilis specialist Dr. Joseph Moore of Baltimore and Capone’s attending physician Dr. Kenneth Phillips of Miami, the archive contains 26 letters pertaining to his treatment. At the beginning of the correspondence, there was a palpable power struggle between the more experienced Dr. Moore and Dr. Phillips, a family doctor since 1927. Most of the original letters are from Dr. Moore, but also included are carbon copies of the responses sent by Dr. Phillips. As such we get both sides of the story—eventually the doctors join together and share a common bond in dealing with the trying Capone family. Starting Bid $5000
162. Al
Capone
and Ralph
Capone (2) Signed Inmate
Record Cards (1931). Amazing pairing of Cook County Jail double-sided inmate record cards, 11 x 7, individually signed by Al Capone and his brother Ralph Capone. The highlight is Al Capone’s inmate record card, signed “Alphonse Capone,” stamp-dated October 24, 1931, listing his personal and physical data, including height (5’ 11”), weight (“255”), age (“32”), descent (“Italian”), religion (“Cath.”), education (“8th Grade”), and occupation (“Garage Bus.”—perhaps a clever nod to his reported involvement in the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, which took place in a garage at 2122 North Clark Street in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood).
Even more significantly, the card boasts a physical chart that identifies the scar on his face—the inspiration for his iconic nickname, ‘Scarface’—as well as a wound on his right hand. Finally, the record reports no signs of fits, scabies, syphilis, or gonorrhea—a curious finding, as Capone had almost certainly contracted syphilis by this time, and it would contribute to his deteriorating health and eventual death in 1947. On the reverse, Capone’s cell block (“D”) and floor (“5”) are indicated, as are his previous arrests (“Several”) and his concealed-carry conviction in Philadelphia (“Phila—C.C.W.”). Lastly, the card denotes his transfer to federal prison on May 3, 1932, when he was “Del’d to U.S. Marshall.” In very good condition, with staining, tears, and edge loss, none of which affect the signature of Al Capone.
On October 18, 1931, Al Capone was convicted of three felony counts of tax evasion and two misdemeanor counts of failing to file a tax return. He was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison, and ordered to pay court costs, a fine of $50,000, and $215,000 plus interest for back taxes. While awaiting the outcome of his appeal—which was denied—Capone was housed in Cook County Jail, a stint that produced this remarkable inmate record. As indicated here, Capone was transferred to the United States Penitentiary, Atlanta, in May 1932, where he spent two years before being famously relocated to Alcatraz.
Included is a Cook County Jail inmate record card for his brother, signed “Ralph J. Capone,” stamp-dated November 5, 1931, similarly listing his personal data, physical history, and transfer into federal custody on November 6, 1931. Ralph Capone, who had been deemed ‘Public Enemy Number Three’ by the Chicago Crime Commission, was also convicted of income tax fraud. Ralph Capone’s inmate record is in fine condition. On November 6, 1931, the New York Times ran a piece under the headline: ‘Jail Ralph Capone As He Surrenders; Federal Officers Will Soon Take Him From Chicago to Leavenworth to Begin 3-Year Term. Brother In Near-By Cell: He May Not Accompany Him to Prison—New Appeal Goes to Federal Supreme Court.’ These sensational prison records—two of the most significant in the annals of American organized crime—document the Capones’ dual presence in Cook County Jail in the autumn of 1931, and the downfall of one of the legendary criminal figures of the 20th century. Starting Bid $10000
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Al Capone’s signed Cook County Jail inmate record— a rare file from his 1931 tax evasion conviction, with graphic evidence of his ‘Scarface’ moniker
Rare signed document from Al Capone’s first stint in prison, transferring valuables to his brother Ralph—otherwise known as ‘Public Enemy Number Three’
163. Al Capone and Ralph Capone Document Signed.
Manuscript DS, signed “Al Capone,” one page, 8.5 x 11, March 14, 1930. Eastern State Penitentiary document by which Al Capone gives several of his personal effects to his brother, in part: “To Captain Herbert Smith, Warden, please deliver to my brother Ralph Capone property belonging to me as follows: one (1) Watch, one (1) Watch Chain, one (1) Match Holder.” Signed at the conclusion by Al Capone, and countersigned below by Ralph Capone to verify receipt of the valuables. Also signed by a witness, Joseph G. Smith. In fine condition.
Notorious Chicago gangster Al Capone got his first taste of prison life in Philadelphia in 1929, following an arrest outside a movie theater for carrying a concealed weapon (an unlicensed .38 revolver). Capone entered a guilty plea and the courts served up the maximum sentence—one year. Entering Philadelphia’s Eastern State Penitentiary on August 8, 1929, the celebrity inmate was given special treatment and allowed a luxurious cell: newspapers reported on the fine furniture,
beautiful rugs, tasteful paintings, and fancy radio that filled the space. On March 17, 1930, just three days after signing the present document, Capone was released for good behavior after serving nine months of his sentence. Shortly thereafter, Capone was listed as the ‘Public Enemy Number One’ on the unofficial Chicago Crime Commission’s widely publicized list.
His brother Ralph—who was deemed ‘Public Enemy Number Three’—ran the family’s legitimate non-alcoholic beverage and bottling operations in Chicago, but was also reportedly involved in illegal gambling and prostitution. In 1950, the United Press described Ralph Capone as ‘one of the overlords of the national syndicate which controls gambling, vice, and other rackets,’ but whether or not he was a ‘real boss’ remains a matter of dispute. To have two signatures of the brothers Capone on a single document—and one relating to Al Capone’s first incarceration—is remarkable and exceptionally desirable. Starting Bid $2500
Gold coin interest note signed twice by Al Capone
164. Al Capone Document Signed. Extraordinary partly-printed signed document, signed twice, “Alphonse Capone,” one page, 8.75 x 3, November 18, 1926. An interest note for “Loan No. 6223,” in part: “Due to the order of Ourselves…$45.00 in gold coin of the United States of America of the present standard of weight and fineness, on the 18th day of November A.D. 1930 without grace, at the office of Lawndale National Bank in the City of Chicago…with interest after maturity until paid, at the rate of seven percent, per annum, being for an installment of interest on our principal and note No. 6 being of even date herewith for the sum of $1500.00.” Signed at the conclusion by Al Capone, his mother Theresa Capone, and his wife Mae Capone, and also endorsed on the reverse by all three. Encapsulated in a PSA/ DNA authentication holder. In fine condition, with a small area of paper loss to the left edge.
Capone rose to prominence throughout the 1920s, making a name for himself as a leader of the Chicago underworld. Increasingly implicated in the corruption of political, law enforcement, and labor officials, he was convicted of income tax evasion in 1931 and sentenced to 11 years of imprisonment, serving part of his sentence on Alcatraz. His autograph is scarce in any format, and this remarkable twice-signed document would be the ‘kingpin’ of any collection of 20th-century Americana. Starting Bid $2500
165. Al Capone Original ‘Type III’ Photograph. Original glossy 7 x 8.75 silver gelatin news service photograph of Al Capone’s mugshot from May 8th, 1930, taken by the Miami Police Department who arrested Capone, along with his brother John and Chicago alderman Albert J. Prignano, plus bodyguard Nick Circella, for the charge of ‘investigation.’ Sam McCreary, Miami’s director of public safety, visited Capone while he was still in his cell and made it clear that he would continue to be arrested ‘anytime, anywhere, in any company, every time that he would set foot in the jurisdiction of the city of Miami.’ While no charges were filed against any of the men arrested and they were all released that day, the purpose of the detainment was to make sure Capone got the message that he was not welcome. Reverse of photo bears three affixed clippings, date stamps, and pencil annotations. In very good condition, with wear to trimmed edges and scattered marks and creases, some affecting the emulsion but not the great clear image. Encapsulated by PSA as an authentic ‘Type III’ photograph. Starting Bid $200
166. Al Capone Original ‘Type III’ Photograph. Original glossy 8.75 x 7 silver gelatin news service photograph of a smiling Al Capone handcuffed and leaving court in Atlanta after having lost his appeal on November 11, 1932. A year and a month earlier, on October 18, 1931, Capone was convicted of three felony counts of tax evasion and two misdemeanor counts of failing to file a tax return. He was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison, and ordered to pay court costs, a fine of $50,000, and $215,000 plus interest for back taxes. While awaiting the outcome of his appeal—which was denied—Capone was housed in Cook County Jail. He was eventually transferred to the United States Penitentiary, Atlanta, in May 1932, where he spent two years before being famously relocated to Alcatraz. Reverse of photo bears pencil annotations and an affixed newspaper clipping. In very good condition, with trimmed edges, some creases and marks, and a barcode label affixed to the lower left corner. Encapsulated by PSA as an authentic ‘Type III’ photograph. Starting Bid $200
167. Al Capone Original ‘Type III’ Photograph. Original circa 1930s glossy 4.25 x 6.5 silver gelatin photograph of crime boss Al Capone smiling in an up-close pose, his lapel adorned with a pinned rose. The reverse of the photo bears pencil annotations and a partial press and date stamp. In very good to fine condition, with a couple of pin holes, and some scattered light creases and crazing. Encapsulated by PSA as an authentic ‘Type III’ photograph. Starting Bid $200
168. Al Capone Original ‘Type I’ Photograph. Original glossy 9 x 7 silver gelatin news service photograph of Al Capone alighting from a train car in Atlanta, Georgia, soon to be escorted to the United States Penitentiary in May 1932. On October 18, 1931, Capone was convicted of three felony counts of tax evasion and two misdemeanor counts of failing to file a tax return. He was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison, and ordered to pay court costs, a fine of $50,000, and $215,000 plus interest for back taxes. While awaiting the outcome of his appeal—which was denied—Capone was housed in Chicago’s Cook County Jail. He was eventually transferred to the United States Penitentiary, Atlanta, in May 1932, where he spent two years before being famously relocated to Alcatraz. The reverse of the photo bears pencil annotations and two affixed newspaper captions related to Capone’s imprisonment. In very good condition, with trimmed edges, a barcode label affixed to the lower left, a missing upper left corner tip, a chip to the top edge, and light scattered marks and creases. Encapsulated by PSA as an authentic ‘Type I’ photograph. Starting Bid $200
169. Al Capone Original ‘Type I’ Photograph. Original glossy 4.75 x 8.5 silver gelatin news service photograph of Al Capone in a half-length and front-facing pose, his glare passing just to the right of the photographer. The reverse bears pencil notations, an Associated Press photo stamp, and a few date stamps, the earliest marked to February 26, 1931. In very good condition, with evenly trimmed edges, a tape-repaired tear to the left edge, a short tear to the right edge, and a few light creases. Encapsulated by PSA as an authentic ‘Type I’ photograph. Starting Bid $200
170. Al Capone Original ‘Type I’ Photograph. Original glossy 8.5 x 6.5 silver gelatin news service photograph of Hall of Fame catcher Gabby Hartnett of the Chicago Cubs signing a baseball for Al Capone and his 12-year-old son Sonny during a Cubs exhibition game against the White Sox on September 9, 1931. Pictured behind the Capones are bodyguards, which includes ‘Machine Gun Jack’ McGurn. The reverse of the photo bears an Underwood label, pencil notations, and a press caption. In fine condition, with a few light marks. Encapsulated by PSA as an authentic ‘Type I’ photograph.
During a September 9, 1931, exhibition game against the Chicago White Sox in Comiskey Park, fan-favorite Gabby Hartnett chatted with fans in the first row, one of whom was Al Capone, who was in attendance with his son and a regiment of his bodyguards. Capone was 18 months removed from the Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre and less than a year from having served nine months in prison on a concealed weapon
charge. When the crime boss asked for a signed baseball for his son, Hartnett didn’t think twice, a decision the press was only too happy to capture and publish in newspapers across the country.
The exhibition game was organized to benefit Governor Louis Lincoln Emmerson’s unemployment fund, which evolved into the Chicago branch of the United Way. Despite the inherent philanthropy, baseball commissioner Kenesaw Mountain Landis was not happy with the optics of one of his signature players making nice with the notorious Capone, who returned to prison just a month later to serve an 11-year term for tax evasion. The next day, Landis dashed off a terse telegram to Hartnett. ‘You are no longer allowed to have your picture taken with Al Capone.’ The catcher acquiesced to the demand and wired back his reply: ‘OK, but if you don’t want me to have my picture taken with Al Capone, you tell him.’ Starting Bid $200
171. Al Capone Original ‘Type I’ Photograph. Original glossy 8.5 x 6.5 silver gelatin news service photograph of Al Capone smiling and seated next to U.S. Marshal H. C. W. Laubenheimer on a train car bound for Atlanta, Georgia, and the United States Penitentiary in May 1932. On October 18, 1931, Capone was convicted of three felony counts of tax evasion and two misdemeanor counts of failing to file a tax return. He was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison, and ordered to pay court costs, a fine of $50,000, and $215,000 plus interest for back taxes. While awaiting the outcome of his appeal—which was denied—Capone was housed in Chicago’s Cook County Jail. He was eventually transferred to Atlanta’s U.S. Penitentiary in May 1932, where he spent two years before being famously relocated to Alcatraz. The reverse of the photo bears an Associated Press stamp and four affixed newspaper captions related to Capone’s imprisonment. In very good condition, with wear to trimmed edges and scattered creasing. Encapsulated by PSA as an authentic ‘Type I’ photograph. Starting Bid $200
172. Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre
Original ‘Type I’ Photograph. Original glossy 10 x 8 news service photograph of the bloody aftermath of the Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre, allegedly perpetrated by Al Capone. The image shows the corpses of five members and associates of Chicago’s North Side Gang, who were gathered at a Lincoln Park, Chicago garage on the morning of February 14, 1929. The men were lined up against a wall and shot by four unknown assailants, two of which were dressed as police officers. The reverse of the photo bears pencil annotations, a ‘Chicago Bureau, Tribune Tower’ credit stamp, and a ‘Delmar Watson Los Angeles Historical Archives Photograph’ credit stamp. In very good to fine condition, with pinholes to corners (the lower left corner tip missing), and two creases to the upper right corner. Encapsulated by PSA as an authentic ‘Type I’ photograph. Starting Bid $200
Capone rival Frank Gusenberg’s Colt Detective Special .38 revolver, recovered from the grisly St. Valentine’s Day Massacre scene
173. Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre: Frank Gusenberg’s Colt Detective Special Revolver. Frank Gusenberg’s Colt Detective Special .38 revolver, recovered from the scene of the Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre on February 14, 1929. Gusenberg was a contract killer and part of Bugs Moran’s North Side Gang, rivals of Al Capone’s Chicago Outfit. On the morning of February 14th, four unknown assailants—two dressed as police officers—shot seven North Side Gang members and affiliates at the 2122 North Clark Street garage, including enforcer brothers Peter and Frank Gusenberg. These were no mere gangland shootings—it was a massacre meant to send a message, with some 70 rounds fired from an arsenal that included two Thompson submachine guns, the favorite firearm of the notorious Chicago syndicate. Frank Gusenberg took fourteen of those shots, yet miraculously survived for three more hours. When Sgt. Thomas Loftus made it to the scene and questioned Gusenberg about the perpetrators, the hitman observed the gangland principle of ‘omertà’ (absolute silence) and insisted, ‘I won’t talk.’ Gusenberg’s last words before succumbing to his wounds were reportedly, ‘I ain’t no copper.’
The revolver is accompanied by a Colt Archive letter dated February 3, 1986, indicating that this Colt Detective Special, serial number 364509, was shipped in a batch of six to Chicago gun dealer P. Von Frantzius on June 26, 1928. Peter von Frantzius was a well-known firearms distributor, later dubbed by the press as ‘The Armorer of Gangland.’ He is known as an almost-exclusive supplier of firearms to the Chicago Mob: one of the two recovered Tommy guns linked to the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre was also shipped to Frantzius. According to legend, the firm offered a $2.00 service to file away the serial numbers and bob the hammers, both attributes found on this Detective Special. After the gun was recovered, crime lab investigators were able to raise the obliterated serial number.
Where this revolver traveled in the eight months before the Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre is open to conjecture. What is known is that this .38 Detective Special was found by Sgt.
Thomas J. Loftus in the S-M-C Cartage Company’s warehouse at 2122 N. Clark Street in a bloody mess with several dead men and a pile of empty .45 ACP cartridge cases. In his sworn statement made at the District Attorney’s office later that day, Loftus mentioned discovering the “.38 caliber Colt Revolver Detective Special, with a one-inch barrel” on the floor of the facility. The revolver is also seen in the corner of a crime scene image taken at the bloody site. The police and investigators linked the gun to Frank Gusenberg, believing that it fell from his pocket as he attempted to crawl to safety following the massacre. No other firearms were recovered at the site, making this revolver the only firearm available to the public that originates directly from the scene of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. Includes the original Chicago Police Department property envelope and evidence bag, filled out in pencil with Sgt. Loftus’ name and the important note: “Found on floor at 2122 N. Clark St. Garage, 1-38 Cal. Blue Steel Revolver.”
The reverse of the grips are both inscribed in ink, “JCW Jr. St. V. Case,” evidently provenance markings attributing it to the collection of Joseph C. Wilimovsky, Jr. He was a criminologist affiliated with Calvin Goddard Associates, a pioneering forensic ballistics firm that worked on the St. Valentine’s Day investigation. According to an accompanying letter by Neal Trickel, Cook County coroner Herman Bundesen turned the weapon over to a criminologist for firearms identification work, which we know was undertaken by the Goddard Crime Lab. We assume that the gun passed into Wilimovsky’s possession sometime during the 1930s, as the crime lab was sold to the Chicago Police Department in 1938. Trickel writes that he acquired the gun from a relative of the criminologist in the 1980s, after it had been in the family for more than fifty years.
Additionally includes an original 1924 P. von Frantzius mailorder catalog stamped “Calvin Goddard” on the cover, two glossy prints of the grisly crime scene photos, and assorted other related documentation. This revolver was previously on loan to the Las Vegas Mob Museum, where it was exhibited for several years. Starting Bid $10000
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Incredibly rare 1930 prison document signed by Al Capone and Frank Cline, his bodyguard and alleged St. Valentine’s Day gunman
174. Al Capone and Frank Cline Document Signed. Manuscript DS, signed “A. Capone” and “Frank Cline,” one page, 8.5 x 11, March 15, 1930. Prison money transfer document from the end of their bids in Philadelphia’s Eastern State Penitentiary, in full: “I, C5527 Alphonse Capone and 5569 Frank Cline direct you, the Warden, to transfer all money on Books in my name to C1476 for his use and this is your authority for so doing.” Signed at the conclusion by Al Capone, and countersigned by his bodyguard Frank Cline, also known as ‘Frank Rio,’ an alleged gunman in the famous 1929 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. Additionally signed in the lower left corner by a witness. In fine condition, with scattered light staining.
On May 16, 1929, Capone and his bodyguard, Frank Cline, were arrested outside a Philadelphia movie theater for carrying concealed weapons. Within 24 hours, they both plead guilty and were sentenced to one year a piece in prison. Some
claim that Capone orchestrated the arrest in Philadelphia to avoid repercussions from the St. Valentine’s Day massacre in Chicago, though there is no evidence of that allegation. Both men served the bulk of their time in Philadelphia’s Eastern State Penitentiary, and they were released early for good behavior.
This document was signed on their final day in the state prison, evidently transferring money left over on their ‘canteen’ accounts to a prisoner whom they had befriended. Capone and Cline were then transferred to Graterford on March 16, 1930—a move planned and implemented by Warden Herbert Smith to avoid any potential violence outside of the Philadelphia prison—and the two were released from there the next day. An extraordinary document from Capone’s first stint in prison, signed by the Chicago Outfit leader and one of his most trusted men. Starting Bid $2500
Rare handwritten letter from county jail—facing ten years or more, Dillinger tells his sweetheart not to wait
195. John Dillinger Autograph Letter Signed. Rare ALS signed “Johnnie,” one page both sides, 7.75 x 9.75, October 1, 1933. Handwritten letter to Mary Longnaker, written from Allen County Jail in Lima, Ohio, where he was held after being arrested following a string of bank robberies. In full: “I just read in the paper of Jimmy’s death and I know you must be heartbroken. I feel for you dear for I know how much you cared for each other, and I can understand your grief because Jimmy was the only real friend and pal I had outside of my family and I loved him like a brother. Honey this old world has dealt you some heavy blows. I wish I were free so I could take you away and make you happy but the least I can expect is ten years. Sweetheart if I had known two months ago that you would ever care enough about me to marry me I would have gotten a job, somehow for I could enjoy working for a girl like you and having a home. Do you think I have injoyed myself allways on the go, no place I could call home. I expect you were surprised to hear I was sent to Lima weren’t you? I wish you would send me the pictures we had taken at the worlds fair. I will allways keep them in remembrance of you. Darling I won’t write you any more, I want you to forget me for ten years or more is to long for any girl to wait, and as sweet as you are you will find the right man someday to make you happy. Dear I am heartbroken too about Jimmy for he was a wonderfull fellow. Goodbye and the best of luck to you allways.” Handsomely double-matted and framed with the original mailing envelope (addressed in Dillinger’s hand), a color copy of the front of the letter, a portrait, and a nameplate to an overall size of 27.5 x 20.75; the display has glass on both sides so that the full letter can be seen. In fine condition, with some mild creasing, and opening tears to the envelope.
Mary Longnaker was the unhappily married sister of Jim Jenkins, a convicted murderer and 1929 prison mate of Dillinger while at the Indiana State Penitentiary. Dillinger learned of Mary through her brother, and resolved to meet her once he got out; after his parole in May 1933, Dillinger made his way to Ohio to introduce himself, and their affair swiftly developed. He took Mary on a ten-day trip to the 1933 ‘Century of Progress’ World’s Fair in Chicago, and visited off and on throughout the summer. Intending to marry her, Dillinger even offered to pay for her divorce. Meanwhile, he began robbing banks—the Dillinger Gang hit five banks in Ohio and Indiana between June 21 and September 6, 1933. Dillinger was arrested at Longnaker’s home in Dayton, Ohio, on September 22nd, where he gave himself up peacefully. On September 26th, Jim Jenkins escaped from prison with nine fellow convicts under a plan Dillinger helped to devise, but was shot and killed in Beanblossom, Indiana, on September 30th. Writing the next day, Dillinger grieves the loss of his close friend and expresses regret for his actions—now separated from the love of his life, he wishes he had obtained honest employment rather than robbing banks. Eleven days after he wrote this letter—and facing at least ten years in prison—three of the recent escapees arrived in Lima to bust Dillinger out of jail. Gaining access by impersonating Indiana State Police officers asking for Dillinger’s extradition, they shot the sheriff dead and released Dillinger from his cell. Back on the lam, Dillinger returned to his old ways and continued his spree. An extraordinary, romantic letter from the golden age of the American gangster. Starting Bid $2500
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196. John Dillinger Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “Love, Johnny” and “John Dillinger #13225,” one page both sides, 8.5 x 11, October 19, 1930. Handwritten letter to his niece, Mary Hancock, written from the state prison in Michigan City, Indiana. In full: “Received your sweet letter Tuesday eve but I think you ought to be ashamed for thinking I probably wouldn’t care to receive it. I think you are letting your imagination run away with you the idea of hurting my little niece. Honey I thought I wrote to you either right before your visit or the Sunday after honest ingun. Gee all the subjects you are taking this year I ought to have a pretty smart niece, but all that studying will be mighty hard on you all winter and you ought to drop one of them don’t you think so dear? I don’t want to see you hurt your health by over studying.
All those books you have to carry I can’t understand, for as sweet as you are there ought to be half a dozen young fellow hanging around willing to carry them for the pleasure of your company. Ha! Ha! Use your head for something besides a hat rack. Ha! Ha! Sweetheart I haven’t been mad at you really I haven’t, I was just kinda sour on everything for a while and I didn’t realize that it had been so long since I had written to you, believe me I just couldn’t get mad at you; no, not even for putting me on the pan for being mean to Sis. You know honey that I just couldn’t get along without your sweet letters no siree, so whenever you think it is your turn for a letter just threaten to stop writing.
No one ever wrote and told me whether Fred received the letter I wrote him or not I asked Sis when she came to visit me but she didn’t know. As if I would ever give you notice to stop writing to me, young lady if I was out I would sure give you a good spanking and then a lot of kisses to take the sting out of that spanking. You tell her that red headed Sis of mine she had better not quit writing or I really will get mad at her I’ve only been peeved at her so far but that will make me mad an no fooling Dog gone it can’t a fellow chew the rag at his sister. I ask you what chance has a mere man got when, if I get sarcastic with one of you I have both of you on top of me ‘poor Emmett I feel so sorry for him’ Ha! Ha!
Thanks for the handkerchiefs and send me some more soon also a fine tooth comb. If Sis has used up what money she had of mine write and let me know and I will send her some more. Margaret got married so if Sis doesn’t hear from I will have Roscoe write to her about the eighth of next month and you can get that straightened out then. Say I thought by now
you would surely have found that sweet little girl for me, you have well then why don’t you sent me her picture? Gee nearly fifteen years old my! my! I would sure like to buy you something nice but I am broke right now but just you wait untill I get out.
Tell Hubert never mind about the handkerchiefs for I don’t want him to use the last fifteen dollars I sent him I will write him soon and tell him what I want him to do with it. Honey I could just write a whole book to you this morning and here I have both pages full and I’ve hardly started. I sure hope this pleases you so when you write again you can say ‘I just know my Uncle Johnny loved me to death.’ Give my love to Sis and the kiddies and just lots to you.” In very good to fine condition, with scattered staining, not affecting readability.
In 1924, John Dillinger was convicted of assaulting a grocer during a holdup, and expected to receive a light sentence by pleading guilty—only to be slapped with a stiff 10–20 years upon sentencing. His accomplice, an ex-convict and distant cousin named Ed Singleton, was sentenced to just two years for his role in the robbery. During Dillinger’s nine-year stint in the Indiana Correctional System, he met and befriended a number of hard-core criminals who would later become part of his gang: Harry Pierpont, John Hamilton, Homer Van Meter, Fat Charley Makley, Russell Clark, and Walter Dietrich.
Dillinger was released in May 1933, after a petition bearing the signatures of almost 200 residents from his adopted hometown of Mooresville, Indiana—including that of his grocer victim—was presented to the governor. Embittered with the criminal justice system for having served what he felt was an unjust term, Dillinger quickly resumed a life of crime with his prison friends, whom he helped escape in a spectacular and well-planned breakout. He and the gang embarked on a bank robbing spree, conducting a dozen separate heists between June 21, 1933, and June 30, 1934—to the tune of well over $300,000.
In 1934, when J. Edgar Hoover named Dillinger ‘Public Enemy Number 1,’ Indiana Governor Paul V. McNutt’s secretary, Wayne Coy, observed: ‘There does not seem to me to be any escape from the fact that the State of Indiana made John Dillinger the Public Enemy that he is today. The Indiana constitution provides that our penal code shall be reformative and not vindictive… Instead of reforming the prisoner, the penal institutions provided him with an education in crime.’ Starting Bid $2500
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John Dillinger, America’s future
‘Public Enemy No. 1,’ writes to his niece while inside Indiana’s correctional system: “I am broke right now but just you wait untill I get out”
am guilty as
plea and description of his plan “to rob a grocery man at Mooresville, Ind.,” resulting in his first arrest
197. John Dillinger ‘Inmate Statement’ Document
Signed. Historically significant DS, signed “John Herbert Dillinger,” one page, 8.5 x 14, no date but circa 1924. Indiana Reformatory document headed “Statement of Inmate Upon Arrival at Institution,” listing his crimes and sentences: “Assault and Battery with Intent to Rob, Conspiracy to Commit a Felony, 10 to 20, 2 to 14 years.” The document makes note of further specifics of the crime, such as place (“Mooresville, Ind.”), date (“Sept. 6, 1924”), his accomplice (“Edward Singleton”), and plea (“guilty”). It also lists his hometown, occupation (“Laborer & screw machine operator”), past crimes (a speeding ticket), and family information.
At the bottom is Dillinger’s statement on the crime: “Edward Singleton (awaiting trial) and I planned together to rob a grocery man at Mooresville, Ind. on the night of September 6th, 1924 we hid behind a building about two blocks from his grocery which he always passed when he went to his home. When he came along I jumped out from behind the building and hit him twice on the head with a bolt which I had wrapped up in a handkerchief. He then turned and grabbed a revolver which I held in my hand. The gun was discharged when I jerked it away from him in my hand. The gun was discharged when I jerked it away from him the bullet entering the ground. We then ran. I was arrested as a suspect at my father’s home the following day. At first I denied any connection with the crime, but later admitted my guilt. I am guilty as charged.” In fine condition, with small archival reinforcements to splits at fold ends. An exceedingly rare and early Dillinger document, affiliated with his life of crime and boasting his rare, full signature.
In 1924, John Dillinger was convicted of assaulting a grocer during a holdup, and expected to receive a light sentence by pleading guilty—only to be slapped with a stiff 10–20 years upon sentencing. His accomplice, an ex-convict and distant cousin named Ed Singleton, was sentenced to just two years for his role in the robbery. During Dillinger’s nine-year stint in the Indiana Correctional System, he met and befriended a number of hard-core criminals who would later become part of his gang: Harry Pierpont, John Hamilton, Homer Van Meter, Fat Charley Makley, Russell Clark, and Walter Dietrich.
Dillinger was released in May 1933, after a petition bearing the signatures of almost 200 residents from his adopted hometown of Mooresville, Indiana—including that of his grocer victim—was presented to the governor. Embittered with the criminal justice system for having served what he felt was an unjust term, Dillinger quickly resumed a life of crime with his prison friends, whom he helped escape in a spectacular and well-planned breakout. He and the gang embarked on a bank robbing spree, conducting a dozen separate heists between June 21, 1933, and June 30, 1934—to the tune of well over $300,000.
In 1934, when J. Edgar Hoover named Dillinger ‘Public Enemy Number 1,’ Indiana Governor Paul V. McNutt’s secretary, Wayne Coy, observed: ‘There does not seem to me to be any escape from the fact that the State of Indiana made John Dillinger the Public Enemy that he is today. The Indiana constitution provides that our penal code shall be reformative and not vindictive… Instead of reforming the prisoner, the penal institutions provided him with an education in crime.’ Starting Bid $2500
“I
charged”—Dillinger’s
John Herbert Dillinger begins his education in crime:
is a specimen of my penmanship on entering the Indiana Reformatory”
198. John Dillinger ‘Indiana Reformatory School’ Document Signed. DS, signed “John Herbert Dillinger,” one page, 8.25 x 8.5, September 19, 1924. Indiana Reformatory document headed “Department of School of Letters,” assessing Dillinger’s performance in academic tests upon entering the prison. He earns “A” grades in arithmetic (with computational abilities “To Percentage,” skills likely learned in his four-year career as a “Screw Machinist”) and in language, noting his ability to “Read & Write Readily.” At the conclusion, Dillinger provides a sample of his neat cursive penmanship: “This is a specimen of my penmanship on entering the Indiana Reformatory.” Boldly signed at the conclusion in ink by John Dillinger, and countersigned by the superintendent of schools. In fine condition. Accompanied by an original vintage glossy 5 x 7 press photo of Dillinger at age 18, before embarking on his life of crime, with an International News Photos, Inc. stamp on the reverse; the accompanying caption, dated on the day of his death, July 22, 1934, notes that “his bullet riddled body lies in a Chicago undertakers’ parlor.”
In 1924, John Dillinger was convicted of assaulting a grocer during a holdup, and expected to receive a light sentence by pleading guilty—only to be slapped with a stiff 10–20 years upon sentencing. His accomplice, an ex-convict and distant cousin named Ed Singleton, was sentenced to just two years for his role in the robbery. During Dillinger’s nine-year stint in the Indiana Correctional System, he met and befriended a number of hard-core criminals who would later become part of his gang: Harry Pierpont, John Hamilton, Homer Van Meter, Fat Charley Makley, Russell Clark, and Walter Dietrich.
Dillinger was released in May 1933, after a petition bearing the signatures of almost 200 residents from his adopted hometown of Mooresville, Indiana—including that of his grocer victim— was presented to the governor. Embittered with the criminal justice system for having served what he felt was an unjust term, Dillinger quickly resumed a life of crime with his prison friends, whom he helped escape in a spectacular and well-planned breakout. He and the gang embarked on a bank robbing spree, conducting a dozen separate heists between June 21, 1933, and June 30, 1934—to the tune of well over $300,000.
In 1934, when J. Edgar Hoover named Dillinger ‘Public Enemy Number 1,’ Indiana Governor Paul V. McNutt’s secretary, Wayne Coy, observed: ‘There does not seem to me to be any escape from the fact that the State of Indiana made John Dillinger the Public Enemy that he is today. The Indiana constitution provides that our penal code shall be reformative and not vindictive… Instead of reforming the prisoner, the penal institutions provided him with an education in crime.’ Starting Bid $2500
“This
Kelly’s original fingerprint card for her earliest known arrest—plus five original press photos of her and ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly
199. George ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly and Kathryn Kelly
Fingerprint Card and Photo Archive. Unique archive of materials related to ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly and his nefarious wife, Kathryn Kelly (alias Dolores Whitney), highlighted by the fingerprint card from Kathryn Kelly’s earliest known arrest (shoplifting, November 30, 1929), plus five original vintage press photos of the two criminals. The 8 x 8 arrest card is filled out in type with her identifying information, recognizing her as “Mrs. Geo. (Machine Gun) Kelly,” and bears her authentic ink signature using an alias, “Dolores Whitney.” The card bears Kathryn Kelly’s ten individual fingerprints in ink, as well as full prints below (partially obscured by an affixed newspaper clipping about the arrest of ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly). Affixed to the opposite side is her original mug shot photograph
and a continuation of the newspaper column. This arrest is listed as the sole entry in the criminal record reported on her Department of Justice ‘Wanted’ card, which used the same mug shot images.
The five original vintage press photographs from October 1933, all with captions affixed on the reverse. The images show: Kathryn and ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly in chains as they arrive at the municipal airport; the Kellys during their arraignment in federal court; Kathryn Kelly by herself in court; Kathryn and ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly leaving the federal building after their arraignment; and ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly wiping blood from his face after an altercation with a guard. In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
201. Bonnie Parker Original Candid Photograph. Original vintage glossy 2.25 x 3.5 candid snapshot photograph of Bonnie Parker in a full-length pose standing in front of the Barrow gang’s famous Ford V-8 getaway car. The gun moll is shown smiling, hands on hips. Reverse is annotated in type: “Bonnie Parker, from W. R. Draper, Joplin Mo.” In very good to fine condition, with a heavy horizontal crease reinforced with tape on the back, and light surface impressions from typed notation on the back. Starting Bid $200
202. The Death of Clyde Barrow: Collection of (45) Blue Wool Trouser Swatches. Collection of approximately 45 swatches of blue wool cut from the trousers worn by Clyde Barrow at the time of his death on May 23, 1934, following Frank Hamer and his posse’s ambush of Barrow and Bonnie Parker near Gibsland, Louisana. These swatches, each measuring approximately 1 x 1, originate from the collection of Marie Barrow, Clyde’s younger sister, and Charles Heard, who would affix these swatches to limited edition certificates that they would sell. Included is one of these 11 x 8.5 certificates with an affixed trouser swatch, numbered 870/870, signed by both Marie and Heard. In overall fine condition. An assemblage of Clyde Barrow’s trouser fray is included, as is a photo of Marie signing a certificate, and two certificates that contain an image of Marie with Clyde circa 1934. Starting Bid $200
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Over 40 blue wool swatches cut from Clyde Barrow’s trousers, worn when he and Bonnie Parker were fatally ambushed
“Poetry from Life’s Other Side”— ten handwritten poems by Bonnie Parker while jailed in 1932
200. Bonnie Parker’s Handwritten Poem Book. Bonnie Parker’s handwritten poem book entitled “Poetry from Life’s Other Side,” penned on 32 pages inside a black leatherette 3.5 x 6 bank book, stamped on the front cover, “The First National Bank, Burkburnett, Texas.” Featuring a mix of Parker’s original creative compositions and renditions of popular folk ballads, these poems were written by Parker while she was held in Kaufman County Jail, Texas, in 1932, after being arrested for the botched armed robbery of a hardware store with Clyde Barrow, Ralph Fults, and Raymond Hamilton; while Barrow and Hamilton managed to escape on foot, Parker and Fults were apprehended. This was Parker’s first and only arrest, and she stewed in jail for about two months before being released on June 17th, after the jury failed to indict her. In Emma Parker’s 1934 biography of Bonnie and Clyde, she made note of several particulars of her daughter’s stay in prison: that this was when she first drafted ‘Suicide Sal’; that it was when Bonnie began to regularly use hard slang and gangster jargon; and that she befriended the jailer and his wife, who would let her sit out on the lawn. With little to do other than pine for Clyde and chat with her jailer, it is no surprise that Bonnie’s fertile imagination turned to poetry: of the ten poems in this book, five appear to be original compositions, largely drawn from her adventurous life on the road with the Barrow Gang.
The contents are as follows:
1. “The Story of ‘Suicide Sal,’” six pages, 104 lines: a less polished version than the one published and popularized by her mother in 1934, with several words and lines reworked, and one entire stanza deleted from the later work.
2. “The Prostitute’s Convention,” four pages, 58 lines: a narrative poem featuring prostitutes with colorful names like “West End Rose,” “Lonesome Lou,” and “Subway Sue” gather for a party before being dispersed by the cops.
3. “The Fate of Tiger Rose,” four pages, 57 lines: a narrative poem about a “woman of shame, who played a hard game” as the moll of “Two Timer McCall.” The shoot-out scene foreshadows Parker’s famous autobiographical poem, ‘The Trail’s End,’ using similar language (here: “McCall let go and ‘Pat’ sags low, / as the ‘sub’ went ‘rat-tat-tat’”; in ‘The Trail’s End’: ‘they’re invited to fight / by a sub-gun’s rat-tat-tat’).
4. “I’ll Stay,” two pages, 24 lines: an ode to devotion, “Just like the stars in heaven / fling around the moon at nite / I’ll stay with you forever / whether you are wrong or right.”
5. Untitled, two pages, 32 lines: a traditional poem on faith and renewal, “The flowers must be buried in darkness, / before they can bud and bloom, / The sweetest & warmest sunshine, / comes after the storm & gloom.”
6. “Bravery,” one page, 20 lines: a sorrowful poem for a lover, “No one must know how I tremble, / When I hear a siren moan, / Just fearing for you darling, / And hoping you’re safe at home.”
7. “The Hobo’s Last Ride,” three pages, 56 lines: a traditional narrative poem, “While 10 cars back, in an empty box, / a lonely ‘hobo’ sighed, / for the days of old with his ‘faithful pal’ / who was taking his last, long ride.”
8. “The Girl with the Blue Velvet Band,” five pages, 84 lines: a traditional narrative poem describing a descent from a life of opulence to one of opiates.
9. “When!!,” one page, 16 lines: a humorous doggerel about a husband abandoning his wife.
10. “People Will Talk,” one page, 51 lines: a traditional humorous poem, “You’re a ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing,’ / Or else you’re a ‘fool,’ / But don’t get excited, / Keep perfectly cool, / ‘For people will talk.’”
On the final page is an ownership signature in pencil, “Belongs to: Mr. J. W. Tidwell, R#1, Brawley C.,” and another page is marked, “Mrs. Tidwell.” Provenance: Lot 5337, Fine Books and Manuscripts, Bonhams, June 20, 2007. Includes the original auction catalog, which notes: “John Westly (‘J.W.’) Tidwell worked in the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Department in the 1930s. Presumably he is the friendly jailer of whom Emma Parker writes, or an associate of that jailer who later obtained the notebook, although family tradition places him as a transport officer who met Bonnie Parker.” The book was purchased by noted collector David Gainsborough Roberts, and it is also accompanied by several pieces of his correspondence related to its publication in various outlets (including in Jeff Guinn’s book Go Down Together). A first edition of Go Down Together, inscribed to Roberts by Guinn, is included. In fine condition, with overall handling wear, some smudging to ink, and the cover of the booklet partially detached. Starting Bid $5000
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1917 Colt Revolver of illustrious Texas lawman
James Decker, captor of Barrow Gang member Raymond Hamilton
203. Sheriff Bill Decker’s Colt Model 1917 Army Revolver. Colt Model 1917 Army Revolver belonging to famed Dallas County Sheriff Bill Decker, a lawman who helped set up the 1934 Bonnie and Clyde ambush and who arrested Barrow gang member Raymond Hamilton a year later. This WWI military revolver, Colt serial #164262, Army serial #16830, cal. 45 A.C.P. has had its barrel professionally shortened to 4˝ and the front sight remounted. The butt swivel has been removed and the hole plugged. Metal retains most of a good-looking reblue with plum patina on the backstrap; the Colt pony is light on the sideplate; otherwise, all factory and military markings are in fine condition. The mother-of-pearl grips have beautiful colors and are in fine condition. The mechanism functions well and the bore is in very good condition.
Includes a notarized statement from the son of Deputy Sheriff A. D. McCurly, dated October 1, 1976, which states that this revolver was owned and carried by Dallas County Sheriff Bill Decker. After his death, Decker’s wife gave the gun to Deputy Sheriff McCurly, who later gave it to his son Johnny Ray McCurly, a detective in the Carrollton Police Department in Dallas County, Texas. This Colt was later transferred to Billy Ray Smelson. This transfers as a modern firearm. Starting Bid $500
204. Bugsy Siegel: Esta and Barbara Siegel Original Photograph. Rare original vintage glossy 2.75 x 4.5 candid photograph of Bugsy Siegel’s wife, Esta, and youngest daughter, Barbara, together outdoors. In fine condition. The consignor notes that this Siegel family photo originates from the estate of their other daughter, Millicent Siegel. Starting Bid $200
205. Meyer Lansky’s Tuxedo Bowtie. Meyer Lansky’s personally-owned and -worn black silk tuxedo bowtie, featuring an adjustable neck. Includes a 2.5 x 2.5 photograph of Lansky wearing a black bowtie paired with his white tuxedo. In fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from the estate of his second wife, Thelma Lansky. Starting Bid $200
206. Mickey Cohen’s Personally-Owned Tie and Tie Pin, and Signature. Two items: Mickey Cohen’s personally-owned green, brown, and black silk tie by Countess Mara of New York, with Cohen’s ‘Dirigold’ tie pin attached; and a ballpoint signature, “Most Sincerely, Mickey Cohen,” on a white 5 x 3 card. In overall fine condition. Accompanied by a Christie’s valuation for the tie and tie pin, with tag attributing it to Cohen. Starting Bid $200
A who’s-who of Mafiosi—a rare Mafia data file prepared by the Bureau of Narcotics
of Narcotics. Remarkable original Mafia file prepared by the United States Treasury Department’s Bureau of Narcotics, circa late 1950s–early 1960s, containing biographical data on 843 individuals believed to be Mafia members or associates. An introductory annotation reads: “Interspersed among the Mafiosi in this book are some non-members. They have been included because of their important criminal alliances with leading Mafiosi.” The files are held within a 9.25 x 9 binder, stamped “MAFIA” on the front, marked in white inside the front cover, “13,” of what is believed to be a total of 50 copies printed. The pages are separated by tabs for each state, with the “New York” section taking up nearly half of the binder. The Mafiosi are thoroughly documented, listing aliases, physical descriptions, localities frequented, family background, criminal associates, criminal history, business interests, and modus operandi. Mug shot images of the individuals are included for most entries. Many pages have been annotated with updated information, including new addresses and death dates into the mid-1960s. Among the most notable names within the binder are Lucky Luciano, Meyer Lansky, Joseph Bonanno, Mickey Cohen, Frank Colombo, Vito Genovese, Paul Castellano, Frank Costello, Carlo Gambino, Sam Giancana, Felix Alderisio, Vincent ‘The Chin’ Gigante, Joseph Valachi, and many more. In very good to fine condition, with heavy wear and some splitting to the binder’s spine.
208. Mafia: Biographical Data File by the Bureau
Robert F. Kennedy is believed to have used a copy of this file while investigating organized crime as Attorney General in 1963, using it as a source to identify targets for the televised McClellan Hearings; at those hearings, Joseph Valachi became the first member of the Italian-American Mafia to acknowledge its existence, disclosing previously unknown information on the Mafia’s structure, operations, rituals, and membership. An extremely scarce volume, another example was rediscovered and sold at Bonham’s in 2011 for over $10,000. Starting Bid $500
210. FBI Organized Crime Principal Subject List (1969). Lengthy circa 1969 printout from the FBI, containing the names of some 3,000 major organized crime figures in the United States, along with their addresses and other pertinent information. Notable names found in the list include members of the Bonanno, Colombo, Gambino, and Genovese crime families, plus well-known mobsters like Joseph Valachi, Frank Costello, and Sam Giancana. In overall fine condition, with six missing pages. Starting Bid $200
209. Denver Organized Crime Report (1971). Confidential “Organized Crime” report by the Organized Crime Unit of the District Attorney, Denver, Colorado, in 1971, in its original “Denver Police” binder, 9.5 x 11.5, about 150 pages, documenting the activities of the Smaldone Crime Family—sometimes called the ‘Mountain Mafia’—that controlled criminal operations in the area for decades. The report contains more than 400 printed photos of hoodlums, places of operation, and evidence such as betting slips, as well as organizational charts defining the hierarchy of the family. In overall fine condition, with a small tear to the front cover. Starting Bid $200
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The Colt pistol of one of Detroit’s first black police officers
211. Officer William Henderson ‘Ben’ Turpin’s Colt Commercial Government Model Pistol. Desirable Colt Commercial Government Model pistol belonging to William Henderson ‘Ben’ Turpin, one of the first black police officers in Detroit Police Department. Serial #C153676, .45 ACP, 5˝ barrel with a fine, bright bore that has some minor freckling within the grooves at the breech. This is a 1928-made pistol with matching numbered frame and slide, that has retained about 45-50% of the original blue finish, mostly on protected areas of the frame. The remainder of the metal has a patina that ranges in color from dull plum-brown, to pewter gray. The slide is also hand engraved on the right side just below the ejection port, “Henderson Turpin,” in Gothic lettering. The right grip panel is a period mother-of-pearl replacement, but the original checkered walnut grip is present on the left and has distinct wear patterns indicative of heavy use. A single magazine with polished floorplate is included. Accompanied by a binder of research material about Turpin’s career and a 2015 Colt Factory Letter. This transfers as a modern firearm (FFL or C&R). Starting Bid $300
212. Colt New Service .38 Special Revolver 1932. Scarce Colt New Service Revolver, Serial #334477, .38 Special, 4” barrel with an excellent, bright bore. This is a 1932-made revolver, fitted with a factory-knurled trigger, that has retained about 92-95% of the original blue with a single area of freckled gray metal on the cylinder from poor storage. Likewise, there is mottled plum-brown freckling on the left side of the hammer and spur as well, with a smaller area at the tip of the spur on the right side. Some further silvering is present on the bearing surfaces of the crane, and at the muzzle. The checkered walnut, Colt medallion grips are numbered to the gun on the interior and are in excellent shape with almost no flattening of the points, and few noticeable handling marks. The lock-up is tight, and the action functions flawlessly. This is a fine-near excellent example of a .38 New Service, with a shorter than average barrel, and exhibits only some minor storage wear. This transfers as a modern firearm (FFL or C&R). Starting Bid $200
213. Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammer Pistol 1919. Splendid Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammer Pistol 1919, Serial #40284, .38 ACP, 4 1/2” barrel with a fine, bright bore that has traces of mild freckling within the grooves. This pistol has a matching number on the slide and retains 97-98% of the original commercial blue finish with some mild silvering at the muzzle and along the high edges and projections. There are some barely noticeable peen marks at the head of the extractor retaining pin on the right side (the pin itself is a replacement). The checkered hard rubber Colt grips are in excellent shape with only very minor wear on both panels, and some minor flattening of the points. A single, correct all-blue magazine is included as is a 2014 dated Colt factory letter that lists a shipping date of October 30, 1919, to Murta, Appleton & Co. of Philadelphia as part of a four-gun shipment. This is a great-looking Model 1903 Pocket in excellent original condition and would compliment any collection of high-grade Colts or semi-automatics. This transfers as a modern firearm (FFL or C&R). Starting Bid $200
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214. Smith & Wesson .32 Hand Ejector 3rd Model Revolver. Smith & Wesson .32 Hand Ejector 3rd Model Revolver, Serial #266485, .32 S&W Long, 4 1/4” barrel with a very good bore that has a small amount of freckling towards the muzzle. This is a handsome revolver that has matching numbers on the frame, barrel, cylinder, yoke, and extractor. The metal retains 95-97% of the original nickel finish, with some spots of plum-brown freckling along the edges of the frame and on the barrel near the muzzle. Some further spots of wear are visible on the cylinder as well. The hammer and trigger have retained lots of their original color case-hardening, with some dark freckling along the sides of the barrel. The checkered hard rubber grips are original, numbered to the gun, and are in excellent shape with very little wear or flattening to the points on either panel. The lockup is tight and the action functions flawlessly. This is a fine pre-WW1 Smith & Wesson overall. This transfers as a modern firearm (FFL or C&R). Starting Bid $200
215. Smith & Wesson .32 Safety Hammerless Lemon Squeezer Revolver with Factory Pearl Grips. Smith & Wesson .32 Hammerless Lemon Squeezer Revolver, Serial #134237, .32 S&W, 3 1/2” barrel with a good bore that has light pitting towards the breech. This is a nice little revolver that has matching numbers on the frame, cylinder, and barrel with the metal retaining traces of the original blue that blends into an overall plum-brown patina with even freckling throughout. The trigger likewise has traces of original color case-hardening, and the trigger guard and latch have about 50% of their original blue remaining. The original Smith & Wesson mother-of-pearl grips are in fine-near excellent shape with some slight age discoloration, but no cracks or chips. The lock-up is tight with no lateral play in the hinge, and the mechanism functions flawlessly. This is a very nice little .32 ‘Lemon-Squeezer,’ and is in good-very good overall condition. Starting Bid $200
304. Marquis de Lafayette Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “Lafayette,” one page, 6.75 x 8.5, October 8, 1786. Handwritten letter written from Paris, in part: “Give me leave to introduce to you Mr. Le Coulton…He intends settling in your State, and I beg you will favour him with your advice.” He goes on to provide instructions for an advance of money. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
305. Marquis de Lafayette and Benjamin Constant Document Signed. Manuscript DS in French, signed “Lafayette,” one page both sides, 8 x 9.75, June 6, 1819. Untranslated document signed at the conclusion by the Marquis de Lafayette, political theorist Benjamin Constant, and two others. In fine condition, with small areas of paper loss, and writing showing through from opposing sides. Starting Bid $200
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306. Jefferson Davis Autograph Letter Signed as Secretary of War (1853). ALS signed “Jeffer. Davis,” one page, 7.75 x 9.75, April 4, 1853. Handwritten letter to Archibald Campbell, the Chief Clerk of the War Department, in full: “I wish you would send to the Sect’y of the Interior the statement of the clerks of the War Dep’t., marked by their political distinctions and oblige.” In fine condition. After winning the 1852 presidential election, Franklin Pierce appointed Jefferson Davis as his Secretary of War on March 7, 1853, less than a month before he wrote this letter. Starting Bid $200
307. Jefferson Davis Autograph Letter Signed. ALS, one page, 5 x 8, July 31, 1889. Handwritten letter to Mr. S. S. S. West, in full: “Accept my thanks for your very interesting article on the battle of Manassas. Your criticism I think it entirely correct & though much has been written to explain why the fruits of victory were not gathered, there were many who feel like yourself & are consequently disappointed.” Corner-mounted, matted, and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 18.75 x 14.75. In fine condition, with scattered small stains. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Davis’s hand. Starting Bid $200
Jefferson Davis responds to an article on “the battle of Manassas”
308. Nathan Bedford Forrest Document Signed. Confederate general (1821-1877) who earned a reputation as the greatest cavalry officer of the Civil War. DS, signed “N. B. Forrest,” one page, 8.25 x 3.5, September 1, 1870. Reverse of a clipped mortgage bond from the Selma, Marion and Memphis Railroad Company, which states that the company “agrees and binds itself to pay the principal and interest of the within Bond in Gold Coin of the United States.” Signed at the conclusion in crisp black ink by Nathan Bedford Forrest as the company’s president. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Image larger than actual size.
309. Robert E. Lee Signature. Ink signature, “R. E. Lee,” on an off-white 3 x 1.75 card. In fine to very fine condition. A superb example—essentially as nice a Robert E. Lee autograph as can be found. Starting Bid $200
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in action at war’s end. Starting Bid $500
Gen. MacArthur boards the USS Cleveland to observe the last major amphibious landing of World War II
311. George S. Patton Typed Letter Signed. World War II–dated TLS signed “G. S. Patton, Jr.,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, colorful Headquarters I Armored Corps letterhead, February 18, 1942. Letter to Major L. M. Grener of the 6th Armored Division, in part: “It is my understanding that anyone promoted by selection had to have had five consecutive superior ratings. I do not know what your ratings were prior to entering the Armored Force, nor do I remember what they were...I know that some battalions are now being commanded by captains who will shortly be promoted to majorities. Personally, I should be very glad and, in fact, delighted to have you as a battalion commander, because I believe your experience should be very helpful. I would not be downhearted just because I have been jumped. I was jumped in the last War and in this one, and have not suffered by it in the end.” In very good to fine condition, with overall creasing and a few small stains. Commanded by Patton, the I Armored Corps would make landfall in Morocco during Operation Torch in November 1942, beginning the Allied invasion of French North Africa. This was the first all-American force to enter the war against the Germans. Starting Bid $200
312. Maxwell D. Taylor’s Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Paperweight.
Handsome polished sterling silver paperweight by Tiffany & Co., measuring 4.5˝ in diameter and weighing 37.85 ounces, engraved on the face: “To General Maxwell D. Taylor, who has served his country magnificently on the battlefield and as Army Chief of Staff. From his admirers at the Calvin Bullock Forum.” Stamped on the edge: “Tiffany & Co. Makers Sterling 56111.” In very good to fine condition, with adhesive residue to reverse and overall scratches to the polished mirror finish. Accompanied by a letter of provenance from Taylor’s grandson. Starting Bid $200
While preparing the Allied tank invasion of North Africa, Patton offers words of encouragement to an overlooked Major: “I would not be downhearted just because I have been jumped. I was jumped in the last War and in this one, and have not suffered by it in the end”
313. Napoleon Letter Signed. LS in French, signed “Bonaparte,” one page both sides, 9 x 10.5, General en Chef de L’Armee d’Italie letterhead, March 6, 1797. Untranslated military order to “Sibille, Commandant La Marine.” In very good to fine condition, with scattered small stains, and reconstruction (with a few small text embellishments) to the top edge. Starting Bid $200
315. Duke of Wellington Document Signed. Manuscript DS, signed “Wellington,” one page, 8.25 x 12, November 25, 1809. Document issued during the Peninsular War, directing Deputy Paymaster General John Paramor Boys “to receive from John Murray Esqr. Commissary General the sum of Sixty Three Thousand Pounds Sterling for the ordinary services of the Forces under my Command.” In very good to fine condition, with scattered light foxing. Starting Bid $200
314. Horatio Nelson Autograph Letter Draft. Autograph draft of an important letter by Horatio Nelson, one page both sides, 7.25 x 9.5, [August 12, 1804]. Nelson’s unsigned handwritten draft of a letter to First Secretary of the Admiralty William Marsden, defending himself against accusations that he ‘ran away’ from Vice Admiral Louis-Rene de Latouche-Tréville off Toulon in June 1804. In part: “Although I most certainly never thought of writing a line upon Mons’r La Touche’s having cut a caper a few miles out of Toulon on the 14th of June where he well knew that I could not get at him without placing the ships under the Batteries which surround that port and that
had I attacked him in that position that he could retire into his secure nest whenever he pleased, yet as that gentleman has thought proper to write a letter stating that the fleet under my command ran away and that he pursued it, perhaps it may be thought necessary for me to say something but I do assure you Sir that I know not what to say…If my character is not established by this time for not being apt to run away it is not worth my time to attempt to put the world right.” In fine condition. The final draft of this historic letter, penned in a secretarial hand but signed by Nelson, is held by the United Kingdom’s National Archives. Starting Bid $500
Lord Nelson responds to an accusation of cowardice by his greatest adversary:
“If my character is not established by this time for not being apt to run away it is not worth my time to attempt to put the world right”
The pilot and his plane
333. Charles Lindbergh Signed Photograph. Choice
vintage matte-finish 9 x 7 full-length photo of Lindbergh posing outdoors with his recordsetting monoplane, the Spirit of St. Louis, signed in the allocated autograph box in fountain pen, “Charles A. Lindbergh.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 15 x 14. In fine condition, with light silvering to the darker areas of the image. Starting Bid $300
aviation
334.
24-year-old Charles Lindbergh flies the dangerous new Chicago-St. Louis airmail route
St. Louis, Missouri, on April 15, 1926, at 10:30 AM. In fine condition.
Louis aircraft in its hangar. Starting Bid $200
A hero’s welcome— Lindbergh and the Spirit of St. Louis land in Seattle
335.
Charles Lindbergh Signature with
Seattle
1927 Stadium
Reception Archive . Archive related to Charles Lindbergh’s honorary reception at the University of Washington Stadium in Seattle, Washington, on September 13, 1927, held in honor of his recent nonstop solo transatlantic flight between New York and Paris in his ‘Spirit of St. Louis’ monoplane. The archive is highlighted by a bold fountain pen signature, “C. A. Lindbergh, Sept. 13, ‘27,” on an off-white 10 x 7.5 album page with three affixed 10-cent stamps honoring ‘Lindbergh Air Mail.’
Includes two official “Lindbergh Reception Committee” passes, the reception’s official program, a silk “Lindbergh Reception” ribbon, and 10 original vintage photographs documenting the event; the photos range in size from 5.5 x 3.5 to 13.5 x 10.5 and contain images of Lindbergh flying the ‘Spirit of St. Louis’ into Sand Point Field, being driven into the packed University Stadium, and standing at the podium before delivering a speech to the gathered 25,000 spectators. In overall fine condition. Accompanied by an impressive scrapbook compiled by Dudley Knox Randal containing dozens of newspaper clippings from “The Seattle Times of Col. Charles A. Lindbergh’s Flight from New York / Paris, May 21, 1927.” Starting Bid $200
338. Apollo 8 Recovery Collection (USS Yorktown). Collection of Apollo 8 recovery material from the collection of Ted Hurley, an ABC-TV technical director who covered the rescue of the Apollo 8 command module aboard the USS Yorktown (CV-10) in December 1968. Highlights include: a swatch of gold Kapton foil ostensibly flown as part of the Apollo 8 command module and removed after splashdown; two Apollo 8 “ABC Television” Recovery Team patches; and 46 color photos, 5 x 3.5 and 3.5 x 5, each containing images of the Yorktown’s oceanic rescue of the Apollo 8 crew. In overall very good to fine condition. A more detailed listing of this collection can be found in our online description. Starting Bid $200
339. Buzz Aldrin Handwritten and Signed Homework. Handwritten college essay by Buzz Aldrin, signed in the upper corner of each page, “Aldrin, Edwin E., Section 2B, 16 October 1950,” and at the conclusion, “Edwin E. Aldrin,” six pages, 8.5 x 11, entitled “Success and the Individual.” In part: “Success is the ultimate goal of everyone in the world. We certainly cannot deny that statement, for if we did, we would be saying that some people intentionally fail in their lives. The same person just does not think this way. But what exactly constitutes this success for which everyone is striving?” He goes on to comment on the meaning of success, weighing the importance of money and happiness. Evaluating his own definition of success, he writes: “Success must be characterized by the performance of a service that actually benefits mankind.” In fine condition. A remarkable, insightful autograph manuscript by the youthful Aldrin, anticipating his service as an adult: on the Apollo 11 mission, he and Neil Armstrong would leave a plaque on the moon bearing the inscription: ‘We came in peace for all mankind.’ Starting Bid $200
The 20-year-old Aldrin defines “success” in a college essay—“Success must be characterized by the performance of a service that actually benefits mankind”
340. Neil Armstrong Signed Photograph. Sought-after official color 8 x 10 NASA lithograph of Neil Armstrong in his white space suit against a lunar background, boldly signed in blue felt tip. In fine condition. An ultra-desirable, uninscribed example boasting a nice autograph of the first man on the moon. Starting Bid $300
341. Neil Armstrong Signed Magazine
Cover. Cover
from Life Magazine’s ‘Off to the Moon’ special issue of July 4, 1969, 9.75 x 12.75, signed in thick black felt tip by Neil Armstrong. In very good to fine condition, with trimmed edges, light creasing, and poor-to-moderate signature contrast. An unusual oversized format signed by the first moonwalker. Starting Bid $200
342. Neil Armstrong Signature. Felt tip signature and inscription, “To Bob & Judy Aitken—with best wishes, Neil Armstrong, Apollo 11,” on an off-white 4.5 x 6.5 sheet of Cyrillic-language ‘National’ stationery, dated May 30, 1970, at Leningrad, USSR. Matted and framed to an overall size of 9 x 11. In fine condition, with a central horizontal fold. A desirable example that dates to Armstrong’s five-day visit to Leningrad as part of a goodwill tour of the Soviet Union. Starting Bid $200
343. Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin
Signed Book. Signed book: Bill and Moya Lear: An Unforgettable Flight. Deluxe first edition, ‘Editor’s Copy.’ Reno, Nevada: Jack Bacon and Company, 1996. Hardcover bound in black calf leather with gilt titling and marbled endpapers and a matching gilt-stamped slipcase, 6.5 x 10, 259 pages. Signed in blue ink and felt tip by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, as well as by former American President Gerald Ford, and test pilots Hank Beaird and Clay Lacy. The next page is signed by author Moya Olsen Lear, and a cut signature of William P. Lear is also included. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
344.
Dar Al Gani (DAG) 521 Meteorite.
Carbonaceous chondrite, CV3. Al Jufrah, Libya, found 1997. End cut with polished face and large CAI. Weighing 115.9 grams and measuring 96 mm x 32 mm x 26 mm. Dar al Gani (DAG) 521 is a carbonaceous chondrite that belongs to the CV3 group, the same classification as the celebrated Allende meteorite that fell in Mexico in 1969. The “V” is a reference to Vigarano, a meteorite that fell in Italy in 1910 and is the first known example of this group. CV3s show large chondrules but little alteration, meaning they have survived, largely unchanged, since the birth of our solar system. An early hot desert find, DAG 521 consisted of a single stone weighing 1,567 grams which was recovered in 1997 on a limestone plateau in Libya, known as Dar al Gani. It was examined and classified by the Museo Nazionale dell’Antartide, Universita di Siena in Siena, Italy. DAG 521 was acquired and prepared by meteorite expert Allan Lang of R.A. Langheinrich Meteorites, shortly after its 1990s recovery and has remained in his collection until now. This rare CV3 is seldom available to collectors and we have not seen a specimen offered for sale in many years. Note the remnant fusion crust on the exterior and the white calcium-aluminum inclusion (CAI), and multiple large chondrules. CAIs are believed to be the oldest substances in the solar system. Starting Bid $200
art, architecture, and design
373. Louis Daguerre Autograph Letter Signed. French artist and photographer (1787-1851) recognized for his invention of the daguerreotype process of photography. ALS in French, signed “Daguerre,” one page, 5.25 x 7.75, Diorama letterhead, February 11, 1828. Untranslated handwritten letter by Daguerre. In fine condition. Daguerre had invented the diorama, a method of projecting images with light, in 1822, and became quite successful in this pre-cinematic system of animating images. In the same year, Daguerre opened the Diorama theater in Paris to entertain the population by showing an animated landscape. Starting Bid $300
374. Salvador Dali Signed Book. Signed book: The Autobiography of Benvenuto Callini, Illustrated by Salvador Dali. Limited first edition, 293/1000. NY: Doubleday, 1946. Blue cloth hardcover, 7 x 9.75, 442 pages. Signed on the colophon in fountain pen, “Salvador Dali, 1945.” Autographic condition: fine. Book condition: VG/None, with minor splitting to paper at front hinge. Starting Bid $200
Degas writes to “Madame Manet,” his fellow painter Berthe Morisot
375. Edgar Degas Autograph Letter Signed. Important French painter and sculptor (1834–1917) regarded as one of the founders of Impressionism. ALS in French, signed “Degas,” one page, 5 x 3, 1892. Handwritten letter to “Madame Manet,” his fellow painter Berthe Morisot, who was married to Eugène Manet, the brother of her friend and colleague Edouard Manet. In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
Desirable “Campbell’s Soup” sketch inside a first edition of The Philosophy of Andy Warhol
376. Andy Warhol Signed Sketch in Book. Signed book: The Philosophy of Andy Warhol (From A to B & Back Again). First edition. NY: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1975. Hardcover with dust jacket, 5.75 x 8.5, 241 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page in black felt tip, “To Roberta Balfe, Andy Warhol,” with a full-page sketch of his iconic soup can, marked: “Campbell’s Soup.” In fine condition, with light wear to the unclipped dust jacket, several collector’s notations inside, and a bookplate to the front pastedown. Starting Bid $200
animation and comic art
399. Donald Duck production cel from a Disney cartoon short. (Walt Disney Studios, 1942) Original production cel of Donald Duck from a Disney cartoon short, showing Donald extending a pink perfume bottle in an anxious full-length pose. Image measures 5.75 x 5.25, with overall dimensions of 12.5 x 10; the cel is marked “D237” in the lower right corner. In fine condition, with some trivial surface impressions, and some faint spreading to the pink paint. Starting Bid $200
401. Bambi and Bluebirds production cel and hand-painted background from Bambi. (Walt Disney Studios, 1942) Marvelous original production cel and hand-painted background of Bambi and two bluebirds from Bambi, showing the young deer in an inquisitive full-length pose as he peers up at a pair of fluttering forest birds. The cel has been trimmed and applied to a gorgeous hand-painted background as prepared by Courvoisier Galleries for sale. Character images measure 3 x 4 (Bambi) and 1 x 1 (each bird), with overall dimensions of 9.25 x 7.75. In fine condition. A fantastic Bambi set-up featuring clear, brilliant cels and an expertly realized Courvoisier background. Starting Bid $300
Alice above Wonderland—a superb concept painting from Mary Blair
400. Mary Blair concept painting from Alice in Wonderland. (Walt Disney Studios, 1951) Stupendous original concept painting by Mary Blair for Alice in Wonderland, which depicts Alice at her very biggest, her head sticking out from the canopy of the Wonderland forest. After taking the Caterpillar’s advice, Alice tasted a mushroom that greatly increased her size and sent her growing body crashing up through the tree limbs. Blair renders the scene with great comedic effect and detail, showing Alice as a giant, her head surrounded by clouds and birds and topped with a broken tree as her long legs stick sideways through the grove. Accomplished in tempera on 10 x 9.25 artist’s board. In fine condition, with tack holes at corners. Blair was a concept artist for Disney during the 1940s and early 1950s, working on designs for such films as Peter Pan, Cinderella, and Alice in Wonderland. She also created designs for several Disney attractions (including It’s a Small World), and her largest work ever, the multi-story mosaic in Disney World’s Contemporary Hotel concourse. Starting Bid $1000
Blair captures Cinderella’s midnight flight from the castle
403. Mary Blair concept painting from Cinderella. (Walt Disney Studios, 1950) Exquisite original concept painting by Mary Blair for Cinderella, showing the title character fleeing from the castle in her white ball gown, leaving a single glass slipper left glowing on the winding staircase. An impressive rendering of the stark interior castle just moments before midnight, Blair employs shades of white, gray, and black to cast a decidedly nervous atmosphere to the painting; Blair’s decision to remove the background color not only places all focus on Cinderella and her abandoned glass slipper, but it likewise adds a greater sense of urgency and anxiety as Cinderella makes her last-second escape. Accomplished in tempera on 9.75 x 9 artist’s board. In fine condition, with tack holes to borders. Blair was a concept artist for Disney during the 1940s and early 1950s, working on designs for such films as Peter Pan, Cinderella, and Alice in Wonderland. She also created designs for several Disney attractions (including It’s a Small World), and her largest work ever, the multi-story mosaic in Disney World’s Contemporary Hotel concourse. Starting Bid $1000
402. Mickey and Minnie Mouse production drawings from Brave Little Tailor. (Walt Disney Studios, 1938) Two original production drawings of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from Brave Little Tailor, showing Mickey dressed in his medieval attire and holding his hat, and Minnie as a princess holding her dress in an alarmed pose. Both are accomplished in graphite and colored pencil on individual sheets of untrimmed 12 x 10 animation paper, respectively marked “44” and “22A” in the lower right corners. The images measure 2.75 x 4.25 (Mickey) and 2.5 x 5 (Minnie). In overall fine condition, with trivial crinkling to the left side of the Mickey sheet. Starting Bid $200
Scarce Courvoisier combo of Walt Disney and the two stars of Dumbo
404. Walt Disney signed Dumbo and Timothy Q. Mouse production cels from Dumbo. (Walt Disney Studios, 1941) Original production cels of Dumbo and Timothy Q. Mouse from Dumbo, signed and inscribed on the original Courvoisier mat in green crayon, “To Carl Hinshaw, with best wishes, Walt Disney,” with the encircled Walt Disney Productions “WDP” stamped above. The cels, which depict the young elephant standing with his miniature mentor mouse near a circus tent, have been trimmed and applied to an airbrushed background as prepared by Courvoisier Galleries for sale. Character images measure 1.5 x 1 (Timothy) and 5 x 3 (Dumbo, with a mat opening of 7.5 x 7.25. Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 13.75 x 18.25. In very good to fine condition, with peeling to both cels, and lifting to paint on one of Dumbo’s feet and to the lower half of Timothy. Starting Bid $500
406. Chernabog production drawing from Fantasia. (Walt Disney Studios, 1940) Original production drawing of the mighty Chernabog from Fantasia, depicting the imposing demon with arms folded and wings spread wide during the terrifying ‘Night on Bald Mountain’ sequence. Accomplished in graphite and colored pencil on untrimmed 15.5 x 12.5 animation paper marked “324” in the lower right corner. Image measures 11.25 x 11. In fine condition, with trivial toning to lower border and a small tear to top edge. A powerful drawing of Vladimir Tytla’s greatest and most evil creation. Starting Bid $200
405. Chernabog production drawing from Fantasia. (Walt Disney Studios, 1940) Original production drawing of the Chernabog from Fantasia, showing the imposing winged demon during the terrifying ‘Night on Bald Mountain’ sequence. Accomplished in graphite and colored pencil on untrimmed 15.5 x 12.5 animation paper, marked “55” in the lower corner. Image measures 8.5 x 11.25. In fine condition, with a few light creases. A ferociously large drawing of Vladimir Tytla’s greatest creation. Starting Bid $200
17.75.
407. Frank Follmer concept drawing from Fantasia. (Walt Disney Studios, 1940) Original concept drawing by Frank Follmer for Fantasia, featuring three topless Centaurettes bathing below a pair of ostrich ballerinas from the ‘Pastoral Symphony’ segment of the film. Accomplished in graphite on 12 x 9 artist’s paper, signed in the lower right in pencil with his initials, “F. F.” In fine condition. Follmer worked at Walt Disney Studios from the late 1930s through the early 1940s, assisting on projects like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, and Fantasia. He alienated Walt Disney when he organized a strike against the studio, and ultimately left to join the Navy. Starting Bid $200
410. Mother and baby Pegasus production cel from Fantasia. (Walt Disney Studios, 1940) Original production cel of a mother Pegasus teaching her baby how to fly during the ‘Pastoral Symphony’ segment of Fantasia. The cel has been applied to a hand-painted background as prepared by Courvoisier Galleries for sale, which bears two “WDP” stamps to the lower right corner. Total character image measures 10.75 x 5, with a mat opening of 13 x 11. Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 19.25 x 17.25; frame backing bears the original Walt Disney Productions label. In very good to fine condition, with some instances of discoloration and lifting to paint, mostly to the wing of the mother. Starting Bid $300
409. Male and female centaur production cel from Fantasia. (Walt Disney Studios, 1940) Original production cel of a male and female centaur from Fantasia, showing the two mythological creatures holding hands in half-length poses during the film’s ‘Pastoral Symphony’ sequence. The cel, which is slightly trimmed, is placed on a color lithograph background. Total image measures 4 x 3, with overall dimensions of 17 x 12.5. In fine condition, with an irregularly trimmed lower right corner. Starting Bid $200
411. Sylvia Holland concept drawing of a baby centaur from Fantasia. (Walt Disney Studios, 1940) Original concept production drawing by Sylvia Holland of a baby centaur from the ‘Pastoral Symphony’ segment of Fantasia. The small mythological creature is pictured on the ground holding a flower. Accomplished in crayon on 12.5 x 10 artist paper, the reverse of which bears a “Concert Feature” stamp that identifies Holland as the artist. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
412. Goofy production cel from How to Be a Sailor. (Walt Disney Studios, 1944) Original production cel of Goofy from How to Be a Sailor, showing the lovable character in a full-length pose dressed as a Viking with shield and spear. The cel has been trimmed and applied to a hand-painted background. Image measures 4 x 5.25, with a mat opening of 9 x 7. Matted and framed to an overall size of 15 x 12. In very good to fine condition, with some light peeling to cel and a couple of cracks and instances of lifting to paint.
Provenance: Christie’s Auctions, The John Basmajian Collection, December 1984. Starting Bid $200
413. Baloo and Shere Khan production cel and panoramic production background from The Jungle Book 2. (Walt Disney Studios, 2003) Wonderful original production cel and panoramic production background of Baloo and Shere Khan from The Jungle Book 2, which depicts the large bear roughhousing with the suddenly defenseless tiger. The cel is placed on a wonderful hand-painted panoramic Disney production background of a native village. Full character cell image measures 9.25 x 7, with overall dimensions of 23.75 x 13; the lower right of cel bears the Walt Disney Television stamp and is marked as “Show 200, Scene 116.” In fine condition. A large and vibrant display from the Jungle Book’s box-office smash sequel. Starting Bid $200
414. Mickey Mouse, Charlie Chaplin, and Harold Lloyd production drawing from Mickey’s Gala Premiere. (Walt Disney Studios, 1933) Original production drawing of Mickey Mouse, Charlie Chaplin, and Harold Lloyd from Mickey’s Gala Premiere, which shows the two Hollywood actors congratulating and shaking hands with the Disney icon. Accomplished in graphite and colored pencil on animation paper. Total character image measures 7 x 4, with a mat opening of 7 x 7.25. Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 14.25 x 14.25. In fine condition. A star-studded production featuring the likes of Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Laurel and Hardy, Buster Keaton, Mae West, and the Marx Brothers, this cartoon was the first time Mickey interacted with humans. Starting Bid $200
415. Baby Mickey and Baby Minnie Mouse production layout drawing from Mickey’s Nightmare. (Walt Disney Studios, 1932) Original production layout drawing with background detail and production flap from Mickey’s Nightmare, showing Mickey and Minnie Mouse as babies playing with rolldown window shades in a bedroom. Accomplished in graphite and colored pencil on untrimmed 12 x 9.5 Walt Disney Productions animation paper, listing the scene as “27” and the animator as “Ben.” Total image measures 9.25 x 7. Original blue contact layout sheet affixed to reverse left side of paper is marked “UMI” and “Sc. 27.” In fine condition, with trivial edgewear, areas of toning, and a central horizontal fold. Starting Bid $200
416. Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy production drawing from Mickey’s Service Station. (Walt Disney Studios, 1935) Very desirable original production drawing of Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy from Mickey’s Service Station, which depicts the three auto mechanics in alarmed full-length poses. Accomplished in graphite and colored pencil on untrimmed 12 x 9.5 animation paper, which is marked “21B” in the right corners. Total image measures 5.75 x 6.5. In fine condition, with trivial creasing to borders. Mickey’s Service Station introduced Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy as a comedy trio, which would soon become a popular formula for Disney films—a sought-after example given the presence of all three iconic Disney characters. Starting Bid $200
417. Minnie Mouse production cel from Mickey’s Surprise Party. (Walt Disney Studios, 1939) Original production cel of Minnie Mouse from Mickey’s Surprise Party, which shows Mickey’s girlfriend pushing herself up from a couch in a full-length pose. Image measures 6.5 x 4, with overall dimensions of 12.25 x 10; the cel is marked “72” in the lower right corner. In fine condition, with light rippling to edges. Mickey’s Surprise Party is the first cartoon with Mickey and Minnie Mouse in their current designs, created by animator Fred Moore. Starting Bid $200
Rare Courvoisier set-up of Geppetto’s pet goldfish
418. Cleo production cel from Pinocchio. (Walt Disney Studios, 1940) Original production cel featuring Cleo from Pinocchio, showing Geppetto’s pet goldfish with bubble special effects. The cel has been trimmed and applied to a hand-painted background as prepared by Courvoisier Galleries for sale. Image measures 3.25 x 4.25, with a mat opening of 6.5˝ in diameter. Matted and framed to an overall size of 13 x 13.75; frame backing bears the original Walt Disney Productions label. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
The master at work—the Sleeping Beauty realm of Eyvind Earle
419. Eyvind Earle concept painting of Briar Rose and castle from Sleeping Beauty. (Walt Disney Studios, 1959) Enchanting original panorama concept painting by Eyvind Earle for Sleeping Beauty, beautifully depicting Briar Rose strolling through the countryside with her berry basket, the film’s iconic castle stretching majestically above the kingdom. Set against a gorgeous afterglow sky of soft pink, the castle combines with the surrounding town and farmland to form an engrossing fairytale vista; Earle captures Briar Rose in peaceful solitude, fills the land with his trademark flora, and employs scale with expert precision, infusing the work with awe and immensity, while conversely paying heed to the minutest detail. Brilliantly accomplished in gouache on 23 x 9 artist’s board, signed in the lower right corner in light pink paint “Eyvind Earle.” In fine condition, with tack holes to corners. Legendary Disney artist Eyvind Earle was Sleeping Beauty’s production designer, and Disney gave him a significant amount of freedom in designing the settings and selecting colors for the film. Earle also painted the majority of the backgrounds himself, and his stylistic influence is readily apparent in the final product. Starting Bid $500
421. Dopey production cel from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. (Walt Disney Studios, 1937) Original production cel featuring Dopey from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, showing the lovable character in a playful full-figure pose. The cel has been trimmed and applied to an airbrushed background as prepared by Courvoisier Galleries for sale. Image measures 3 x 3.25, with a mat opening of 4.25 x 5. Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 13 x 14.75. In very good to fine condition, with ample lifting to paint, most noticeably to Dopey’s face and hat. Starting Bid $200
Maleficent as the black dragon— Earle brings the Disney villainess to terrifying life
420. Eyvind Earle concept painting of Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty. (Walt Disney Studios, 1959) Awesome original concept painting by Eyvind Earle for Sleeping Beauty, portraying the sorceress Maleficent as a massive dragon towering above the nearby wastelands of her castle. In true Earle form, the scene is deftly and vividly realized, depicting the film’s arch-villainess in her most powerful form—a gigantic black dragon with spread wings and a stream of fire shooting from her mouth. Matching Maleficent is the outstanding foreground work of Earle, who adds a dire and otherworldly mixture of jagged rocks, eerie mist, and twisted trees and thorns to the foreboding landscape. Accomplished in gouache on 15 x 6 artist’s board, with Earle signing the lower right corner in purple paint. In fine condition, with tack holes to corners. Disney artist Eyvind Earle was Sleeping Beauty’s production designer, and Disney gave him a significant amount of freedom in designing the settings and selecting colors for the film. Earle also painted the majority of the backgrounds himself, and his stylistic influence is readily apparent in the final product. Starting Bid $500
422. Frank Follmer panoramic concept painting for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. (Walt Disney Studios, 1937) Impressive original panoramic concept painting by Frank Follmer for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, showing Snow White, the Prince, Grumpy, Doc, Happy, Sleepy, Bashful, Dopey, and Sneezy in a wonderful group scene, with the Queen’s castle visible in the distance through the trees. Accomplished in graphite and watercolor on 17.5 x 10.5 artist’s paper, signed in the lower right in pencil, “F. Follmer.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
423. Frank Follmer production concept painting from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. (Walt Disney Studios, 1937) Adorable original panoramic concept painting by Frank Follmer for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, showing Snow White, Happy, Grumpy, Bashful, Doc, Dopey, Sleep, and Sneezy, as well as a few forest critters, gathered together outside of the dwarfs’ forest cottage. Accomplished in graphite and watercolor on 17.75 x 11.75 artist’s paper, signed in the lower right in pencil, “Frank Follmer.” Double-matted to an overall size of 22.25 x 15.25. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Mary Blair cruises with Susie the Little Blue Coupe
425. Mary Blair concept painting of Susie from Susie the Little Blue Coupe. (Walt Disney Studios, 1952) Rare original concept painting by Mary Blair for Susie the Little Blue Coupe, showing the small passenger car driving in downtown traffic between two larger automobiles. Blair expertly depicts Susie during a busy city drive shortly after being purchased from a dealership, sandwiched between two cars as she winds around a sidewalk, the urban background dominated by a large apartment building or factory with numerous windows, water towers, and smokestacks. Accomplished in tempera on 9.5 x 9 artist’s board. In fine condition, with tack holes at corners. Blair was a concept artist for Disney during the 1940s and early 1950s, working on designs for such films as Peter Pan, Cinderella, and Alice in Wonderland. She also created designs for several Disney attractions (including It’s a Small World), and her largest work ever, the multi-story mosaic in Disney World’s Contemporary Hotel concourse. Starting Bid $500
424. Grumpy production cel from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. (Walt Disney Studios, 1937) Original production cel of Grumpy from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, showing the perpetually peeved dwarf in a full-length walking pose. The cel has been applied to an airbrushed background as prepared by Courvoisier Galleries for sale. Image measures 3.25 x 5, with a mat opening of 4.75 x 6.75. Triple-matted and framed to an overall size of 16.75 x 20.75. In very good to fine condition, with some light discoloration to cel paint, and rippling and a thin tear to upper background. Starting Bid $200
426. Taran
(Walt
and incredible original production panorama
The
Cauldron, depicting the heroic young swineherder Taran descending the dungeon
Horned King’s Castle. The masterful artwork conjures a palpably rank underground atmosphere, rife with an array of moss-laden stonework, twisting roots, and pointy bones and spikes. Accomplished in gouache on 30 x 12.5 artist board, which is marked in the lower left, “0128, A-555.” In fine condition. A brilliantly moody panoramic concept piece and the first from The Black Cauldron
we have ever offered. Starting Bid $300
literature
502. Andre Breton HandCorrected Typescript. Handcorrected typescript draft in French by Andre Breton for an article entitled “La Paix par NousMêmes [Peace by Ourselves],” four pages, 8 x 10.5, no date but circa late 1940s. Breton begins by paraphrasing Charles Fourier, saying (translated): “The terrible events which marked the first part of the twentieth century are only trifles according to those who prepare. The world is approaching a catastrophe of such an order that one can hope that its mere apprehension will be enough to impose perpetual peace.”
Breton quotes Albert Einstein, to affirm the need to “change our way of thinking” and “remake human understanding,” despite “conformisms from left and right,” to move towards “the reorganization of humanity on a organic level,” and eradicate “this drunken and still bloodthirsty nationalism…this rival imperialism of coca-cola and denatured Marxism.” Breton makes several handwritten corrections throughout the text. In fine condition, with slight corner creasing. A timely article from the important Surrealist thinker on the matter of world peace. Starting Bid $200
503. Samuel L. Clemens Signature. Fantastic fountain pen signature, “Truly yours, S. L. Clemens, (Mark Twain),” on an off-white 3.75 x 2 slip. Attractively double-matted and framed with a portrait of Clemens playing billiards to an overall size of 14.75 x 20.75. In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. A great ‘double’ autograph using both his legal name and famous nom de plume. Starting Bid $200
504. Philip K. Dick Typed Letter Signed. TLS signed “Love, Phil,” adding a heart with arrow, three pages, 8.5 x 11, February 13, 1981. Lengthy philosophical letter to science fiction author Patricia Warrick, in small part: “So for Plato, the universalis (Forms) are not merely a way of looking at reality, a way of arranging it and structuring it, but, rather, are a way that is congruent with the essential nature (einai) of that reality itself. In the sense that Wittgenstein speaks of, then, the inner analog or picture of reality is that the percipient possesses is congruent with the reality itself—if the Forms are used and if Plato is right. What Plato is saying is that despite the fact that out percept-systems report the flux world that Heraclitus speaks of, in actual fact the only true reality out there consists of the eternal Forms, and we are not seeing reality until we apperceive these Forms.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Starting Bid $200
505. Gustave
Flaubert Autograph
Letter Signed. ALS signed “Gve. Flaubert,” one page, 5.25 x 8.25, November 14, 1856 [date annotations by the recipient]. Handwritten letter by Flaubert to his “dear friend,” Jean Clogenson, a friend of Flaubert’s best friend, the poet Louis Bouilhet. In full (translated): “I barely have the time to let you know that the Montarcysts banquet will take place tomorrow Sunday afternoon at 5:30 at Provencal Brothers. Should it be impossible for it to take place at the three Brothers, you will be notified as to where we shall gather by Mr. Lecoupeur, who is waiting, I believe, through your intermediary, some money from his family.” In fine condition, with a tiny chip to the top edge. Starting Bid $200
“So for Plato, the universalis (Forms) are not merely a way of looking at reality, a way of arranging it and structuring it, but, rather, are a way that is congruent with the essential nature (einai) of that reality itself”
506. Andre Gide Signed Photograph. Influential French writer (1869-1951) whose wide-ranging musings on politics, sexuality, and personal freedom earned him the 1947 Nobel Prize in Literature. Vintage glossy 4.25 x 6.25 photo of the important symbolist author lighting a cigarette, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “A John Russell, en bien cordial souvenir, Andre Gide.” Reverse bears an Interfoto credit stamp. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
507. Victor Hugo Original Sketch. Original ink sketch accomplished by Victor Hugo off-white 2.75 x 4.25 slip, showing a man decked out in formal attire, standing in a profile pose and wearing a top hat. In fine condition. Known as an adept draughtsman, Hugo’s works of art—drawn with everything from pen and ink to soot and coffee grounds—have been the subject of several magnificent exhibitions. Just the second sketch by Hugo we have offered—this is an exemplary piece. Starting Bid $500
A verse by Victor Hugo
508. Victor Hugo Autograph Quotation Signed. Highly desirable AQS signed “Victor Hugo,” one page, 10.25 x 4.75, no date. Wonderful and scarce stanza by the great French romantic poet, of his poem ‘O, my love letters…,’ from his major early poetry volume ‘les Feuilles d’automne’ (‘Autumn Leaves’), published in 1831. In full (translated): “Let us forget! Let us forget! When youth is dead, / Let us be taken by the wind which carries it away / To the dark horizon. / Nothing is left of us; our work is an issue. / Man, wandering ghost, passes by, without even leaving / His shadow upon the wall.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
509. Victor Hugo Autograph Letter Signed. ALS in French, one page, 6 x 8, July 22, 1872. Handwritten letter in which the great poet shows his longtime commitment to greater social justice, advocating the responsibility of writers towards their country. In full (translated): “In presence of homeland’s distress, writers must lead by example and make sacrifices. The tax which you suggest would yield profit without hindering the circulation, and I agree with your excellent thought.” In fine condition, with two small holes to the left edge. Starting Bid $200
“In presence of homeland’s distress, writers must lead by example and make sacrifices”
510.
Letter Signed. French actress (1806-1883)
abandoned her career after becoming the mistress of Victor Hugo, to whom she acted as a secretary and traveling companion. ALS in French, signed “Juliette,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.75 x 7.5, October 3,
Hugo by his lifetime lover, allowing one to glimpse their daily life
Drouet’s
In part (translated): “I shall not see you tonight, my beloved. This thought weights as heavily as a piece of lead upon all the hours before tomorrow, and makes me find them fatally heavy, slow, monotonous and gloomy. However, I am doing what I can to make time pass, but while I make various exercises with my feet, hands and eyes, my thoughts and my soul are counting second after second every hour of absence with a painful impatience. O, how much I would like to be dead, so as not to leave you again. God knows how much I would suffer, should I see you love another woman.” In fine condition, with a tiny loss to the corner tip, affecting the last letter of her signature. Starting Bid $200
511. James Macpherson Autograph Letter Signed. Scottish writer, poet, literary collector, and politician (1736–1796) best known as the ‘translator’ of the Ossian cycle of epic poems. Macpherson’s ‘translations’ from the Gaelic bard Ossian were first published in 1761, and their authenticity was immediately challenged—most famously by Dr. Samuel Johnson. ALS, one page, 7.25 x 9, no date but docketed July 7, 1770. Handwritten letter to Mr. Spottiswood, asking for advice on how to proceed with two petitions to the Treasury. In part: “I returned from Edinburgh, Sunday last, and called at your Chambers on Monday—where I was told, you was out of town and not to return till this day. I delivered in the Baron’s Reports upon both the petitions referred to them—and they are as favorable as I could wish them to be. I delayed to push the thing at the Treasury till your return—I am a stranger to the method of proceeding.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Love letter to Victor Hugo:
“I have so many sweet things to tell you, so many kisses to give you and so much love to teach you”
512. Maurice Sendak Signed Sketch in Book. Signed book: Dear Milli. First edition. NY: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1988. Hardcover with dust jacket, 10 x 9.25. Signed and inscribed on the half-title page in black felt tip, “For Joan, Maurice Sendak, May 1, 91,” adding a great sketch of Carol from Where the Wild Things Are, saying “Boo!” In very fine condition. Starting Bid $200
513. George Bernard Shaw Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “G. Bernard Shaw,” one page, 8 x 5.25, Everyman, The World News Weekly mailing card letterhead, October 9, 1933. Scathing and humorous handwritten letter from Shaw to an apparent publisher, in part: “Drop politics, about which you know nothing; and suppress your correspondents, who are mostly idiots...Cease trying to discredit your competitors by displaying advertisements of them headed ‘Are you against Fascism & Communism etc.’ It would be much more candid to word it ‘Are you a born fool: if so, read etc etc.’” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
“Drop politics, about which you know nothing; and suppress your correspondents, who are mostly idiots”
Rare page from Thoreau’s manuscript for ‘Life Without Principle,’ a philosophical essay published in the Atlantic Monthly
514. Henry David Thoreau Handwritten Manuscript. Fantastic handwritten manuscript by Henry David Thoreau containing a segment of his important essay ‘Life Without Principle,’ one page both sides, 7.5 x 9.5, originally published in ‘The Atlantic Monthly’ in 1863 and in which Thoreau offers his program for a righteous livelihood. Thoreau writes, in part: “I see advertisements for active young men, as if activity were the whole of a young man’s capital. Yet I have been surprised when a man has with confidence proposed to me, a grown man, to embark on ‘some enterprise’ of his, as if I had absolutely nothing to do my life having been a complete failure hitherto. What a doubtful compliment this is to pay me! As if he had met me half way across the ocean beating up against the wind—but bound nowhere—& proposed to me to go along with him! If I did, what do you think the underwriters would say? No! no! I am not without employment at this time of life at this stage of the voyage. To tell the truth I saw an advertisement for able-bodied seamen when I was a boy sauntering in my native port—and as soon as I came of age I embarked. The community has not bribe that will tempt a wise man.” Professionally inlaid into a slightly larger sheet, as issued in the first volume of the 1906 ‘manuscript edition’ of Thoreau’s works, published by Houghton Mifflin. In fine condition. Starting Bid $1000
515. Alexis de Tocqueville Autograph Letter Signed. French political thinker and historian (1805–1859) best known for his works Democracy in America and The Old Regime and the Revolution. ALS in French, one page, 5 x 7.75, April 17. Handwritten letter to Mr. Fournier, a printer, sent during the printing of the second volume of ‘Democracy in America.’ Tocqueville urges the printer to make haste in order to meet demand and send him proofs of the text. In full (translated): “I hereby enclose the second part of my first volume. In two days at the latest, I shall have the second volume handed out to you. I do not worry at all about this reprinting. I know that you will take into account the small changes which I have indicated with your usual care. Please, I beg you, make your men work as fast as possible. Yesterday, Gosselin was already on the verge of lacking copies of the book.” Addressed on the integral leaf to “Mr. Fournier, printer, in Paris.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
516. Paul Verlaine Autograph Poem Signed. Famed and highly influential French poet (1844–1896) who penned Poèmes saturniens and Romances sans paroles; likewise remembered for his tumultuous love affair with the prodigiously gifted teenage poet Arthur Rimbaud. Autograph poem in French, signed “Paul Verlaine,” one page, 5.25 x 8.25, January 30, 1894. Verlaine pens a “Memory of Manchester,” celebrating the time he spent in the English city. Verlaine makes note of his “enormous worship” for Shakespeare, whom he extolled during conferences in front of the local intellectual elite, a fact recalled in this poem. In very good to fine condition, with a small hole, a rough left edge, and light toning along the central horizontal fold. Starting Bid $200
Tocqueville urges the speedy printing of Democracy in America: “Please, I beg you, make your men work as fast as possible. Yesterday, Gosselin was already on the verge of lacking copies of the book”
Names
autographs
517. Writers: J. M. Barrie, A. A. Milne, Laurence Binyon, and Others Autograph Quotations Signed. Unusual 8.75 x 11 vellum-bound notebook with illuminated title page, “These Names Shall Live,” containing 21 lengthy handwritten quotes signed by their well-known authors, dating from 1923 to 1932. Highlights include an aphorism by Peter Pan playwright J. M. Barrie (“Those who bring happiness into the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves”), a quotation from When We Were Very Young by Winnie-the-Pooh creator A. A. Milne, a sixteen-line poem titled “The Linnet” by Walter de la Mare, four stanzas from “For the Fallen” by Laurence Binyon, a long quotation from “History of the Great War” by John Buchan, and an eight-line stanza from John Galsworthy entitled “The Downs” (from Verses New and Old). Other contributors include Hugh Robert Mill, Arthur Benson, E. V. Lucas, Ian Hay, and Roger Ingpen. In fine condition. Starting Bid $500
“These
Shall Live”—authorial
from Barrie, Milne, and more
music
539.
Samuel Barber Signed
Photograph. Celebrated composer (1910–1981) whose Adagio for Strings is widely considered a masterpiece of modern classical music. Rare vintage glossy 9.5 x 7.5 photo of the composer at work, neatly signed in fountain pen, “Samuel Barber, Capricorn—November ‘61.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 16.75 x 15. In very good to fine condition, with scattered light creasing, and a light diagonal crease across the upper right. ‘Capricorn’ was the name of Barber’s home in Mount Kisco, New York. Extremely scarce in signed photographs, this is the first example we have offered. Starting Bid $200
540.
Musical
Signed.
composer (1910–1981) whose Adagio for Strings is widely considered a masterpiece of modern classical music. Magnificent AMQS on an off-white 10 x 8 sheet, signed and inscribed below in fountain pen, “Greetings and congratulations to Marcel Cuvelier—very sincerely, Samuel Barber,” adding the place and date in the upper right, “Capricorn, Mt. Kisco, N. York, March 1952.” Barber pens a few bars from his “Sonata for Piano.” Gorgeously double-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 27 x 17. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
541. Hector
Berlioz
Autograph Letter Signed. ALS in French, signed “H. Berlioz,” one page, 3.75 x 4.5, June 20, [no year]. Handwritten letter to renowned French biographer Roger Duchene, making plans for a country visit and renting an apartment. Handsomely double-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 15 x 11.5. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
complished in Bizet’s hand. Handsomely double-matted and framed together with an engraved portrait to an overall size of 19.5 x 15.5. In fine condition. An exquisite piece of musical correspondence by the esteemed Romantic composer. Starting Bid $200
Bizet invites a composer to his recital: “I am playing your Serenade (Fleur d’Andalousie)
night...I hope you will come”
Debussy
543.
Enrico Caruso Signed
Sketch. Original pencil sketch of New York politician Fiorello La Guardia accomplished by Caruso on an off-white 8 x 12.5 sheet, signed in the lower right corner in pencil, “Enrico Caruso.” Nicely matted and framed with a biographical plaque to an overall size of 13.25 x 23. In very good to fine condition, with light creasing, and two small edge tears. Caruso and La Guardia were members of Tiro A Segno, a private club established in 1888 and one of the oldest Italian heritage organizations in the United States. Starting Bid $200
544. Claude Debussy Autograph Letter Signed. Important French composer (1862-1918) whose colorful, evocative works, particularly those for keyboard and for orchestra, exemplified the ‘impressionist’ style, and whose innovative use of harmonic and instrumental resources was a seminal influence on the emerging language of twentieth-century music. ALS in French, signed “Debussy,” one page, 4.5 x 7, March 10, 1904. Handwritten letter to a friend, in part: “I had not forgotten you. It is rather the Opéra Comique which was forgetting Pelléas…In fact, this should definitely not please the elegant subscriber. But it is better that you should have take pleasure in it.” In very good to fine condition, with light edge toning and overall creasing. Debussy’s masterpiece, ‘Pelléas et Mélisande,’ had been created at Opéra-Comique in Paris in 1902. Starting Bid $200
refers to his masterpiece, ‘Pelléas et Mélisande’
545. Claude Debussy Signature. Important French composer (1862-1918) whose colorful, evocative works, particularly those for keyboard and for orchestra, exemplified the ‘impressionist’ style, and whose innovative use of harmonic and instrumental resources was a seminal influence on the emerging language of twentiethcentury music. Sought-after vintage fountain pen signature, “Claude Debussy, Londres I.III/09,” on an off-white 3.75 x 2.5 card, handsomely mounted, matted, and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 12.75 x 14.75. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
546. Antonín Dvorak Signed Photograph. Esteemed Czech composer (1841–1904) of orchestral and chamber music, best known for his Symphony No. 9, ‘From the New World.’ Rare 4 x 6.25 cabinet photo of Dvorak in a distinguished half-length pose by J. Mulac of Prague, signed and inscribed along the bottom in ink, “Pour B. de Vaskovi…Ant. Dvorak, 9/17/1903.” In very good to fine condition, with trimmed edges and mounting remnants to reverse. A crystal-clear image of the celebrated Czech composer, boasting his bold autograph. Starting Bid $300
547. Gustav Holst Document Signed. English composer, arranger, and teacher (1874–1934) best known for his orchestral suite The Planets. Partly-printed DS, one page, 7.25 x 11.25, 1925. Memorandum of agreement between Gustav Holst and J. Curwen and Sons regarding the contract by which “the publishers undertook to publish the work of the composer entitled The Planets, and to pay royalties on sale thereof.” By this agreement, the publishers must issue the orchestral parts of the work only under a license (rather than selling them outright) and confirm related terms for Holst’s royalties. Boldly signed at the conclusion by Gustav Holst, and countersigned by two witnesses and the director of the publishing house. Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 12.5 x 16.5. In fine condition, with an old tape stain to the top right. A superior document pertaining to Holst’s most popular orchestral suite, The Planets. Starting Bid $200
548. Franz Liszt Autograph Note Signed. ANS in French, signed “F.L.,” one page, 4 x 2.75, no date. Untranslated handwritten note in French, penned on the reverse of a card bearing his facsimile signature. Matted and framed to an overall size of 8 x 11, with a window on the reverse for viewing the opposite side. In fine condition, with a light diagonal crease. Starting Bid $200
Holst signs a publishing agreement for his enduring work, “The Planets”
549.
6.75 x 4.25
of the composer in a seated pose, affixed to its original 6.75 x 5 mount, signed and inscribed in ink in French (translated): “To M. Albin Guillot, to a friend who has been interested for many years in hunting my works in the theatre…J. Massenet.” Handsomely matted and framed by Goodspeed’s Book Shop to an overall size of 12.5 x 11.25. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
550. Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy Autograph Letter Signed.
Prodigiously gifted German Romantic composer (1809–1847) whose musical output represents virtually every form and genre of the era. ALS, one page, 4.25 x 4.5, July 2, 1844. Handwritten letter to a gentleman, in full: “Pray send me by bearer the two books of Bach’s Organ-music which I brought over for you & sent to you at the beginning of my stay here.” Handsomely triple-matted and framed with a portrait (bearing a facsimile signature) to an overall size of 10.5 x 19. In fine condition. The music of Johann Sebastian Bach heavily influenced Mendelssohn’s own work, and his performances of Bach’s composition—most notably the St. Matthew Passion in 1829—revived interest in the great composer’s work. Extraordinary content from the hand of a Romantic master. Starting Bid $200
Mendelssohn asks for the return of “two books of Bach’s Organ-music”
551.
Francis Poulenc Autograph Musical Quotation
Signed. Renowned French composer (1899-1963) best known for his colorful, energetic keyboard works, art songs, and choral music. AMQS on an off-white 8 x 10 musically lined sheet, signed and inscribed below in fountain pen, “Pour Bonar et Pere, avec mille tendres, Christmas greetings, Francis, 25 Decembre 47.” Poulenc pens several bars from his piece for Moliere’s play, headed, “Amphitryon, Theme de la nuit.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 12.5 x 15.25. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
553. Sergei Prokofiev Signed Photograph. Eminent and prolific Russian composer (1891–1953) best known for his colorful, rhythmically vigorous works, including symphonies, operas, and much music for keyboard and chamber ensembles. Vintage matte-finish 3.25 x 5.25 close-up photo of the Russian master, signed in bold fountain pen, “Serge Prokofieff.” Nicely triple-matted and framed to an overall size of 9.5 x 12. In fine condition, with light silvering to the dark background. Starting Bid $200
Scarce signed photograph of the influential ‘Boléro’ composer
554. Maurice Ravel Signed Photograph. Highly influential French composer (1875-1937) who remains unsurpassed in his imaginative use of instrumental color in his operas, brilliantly scored orchestral music, and virtuosic piano pieces. Scarce vintage glossy 4.25 x 6.25 photo of Ravel in profile, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Mr. Lucius Barnett, Maurice Ravel.” Handsomely triple-matted and framed with a program page for one of Ravel’s performances to an overall size of 19 x 15. In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
555. Gioachino Rossini Autograph Letter Signed. 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 “Rossini,” one page, 6.75 x 8.5, June 5, 1868. Untranslated handwritten letter from Paris. Handsomely mounted, matted, and framed with a carte-de-visite portrait to an overall size of 11.5 x 21. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
556. Camille
Saint-Saens
(5) Autograph Letters Signed. Group lot of five ALSs in French from esteemed Romantic composer Camille Saint-Saens, signed “C. Saint-Saens” or “C. St. S.,” a total of 11 handwritten pages, with three undated and two dated to April 23, 1892, and March 19, 1919. In the earlier letter, he writes: “I have learned with great pleasure of the performance and the success of a Sardanapale which I suppose must interest you; let’s hope that this won’t be the last we hear of it.” In the 1919 letter, Saint-Saens notes that he has completed a composition for organ and orchestra entitled Cypres and Lauriers, “The title indicates sufficiently its nature.” In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Scarce handwritten invitation to a “fancy Count’s dinner” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
557. Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky Autograph Letter Signed. Rare ALS in French, signed “P. Tchaikovsky,” one page, 5 x 5, no date. Handwritten letter by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, in part (roughly translated): “Don’t forget the fancy Count’s dinner. Do you want to take part in a party, at Jurgenson’s?” Handsomely matted and framed beside an engraved portrait (with facsimile signature) to an overall size of 16.75 x 12. In fine condition. Tchaikovsky is presumably referring to his friend and music publisher, Pyotr Jurgenson, who helped to launch his career and later managed his business affairs. Starting Bid $500
558. Giuseppe Verdi Autograph Letter Signed. Italian composer (1813-1901) who was one of the most influential figures in the history of opera. ALS in Italian, signed “G. Verdi,” one page, 4.75 x 8, September 26, 1871. Untranslated handwritten letter by the esteemed composer. Handsomely matted and framed alongside an engraved portrait (featuring a facsimile signature) to an overall size of 19.5 x 17.5. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
559. Louis Armstrong Autograph Letter Signed. ALS, two pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 7.25, Satchmo letterhead, September 8, 1950. Handwritten letter to Rachel Lambrecht, in part: “I have written you several times and yet, I don’t get no answer from you. I thought maybe you had moved from the address you gave me when I was there. I would like to get Wiggin’s address. Will you please send it to me? I shall never forget the swell time in all my life, that I had with you and Wiggins. I think we will be back into Paris real soon. I hope to see you when we get there.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Armstrong’s hand. Starting Bid $200
Neat, stacked Beatles autographs dating to the final show of their 1963 Fall Tour
561. Beatles Signatures (1963). Vintage off-white 5.25 x 4 album page signed by the Beatles—George Harrison and John Lennon in blue ballpoint, Paul McCartney in black ink, and Ringo Starr in red ballpoint. In very good condition, with creasing, tape stains, a tear to the bottom edge, and old mounting remnants on the back. Accompanied by a ticket stub for a Beatles concert at the Gaumont Theatre in Southampton, on December 13, 1963, as well as by a letter of provenance from the original recipient. Starting Bid $1000
Gorgeous 1963 photograph display containing a choice set of Beatles autographs
560. Beatles Signed Photograph Folder (1963). Brilliant full set of ballpoint signatures of the Beatles—“All the best! The Beatles, Paul McCartney,” “George Harrison,” “John Lennon,” and “Ringo Starr”—on the inside front cover of a Breda Studios photograph display folder, measuring 15.15 x 6.25 open, featuring on the adjacent side a vintage matte-finish 6.5 x 4.5 photo of the Beatles posing with Gerry Marsden, who has also added his autograph to the folder. The consignor notes that the photograph was taken in May 1963 and, as the photographic studio was based in Essex, the date indicates that the signatures were likely signed at a Beatles and Gerry and the Pacemakers concert on either May 24, 1963, at the Granada Theatre in Walthamstow, or on May 31, 1963, at the Odeon Theatre in Southend. In very fine condition. The item derives from the estate of David Brook, who owned a mobile disco in Essex and has strong connections in the music industry in the 1960s. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks. A superb display offering that boasts a handsome set of large, wellformed, and nicely spaced Beatles autographs. Starting Bid $1000
Sought-after signatures from the birth of ‘Beatlemania’
562. Beatles Signatures. Ideal vintage circa late-1963 uninscribed bold ballpoint signatures of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr on two separate 4 x 3 album pages. Both are handsomely cloth-matted and framed with an image of the Beatles to an overall size of 17.75 x 14.75. In fine to very fine condition.
Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks and a detailed letter of provenance from the original recipient, in part: “In 1963 my husband…won a competition held by the Scottish Express newspaper to go and see the ‘Beatles’ perform in concert in the Caird Hall Dundee on the 7th of October 1963 along with another boy and two girls and afterward they went backstage to meet them…Backstage the ‘Beatles’ signed autographs and posed for pictures, Ringo was the chattiest.” This concert concluded the Beatles’ Autumn 1963 Scotland Mini-Tour, the last of three performances in the country. On the following Sunday, October 13, 1963, the Beatles appeared on the UK’s top variety show, Sunday Night at The London Palladium. Observing the screaming fans inside and outside the venue, the next morning’s Daily Mirror described the mass hysteria in a single word that would soon be adopted into the worldwide cultural lexicon—Beatlemania. Starting Bid $1000
563. Beatles:
George Harrison Signed 45 RPM
Record Insert. Cardstock insert from the ‘Faster / Your Love Is Forever’ 45 RPM picture disc, signed in blue felt tip by George Harrison. Complete with the record and sleeve, labeled: “All royalties due to George Harrison from the sale of this record are being donated to the Gunnar Nilsson Cancer Fund.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
564. Beatles: Paul McCartney Signed Street Sign. Ultra-desirable cast iron replica of Liverpool’s “Penny Lane” road sign, 15.5 x 10, signed vertically in black felt tip by Paul McCartney. In fine condition. Written primarily by Paul McCartney, the Beatles’ song ‘Penny Lane’ refers to the Liverpudlian street and makes mention of the sights and characters that McCartney recalled from his upbringing in the city. In 2021, Rolling Stone ranked the track at number 280 on its list of the ‘500 Greatest Songs of All Time.’ Starting Bid $200
Rare signed copy of Dylan’s first US Top 10 album
565. Bob Dylan Signed Album. Bringing It All Back Home album by Bob Dylan, who has signed nicely on the front cover in black felt tip. In very fine condition. The record is included. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from REAL and by a letter of provenance from Dylan’s manager, Jeff Rosen, who states: “I represent Bob Dylan and have done so for many years. In 2017 he signed a number of individual albums on a rare and limited basis…The chain of custody is directly from Bob Dylan to myself.” An unbelievable signed Dylan album deriving from his own personal stock and signed in a controlled environment for his trusted business manager of 30-plus years. Starting Bid $500
566. Fleetwood Mac Signed Photograph.
Vintage circa 1968–1971 glossy 7 x 5 photo of Fleetwood Mac, signed in blue ballpoint by Mick Fleetwood, John McVie, Peter Green, Jeremy [Spencer], Danny Kirwan. In fine condition, with poorto-moderate signature contrast. Starting Bid $200
Hendrix and the Experience autographs from their historic
1967 United Kingdom Fall Tour
567. Jimi Hendrix Experience and The Move Signatures (1967). Vintage ballpoint signatures of the Jimi Hendrix Experience—“Noel Redding,” “Love, Jimi Hendrix,” and “Mitch, xxx”—on an off-white 7.75 x 4.75 sheet, the reverse of which is also signed in felt tip by Carl Wayne, Roy Wood, and Bev Bevan of The Move; the upper left corner also appears to be signed by John Densmore of the Doors. The consignor notes that the autographs were obtained at a Jimi Hendrix Experience concert that took place at the Winter Gardens in Bournemouth, England, on November 15, 1967; a ticket stub from that very concert is included with the autographs. In very good condition, with creasing, light soiling, and a small edge stain. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks. Starting Bid $500
The Jimi Hendrix Experience sign during their first-ever tour with the Walker Bros., Cat Stevens, and Englebert Humperdinck
568. Jimi Hendrix Experience and The Yardbirds Signatures. Vintage hardcover autograph album, 4.25 x 3.25, signed throughout by acts including the Jimi Hendrix Experience, the Yardbirds, Manfred Mann, the Spencer Davis Group, and others. Hendrix and his band sign in ink on the reverse of a folded handbill for Roy Orbison and Small Faces at the Gaumont, Ipswich, “Stay kool, Jimi Hendrix,” “Noel Redding, Bass,” and “Mitch [Mitchell]”; supporting acts Cat Stevens, Englebert Humperdinck, and Scott Engel and Gary Leeds of The Walker Brothers also sign. The handbill is affixed inside the rear cover of the album, with signers identified on the opposite page.
The Yardbirds—Jeff Beck, Keith Relf, Jim McCarty, Chris Dreja, and Paul Samwell-Smith—sign together on an inner page. Additional signers throughout the book include Mitch Mitchell (as a member of The Riot Squad in 1965), Steve Winwood (ins), Mark Leeman, Dave Hyde, Paul Jones, Manfred Mann, Pete Shelton, and others. In very good to fine condition, with light creasing and intersecting folds to the Hendrix item; the autograph album pages are all fine.
Accompanied by full letters of authenticity from PSA/DNA for the Jimi Hendrix Experience and Yardbirds pages, plus a detailed letter of provenance from the original recipient. Buried behind the chart-topping Walker Brothers, Cat Stevens, and Engelbert Humperdinck, the Jimi Hendrix Experience received modest billing at the start of their first-ever tour in 1967. By year’s end they were one of the most sought-after tickets in live music, soaring high off the successful debut of Are You Experienced and their now-legendary performance at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival. Starting Bid $1000
569. Buddy Holly Autograph Letter Signed. Scarce ALS signed “Buddy,” one page, 5.5 x 8.75, no date but postmarked January 18, 1957. Handwritten letter home to his “Mother & Dad,” written while on tour in Miami. In full: “I thought I’d write a few lines even though I called this morning. We are pretty homesick, but it won’t be much longer. We’re fixing to go play now. We have to play two shows tonight. That’s what we don’t like. We slept all day though so we aren’t very tired. Well I guess we’ll see you next Thursday or Friday. Be good.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Holly’s hand to “Mr. & Mrs. L. O. Holley, Rt. 5, Lubbock, Texas.”
In early 1957, Holly hit the road as part of the Hank Thompson Tour, performing as part of the trio Buddy Holly & The Two-Tones (Sonny Curtis & Don Guess). On January 22, 1957, Decca informed Holly that his record contract would not be renewed, and insisted that he could not record the same songs for anyone else for five years. He returned to Lubbock and considered quitting the music business all together, but decided to give it one last shot. He put together a new band—The Crickets—and headed to Clovis, New Mexico, where they recorded a demo of ‘That’ll Be the Day’ for producer Norman Petty in late February. That demo earned him a new deal on the Brunswick label, and was released nationally as a single in May. ‘That’ll Be the Day’ spent 22 weeks on Billboard’s Top 100 pop chart, and secured Holly’s place in music history. Starting Bid $300
570. Joy Division Signatures. Scarce vintage ballpoint signatures, “Joy Division’s Peter Hook,” “Ian Curtis,” “Bernard Sumner,” and “Stephen Morris.” In fine condition, with small circular stains to the corners. Accompanied certificate of authenticity from Tracks, which states that the “autographs were obtained in the dressing room of Eric’s Club, Liverpool circa 1978/1979.” Starting Bid $200
Buddy Holly writes home to his folks while touring in ‘57: “We’re fixing to go play now. We have to play two shows tonight”
Amazing Live Aid concert book signed by Queen, David Bowie, Elton John, and many other of the concert’s biggest stars
571. Live Aid Multi-Signed Book with Queen, David Bowie, Elton John, and more. Magnificent multi-signed book: Live Aid: The Greatest Show on Earth. London: Sidgwick & Jackson, 1985. Softcover, 8.25 x 11.75, 192 pages. Signed inside on their respective band and musician pages by 21 performing musical acts and bands, such as Queen (Freddie Mercury, Brian May, John Deacon, Roger Taylor), David Bowie, Elton John, Phil Collins, Roger Daltrey, Carlos Santana, Sting, Bo Diddley, Tina Turner, Joan Baez, Patti LaBelle, Bob Geldof, Elvis Costello, Billy Ocean, Status Quo, Ultravox, Paul Weller, Spandau Ballet, Udo Lindenberg, Paul Young, and Simple Minds. In fine condition. Starting Bid $1000
Impeccable fully signed Wish You Were Here
572. Pink Floyd Signed Album. Stunning original 1975 UK Harvest first issue of Pink Floyd’s legendary studio album, Wish You Were Here, signed beautifully on the front cover in blue felt tip by Roger Waters and Rick Wright, and in black felt tip by David Gilmour and Nick Mason. In very good to fine condition, with light scuffing, and brushing to Waters’ signature. The record is included. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from REAL.
Critically acclaimed as one of the greatest albums of all time, Wish You Were Here’ has been cited by Wright and Gilmour as their favorite Pink Floyd album. Authentically and fully signed Pink Floyd albums remain appreciably rare and this is an extraordinary example, boasting a set of four large, bold signatures against the iconic cover photograph by Aubrey ‘Po’ Powell. A spectacular Pink Floyd piece. Starting Bid $1000
Worn by Elvis when on leave from Army basic training in 1958
573. Elvis Presley’s Personally-Owned and -Worn V-neck Shirt
(1958)
. Vintage two-tone V-neck short-sleeved shirt personally-owned and -worn by Elvis Presley, who left this shirt at the home of friend and Dallas disc jockey Eddie Fadal when the former went to Army basic training in 1958. The shirt, size XL, 50% polyester 50% cotton, features a cream-colored body and sleeves, with blue shoulder sections that contain metal shooting star designs. In fine condition.
Accompanied by three photos of Presley with Fadal, as well as a signed letter of provenance from Fadal’s daughter, Janice, who writes: “The [Presley] shirt… was left behind by Elvis Presley at the Fadal home at 2807 Lasker Avenue, Waco, Texas, in 1958. At that time, Elvis was in basic training at nearby Ft. Hood, Texas. Elvis became good friends with my father, Eddie Fadal, during his time at Ft. Hood, and he spent quite a bit of time visiting at our home in 1958.” Starting Bid $300
574. Elvis Presley 1956 Miami
Elvis Presley’s two-day concert series at the
3
4,
The collection was amassed by 16-year-old Sherry Page, who briefly accompanied Elvis
his August tour of Florida, traveling with him from Miami to Tampa, where she and her mother stayed at the Hotel Tampa Terrace in a room paid for by the King. Highlights include: two ticket stubs for the August 3rd concert at the Olympia; an unpublished color 4 x 5 photo of a shirtless Elvis posing with Page; and the original Hotel Tampa Terrace paid receipt for “Page Sherry & Mother,” for two nights on August 5 and 6, 1956. In overall very good to fine condition. Accompanied by a letter of provenance from Page’s daughter. A more detailed description can be found online at www.RRAuction.com. Starting Bid $200
575.
Elvis Presley 1956 Waco
‘Heart O’ Texas Fair’ Collection. Collection of letters, photographs, and documents related to Elvis Presley’s memorable performance at the ‘Heart O’ Texas Fair’ held at the Heart of Texas Coliseum in Waco, Texas, on October 12, 1956. The collection is highlighted by four photos of Elvis at the concert (one unpublished and two originally taken by Waco photographer Jimmie Willis) and a TLS from Colonel Parker’s Assistant Tom Diskin on Parker’s illustrated ‘wagon’ letterhead. In overall fine condition.
A more detailed description can be found online at www.RRAuction.com. Starting Bid $200
1.75,
5,
3.5
576. Elvis
Corner
Presley 1976 ‘Square
Signature’ Scarf (Attested
as Stage-Worn). Vintage white silk scarf, 33.5˝ x 33.5˝, attested to as being worn on stage by Elvis Presley, who presented the scarf to a fan during his concert at the Roanoke Civic Center in Roanoke, Virginia, on August 2, 1976. The lightweight scarf, which was purportedly used by Presley between August 1974 and June 1977, is entirely plain with the exception of Presley’s facsimile autograph to one corner. In fine, folded condition, with the scarf appearing to exhibit some Elvis perspiration. Accompanied by a ticket stub from the concert and a set of six unpublished candid color photos of Elvis during the Roanoke concert, four of which show him wearing or holding the offered scarf. Starting Bid $200
8 x 10
Elusive Purple Rain album signed by Prince, Cat Glover, and Sheila E.
578. Prince Signed Purple Rain Album. Purple Rain album by Prince and The Revolution (Warner Bros., 925 110-1), signed prominently on the front cover in gold ink, “’Love God,’ P, ‘88.” The cover is also signed by Sheila E. and Cat Glover. In fine condition, with a price sticker to the upper left corner. The record is included.
Released a month before his smash film of the same name, Purple Rain proved a rousing commercial success that elevated Prince into true international stardom. Subsequently, Prince became the first singer to simultaneously hold the No. 1 album, single, and film in the U.S., with Purple Rain receiving the Academy Award for Best Original Score in 1985. Signed copies of Purple Rain are exceedingly rare and desirable, with this album representing just the third example we have offered in over 20 years. Starting Bid $300
579. Prince Signed 1999 Album. 1999 album by Prince (Warner Bros., 92.3720-1), signed on the front cover in gold ink, “‘Love God,’ P, ‘88.” The cover is also signed by Sheila E. and Cat Glover. In fine condition, with a price sticker to the upper left corner. The records are included. Signed examples of Prince’s breakthrough album are highly sought after and quite rare. Starting Bid $200
Fully signed program from Queen’s epic ‘A Night at the Opera Tour’ Over
580. Queen Signed 1975 Tour Program. Scarce original program for the UK leg of Queen’s 1975 ‘A Night at the Opera Tour,’ 16 pages, 10.5 x 8.25, signed on the front cover in blue ballpoint, “Freddie Mercury, x,” “Brian May,” “John Deacon,” and Roger Taylor.” The front cover is also signed by Jimmy Lea of the band Slade. The consignor notes that the autographs were obtained at the Civic Hall in Wolverhampton, England, on December 7, 1975. In very good to fine condition, with light soiling and handling wear, and a crease passing through the top of Taylor’s signature. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks.
To support their landmark fourth studio album, A Night at the Opera, Queen embarked on a massive 78-show world tour that began on November 14, 1975, and concluded on April 22, 1976. The tour, which marked the debut of the classic Queen rock epic ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ included a total of 26 shows in the United Kingdom that ran from mid-November to late December. Starting Bid $500
581.
Rock and Roll Autograph Album
(100+) with Fleetwood Mac, Heart, Warren Zevon, and More. Vey desirable vintage autograph album, 4.75 x 3.75, containing over 100 ink signatures from various rock bands and musicians from the 1970s and 1980s. Highlights include: Fleetwood Mac (Mick Fleetwood, John McVie, Christine McVie, Stevie Nicks, and Lindsey Buckingham), Heart (Ann and Nancy Wilson, Howard Leese, Denny Carmassi, Mark Andes, and Sue Ennis), Warren Zevon, Pat Benatar, Linda Ronstadt, Renaissance (Annie Haslam, John Tout, Michael Dunford, Jon Camp, and Terry Sullivan), Olivia Newton-John, Harry Nilsson, Kiki Dee, Bryan Ferry, and more. In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
582. Rolling Stones Lenticular Promo for ‘Their Satanic Majesties Request’. Scarce and impressive lenticular record store promo display for the Their Satanic Majesties Request by the Rolling Stones, 14 x 14, featuring the colorful and hypnotic three-dimensional album artwork. It is estimated that only 150 of these large-size promos were produced. Framed and in fine condition. Starting Bid $200
ing Bid $200
586. Machine Gun Kelly Signed Guitar. Bright pink Schecter Diamond Series electric guitar—similar to the one seen on the cover of his fifth studio album, Tickets to My Downfall—nicely signed on the body in black felt tip, “Tickets To My Downfall, MGK, xx.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA. Starting Bid $300
587.
584. The Clash Signed 45 RPM Record. CBS Records UK pressing of the Clash 7˝ single ‘Remote Control / London’s Burning,’ signed on the front cover in pencil by Joe Strummer, Mick Jones, Paul Simonon, and Topper Headon. In fine condition, with the Simonon and Headon signatures partially overlapping. The record is included. Starting Bid $200
classic entertainment
Handsome Spurr portrait of the rotund silent star
774.
Roscoe ‘Fatty’
Arbuckle Signed Photograph. Striking vintage sepia matte-finish 7.5 x 9.5 portrait of Arbuckle in a handsome suit and tie, boldly signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “Dear Ann, There will always be a smile for you, Roscoe.” Blindstamped in the lower right by renowned Hollywood photographer Melbourne Spurr. In fine condition, with tack holes to the upper corners and uniformly trimmed edges. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA. Starting Bid $200
775. Columbia Pictures Award Statuette. Rare unofficial miniature Academy Award statuette produced by Columbia Pictures to honor the studio’s 15th anniversary and its success at the 1935 Oscars. The mini award measures 5.75˝ tall and is set upon a 2.5˝ diameter base, with engraved plaques on the front and back: “Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences First Award, Columbia Pictures, for the Best Picture of the Year” and “15th Anniversary, Columbia Pictures, 1920–1935.” In very good condition, with repairs at the statue’s feet and some overall tarnishing. At the 1935 Academy Awards, Columbia’s film It Happened One Night took home five Oscars—Best Picture, Best Actor in a Leading Role (Clark Gable), Best Actress in a Leading Role (Claudette Colbert), Best Director (Frank Capra), and Best Writing (Robert Riskin). A great piece of Hollywood history. Starting Bid $500
Mini Oscar statuette produced by Columbia to commemorate their 1935 Academy Award success
776. Audrey Hepburn Autograph Letter Signed. Uncommon ALS, signed “With best wishes, Audrey Hepburn,” one page, 7 x 9, January 18, 1991. Handwritten letter to an admirer, in full: “I am very happy to send you a signed photograph.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
777. Alfred Hitchcock Typed Letter Signed. TLS signed “Hitch,” one page, 6.75 x 10.25, personal letterhead, July 31, 1940. Letter to Edmond F. Bernoudy, who was assistant director on Hitchcock’s 1940 thriller Rebecca. In part: “It looks as though we aren’t going to be able to be together on the next picture I’m sorry to say. On my return from New York yesterday I found that RKO have allocated an assistant to me called Dewey Starkey and I know you will realize that it’s pretty difficult for me to refuse to take what I am led to believe is their number one assistant on the lot.
It looks to me, Eddie, as though this first picture here will have to be a miss as far as we are concerned, but nevertheless I’m going to try and make arrangements for you to come on the next one...I want to thank you very much, Eddie, for all you’ve done to help me here. I would almost go so far as to say that the comfortable conditions I had in making ‘Rebecca’ were in a large measure responsible for its success as far as I am concerned. Had it been necessary for me to go on making it under the conditions [in] which I started I doubt whether the results would have been the same.” In fine condition, with light staining along a vertical fold. A romantic psychological thriller starring Laurence Olivier and Joan Fontaine, Rebecca was Hitchcock’s only film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. Starting Bid $200
Hitchcock writes to his assistant director:
“The comfortable conditions I had in making ‘Rebecca’ were in a large measure responsible for its success”
Sensational handwritten Houdini letter from 1896, hoping to book an early performance:
778. Harry Houdini Autograph Letter Signed. ALS written and signed by Harry Houdini on behalf of himself and his wife, “Harry and Bessie Houdini,” two pages, 8.5 x 11, 6th Annual Tour letterhead, no date but circa 1896. Handwritten letter on ornate letterhead printed for his 6th Annual Tour in 1896, in full: “If you can’t offer us a salary, let me know just what you will do for us, as I don’t want to join the show & leave you to hay, reframing etc. etc. as that it will eat up all the money. Hermann the Great stole the idea of our act from us & he featured it. You could easily bill us as strong as you want. I don’t drink, smoke, or chew and we are good useful people, dress fair and willing workers. If you can do any thing for us we would be more than pleased to hear from you as soon as possible as I am looking forward to book our act East. Hoping to hear from you at an early date.” He adds a postscript: “We play Castle House the Olympic week after next so please let me know in time so I can cancel him & not on short notice.” Given the absence of a salutation or date, these appear to be the last two pages of a longer letter; however, they form a complete thought as Houdini seeks to book shows early in
his career. In very good to fine condition, with light creasing and old tape stains.
In 1894, while performing with his brother ‘Dash’ (Theodore Hardeen) at Coney Island as ‘The Brothers Houdini,’ Harry Houdini met a fellow performer, Wilhelmina Beatrice ‘Bess’ Rahner. They quickly fell in love and married on June 22, 1894; Bess replaced Dash in the act, which became known as ‘The Houdinis,’ and worked as Harry’s stage assistant for the rest of his performing career. In the letterhead for their 1896 tour, Harry is billed as a “Magician introducing the latest Egyptian, Oriental and Modern Miracles,” and Bess is pitched as “The World’s Greatest Psychometric Artist, Clairvoyante and Exponent of Mental Occultism.” In trying to book a new gig, Houdini relates that Alexander Herrmann—known as Herrmann the Great, the most famous magician of the day—lifted one of his acts, most probably the ‘Asiatic Trunk Mystery.’ Around 1900, Houdini began to earn an international reputation for his daring feats of extraction from shackles, ropes, and handcuffs, making this early letter all the more remarkable. Starting Bid $1000
“If you can’t offer us a salary, let me know just what you will do for us”
779. Harry Houdini Handwritten Letter. Incredible unsigned handwritten letter by Harry Houdini, one page, 10.5 x 16, The Houdinis—Metamorphosis letterhead, dated at Chicago, 1897. Handwritten letter to “Mr. Hixson,” penned on the reverse of an extraordinary broadside advertising the Houdinis’ famous “Metamorphosis” act. In part: “We were with Rogers Orpheum Stars on percentage & after working 7 weeks received only our board, laundry & stamp money out of our share & we were getting as we thought a good thing at first. So we are a little backward in accepting your offer unless you guarantee us a certain amount of money & our board every week. I will let you say the figures. Our work is far superior to Gimbal’s, and although I am his junior, I would willingly follow his act with any magic act. His second sight act is very good but not the best in the world. And that is what our cabinet act is, it is never seen its equal & if you want me to work hand cuff why I will do so—can easily run 60–75 minutes.” The remarkable
letterhead boasts images of Harry Houdini and his wife and stage assistant, Bess, enthusiastically billing them as “The Master Monarchs of Modern Mysteries.” The broadside on the opposite side boasts a large illustration of the “Metamorphosis” act, with testimonials from theatre managers printed below. In very good condition, with light creasing, old tape stains, and short splits to the ends of the intersecting folds.
The “Metamorphosis” act illustrated here shows Houdini being put into a bag and locked in a chest by his assistant; the two then miraculously switch places in a moment of ‘metamorphosis.’ Harry and Bess Houdini performed the “Metamorphosis” as their feature effect from 1894 to 1905, with revivals in 1914 and 1925-26. Considered to be a classic magic trick, the illusion continues to be performed and innovated upon to this day. Starting Bid $1000
“His second sight act is very good but not the best in the world. And that is what our cabinet act is, it is never seen its equal”— Houdini struggles to get work in 1897
780. Harry Houdini Typed Letter Signed. TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, November 6, 1917. Letter to E. F. Rice, in part (spelling corrected): “Unless the Grim Reaper comes along, your notes will please the future generation, as well as our present readers of magical lore. In describing tricks, please let me have all false moves, so that I can follow same. In your last letter you mention the watch tied to rabbit, and how the oat can was changed for the rabbit can on back of table, but you failed to say, how he fixed the watch to his assistant so she could fasten it to the rabbit to get it ready for the exchange. While reading the trick, thought how much slicker it would have been, to have the oat can filled with oats, and instead of hiding it for a second to make a switch, it could be fixed, so that a bag a la black art, it could be as you would pass it, you could manage to release the bottom of the oat can, oats would fall into the bag, and at the other end of table, the rabbit can which would be trifle smaller in circumference, with the aid of a string trap, could be ‘inserted’ by simply pulling a string, and
slowly elevated into the oat can. Can you follow the trick, and what do you think of my method?? I will say that it is a clever trick. Either way. I told Harry Kellar about that glass pot, and he laughed very heartily at it. He will make his last appearance on any stage this coming Sunday night.” In fine condition.
This remarkable letter focuses on a variant of the iconic ‘rabbit-in-a-hat’ trick, with Houdini demonstrating his facility for improving upon existing methods. He also makes mention of the legendary Harry Kellar’s last show. On November 11, 1917, Houdini organized a Society of American Magicians benefit show to support the families of those who died in the sinking of the USS Antilles by a German U-boat (considered the first American casualties of World War I). Houdini convinced Kellar to come out of retirement to perform at the benefit, and he was triumphantly carried off the stage after his last public appearance. An exceptional, detailed magic letter by the great Harry Houdini. Starting Bid $1000
“In describing tricks, please let me have all false moves”—Houdini innovates a “slick” rabbit-in-a-can illusion
781. Harry Houdini Autograph Statement Signed. Autograph statement by Harry Houdini, one page, 8.25 x 7.5, no date but circa 1910. A spectacular handwritten press release, in full: “Harry Houdini one of America’s brightest magicians now among the top liners. His clever sleight of hand work has earned him a well deserved reputation. He is called King of Handcuffs, also does the finest spirit cabinet work of any magician in America today. Has been doing magic from childhood. He is capably assisted in all his seances and illusions by Mlle. Beatrice Houdini the Little Queen of Mystery.” In fine condition, with some light creasing and soiling. Accompanied by a marvelous original vintage glossy 5 x 8 photograph of Houdini restrained in shackles, a classic pose of the celebrated escape artist. A wonderful statement in which Houdini rightly pitches himself as one of the world’s foremost magicians and escape artists, revealing the bravado and ego that drove him to international success. Starting Bid $1000
“He is called King of Handcuffs, also does the finest spirit cabinet work of any magician in America today”—a magnificent handwritten press release by Harry Houdini
782. Laurel and Hardy Signed Photograph. Classic vintage matte-finish 10 x 8 photo of Laurel and Hardy side-by-side in their bowler hats, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “Hello Carolyn! Stan Laurel” and “Oliver Hardy.” In fine condition, with light silvering to the darker areas of the image. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope addressed in Laurel’s hand, featuring a colorful image of the comedic duo in the return address area; the postage stamps are from the popular 1938 Presidential Issue, popularly nicknamed the ‘Prexies.’ Starting Bid $200
and Hardy
783. Laurel and Hardy Signed Photograph. CVintage matte-finish 5 x 3 photo famed comedy duo Laurel and Hardy side-by-side in their bowler hats, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “Hello Johnie! Stan Laurel” and “Oliver Hardy.” Ornately matted and framed to an overall size of 17.5 x 14.5. In fine condition, with light silvering to the darker areas of the image. Starting Bid $200
785. Steve McQueen Autograph Letter
Signed. ALS signed “Steve,” one page both sides, 7 x 10, personal letterhead, January 6, 1962. Handwritten letter to Tom Gibson in Van Nuys, California, in part: “Just a note to tell you how happy we are about Tom Jr., I always thought Sandra was the best thing that ever happened to you, and now with two boys, you have something going for you, that a lot of men go through their whole lifetime without being able to find...Hope you like the duffer coat, should be just the thing for those cold nights on the bike. We plan to be back in L.A. about the 25th. if all goes well, I’m going to take a nice long vacation so we will be able to spend a lot of time together, you know I have been over here almost 5 months, in a way it’s been very good for me, I have been able to do a lot of thinking about myself, and they say I have mellowed. But then I’m 32 now and I guess it’s about time. Neile and I have been able to spend a lot of time together, seems like we get more and more hung on each other as time goes on, so all and all it seems like the McQueen family is in pretty good shape.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in McQueen’s own hand. Starting Bid $300
786. Steve McQueen Document Signed. DS, signed “Steven T. McQueen,” one page, 8.5 x 11, November 14, 1967. Document headed “Minutes of Regular Meeting of the Shareholders of Solar Productions, Inc.,” regarding the “production, financing and distribution of a motion picture now entitled ‘The Crown Caper,’” and the purchase of the “motion picture rights in and to the novel entitled ‘the Cold War Swap.’” It goes on to make reference to “Suddenly Single,” “Le Mans,” “Bullitt,” and “Man on a Nylon String.” In very fine condition. Starting Bid $200
“Seems like the McQueen family is in pretty good shape”—mellowed and ready for a vacation, McQueen writes to a Van Nuys pal
787. Three Stooges: Bud Jamison Signed Photograph. American actor (1894–1944) who appeared in 450 films between 1915 and 1944, best known for playing a foil in many Three Stooges shorts. Extremely rare vintage matte-finish 4.75 x 6.75 profile portrait of the prolific actor, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Peggy, the sweetest little girl I ever met, may you have lots of success, from Bud.” In very good to fine condition, with tack holes to the top and bottom edges, and scattered small stains. Starting Bid $200
788. Edward Van Sloan Autograph Letter Signed. American character actor (1882–1964) best remembered for his roles in the Universal Studios horror films such as Dracula (1931), Frankenstein (1931), and The Mummy (1932). Rare ALS signed “Uncle Van,” penned on both sides of an unfolded 8 x 10 Christmas card, December 12, 1950. Handwritten letter to his nephew Bill and his wife Barbara, in part: “I dare say you are in the midst of a real Mid-Western winter and I do not envy you. I’ve had my share of them, and want no more. But I suppose Deb is in her glory. Strange how the young flourish in the snow… We here are quite all right. Both Aunt Myra & I are in the best of health and live even and uneventful lives—quite to our distaste…As you perhaps know I’m supposed to be an actor (at least I have my name & picture in the ‘Players Dictionary’) however for some time past they won’t let me act—simply refuse—and so I am marking time which ain’t no easy job, believe me. But we still have hopes.” Van Sloan and his wife both sign in the card’s printed sentiment section, “Uncle Van,” who adds his address, and “Aunt Myra.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a glossy photo of Van Sloan. Starting Bid $200
Van Sloan on the travails of finding work in later age: “As you perhaps know I’m supposed to be an actor...however for some time past they won’t let me act—simply refuse”
789. John Wayne Signed Photograph. Soughtafter glossy 4.5 x 7 photo of Wayne as Lt. Col. Benjamin Vandervoort in the 1962 D-Day war epic The Longest Day, boldly signed and inscribed in black felt tip, “Dorothy, Happy Days to you, John Wayne, 1976.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. A great photograph from an Academy Award–winning film. Starting Bid $200
790. John Wayne Signed Photograph. Vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 photo of Wayne as Rooster Cogburn in the 1969 classic True Grit, signed and inscribed in bold black ink, “Sean—Happy Donut’s, John Wayne, 1976.” In fine condition, with a slight light crease near the right edge. Wayne won his only Oscar—for Best Actor in a Leading Role—for his performance in the classic Western. Starting Bid $200
sports
900. 1959 Topps #380 Hank Aaron PSA NM-MT 8. Graded by PSA NM-MT 8. Magnificent example of this classic 1959 Topps card of the young Hank Aaron with the Milwaukee Braves, boasting his circular portrait within a bright yellow background. A choice card with razor edges, sharp corners, and vivid colors. Starting Bid $200
902. Rocky Marciano Typed Letter Signed. TLS, one page, 8 x 10.5, illustrated Rocky Marciano Enterprises, Inc. letterhead, June 2, 1969. Letter to William Reinmuth, Jr., of Sports Quest, in full: “Thanks for that nice card and photo. Barbara really loved it. My back has been giving me a lot of pain lately and I may have to have a doctor give me some kind of pain killer because you know how bad my back can get. I don’t want anything to kill this Ali deal so I’ll have to take it easy for a little while. I did finally get that letter from Gene Tunney and he is a great guy. The fighting Ex-marine was a hell of a fighter and is a real stand up kind of guy.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 15 x 17.5. In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA. Starting Bid $200
Marciano asks for painkillers before his planned ‘Super Fight’—“I don’t want anything to kill this Ali deal”
903.
Neatly signed action shot of the legendary Yankees slugger
at an angle), a short tear to upper left corner, and a diagonal crease to the upper left. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. Starting Bid $500
Sought-after baseball signed by most of Murderer’s Row—Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Tony Lazzeri, and fellow 1930 Yankees teammates
904. Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig Signed Baseball. Official Tober Suburban League baseball signed in fountain pen on the sweet spot and side panels by seven members of the 1930 New York Yankees squad, including: Babe Ruth (ss), Lou Gehrig, Bill Dickey, Tony Lazzeri, George Pipgras, Bill Karlon, and Mark Koenig. In very good to fine condition, with light soiling and toning, and fading to a few of the lesser names. A star-studded signed baseball, highlighted by the legendary Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. Starting Bid $1000
Conditions of Sale
ANYONE EITHER REGISTERING TO BID OR PLACING A BID (“BIDDER”) ACCEPTS THESE CONDITIONS OF SALE AND ENTERS INTO A LEGALLY, BINDING, ENFORCEABLE AGREEMENT WITH R&R AUCTION COMPANY OF MASSACHUSETTS, LLC (“RR AUCTION”) TOGETHER WITH BIDDER, THE “PARTIES”).
This Agreement contains important provisions that control rights and liabilities, and specifically has provisions governing how disputes are handled as well as LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY that can be imposed upon RR Auction, WAIVER OF JURY and ARBITRATION PROVISIONS. This acknowledgement is a material term of these Conditions of Sale and of the consideration under which RR Auction agrees to these terms. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY.
The following terms and conditions (“Conditions of Sale”) constitute the sole terms and conditions under which RR Auction will offer for sale and sell the property on its website, and/or described in the catalog of items for auction (the “Catalog”). These Conditions of Sale constitute a binding agreement between the Parties with respect to the auction in which Bidder participates (the “Auction”). By bidding at the Auction, whether in person, through an agent or representative, by telephone, facsimile, online, absentee bid, or by any other form of bid or by any other means, Bidder acknowledges the thorough reading and understanding of all of these Conditions of Sale, all descriptions of items in the Catalog, and all matters incorporated herein by reference, and agrees to be fully bound thereby.
Section 1
The Parties1.1 RR Auction and Auction
This Auction is presented by RR Auction, a d/b/a/ of R&R Auction Company of Massachusetts, LLC, as identified with the applicable licensing information on the title page of the Catalog or on the www.RRauction. com Internet site. The Auction is conducted under these Conditions of Sale. Announcements and corrections from the podium at live auctions and those made through the Conditions of Sale appearing on the Internet at RRauction.com supersede those in the printed Catalog.
1.2 Bidder
Bidder shall mean the original Bidder on the property offered for sale by RR Auction and not any subsequent owner or other person who may acquire or have acquired an interest therein. If Bidder is an agent, the agency must be disclosed in writing to RR Auction prior to the time of sale, otherwise the benefits of the warranty shall be limited to the agent and not transferable to the undisclosed principal.
The rights granted to Bidder under these Conditions of Sale are personal and may not be assigned or transferred to any other person or entity, whether by operation of law or otherwise without the express written assent of RR Auction. Bidder may not transfer, assign, or otherwise convey these Conditions of Sale or any of the rights herein, and such purported transfer, assignment, or conveyance shall be null and void. No third party may rely on any benefit or right conferred on any Bidder by these Conditions of Sale, and no third party is intended as a beneficiary of these Conditions of Sale.
Bids will not be accepted from minor persons under eighteen (18) years of age without a parent or legal guardian’s written consent containing an acknowledgment of the Conditions of Sale herein and indicating their agreement to be bound thereby on behalf of the Bidder.
All Bidders must meet RR Auction’s qualifications to bid. Any Bidder who is not a client in good standing of RR Auction may be disqualified at RR Auction’s sole option and will not be awarded lots. Such determination may be made by RR Auction in its sole and unlimited discretion, at any time prior to, during, or even after the close of the Auction. RR Auction reserves the right to exclude any person from the Auction.
If an entity places a bid, then the person executing the bid on behalf of the entity agrees to personally guarantee payment for any successful bid and
agrees to be bound by these Conditions of Sale in addition to company for whom the Bidder is acting
By accepting the Conditions of Sale, Bidder personally and unconditionally guarantees payment.
Section 2 Bidding Privileges
2.1 In order to place bids, Bidders who have not established an account with RR Auction must either furnish satisfactory credit information (including two collectibles-related business references) or supply additional information if requested, well in advance of the Auction. Bidders who are not members of RRAuction.com should pre-register before the close of the Auction to allow adequate time to contact references. Privileges will be granted at the sole discretion of RR Auction. Additionally, Bidders who have not previously established credit or who wish to bid in excess of their established credit history may be required to provide a cash deposit prior to RR Auction’s acceptance of a bid. Check writing privileges and immediate delivery of merchandise may also be determined by pre-approval of credit based on a combination of criteria: RRAuction.com history, related industry references, bank verification, a credit bureau report and/or a personal guarantee for a corporate or partnership entity in advance of the Auction venue.
2.2 Bidder providing any false or misleading information provided in connection with the registration shall be a material breach of the Conditions of Sale and in addition to any other remedies at law shall excuse RR Auction from performance under these Conditions of Sale, including the right to any refund.
2.2 Bidding privileges may be revoked without notice, for any reason, at the sole discretion of RR Auction .
Section 3 Buyer’s Premium
3.1 The Bidder acknowledges and agrees that a 25% buyer’s premium will be added to the hammer price on all individual lots sold in timed and live Auctions. . For payment other than by cash, delivery will not be made unless and until full payment has been received by RR Auction, i.e., check or wired funds have fully cleared. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, signed by RR Auction, payment in full is due within thirteen (13) calendar days of the Auction or within twelve (12) calendar days of the invoice date, whichever is earlier. Bidder’s failure to pay any payment in full when due required shall constitute a material breach, and in addition to other damages available under contract or law, at RR Auction’s election, RR Auction may cancel the sale and require full premium still be due along with interest at 1.5% per month from the date of breach, or at the maximum legally allowable rate.
Section 4 Bidding
4.1 Each Bidder’s determination of its bid should be based upon its own examination of the item(s) and independent investigation, rather than the any reliance as to what is represented in the Catalog, online or elsewhere. Bidder affirms that it regards any statements made by RR Auction concerning the item as solely opinion and that Bidder is making its own inspection and independent evaluation of the goods, and is not relying upon any description or statements by RR Auction (including as to quality, authenticity, provenance, ownership, liens existing, on goods legality, or value) in making its determination to bid on or purchase an item. In any purchase or sale, the value of the item(s) is determined by the price. THE BIDDER HEREBY ASSUMES ALL RISKS CONCERNING ANY AND ALL PURCHASES TO THE FULLEST EXTENT UNDER APPLICABLE LAW.
4.2 RR AUCTION IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ERRORS IN BIDDING. A Bidder should make certain to bid on the correct lot and that the bid is the maximum (plus the Buyer’s Premium) that the Bidder is willing and able to pay. Since other Bidders (by mail, facsimile, online, and in person) will be present, and since a re-offering could damage the momentum of the sale, once the hammer has fallen and RR Auction has announced the winning Bidder, such Bidder is unconditionally bound to pay for the lot,
even if the Bidder has made a mistake.
4.3 All prospective Bidders who examine lots in person prior to the sale shall personally assume all responsibility for any damage they cause in so doing. RR Auction shall have sole discretion in determining the value of the damage caused, which shall be promptly paid by the prospective Bidder.
4.4 Title to any lot remains with Consignor, any secured party of the Consignor, or assignee of Consignor, as the case may be, until the lot is paid for in full by Bidder and Bidder has fully satisfied any outstanding financial obligations to RR Auction (including as it concerns aby other lots). RR Auction reserves the right to require payment in full before delivering any lot to the successful Bidder.
4.5 It is the Bidder’s responsibility and obligation to have the lots fully insured while in their possession. Bidder assumes any and all risk of loss upon the earlier of shipment to Bidder or in Bidder’s possession.
4.6 Bidder grants to RR Auction or its assigns the right to offset any sums due, or found to be due by RR Auction, and to make such offset from any past, subsequent or future consignment, or items acquired by Bidder in possession or control of RR Auction or from any sums due to Bidder by RR Auction. Bidder further grants RR Auction a lien consisting of a senior security interest (or purchase money security interest to the extent applicable) in such sums or items to the fullest extent applicable, authorizes RR Auction to file documents concerning the interest, and Bidder agrees to execute any further documents as may be reasonably necessary to grant RR Auction such security interest. Bidder agrees that RR Auction and its assigns shall be a secured party with respect to items bought by Bidder and in the possession of RR Auction, to the extent of the maximum indebtedness, plus all accrued fees and expenses, until the indebtedness is paid.
4.7 By bidding in this sale, Bidder personally and unconditionally guarantees payment. The authorized representative of any corporate Bidder who is present at the sale shall provide RR Auction or its agent, prior to the commencement of the bidding (or at the time of registration), with a statement signed by a principal, director or officer that they he or she personally and unconditionally guarantees any payment due RR Auction.
4.8 RR Auction may at its sole and absolute discretion, make loans or advances to Consignors and/or prospective Bidders.
Section 5
Bidding Options
5.1 Non-Internet bids (including but not limited to in-person, facsimile, phone and mail bids) are treated similarly to floor bids in that they must be on-increment. Any in-person, facsimile, phone, or mail bids that do not conform to a full increment will be rounded up or down to the nearest full increment and this revised amount will be considered Bidder’s high bid.
5.2 When identical bids are submitted, preference is given to the first received. To ensure the greatest accuracy, written bids should be entered on the standard printed bid sheet and be received at RR Auction’s place of business at least twenty-four (24) hours before the Auction start. RR Auction is not responsible for executing mail bids or facsimile bids received on or after the day the first lot is sold, nor Internet bids submitted after the published closing time; nor is RR Auction responsible for proper execution of bids submitted by telephone, mail, facsimile, e-mail, Internet, or in person once the Auction begins.
5.3 In all Auctions, bids on an item must raise the current high bid by at least 10%, or as specified on a per-Auction basis. Bids will be accepted in whole dollar amounts only. No “buy” or “unlimited” bids will be accepted. In a live sale, bids on an item can change at the discretion of RR Auction.
5.4 RR Auction reserves the right to accept or decline any bid. Bids must be for an entire lot and each lot constitutes a separate sale. All bids are per lot unless otherwise announced. Live auction lots will be sold in their numbered sequence unless RR Auction directs otherwise. It is unlawful and illegal for Bidders to collude, pool, or agree with another Bidder to pay less than the fair value for lot(s). For live auctions, RR Auction will have final discretion in the event that any dispute should arise between Bidders. RR Auction will determine the successful Bidder, cancel the sale,
or re-offer and resell the lot or lots in dispute. RR Auction will have final discretion to resolve any disputes arising after the sale and in online auctions. If any dispute arises, RR Auction’s sale record is conclusive.
Section 6 Payment
6.1 Subject to fulfillment of all of the Conditions of Sale set forth herein, upon the sooner of (1) the passing of title to the offered lot pursuant to these Conditions of Sale, or (2) possession of the offered lot by the Bidder, Bidder thereupon (a) assumes full risk and responsibility (including without limitation, liability for or damage to frames or glass covering prints, paintings, photos, or other works), and (b) will immediately pay the full purchase price or such part as RR Auction may require. In addition to other remedies available to RR Auction by law, RR Auction reserves the right to impose from the date of sale a late charge of 1.5% per month of the total purchase price if payment is not made in accordance with the conditions set forth herein. All property must be removed from RR Auction’s premises by the Bidder at his/her expense not later than sixty (60) business days following its sale and, if it is not so removed, RR Auction may send the purchased property to a public warehouse for the account, at the risk and expense of the Bidder.
6.2 Payment is due upon closing of the Auction session, or upon presentment of an invoice. RR Auction reserves the right to void an invoice if payment in full is not received within thirteen (13) calendar days of the Auction or within twelve (12) calendar days of the invoice date. In cases of nonpayment, RR Auction’s election to void a sale does not relieve the Bidder from their obligation to pay RR Auction its fees (seller’s and Buyer’s Premium) on the lot and any other damages pertaining to the lot.
6.3 All sales for total invoices greater than $1,000 are strictly for cash in United States dollars (including U.S. currency, bank wire, cashier checks, eChecks, and bank money orders), and are subject to all reporting requirements.
6.4 All deliveries are subject to good funds; funds being received in RR Auction’s account before delivery of the Purchases; and all payments are subject to a clearing period. RR Auction reserves the right to determine if a check constitutes “good funds”: checks drawn on a U.S. bank are subject to a ten (10) calendar day hold, and ten (10) business days when drawn on an international bank. Clients with pre-arranged credit status may receive immediate credit for payments via e-Check, personal or corporate checks.
6.5 In the event that a Bidder’s payment is dishonored upon presentment(s), Bidder shall pay the maximum statutory processing fee set by applicable state law. If Bidder attempts to pay via check and the financial institution denies the transfer from Bidder’s bank account, or the payment cannot be completed using the selected funding source, Bidder agrees to complete payment.
6.7 If RR Auction refers any unpaid invoice to an attorney for collection, the Bidder agrees to pay and shall be liable for RR Auction’s attorney’s fees, court costs, and other collection costs incurred by RR Auction in addition to the invoice amount and interest the greater of 1.5% per month or at the maximum legally allowable rate from date of invoice to collection. If RR Auction assigns collection to its house counsel, such attorney’s time expended on the matter shall be compensated at a rate comparable to the hourly rate of independent attorneys.
6.8 RR Auction shall have a lien against the merchandise purchased by the Bidder (as well as to the extent it is a consignor any other monies owed or due to Bidder) to secure payment of the Auction invoice. RR Auction is further granted a lien and the right to retain possession of any other property of the Bidder then held by RR Auction or its affiliates to secure payment of any Auction invoice or any other amounts due RR Auction or affiliates from the Bidder. With respect to these lien rights, RR Auction shall have all the rights of a secured creditor, including but not limited to the right of sale. In addition, with respect to payment of the Auction invoice(s), the Bidder waives any and all rights of offset he might otherwise have against RR Auction and the consignor of the merchandise included on the invoice (the Consignor”). If a Bidder owes RR Auction or its affiliates on any account, RR Auction and its affiliates shall have the right to offset such unpaid account by any credit balance due Bidder, and it may secure by possessory lien any unpaid amount by any of the Bid-
der’s property in their possession.
6.9 All checks, cashiers checks, bank checks, or money orders are payable to R&R Auction Company of Massachusetts, LLC. RR Auction clients with an invoice totaling $1,000 or under will have the option to pay by VISA, Mastercard, Discover or Paypal. All Paypal payments must be sent to FinanceDepartment@rrauction.com. Authorize.net, a third-party service provider contracted by RR Auction for processing on-line payments, charges a nonrefundable service fee of 3%, which will be added to your final invoice should you pay by credit/debit card.
Section 7 Sales Tax
RR Auction is a remote seller and we are now required to collect Sales/ Use Tax from our bidders. The states that we have nexus in we will be required to collect and remit sales tax on your behalf. Each state has different requirements to meet nexus. When RR Auction has achieved a certain monetary and/or invoice threshold in each state we will apply sales tax to your total invoice. The states that are affected are: ARIZONA, ARKANSAS, CALIFORNIA, COLORADO, CONNECTICUT, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KANSAS, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, NEBRASKA, NEVADA, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, NORTH CAROLINA, OHIO, OKLAHOMA, PENNSYLVANIA,RHODE ISLAND, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, UTAH, VIRGINIA, WASHINGTON, WISCONSIN
If we have not achieved nexus in a particular state it is still your responsibility to pay sales tax on your purchases.
The sales tax rate is determined by the State, Country, and City where purchases are shipped to. If you decide to pick up your purchases at our New Hampshire location you will not be required to pay sales tax. The State of New Hampshire does not have a general sales and use tax. All purchases picked up at our Massachusetts location will be taxed at the current rate of 6.25%.
If you have a resale number please email Sue@RRAuction.com or fax to (603) 732-4288 a copy of your state resale certificate and you will be exempt from paying sales tax.
Section 8
Delivery; Shipping; and Handling Charges
Bidder is liable for shipping and handling and providing accurate information as to shipping or delivery locations and arranging for such. RR Auction is unable to combine purchases from other auctions or affiliates into one package for shipping purposes. Lots won will be shipped in a commercially reasonable time after payment in good funds for the merchandise and the shipping fees is received or credit extended, except when third-party shipment occurs. Bidder agrees that service and handling charges related to shipping items which are not pre-paid may be charged to a credit card on file with RR Auction.
Successful international Bidders shall provide written shipping instructions, including specified Customs declarations, to RR Auction for any lots to be delivered outside of the United States. NOTE: Declaration value shall be the item’(s) hammer price and RR Auction shall use the correct harmonized code for the lot. Domestic Bidders on lots designated for third-party shipment must designate the common carrier, accept risk of loss, and prepay shipping costs.
Section 9 Title
Title shall not pass to the successful Bidder until all invoices of Bidder (including those pertaining to the item(s) at issue) and amounts owed to RR Auction are paid in full. It is the responsibility of the Bidder to provide adequate insurance coverage for the items once they have been delivered to a common carrier or third-party shipper.
Section 10 Rights Reserved
RR Auction reserves the right, at any time before, during or after an auction has ended to: withdraw any lot before or at the time of the Auction,
cancel any bid, and/or to postpone the Auction of all or any lots or parts thereof, for any reason. RR Auction shall not be liable to any Bidder in the event of such withdrawal, cancellation, or postponement under any circumstances. RR Auction reserves the right to refuse to accept bids from anyone at any time.
Section 11 Conducting the Auction
11.1 RR Auction reserves the right to postpone the Auction or any session thereof for a reasonable period of time for any reason whatsoever, and no Bidder or prospective Bidder shall have any claim as a result thereof, including consequential damages.
11.2 RR Auction’s Discretion: RR Auction shall determine opening bids and bidding increments. RR Auction has the right in its absolute discretion to reject any bid in the event of dispute between Bidders or if RR Auction has doubt as to the validity of any bid, to advance the bidding at its absolute discretion and to determine the successful Bidder in the event of a dispute between Bidders, to continue the bidding or to reoffer and resell the lot in question. In the event of a dispute after the sale, RR Auctions record of final sale shall be conclusive. RR Auction also may reject any bid if RR Auction decides either that any bid is below the reserve of the lot or article or that an advance is insufficient. Unless otherwise announced by RR Auction at the time of sale, no lots may be divided for the purpose of sale.
11.3 Reserves
Lots may be subject to a reserve which is the confidential minimum price below which the lot will not be sold. Consignors may not bid on their own lots or property. RR Auction may, from time to time, bid on items that it does not own. RR Auction may execute bids consecutively or otherwise up to one bid increment below the reserve.
11.4 Off-Site Bidding
Bidding by telephone, facsimile, online, or absentee bidding (advance written bids submitted by mail) are offered solely as a convenience and permitted subject to advance arrangements, availability, and RR Auction’s approval which shall be exercised at RR Auction’s sole discretion. Neither RR Auction nor its agents or employees shall be held liable for the failure to execute bids or for errors relating to any transmission or execution thereof. In order to be considered for off-site bidding in any manner, Bidders must comply with all of these Conditions of Sale and the terms contained on the Registration Form.
11.5 Estimate Prices:
In addition to descriptive information, each item in the Catalog sometimes includes a price range which reflects opinion as to the price expected at auction (the “Estimate Prices”). In other instances, Estimate Prices can be obtained by calling RR Auction at (603) 732-4280. The Estimate Prices are based upon various factors including prices recently paid at auction for comparable property, condition, rarity, quality, history and provenance. Estimate Prices are prepared well in advance of the sale and subject to revision. Estimates do not include the Buyer’s Premium or sales tax (see under separate heading).
11.6 Owned or Guaranteed Property: RR Auction generally offers property consigned by others for sale at public auction; in very limited occasion, lots are offered that are the property of RR Auction.
11.7 Before the Auction: Bidder may attend pre-sale viewing for all of RR Auction’s auctions at no charge. All property to be auctioned is usually on view for several days prior to the sale. Bidder is encouraged to examine lots thoroughly. Bidder may also request condition reports (see below). RR Auction’s staff are available at viewings and by appointment.
11.8 Maximum Bids In All Auctions: To maximize Bidder’s chance of winning, RR Auction strongly encourages the use of maximum bids. RR Auction will then bid for Bidder until the lot reaches Bidder’s specified maximum. Maximum bids are strictly confidential. Placing arbitrary, non-incremental bids on lots with prior maximum bids may result in these lots being sold for less than 10% above the under
Bidder’s bid.
11.9 Successful Bids:
The fall of RR Auction’s hammer indicates the final bid. RR Auction will record the paddle number of the Bidder. If Bidder’s salesroom or absentee bid is successful, Bidder will be notified after the sale by mailed or emailed invoice.
11.10 Unsold Lots:
If a lot does not reach the reserve, it is bought-in. In other words, it remains unsold and is returned to the Consignor. RR Auction has the right to sell certain unsold items after the close of the Auction. Such lots shall be considered sold during the Auction and all these Terms and Conditions shall apply to such sales including but not limited to the Buyer’s Premium, return rights, and disclaimers.
11.11 Bidding in Timed Auction:
Bidder may open, monitor, and/or raise bids at any time before the close of a lot through www.rrauction.com. RR Auction offers a callback service the day of the Auction, but Bidder is responsible for supplying a correct telephone number(s) where Bidder can be reached until the Auction closes. Bidder must request this service in writing. RR Auction will make reasonable efforts to ensure that Bidders who request a callback are contacted if outbid; however, RR Auction does not guarantee this service and it is merely a courtesy and not an enforceable right. The auctioneer may also execute a bid on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve, either by entering a bid in response to salesroom, telephone or absentee bids. Under no circumstances will the auctioneer place any bid on behalf of the consignor above the reserve. The auctioneer will not specifically identify bids placed on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve.
To ensure proper registration, those Bidders intending to bid via the Internet must visit www.RRauction.com and register accordingly at least one full day prior to the actual auction. Winning bidders will be notified by RR Auction. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids.
Any Bidder may bid on any lot prior to 6 pm EST/EDT. At that time, an extended bidding period goes into effect. If Bidder has not bid on a lot before 6 pm EST/EDT, Bidder may not bid on that lot after 6 pm EST/EDT. Only those Bidders who have placed bids on a lot before 6 pm EST/EDT will be allowed to bid on that lot after 6 pm EST/EDT. If Bidder is the only Bidder on a lot at 6 pm EST/EDT, that lot is awarded to Bidder. During the extended bidding period, a lot will remain open only to those who bid on that lot prior to 6 pm EST/EDT. All lots WITHOUT an opening bid at 6 pm EST/EDT will remain OPEN to ALL Bidders until 7 pm EST/EDT or until they receive their first bid. These lots will close immediately upon receipt of a bid or at 7 pm EST/EDT, whichever comes first. For all lots that are active after 7 pm EST/EDT, bidding will remain open until 30 minutes pass without a bid being placed on THAT lot (the “30 Minute Rule”). The 30 Minute Rule is applied on a PER LOT BASIS; each lot in the Auction closes individually based on bidding activity after 7 pm EST/EDT. On a PER LOT BASIS, the 30 minute timer will reset each time a bid is placed after 7 pm EST/EDT. If Bidder is the high Bidder, raising Bidder’s maximum bid will NOT reset the timer. RR Auction reserves the right to close the Auction at any time at its sole discretion.
11.12
Bidding - Internet Live Auction:
Bidder may open, monitor, and/or raise bids at any time before the close of a lot through www.rrauction.com. RR Auction offers a callback service the day of the Auction, but Bidder is responsible for supplying a correct telephone number(s) where Bidder can be reached until the Auction closes. Bidder must request this service in writing. RR Auction will make reasonable efforts to ensure that Bidders who request a callback are contacted if outbid; however, RR Auction does not guarantee this service and it is merely a courtesy and not an enforceable right.
To ensure proper registration, those Bidders intending to bid via the Internet must visit www.RRauction.com and register accordingly at least one full day prior to the actual auction. Winning bidders will be notified by RR Auction. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids.
During live internet or live auction, property is auctioned in consecutive numerical order, as it appears in the catalog. The auctioneer will accept bids from those present in the salesroom or absentee bidders participating by telephone, internet or by written bid left with RR Auction in advance of the auction. The auctioneer may also execute a bid or bids (successively or otherwise) on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve, either by entering a bid in response to salesroom, telephone or absentee bids. Under no circumstances will the auctioneer place any bid on behalf of the consignor above the reserve. The auctioneer will not specifically identify bids placed on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve. All auctions for lots are with reserve unless specifically stated otherwise.
During live Auctions, internet bids can be placed in real time through one or more of the following Third Party services: www.liveauctioneers.com, www.invaluable.com and www.icollector.com. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids. RR Auction treats any third-party site bids as floor or telephone bids. Floor bids and telephone bids are always considered first over third party sites bids, and floor bids are considered earlier than telephone bids. All RR Auction lots purchased through the third-party sites carry an additional Buyer’s Premium.
11.13 Miscellaneous:
Agreements between Bidders and Consignors to effectuate a non-sale of an item at Auction, inhibit bidding on a consigned item to enter into a private sale agreement for said item, or to utilize RR Auction’s Auction to obtain sales for non-selling consigned items subsequent to the Auction, are strictly prohibited. If a subsequent sale of a previously consigned item occurs in violation of this provision, RR Auction reserves the right to charge Bidder the applicable Buyer’s Premium and Consignor a Seller’s Commission as determined for each auction venue and by the terms of the seller’s agreement.
Acceptance of these Terms and Conditions qualifies Bidder as a client who has consented to be contacted by RR Auction in the future. In conformity with ”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.
11.14 Rules of Construction: RR Auction presents properties in a number of collectible fields, and as such, specific venues have promulgated supplemental Terms and Conditions. Nothing herein shall be construed to waive the general Conditions of Sale by these additional rules and shall be construed to give force and effect to the rules in their entirety.
Section 12 RR Auction’s Remedies
Failure of the Bidder to comply with any of these Conditions of Sale or the terms of the Registration Form is an event of material breach or default. In such event, RR Auction may, in addition to any other available remedies specifically including the right to hold the defaulting Bidder liable for the Purchase Price or to charge and collect from the defaulting Bidder’s credit or debit accounts as provided for elsewhere herein: (a) cancel the sale, retaining any payment made by the Bidder as damages (the Bidder understands and acknowledges that RR Auction will be substantially damaged should such default occur, and that damages under 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 interest on the Purchase Price at the rate of one and one-half percent (1.5%) per month or the highest allowable interest rate; (d) take any other action that RR Auction, in its sole discretion, deems necessary or appropriate to preserve and protect RR Auction’s rights and remedies. Should RR Auction resell the property, the original defaulting Bidder shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price and all costs and expenses associated there with, including but not limited to warehousing, sales-related expenses, reasonable attorney fees and court costs, commissions, incidental damages and any other charges due hereunder which were not collected or collectable. In the event that such Bidder is the successful Bidder on more than one lot and pays less than
the purchase price for the total lots purchased, RR Auction shall apply the payment received to such lot or lots that RR Auction, in its sole discretion, deems appropriate. If RR Auction does not exercise such discretion, the lots to which the payment shall be applied will be in descending order from the highest purchase price to the lowest. Any Bidder failing to comply with these Conditions of Sale shall be deemed to have granted RR Auction a security interest in, and RR Auction may retain as collateral such security for such Bidder’s obligations to RR Auction, any Bidder’s property in RR Auction’s possession or to which title has not yet passed to Bidder. RR Auction shall have the benefit of all rights of a secured party under the Uniform Commercial Code (U.C.C.) as adopted by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Section 13
Warranties
13.1 RR Auction does not provide any warranties to Bidders, whether expressed or implied, beyond those expressly provided in these Conditions of Sale. All property and lots are sold ”as is” and “where is”. By way of illustration rather than limitation, neither RR Auction nor the Consignor makes any representation or warranty, expressed or implied, as to merchantability or fitness for intended use, condition of the property (including any condition report), correctness of description, origin, measurement, quality, rarity, importance, exhibition, relevance, attribution, source, provenance, date, authorship, condition, culture, genuineness, value, or period of the property. Additionally, neither RR Auction nor the Consignor makes any representation or warranty, expressed or implied, as to whether the Bidder acquires rights in copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property (including exhibition or reproduction rights) related to the item, or whether the property is subject to any limitations or other rights. RR Auction does not make any representation or warranty as to title.
13.2 All descriptions, photographs, illustrations, and terminology including but not limited to words describing condition (including any condition reports requested by Bidder, see also Terminology), authorship, period, culture, source, origin, measurement, quality, rarity, provenance, importance, exhibition, and relevance, used in the Catalog, bill of sale, invoice, or anywhere else, represent a good faith effort made by RR Auction to fairly represent the lots and property offered for sale as to origin, date, condition, and other information contained therein; they are statements of opinion only. They are not representations or warranties and Bidder agrees and acknowledges that he or she shall not rely on them in determining whether or not to bid or for what price. Price estimates (which are determined well in advance of the Auction and are therefore subject to revision) and condition reports are provided solely as a convenience to Bidders and are not intended nor shall they be relied on by Bidders as statements, representations or warranties of actual value or predictions of final bid prices.
13.3 Bidders are accorded the opportunity to inspect the lots and to otherwise satisfy themselves as to the nature and sufficiency of each lot prior to bidding, and RR Auction urges Bidders to avail themselves accordingly.
13.4 All lots sold by RR Auction are accompanied by an Auction Certificate (“AC”). On any lot presented with an AC issued by RR Auction, the certification is only as to its attribution to the person or entity described or to the lot’s usage and only as explicitly stated therein (the “AC”), to the exclusion of any other warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to those pursuant to the Uniform Commercial Code. The AC inures only to the original Bidder (as shown in RR Auction’s records). Bidder may not transfer, assign, or otherwise convey the AC and such purported transfer, assignment, or conveyance shall be null and void.
Section 14 Firearms
RR Auction complies with all Federal and State rules and regulations relating to the purchasing, registration and shipping of firearms. A Bidder is required to provide appropriate documents and the payment of associated fees, if any. Bidder is responsible for providing a shipping address that is suitable for the receipt of a firearm.
Section 15
Unauthorized Statements
Under no circumstances is any employee, agent or representative of RR
Auction authorized by RR Auction to modify, amend, waive or contradict any of these Conditions of Sale, any term or condition set forth on a registration form, any warranty or limitation or exclusion of warranty, any term or condition in either the Registration Form or these Terms and Conditions regarding payment requirements, including but not limited to due date, manner of payment, and what constitutes payment in full, or any other term or condition contained in any documents issued by RR Auction unless such modification, amendment, waiver or contradiction is contained in a writing signed by all parties. Any statements, oral or written, made by employees, agents or representatives of RR Auction to Bidder, including statements regarding specific lots, even if such employee, agent or representative represents that such statement is authorized, unless reduced to a writing signed Bidder and by an authorized officer of RR Auction by all parties, are statements of personal opinion only and are not binding on RR Auction, and under no circumstances shall be relied upon by Bidder as a statement, representation or warranty of RR Auction.
Section 16 Bidder’s Remedies
16.1 Except as stated expressly herein, Bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy related to or pertaining to items it bids upon, views, or purchases from RR Auction, and any claims by Bidder related to authenticity, ownership, condition, title or value, shall be against Consignor only.
16.2 This section sets forth the sole and exclusive remedies of Bidder as against RR Auction (inclusive of its affiliates, officers, managers, employees or agents), or in any way arising out of, related to, or in connection with these Conditions of Sale, , and is expressly in lieu of any other rights or remedies which might be available to Bidder by law. Time is of the essence with respect to these procedures.
16.3 Title to Items
The Bidder hereby accepts the benefit of the Consignor’s warranty of title and any other representations and warranties made by the Consignor for the Bidder’s benefit. In the event that Bidder demonstrates in writing, satisfactory to the sole discretion of RR Auction, that there was a breach of the Consignor’s warranty of title concerning a lot purchased by Bidder, RR Auction may make demand upon the Consignor to pay to Bidder the Purchase Price (including any premiums, taxes, or other amounts paid or due to RR Auction). Should the Consignor not pay the Purchase Price to Bidder within thirty days after such demand (if any made), RR Auction may disclose the identity of the Consignor to Bidder and may assign to Bidder all or some of RR Auction’s rights against the Consignor with respect to such lot or property. Upon such disclosure and/or assignment, all responsibility and liability of RR Auction, if any, with respect to said lot or item shall automatically terminate related to or arising from these Conditions of Sale or such transaction operating as a complete waiver and general release by Bidder as to RR Auction and its agents, contractors, and affiliates, as to any and all claims concerning or related to the item, if any . RR Auction shall be entitled to retain the premiums and other amounts paid to RR Auction by Consignor only. The rights and remedies provided herein are for the original Bidder only and they may not be assigned or relied upon by any transferee or assignee under any circumstances.
16.4 Authenticity Challenge Process
(1) If Bidder wishes to dispute or challenge the Authenticity of the lot or item (including asserting that it is incorrect), Bidder must adhere to the following procedure: Within 30 days of the Auction Date, Bidder must present written evidence to RR Auction, that the lot is not authentic as determined by a known expert in the field (and one recognized by RR Auction within its discretion) and send the physical item or lot at issue to RR Auction along with all evidence relied upon by Bidder for contesting the Authenticity. (“Authenticity Challenge Process”) “Authenticity” shall mean a gross discrepancy in the between the description, genuiness, or attribution of the item as represented by RR Auction in the Catalog or at the auction, and the item. If RR Auction concurs that the lot is not Authentic as was represented (it is sole discretion), Bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy as against RR Auction (inclusive of its affiliates, agents, employees, and contractors) shall be a refund of the purchase price of the subject item paid by Bidder, with no other costs, liabilities or amounts recoverable by Bidder. If RR Auction does not agree with the assertion by Bidder, then
the Parties shall follow the dispute resolution procedures of these Conditions of Sale. Strict adherence to the Authenticity Challenge Process is a condition of standing for Bidder to initiate suit or claim.
(2) So long as Bidder has complied with the Authenticity Challenge Process, any claim, suit or action, by Bidder concerning an AC or Certification of Authenticity, or related to the authenticity of the item must, without any exception, be brought within one (1) year of Auction Date and is subject to the other limitations and conditions stated in the Conditions of Sale.
16.5 Other Issues. Any dispute or claim by Bidder against RR Auction (or its affiliates, directors, employees, officers, agents, or contractors)) other than Authenticity, concerning any item or lot bid upon, or purchased, including value, title, condition, bidding process, or description must be asserted (if at all) in the following manner:
(1) If the description of any lot in the Catalog is materially or grossly incorrect (e.g., gross cataloging error), or there is any other gross material issue pertaining to the item or lot, the item or lot may be returned if returned within five (5) calendar days of receipt, and received by RR Auction no later than twenty-one (21) calendar days after the Auction Date with explanation in writing.. If there is any discrepancy between the description in the Catalog and a certificate of auction, then the description in the certificate of auction (“Lot Challenge Process”). This paragraph shall constitute Bidder’s sole right with respect to the return of items, and no refunds shall be given for any items not returned to and received by RR Auction within the period of time stated herein or not materially or grossly in deviation from the description. Such a refund is subject to RR Auction’s sole discretionary review, and any request for refund must be made concurrently with returning the physical item or lot to RR Auction. Any item not returned within said frame will constitute acceptance of the item and a waiver and release of any and all claims by Bidder pertaining to the item other than with respect to authenticity; and
(2) Provided that the Bidder has engaged in the Lot Challenge Process, any claim concerning such must be brought no later than one (1) year of the Auction Date for the item or lot at issue and is subject to the other limitations and conditions stated in the Conditions of Sale.
NO RETURN OR REFUND OF ANY AUCTION LOT WILL BE CONSIDERED OR PROVIDED EXCEPT AS PROVIDED IN THESE CONDITIONS OF SALE AND BIDDERS OR AS MAY BE REQUIRED BY LAW. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH SUCH SHALL BE A COMPLETE DEFENSE TO ANY CLAIMS BY BIDDER RELATED TO THE CONDITIONS OF SALE, ANY AUCTION OR BID.
16.6 LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. For any and all claims by Bidder arising out of or related to this Agreement, Bidder’s viewing, bid, or purchase of items, or any agreement between the Parties, or otherwise, Bidder agrees that to the fullest extent such can be limited under the law, Bidder shall have no right to recover and hereby waives any and all rights to recover from against RR Auction or its affiliates, directors, employees, officers, agents, or contractors, consequential or indirect damages, lost profits damages, punitive, exemplary, statutory (or multiplier damages), physical or emotional distress damages, general or special damages of any kind (beyond amounts actually paid by Bidder for item(s) at issue), and in the event of recovery of any damages whatsoever, such shall be limited by the amounts actually paid by Bidder to RR Auction for the item(s) at issue in such claim, or if no money was paid to RR Auction by Bidder for items at issue, or there items are at issue, the amount of $150.00.
Section 17
RR Auction’s Additional Services
For Bidders who do not remove purchased property from RR Auction’s premises, RR Auction, in its sole discretion and solely as a service and accommodation to Bidders, may arrange to have purchased lots packed, insured and forwarded at the sole request, expense, and risk of Bidder. RR Auction assumes no and disclaims all responsibility and liability for acts or omissions in such packing or shipping by RR Auction or other packers and carriers, whether or not recommended by RR Auction. RR Auction assumes no and disclaims all responsibility and liability for dam-
age to frames, glass or other breakable items. Where RR Auction arranges and bills for such services via invoice, RR Auction will include an administration charge.
Section 18
Headings
Headings are for convenience only and shall not be used to interpret the substantive sections to which they refer.
Section 19 Entire Agreement
Except to the extent Bidder is also a consignor (in which case the terms of the consignment agreement shall also govern), these Conditions of Sale constitute the entire agreement between the Parties together with the terms and conditions contained in the auction Registration Form. They may not be amended, modified or superseded except in a signed writing executed by all parties. No oral or written statement by anyone employed by RR Auction or acting as agent or representative of RR Auction may amend, modify, waive or supersede the terms herein unless such amendment, waiver or modification is contained in a writing signed by all parties.
If any section of these Conditions of Sale or any term or provision of any section is held to be invalid, void, or unenforceable by any court or arbitrator of competent jurisdiction, the remaining parts of the agreement and remainder of the sections or terms and provisions of the section and all sections shall continue in full force and effect without being impaired or invalidated in any way.
Section 20 Governing Law and Enforcement
20.1 The Parties agree that all agreements between the Parties including but not limited to these Conditions of Sale are entered into in Boston, Massachusetts, no matter where Bidder is situated and no matter by what means or where Bidder was informed of the Auction and regardless of whether catalogs, materials, or other communications were received by Bidder in another location.
20.2 The Parties agree that these Conditions of Sale, any other related agreement(s), along with all claims between the Parties, including those arising out of or related to such are governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without regard for its conflict of laws principles. The Parties agree that any dispute between the Parties, including but not limited to those related to or arising out of these Conditions of Sale, or related to or arising out of any other related agreement(s) shall be submitted to confidential binding arbitration (the ”Arbitration”) before a single Arbitrator of the American Arbitration Association (the “AAA”) The Parties agree that the Arbitration shall be conducted pursuant to the commercial rules of the AAA in Boston, Massachusetts, unless the Consumer Arbitration Rules apply, in which case, such rules and venue will govern. In the event that the Parties cannot agree on the selection of the Arbitrator, then the Arbitrator shall be selected by the AAA. The prevailing Party in the Arbitration shall also recover all of its related fees and costs, whether before or after the formal institution of the Arbitration, including but not limited to its reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs, if RR Auction prevails, such recovery, in addition to all remedies available at agreement or law, shall include the Buyer’s Premium as defined in these Conditions of Sale. Federal arbitration law, including the Federal Arbitration Act apply to this agreement to arbitrate and its related provisions. The arbitration and all related proceedings shall be held strictly confidential and all documents and discovery shall be held confidential and not used, published or disclosed publically or to anyone outside the Parties or expert consultants or counsel who shall agree to hold such confidential.
20.3 The Parties consent to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as exclusive jurisdiction and venue for all claims between the Parties except as provided specifically herein and may seek confirmation of the decision in the Arbitration pursuant to the Federal Arbitration Act in any Court of competent jurisdiction, including the courts of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts. To the extent such is necessary under the law, RR Auction may enforce the Arbitration award against Bidder and any related Party
in any court of competent jurisdiction. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as RR Auction consenting to jurisdiction or venue in any location outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
THE PARTIES MAY NOT BRING CLAIMS AGAINST EACH OTHER AS A CLASS OR CLASS MEMBER IN ANY CLAIMED CLASS, OR IN A REPRESENTATIVE ACTION UNLESS OTHERWISE AGREED. UNLESS OTHERWISE AGREED, THE CLAIMS AGAINST EACH OF THE OTHER CANNOT BE CONSOLIDATED OR JOINED WITH MORE THAN ONE ADDITIONAL PERSON OR ENTITIES’ CLAIMS. NO INJUNCTIVE OR DECLATORY RELIEF SOUGHT BY BIDDER IF ANY, CAN AFFECT OR BE ORDERED TO AFFECT ANY OTHER BIDDERS OR PERSONS.
20.4 Except as provided specifically in these Conditions of Sale in Bidder’s Remedies against RR Auction (along with its affiliates, directors, agents, officers, employees, and contractors) for any dispute, claim, cause of action related to or arising out of these Conditions of Sale or any other related agreement(s), brought by Bidder must be brought within the earlier of the Auction Date as it pertains to the item(s) at issue or no later than one (1) year of the acts, omissions or circumstances occurred giving rise to the alleged claim, without exception. This provision is intended as a full, complete and absolute bar to and release of any claims by Bidder initiated after one (1) year of such acts, omissions or circumstances. The Parties agree further that these waiver provisions are intended to be binding in the event of any dispute, specifically including but not limited to third party claims and cross-actions brought by Bidder. These provisions are consideration for the execution of these Conditions of Sale.
20.5 To the fullest extent under applicable law and except as specifically stated herein Bidder hereby holds harmless, releases and discharges RR Auction and its agents, officer’s directors, affiliates, successors, and assigns from any and all claims, liabilities, obligations, promises, agreements, damages, causes of action, suits, demands, losses, debts, and expenses of any nature whatsoever, known or unknown, suspected or unsuspected existing prior to these Conditions of Sale. Bidder agrees to the Conditions of Sale and upon each instance that Bidder participates in any auction, bids, or otherwise agrees to such terms and reaffirms this release as of the date of so participating or agreeing unless Bidder otherwise provides clear written notice to RR Auction prior to so bidding.
20.6 The Bidder hereby agrees that RR Auction shall be entitled to present these Conditions of Sale to a court in any jurisdiction other than set forth in this paragraph as conclusive evidence of the Parties agreement, and the Parties further agree that the court shall immediately dismiss any action filed in such jurisdiction.
20.7 Liquidated Damages for Specific Breaches
In the event that Bidder provides false information in connection with registering for bidding, fails to correct or update information or breaches the Conditions of Sale by failing to pay the purchase price when due after becoming the winning bidder, as liquidated damages associated with such breaches, R&R may obtain from Bidder the greater of (1) 150% the reserve of the item (if any); (2) the amount bidder bid; or (3), the full amount that bidder would have otherwise paid. Bidder will also be liable for an additional 20% of such amount to account for additional administrative costs, shipping, additional advertising, and other damages and liabilities fees that are difficult to calculate on an item-by-item basis.
20.8 Indemnity. Bidder agrees to defend, indemnify, hold harmless RR Auction (along with its officers, directors, agents, contractors, and affiliates) from and against any and all claims, costs, fees, damages, and liabilities arising out of or related to these Conditions of Sale, view of items, or lots, bidding, or participation in any auction by RR Auction, and/or or in any way connected to any item you viewed, bid upon or purchased through RR Auction.
Section 21: State-by-State Law Issues
This Auction is being conducted in and the sale shall take place in the State of Massachusetts. Notwithstanding, the foregoing, should these terms and conditions violate the law of any State should that state’s law be found to govern, or any provision herein determined to be invalid, the
clause itself and the remainder of the Agreement shall be valid to the fullest extent allowed. Also, to the extent other states law apply to any transaction arising out of the Agreement (without admitting such), RR Auction states:
For Residents of California:
SALE OF AUTOGRAPHED COLLECTIBLES: AS REQUIRED BY LAW, A DEALER WHO SELLS TO A CONSUMER ANY COLLECTIBLE DESCRIBED AS BEING AUTOGRAPHED MUST PROVIDE A WRITTEN EXPRESS WARRANTY AT THE TIME OF SALE. THIS DEALER MAY BE SURETY BONDED OR OTHERWISE INSURED TO ENSURE THE AUTHENTICITY OF ANY AUTOGRAPHED COLLECTIBLE SOLD BY THIS DEALER.
A written express warranty is provided with each autographed collectible, as required by law. This dealer may be surety bonded or otherwise insured to ensure the authenticity of any autographed collectible sold by this dealer.
Section 22 Glossary of Condition terms
Information provided to prospective Bidders with respect of any lot, including any pre-sale estimate, whether written or oral, and information in any catalogue, condition or other report, commentary or valuation, is not a representation of fact but rather a statement of opinion held by RR Auction.
Use of the following terms constitutes an opinion as follows:
VERY FINE describes an item believed to be in virtually flawless condition, and is used sparingly for items of exceptionally attractive appearance.
FINE is the most common statement of condition, and applies to most items that we offer. It describes items that we believe to show expected handling wear, generally acceptable random flaws (such as light creases, small bends, etc.), and an overall appearance that is pleasing to the majority of collectors.
VERY GOOD describes an item that we believe exhibits more moderate flaws (such as toning, light staining, professional reinforcements or repairs, etc.). Most collectors would be comfortable with items in very good condition, and this would be the expected condition for many formats (early presidential documents, for example).
GOOD describes an item which we believe to have obvious visible flaws, including heavy wear, missing portions, or repairs that affect appearance; generally items in this condition are offered only if an item is otherwise believed to be exceedingly rare or important.
Bidder may call and request further details and information about RR Auction’s opinions concerning any item via phone or email which shall provided in RR Auction’s discretion.
Certificate
of Auction, Certificate of Authenticity and Goods Acquired:
Bidder warrants that Bidder (and its agents, assigns, successors, and affiliates) shall not purposely deface, destroy, dismember, cut-up into parts the item or Lot purchased at auction from RR Auction and in the event such shall occur whether purposefully or accidently, Bidder (and its agents, assigns, successors, and affiliates) shall refrain from advertising, promoting, or marketing the item as having been purchased from RR Auction and shall in no event display, expressly claim, or imply that the item was certified or auctioned in such state by RR Auction. As liquidated damages for such breach, Bidder agrees to be liable to RR Auction for the greater of the amount of three (3) times the hammer price of the item along with all other fees and costs as otherwise provided in this Terms of Sale.
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Thank you and your team for putting together such a great auction…As I continue my evolution in wisdom of life, I am happy to realize that it is who I am—not what I have—that defines me.”
Tom Gregory sold his collection with RR in 2016