At 6 p.m. on Wed. November 13th t he one-hour extended bidding period begins followed immediately by the 30 Minute Rule. All times in RR Auction guidelines and instructions are stated according to the Eastern (U.S.) time zone.
Bob Eaton CEO, Acquisitions bob.eaton@rrauction.com
Scarce Potomac Company financial document, neatly endorsed by George Washington as he aimed to promote early American infrastructure
1. George Washington Document Signed for the Potomac Company, an Early Investment in American Infrastructure. DS, signed “Go: Washington,” one page, 4.25 x 7.75, January 22, 1787. Potomac Company financial receipt, neatly endorsed on the reverse in ink by George Washington, George Gilpin, and John Fitzgerald as directors. The front, signed by James Smith, reads, in full: “Alexandria, January 22d 1787. Received of Wm. Hartshorne, Treasurer of the Potomac Company Ten pounds Four shillings on acco’t.” In fine condition. George Washington’s bold, crisp autograph is an ideal example.
One of George Washington’s greatest interests in the period between the end of the Revolutionary War and the start of his presidency was the development of the picturesque Potomac River as a navigable inland transportation route. The Potowmack Company, formed to accomplish this task using a series of locks and canals, was formed in 1785 and Washington was named the company’s president. The company’s 1785 charter
provided ‘liberal wages’ for ‘any Number not exceeding one hundred good Hands with provisions and a reasonable Quantity of Spirits.’ These laborers led a difficult life, being required to remove a certain amount of rock and debris before receiving their rations of spirits. During this period, James Smith was serving as an assistant manager; in June 1788, he would be promoted to manager of the project.
With an eye toward the greater good of the nation, Washington’s ambitions surpassed those of the ordinary businessman—he believed that improved infrastructure would strengthen the fledgling United States, with the Potomac Canal forming a literal link from east to west and binding together territories in a ‘chain which could never be broken.’ The project was beset by constant difficulty: insufficient funding and constant legal trouble contributed to the company’s ineffectiveness and eventual failure. A significant document associated with a major early American infrastructure project. Starting Bid $1000
Sent from the nation’s capital in NYC, a rare 1790 letter from Jefferson just eight days into his new role as America’s first Secretary of State:
“I avail myself of one going to Amsterdam to inform you of my having entered on the Duties of the Department of State”
2 . Thomas Jefferson Historic 1790 Letter Signed on Entering “the Duties of the Department of State”. Significant LS signed “Th: Jefferson,” one page both sides, 7.25 x 9, March 30, 1790. Addressed from New York, a letter to his friend William Short, who had recently served as Jefferson’s private secretary during the latter’s tenure as the U. S. Minister to France, in full: “There being no Vessel here bound to any Port in France, I avail myself of one going to Amsterdam to inform you of my having entered on the Duties of the Department of State, comprehending that of foreign Affairs. Your Letters come to Hand before the 3d. Inst: have been acknowledged by Mr. [John] Jay in one of that Date. Those of the 18th & 30th. November and 15th., 22d. & 26th. of December have been since received. The Channel of Conveyance forbids me to add more than an Assurance, that you shall hear from me more fully by the first safer one which offers: till then also the Gazettes and Journals of Congress for you must be reserved. I will then likewise do myself the Honor of writing to his Excellency the Count de Montmorin.”
The top of the front page is annotated by an unknown hand with Jefferson’s surname and what appears to be the missive’s reception date of July 16, 1790. In fine condition.
A historically fascinating letter from Thomas Jefferson a mere eight days into his role as the nation’s original secretary of state. Jefferson letters from New York are not common, given the brevity of his stay in the first Federal capital, which lasted only from his arrival in March 1790 until he departed for Monticello in September. While in New York, he lived in three
different locations, complaining to his daughter Martha: ‘I find it difficult to procure a tolerable house here.’ He finally settled at 57 Maiden Lane, where he famously entertained Alexander Hamilton in June. From that dinner emerged the deal that would become the Residence Act of 1790, which was signed into law by President George Washington on July 16, 1790—the same date present at the top of the offered letter—and provided for a national capital and permanent seat of government to be established at a site along the Potomac River.
William Short (1759-1849), whom ??Thomas Jefferson often referred to as his ‘adoptive son,’ was a Virginia-born diplomat who went to France as Jefferson’s secretary in the mid-1780s. When Jefferson returned to America to assume his post as secretary of state, Short negotiated a commercial treaty with France during the tempestuous phase of the French Revolution between 1789 and 1792. His reputation grew such that the Marquis de Lafayette wrote to George Washington to convey how he depended on the ‘very able, Engaging and Honest’ Short to secure commercial concessions for Americans in France. Under the watchful eye of Alexander Hamilton, Short managed duties as a fiscal agent, borrowing money and refinancing America’s foreign debt at a rate lower than that of any other country, a service that helped launch the federal government in the 1790s. Although he never obtained his desired post of Minister to France, Short spent the next 20 years in Europe, moving dutifully from one diplomatic post to another as the government saw fit. Starting Bid $2500
President Jefferson and Secretary of State Madison appoint a fellow founder as “Commissioner of Loans for the United States”
4. Thomas Jefferson and James Madison Document Signed, Appointing a Founder as Commissioner of Loans. Vellum manuscript DS, signed “Th: Jefferson” as president and “James Madison” as secretary of state, one page, 15.5 x 12.75, November 22, 1804. Unusual manuscript document by which President Jefferson appoints a fellow Founding Father to a federal post. In part: “Know ye, that reposing special Trust and Confidence in the Integrity, Diligence and Ability of William Few, of New York, I have nominated, and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, do appoint him Commissioner of Loans for the United States.” Signed at the conclusion in ink by President Thomas Jefferson, and countersigned by Secretary of State James Madison. The white paper seal affixed to the lower left remains intact. In
very good condition, with multiple folds, wrinkling and light dampstaining, and all of the handwritten portions (including the signatures) light but legible.
William Few (1748–1828) was a statesman who served as a delegate from the state of Georgia at the Constitutional Convention and signed the U.S. Constitution, then became one of Georgia’s first United States Senators, serving in Congress from 1789 to 1793. He moved to Manhattan in 1799 and embarked on yet another career of public service, serving as a representative in New York’s state assembly, as inspector of prisons, and as United States Commissioner of Loans—an appointment made by President Jefferson with this document. Starting Bid $300
President Lincoln generously pardons a Navy officer convicted for leading a mutiny that left one man dead
6. Abraham Lincoln Document Signed as President, Pardoning a Mutiny Leader. Civil War–dated partly-printed DS as president, signed “Abraham Lincoln,” one page, 8 x 10, September 12, 1861. President Lincoln orders the Secretary of State “to affix the Seal of the United States to the President’s Warrant for the pardon of Robert Craig.” Signed at the conclusion in full by President Abraham Lincoln. In fine condition, with faint toning to the edges and folds, and a couple tiny edge chips.
Born in Philadelphia to Scottish and Irish immigrants, Robert Craig served on board the ship William F. Storer as it began its journey to Liverpool in 1860. While docked in the North River before departure, eight men, led by Craig, conducted a mutiny on board, gathering tools from the deck and beating steward Andrew Mitchell to death. Quickly arrested by Harbor Police, the men were tried and found guilty; Craig bore the brunt of the responsibility and was sentenced to seven years in prison. After reviewing the case—just one of over 1600 cases of military justice that landed on his desk during his presidency—Lincoln granted a pardon to Craig, who then returned to the Navy where he remained active until his discharge in October of 1865. A handsome example of Lincoln’s liberal use of presidential pardons, giving a second chance to a Navy officer who would remain loyal for the duration of the Civil War. Starting Bid $1000
5. James Madison and James Monroe Document Signed as President and Secretary of State. Partial manuscript DS, signed “James Madison” as president and “Jas. Monroe” as secretary of state, one page, 11 x 8.75, December 3, 1817. Bottom section of a document from the Allegheny County Recorder of Deeds, in part: “Recorded in the Office for recording of deeds in and for the said County in Book Y, page 136 and 37 – Given under my hand and seal of office at the city of Pittsburgh.” Signed at the conclusion by William Jones on behalf of recorder Samuel Jones, and signed in the provided space above in bold ink by both President James Madison and Secretary of State James Monroe. The upper portion retains the official embossed seal. Double-matted and framed with an engraved plate and two portraits to an overall size of 29.5 x 18.5. In very good to fine condition, with uniform overall toning, and a small hole to lower right edge. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.Starting Bid $200
President Grants assigns a former Union General to conclude a Treaty of Friendship with Peru
7. U. S. Grant Document Signed as President. Partlyprinted DS as president, one page, 8 x 10, May 6, 1870. President Grant directs the Secretary of State to affix the Seal of the United States to “my full power to Alvin P. Hovey to conclude a Treaty of Friendship, Commerce and Navigation, with the Gov’t of Peru.” Signed at the conclusion by U. S. Grant. In fine condition, with faint toning to the edges and folds, and a small tear to the lower right corner tip.
Alvin Peterson Hovey was a Union general during the American Civil War (1821–1891) who later served as the 21st governor of Indiana from 1889 to 1891. During the war he played an important role in the Western theater, earning high approval from General U. S. Grant, and uncovered a secret plot for an uprising in Indiana. He also served as an Indiana congressman and as the United States Minister to Peru from 1866 to 1870. Starting Bid $200
President Cleveland proclaims
“a day of Thanksgiving”
in 1894
9. Grover Cleveland Document Signed as President - Thanksgiving Proclamation. Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 8 x 10, November 1, 1894. President Cleveland directs the Secretary of State to cause the Seal of the United States to be affixed to “my Proclamation setting apart Thursday the 29th day of November instant, as a day of Thanksgiving, etc.” Signed at the conclusion by Grover Cleveland. In fine condition.
Beginning with Abraham Lincoln in 1863, American presidents have carried on the custom of proclaiming a day of national Thanksgiving for 160 years. Although Congress and President Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed Thanksgiving as an official federal holiday in 1941, the annual tradition of the president proclaiming the holiday remains today. Starting Bid $200
President McKinley proclaims a day of Thanksgiving for 1898
10. William McKinley Document Signed as President - Thanksgiving Proclamation. DS as president, one page, 8 x 10.25, October 28, 1898. President McKinley directs the Secretary of State to cause the Seal of the United States to be affixed to “my Thanksgiving Proclamation.” Signed neatly at the conclusion by William McKinley. In fine condition. Accompanied by an original print of McKinley’s 1897 Thanksgiving proclamation. In fine condition, with light toning along the right edge.
Beginning with Abraham Lincoln in 1863, American presidents have carried on the custom of proclaiming a day of national Thanksgiving for 160 years. Although Congress and President Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed Thanksgiving as an official federal holiday in 1941, the annual tradition of the president proclaiming the holiday remains today. Starting Bid $200
Ike on the Bikini Atoll atomic bomb tests:
“The forthcoming tests are designed as a military experiment, with particular regard to the effect of the bomb on navel vessels, to obtain data which will be absolutely vital to our national security”
11. Dwight D. Eisenhower Typed Letter Signed on Bikini Atoll Atomic Bomb Tests: “The forthcoming tests are designed as a military experiment, with particular regard to the effect of the bomb on navel vessels”. TLS, one page, 7 x 9, War Department, Chief of Staff letterhead, March 11, 1946. Letter to J. P. Heinmuller, president of the Longines-Wittnauer Watch Company, in full: “I am in receipt of your recent telegram proposing the transfer of the forthcoming atomic bomb tests from Bikini Atoll to Greenland. While it is agreed that the development of such copper deposits as you describe would be of considerable economic importance, I would like to emphasize that the forthcoming tests are designed as a military experiment, with particular regard to the effect of the bomb on navel vessels, to obtain data which will be absolutely vital to our national security.
Bikini Atoll was chosen, after much consideration, as the site that best satisfied the requirements of safety to participating personnel, good anchorage facilities, and the availability of stable or determinable air and sea currents which are such as to guarantee that contaminated air or water will not be carried to any inhabited area. Much of the information to be gained from these tests will be extremely valuable in considering the application of atomic energy to projects such as you propose. I thank you for your interest in this subject and appreciate your desire to advance the welfare of our country.” In fine condition.
The Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands was the site of U.S. nuclear testing during the late 1940s and 1950s. Between 1946 and 1958, a total of 23 atomic and hydrogen bombs were detonated there as part of the Cold War-era weapons development program. The first atomic test at Bikini Atoll, codenamed ‘Able,’ took place on July 1, 1946, as part of a series designed to examine the effects of nuclear explosions on naval warships. The bomb was dropped from a B-29 bomber and detonated 520 feet above the lagoon, where a fleet of surplus and captured ships had been positioned as targets. Although the explosion caused significant damage, the test’s results were less dramatic than expected. Starting Bid $300
Jackie Kennedy’s elegant pearl-handed travel comb—an emblem of her iconic style
13. Jacqueline Kennedy’s Pearl-Handled Folding CombOwned and Used as First Lady. First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy’s personallyowned and -used folding travel comb, measuring 4˝ long closed and 7.75˝ long open, featuring a brown tortoiseshell plastic hair comb that folds out of a decorative pearloid and gold-tone case. Complete with its gray flannel travel pouch. In fine condition. Accompanied by a 1987 letter of provenance from Evelyn Lincoln, John F. Kennedy’s personal secretary, stating that the comb “was used by Mrs. John F. Kennedy while she was the First Lady in the White House.” The letter is addressed to Robert L. White (1949–2003) who was known for having the finest JFK collection ever assembled.
First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy is widely known as one of the greatest style icons of all time. Celebrated for her incredible fashion sense, it is no surprise that her personal hair comb also reflects her elegant, timeless style. Any fashion items connected to Jackie are highly sought after; as a piece from her time as first lady, boasting extraordinary provenance, this comb is truly exceptional. Starting Bid $300
15. John and Robert Kennedy Original Oversized Photograph by Jacques Lowe. Iconic original matte-finish 12 x 18 silver gelatin photo of John and Robert Kennedy entitled ‘Brothers,’ taken by Jacques Lowe at the Biltmore Hotel, Los Angeles, on July 14, 1960—the day after JFK received the Democratic presidential nomination. Mounted on a board which bears Lowe’s Studio One stamp on the reverse. Cloth-matted and framed to an overall size of 15.5 x 21.5, with a window in the backing for viewing the photographer’s stamp. In fine condition.
Lowe began working as John F. Kennedy’s campaign photographer in 1958, and documented his presidential administration until 1962. Taken on the day that Lyndon B. Johnson accepted Kennedy’s offer of the vice presidential nomination, the image is said to depict them discussing the choice of LBJ, which Robert F. Kennedy was adamantly against. Lowe passed away in early 2001, and his archive of negatives was destroyed with the World Trade Center, making this an especially scarce and desirable image. Starting Bid $200
“I was so hostile to God after he took Jack. You, more than anyone, brought me back to Him”— moving five-page handwritten letter from Jackie to Archbishop Cardinal Richard Cushing of Boston—
“So I owe my life - and the lives I will try to give my children - to you”
12. Jacqueline Kennedy Emotional Letter to Boston Archbishop Richard Cushing: “I was so hostile to God after he took Jack. You, more than anyone, brought me back to Him”. ALS, signed “Jackie,” five pages, 6 x 8.5, March 25, 1969. Addressed from “Trinidad” while on board the private motor yacht Christina, a handwritten letter to Archbishop Cardinal Richard Cushing of Boston, in full: “Your Eminence, Your letter, which you wrote from the hospital, was brought to me here by the children, who came for the Easter holidays. Dear Dear Your Eminence - you push yourself beyond the mortal limit in your care and love for others. I sense sadness between the lines of your letter - and I wonder, who is there to comfort you? - you, who expend all strength and love on others? You say you resolved you would write us in you own handwriting. You must not ever do that. I know you feel that would show how much you care for us, if you take the pain to write in your own hand. But we, of all people, - do we need to be given further proof of your love for us? If you ever do that, it will break my heart.
And the Joan of Arc medals for Caroline - all the trouble you went to. I shall always wear one, because it comes from you. And I shall give her, on Easter morning, the most precious one, blessed by you and his Holiness, (for it is in that order that I value their blessedness) - with your beautiful words about them. And she will strive all her life to live up to those words. The devotion you give to such little things - the lives of children - that is what touches me so deeply about you that it causes pain.
And what you do for me - what you do for Ari. The nobility of your sending your speech, so that he might give to his Patriarch. I can’t describe how I feel when I think of you and me. But in these days I think of many things I never thought about before. So many people we loved are gone. I was so hostile to God after he took Jack. You, more than anyone, brought me back to him. Now, because of your example, I have the deepest faith that cannot ever again be shaken. So I owe my life - and the lives I will try to give my children - to you.
When I sense such sadness between the lines of your letter, I want to give you something. I know no human comfort can mean anything to you, compared to the comfort which god can give you. But maybe if you know that another human senses your suffering and longs to share it, and take it on their hearts to spare yours - maybe it would be nice for you to know that once in your life - because all your life is taking the pain out of other people’s suffering.
I gave your address to Ari, for him to send to the Patriarch, when I joined him in Paris March 16. He was so deeply moved. The reason you did not hear from us earlier is that I didn’t join him till then. Then we got on his ship - and ever since, we have been crossing the Atlantic. We got to Trinidad tonight - where the children joined us by plane from New York for the Easter holidays. Now it is 1 am and we are setting sail for another Caribbean island - and I am sitting on the deck in the hot starry night, writing to you. Mrs. Kennedy is joining us in 2 days, to give her a respite from the difficult winter. And then Ethel and her children and friends are coming for the same.
Apart from my family, from all the ties of blood and marriage - the person that I truly love in all this world is you, your Eminence, and I apologize for taking all these pages to tell you that. I arranged for the film of your talk March 30 to be sent to us, so we will all watch it on this ship together - and be close to you with all our love that day. We have the noble red picture of you here - and the children have their beautiful one in our library in New York You see you are never out of our thoughts and hearts. I pray that such new health and strength will come to you. They will, with spring. They must, you Eminence. You must not suffer. That is the one thing no one can bear - for you to suffer any more than you already have. With the deepest love and eternal devotion.” In fine condition. An intimate and lengthy handwritten letter from Jackie sent to a man she revered and leaned on through the many wonderful, and tragic, times in her life. Starting Bid $1000
Rare JFK and RFK joint-signed commutation for the sentence of a narcotics trafficker
14. John F. Kennedy and Robert Kennedy Document as President and Attorney General - Commuting the Sentence of a Narcotics Trafficker. Partly-printed DS, signed “John F. Kennedy” as president and “Robert F. Kennedy” as attorney general, one page both sides, 9 x 13.5, August 14, 1963. Commutation document issued to Jim Bean Cogsdell, who had been convicted on charges related to the sale and distribution of narcotics. In part: “Jim Bean Cogsdell was convicted in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi on an indictment (No. 3003), charging violations of Section 4704(a) and Section 4705(a), Title 26, United States Code, and on July twenty-second, 1959, a sentence of ten years’ imprisonment was imposed.”
The document goes on to outline further sentences imposed
upon Cogsdell, concluding: “Whereas it has been made to appear that the ends of justice do not require that the aforesaid sentences be served in their entirety: Now, therefore, be it known, that I, John F. Kennedy, President of the United States of America, in consideration of the premises, divers other good and sufficient reasons me thereunto moving, do hereby commute the sentences of the said Jim Bean Cogsdell to a term of seven years’ imprisonment.” Boldly signed at the conclusion by President John F. Kennedy and countersigned by Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy. The gold foil Department of Justice seal affixed to the lower left remains intact. In very good to fine condition, with creasing, soiling, three horizontal folds, and a small stain touching JFK’s last name. JFK/RFK dual-signed pardons or commutations are quite scarce—we have offered only two similar examples. Starting Bid $1000
JFK dedicates a copy of Profiles in Courage to the writer of the ‘PT-109’ episode of Navy Log: “To Allan Sloane—Who is making the past-present”
16. John F. Kennedy Signed Book - Profiles in Courage, Dedicated to the Screenwriter of Navy Log: ‘PT 109’. Signed book: Profiles in Courage. Later printing. NY: Harper & Brothers, 1956. Hardcover with dust jacket, 6 x 8.5, 266 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page in black ballpoint, “To Allan Sloane—Who is making the past-present. With very warmest regards, John Kennedy, 1957.” Autographic condition: very fine. Book condition: VG/VG.
Kennedy underwent several life-threatening spinal operations in the 1950s and, in 1955, he was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, an insufficient output of thyroid hormones. During his convalescence period in 1954 and 1955, JFK wrote the book Profiles in Courage, which described eight instances in which US Senators risked their careers by standing up for their per-
sonal beliefs. It became a bestseller upon its release in 1956 and was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Biography in 1957.
The recipient of this special example, Allan Sloane, was a writer for radio and television who worked on Navy Log, a CBS television series that dramatized the greatest survival war stories in the history of the United States Navy. In August 1957, then-Senator John F. Kennedy served as technical adviser for the ‘P. T. 109’ episode of Navy Log, which related the story of the sinking of the patrol torpedo boat that he commanded during World War II. Kennedy also appeared as a guest on the broadcast of that episode. A remarkable association piece that connects JFK’s past and present—from sailor to senator and soon-to-be president. Starting Bid $1000
Kennedy presents a striking portrait to influential advisor Clark Clifford, “a valued public citizen”
17. John F. Kennedy Oversized Signed Photograph by Alfred Eisenstaedt, Presented to Influential Advisor Clark Clifford. Magnificent vintage matte-finish 10.75 x 13.75 portrait of John F. Kennedy taken by Alfred Eisenstaedt after his nomination as the Democratic presidential candidate in August of 1960, boldly signed and inscribed in the lower border in fountain pen, “For Clark Clifford—a valued public citizen, in private life, with esteem and best wishes from his friend, John F. Kennedy.” Impressively cloth-matted and framed to an overall size of 23 x 26. In fine condition. Although taken in the summer of 1960, this was the preferred portrait Kennedy would sign and give out during the beginning of his presidential administration.
A revered political adviser in Democratic circles, Clark Clifford had served as White House Counsel under President Truman, and would go on to succeed Robert McNamara as Secretary of Defense under LBJ. Clifford was the head of the presidential transition for John F. Kennedy, a member of president-elect Kennedy’s Committee on the Defense Establishment, and was appointed by Kennedy to the President’s Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board. Moreover, he was highly influential in his role as an unofficial, informal presidential adviser to Truman, Kennedy, Johnson, and Carter. In Clark Clifford: The Wise Man of Washington, biographer John Acacia describes Clifford as ‘Kennedy’s consigliere.’ A remarkable, boldly signed portrait of JFK, presented to one of his key political confidantes. Starting Bid $1000
Lt. Kennedy promises to send PT-109 photos to a fellow survivor: “Also I have a drawing of the boat”
18. John F. Kennedy Autograph Letter Signed to a Fellow PT-109 Survivor. World War II-dated ALS signed “Jack Kennedy,” four pages, 8 x 10.5, Navy Department, Submarine Chaser Training Center (Miami, Florida) letterhead, April 26, 1944. Handwritten letter to “Mac,” fellow PT-109 survivor John E. Maguire, in full: “Thanks for your letter. I’ll get busy on the pictures and see what I can round up—and also I have a drawing of the boat which I will forward to you. The situation here is normal—but once you get your feet up on the table in the morning the real tough work of the day is done. What do they plan to do with all of you fellows—have they given you
any date or when you’ll be moving out again. Glad [Edgar] Mauer got back—I hope [Maurice] Kawal & [Charles] Harris do soon. I was sorry to hear about your mother—though I am glad that you got back in time to see her. Heard from Mrs. [Andrew] Kirksey, everything seems to be going well for her. In regard to your coming down here—they are closing up here in a few weeks—and in addition are really putting out the work down here and I am not sure you could stand the pace. Regards to the boys & you’ll hear from me on the pictures.” In very good to fine condition, with light soiling and handling wear. Starting Bid $500
President Kennedy appoints a new CIA director, who would soon be influential in the Cuban Missile Crisis
19. John F. Kennedy Document Signed as President, Appointing CIA Director John A. McCone - Key Figure in the Cuban Missile Crisis. Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 21 x 17, November 29, 1961. President Kennedy appoints John A. McCone of California as “Director of Central Intelligence.” Boldly signed at the conclusion by President John F. Kennedy, and countersigned by Secretary of State Dean Rusk. The embossed white paper seal affixed at the lower left remains intact. Impressively suede-matted and framed with a plaque to an overall size of 34 x 31.5. In very good to fine condition, with light dampstaining in the right margin. Accompanied by two color glossy photographs of McCone’s swearing-in ceremony, suede-matted and framed with a plaque to an overall size of 27 x 18.5. In overall fine condition.
After the disaster of the Bay of Pigs Invasion, President John F. Kennedy forced the resignation of CIA director Allen Dulles and some of his staff; McCone replaced Dulles as Director of Central Intelligence on November 29, 1961, as seen in this document and its accompanying images. McCone would go on to be a key figure in the Cuban Missile Crisis. He had predicted Russian deployment of ballistic missiles to the island nation and ordered the U-2 reconnaissance flights that uncovered evidence of the missiles on October 14, 1962. Throughout the crisis, McCone closely monitored the situation and briefed the administration on incoming intelligence reports, keeping Kennedy and his cabinet informed on the Soviet military buildup in Cuba—and their ultimate withdrawal after a tense 13-day standoff that brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. Starting Bid $500
Stunning Reed & Barton cake knife used by President Kennedy to slice into his enormous Inauguration Ball cake
20. John F. Kennedy Personally-Used Cake Knife from the 1961 Presidential Inauguration Ball. Historic Reed & Barton sterling silver cake knife used by President John F. Kennedy when he sliced into the massive three-tiered ‘White House’ cake at the Inaugural Ball, which was held at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C., on January 20, 1961. The knife, measuring 10.5˝ in length, features a gold-tone handle that is engraved on the front, “President John F. Kennedy, Jan. 20, 1961,” and the reverse, “Inaugural Cake Presented By American Bakery & Confect’y Workers Int’l Union,” whose “ABC / AFL-CIO” stamp is also present on the handle’s front. The flat underside of the knife bears the maker’s mark: “Reed & Barton, Mirrorstele, Sterling Handle.” In fine condition, with trivial scuffs from use.
Accompanied by a letter of provenance from the son of the knife’s original owner, whose father worked with Under Secretary of State Chester Bowles and was invited to attend the Inaugural Ball: “As waiters were clearing the table toward the end of the event, my father noticed that they had left behind the cake knife that Kennedy used to cut the first slice of the Inaugural cake. He turned around to Chester Bowles and asked casually, ‘Chet, do you think anyone would miss that cake knife they left on the table?’ Bowles then walked over to the table, picked up the knife, wiped it with a napkin and handed it to my father and said, ‘Ken, put this in your pocket. It’s a souvenir.” Starting Bid $500
JFK bill-signer
used to enact the Equal Pay Act of 1963, ensuring equal pay for equal work
21. John F. Kennedy 1963 Equal Pay Act Bill Signing Pen - From the Collection of JFK Assistant Dave Powers. Historic dipping pen attributed to President John F. Kennedy’s signing of the Equal Pay Act of 1963 (H.R. 6060), originating from the collection of Dave Powers, who served as Special Assistant to the President in the Kennedy administration. The official ‘bill signer’ Esterbrook pen measures 6.25˝ long and features a black plastic grip with a Lucite handle imprinted with “The President—The White House.” Housed in a beautiful mahogany display case with an engraved plaque inside the lid, reading: “President John F. Kennedy, June 10, 1963.” A small piece of tape on the grip is annotated: “Kennedy 1963.” In fine condition.
Accompanied by a letter of provenance from David F. Powers (1912-1998), who was Special Assistant and Assistant Appointments Secretary to John F. Kennedy, and also a long-time museum curator of the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum. In full: “I certify that the pen labeled ‘Kennedy 1963’ is one of the pens that President John F. Kennedy used to sign the Equal Pay Act in 1963 (10th of June), H.R. 6060. The pen was part of my personal collection of various presidential collectibles. In 1960, I worked on Kennedy’s campaign, and I later worked for Kennedy as Special Assistant. I was gifted this pen and various other items.”
John F. Kennedy signed the Equal Pay Act into law on June 10, 1963, as part of his broader push for civil rights and gender equality. The law aimed to abolish wage disparity based on gender, ensuring that women received equal pay for equal work. Kennedy’s administration championed the act in response to growing demands from women’s rights advocates for fair treatment in the workforce. This legislation marked a significant milestone in the fight for gender equality. Starting Bid $500
“I was particularly pleased to have you at the White House for the swearing-in ceremonies of General Maxwell Taylor”
22. John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed as President to Gen. Lyman Lemnitzer on the “swearing-in ceremonies of General Maxwell Taylor”. TLS as president, one page, 6.75 x 8.75, White House letterhead, October 10, 1962. Letter to General Lyman L. Lemnitzer, in full: “I was particularly pleased to have you at the White House for the swearing-in ceremonies of General Maxwell Taylor. I said at that time I was impressed with the number of distinguished and patriotic men of high competence and integrity who served in our Armed Forces. This country has indeed been fortunate to have had such men as the four of you serve as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. I expect that General Maxwell Taylor will emulate his distinguished predecessors. Enclosed is a picture taken while you were here which I thought you would like to have.” In fine condition, with a few small stains to top blank area, and trivial brushing to the bold signature. Accompanied by an unsigned matte-finish 8 x 10 portrait of Gen. Lemnitzer.
Lyman Lemnitzer served as the fourth chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 1960 to 1962, playing a role in the Bay of Pigs crisis and approving the plans known as Operation Northwoods, a proposed false flag operation developed to justify taking military action against Cuba. Shortly after rejecting the Northwoods proposal, Kennedy replaced Lemnitzer as chairman of the Joint Chiefs with General Maxwell D. Taylor on October 1, 1962. Starting Bid $300
A rare White House reference book—President John F. Kennedy’s personal copy of The Constitution of the United States of America, with affixed “John Fitzgerald Kennedy” presidential bookplate
23. President John F. Kennedy’s Personal Copy of The Constitution of the United States of America - From the Estate of Jacqueline Kennedy. Rare book from the personal library of President John F. Kennedy: The Constitution of the United States of America: Analysis and Interpretation. Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office, 1953. Unsigned. Hardcover with gilt text to spine and debossed Great Seal of the United States to the front cover, 8.25 x 11.5, 1361 pages. The front pastedown bears the ownership bookplate of President Kennedy, which consists of the presidential seal over capitalized name text: “John Fitzgerald Kennedy.” In fine condition, with some light wear to the head and tail of the spine. Accompanied by a Sotheby’s auction label, which was formerly affixed to the page adjacent to the title page, indicating that this book was sold as part of their prestigious ‘The Estate of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ sale, which was held April 23-26, 1996.
As a senator from Massachusetts, Kennedy spoke at the National Conference on Constitutional Rights and American Freedom, held in New York on October 12, 1960, and offered these thoughts: ‘The Constitution is a wonderful document and it gives great powers to the President and great influence. It is, as Franklin Roosevelt said, above all a place for moral leadership, and as this is a moral question, it is upon the President the central responsibility will bear.’ A remarkable Kennedy artifact deriving from the historic bookshelves of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Starting Bid $500
“Wanted for Treason”—a scarce right-wing handbill circulated in Dallas in November 1963
24. John F. Kennedy ‘Wanted For Treason’ Handbill. Scarce 9 x 12 single-sided handbill circulated in Dallas at the time of John F. Kennedy’s ill-fated November 1963 visit, showing side-toside ‘mugshot style’ images of President Kennedy with the headline, “Wanted for Treason.” The flyer lists seven “treasonous activities” made by Kennedy against the United States, in full: “1. Betraying the Constitution (which he swore to uphold): He is turning the sovereignty of the U.S. over to the communist controlled United Nations. He is betraying our friends (Cuba, Katanga, Portugal) and befriending our enemies (Russia, Yugoslavia, Poland). 2. He has been WRONG on innumerable issues affecting the security of the U.S. (United Nations—Berlin Wall—Missile Removal—Cuba—Wheat Deals—Test Ban Treaty, etc.) 3. He has been lax in enforcing Communist Registration laws. 4. He has given support and encouragement to the Communist-inspired racial riots. 5. He has illegally invaded a sovereign State with federal troops. 6. He has consistently appointed Anti-Christians to Federal office: Upholds the Supreme Court in its Anti-Christian rulings. Aliens and known Communists abound in federal offices. 7. He has been caught in fantastic LIES to the American people (including personal ones like his previous marriage and divorce).” In very good to fine condition, with scattered light staining, and a short split to the end of the central horizontal fold.
This material, designed to resemble an FBI wanted poster, was authored by Robert A. Surrey, a salesman at Johnson Printing Co. of Dallas, who had been closely associated with General Edwin Walker, a leader of right-wing activity in Texas. Walker resigned his Army post in 1961 after a Kennedy-ordered investigation found that he had violated the Hatch Act, which prohibits federal employees from engaging in political activity on the job; interestingly, Walker was nearly the victim of an assassination attempt made by Lee Harvey Oswald on April 10, 1963, only months before Oswald turned his sights to Kennedy. Starting Bid $300
Extraordinary 1942 swimming photo inscribed by JFK to his sister:
“It only took five easy lessons”
25. John F. Kennedy Signed Photograph to His Sister: “It only took five easy lessons”. Remarkable vintage circa 1942 glossy 6 x 4.75 photo of the youthful John F. Kennedy in a swimming pool, humorously signed and inscribed in fountain pen to his sister, “For Sister Jean, It only took five easy lessons. Love, Jack.” In very good condition, with clipped corners, trimmed edges, and heavy overall creasing. Originally from the estate of Kennedy’s sister Jean Kennedy Smith. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
John F. Kennedy had long been an accomplished swimmer, having been on the varsity squad at Harvard. He put these skills to good use in April 1943 while stationed in the Solomon Islands, when his PT-109 torpedo boat was rammed by a Japanese destroyer. Kennedy and his surviving men swam three miles to a nearby island to await rescue. An incredible family photo boasting a poignant inscription considering what was soon to come. Starting Bid $500
“I thought I would write and thank you for your very kind review of my book”—JFK thanks a journalist for reading While England Slept
26. John F. Kennedy Autograph Letter Signed, Thanking a Journalist for Reviewing While England Slept. Early ALS, two pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.5 x 6.75, [August 12, 1940]. Handwritten letter of thanks to a journalist, “Mr. Williamson,” for a positive review of his book While England Slept, in full: “I thought I would write and thank you for your very kind review of my book last Sunday. I was very interested to read it and I appreciate your friendly comment.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
On September 3, 1939, the same day that Britain and France declared war on Germany following its invasion of Poland, the passenger liner SS Athenia became the first UK ship to be sunk by German forces in World War II. Among the Athenia’s 1,103 passengers, 311 were U.S. citizens, and those that were
rescued were safely transported to Glasgow. Unable to leave London, Ambassador Joseph Kennedy sent his 22-year-old son and personal secretary John F. Kennedy to visit the American survivors on his behalf.
The event was a pivotal one for Kennedy, who by October had returned to Harvard after his six-month European sabbatical with a reshaped political mindset. He had, initially, like his father, considered the prospect of war remote, but the sinking of the Athenia and the concurrent war declaration pressed upon Kennedy greatly. After the fall of Poland, JFK wrote an editorial for the Harvard University newspaper entitled Peace in Our Time, and then began work on his honors thesis, which discussed the British appeasement that led to war; the final product would be published as a book in 1940, under the title Why England Slept. Starting Bid $300
27. John F. Kennedy: Fishing Tackle Box from the ‘Honey Fitz’ Presidential Yacht. Vintage Ocean City blue fiberglass tackle box attributed to the Honey Fitz presidential yacht, measuring 16˝ x 7˝ x 7.5˝, with a “Honey Fitz Presidential Yacht” decal affixed to the top of the lid. Inside, the three-level fishing box contains eleven lures (including two “South Bend Finn-Oreno” minnows), a Bicco fish scaler, a Blakemore brush gripper, a Shakespeare Spin-Wondereel No. 1730 casting reel, a Langley Fisherman’s De-liar Model 228 scale, and a few other fishing trinkets. In very good to fine condition, with wear from use and an overall musty odor.
The 92–foot presidential yacht used by five presidents, from Truman through Nixon, was christened the ‘Honey Fitz’ by President John F. Kennedy in honor of his grandfather, John Francis ‘Honey Fitz’ Fitzgerald, who served in Congress and as mayor of Boston. Kennedy often used the yacht for both relaxation and informal meetings with world leaders, enjoying its time cruising along the waters of Cape Cod and Florida. The Honey Fitz became a symbol of Kennedy’s charismatic presidency, blending leisure with diplomacy during his time in office. Starting Bid $200
President Kennedy’s 17-jewel Elmar watch with Hebrew numerals—a piece symbolic of the U.S.–Israeli military alliance that JFK founded
28.
John F. Kennedy’s Hebrew Elmar Watch - Owned and Tried On as President. President John F. Kennedy’s personally-owned Elmar 17-jewel wristwatch with a gold-filled case and Hebrew numerals on the 30mm dial, displayed on a fine calf leather band. Untested and in fine cosmetic condition.
Accompanied by a 1987 letter of provenance from Evelyn Lincoln, John F. Kennedy’s personal secretary, in part: “A very close friend of President John F. Kennedy made a trip to the Far East and upon return he gave the President the gold ‘Elmar’ watch with Far Eastern numerals and black calf leather wrist band, which you now have in your possession. The President tried it on. Then pushed it aside—and said he had no need for it.” The letter is addressed to Robert L. White (1949–2003), who was known for having the finest JFK collection ever assembled. Although this was not a watch that JFK wore daily, it is an intriguing piece of history—Kennedy founded the U.S.-Israeli military alliance, ending the arms embargo that the Truman and Eisenhower administrations had enforced on Israel. Describing the protection of Israel as a moral and national commitment, Kennedy was the first to introduce the concept of a ‘special relationship’ between the United States and Israel. This personally-owned Hebrew-numbered wristwatch from JFK’s presidency, tried on and cast aside, stands as a unique piece symbolic of that enduring alliance. Starting Bid $300
29-year-old JFK writes from Boston’s Hotel Bellevue three months after announcing his bid for Congress
29. John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed, Three Months After Announcing His Congressional Campaign. Early TLS, one page, 5.5 x 8.5, personal ‘Hotel Bellevue’ letterhead, July 2, 1946. Letter to Palmina Celata of East Boston, in full: “This is just a note to thank you for your nice letter and the congratulations and good wishes that it contained. I appreciate very much the interest that you took in the campaign and was very pleased to speak at the house party which you held. My thanks again and with kindest personal regards.” In very good to fine condition, with two parallel diagonal creases. Starting Bid $300
29-year-old JFK writes from Boston’s Hotel Bellevue while campaigning for his first term in Congress
30. John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed, Two Months After Announcing His First Campaign for Congress. TLS, one page, 5.5 x 8.5, Hotel Bellevue letterhead, June 27, 1946. Letter to Constantine J. Calata, in full: “Your case has been called to my attention by Bill Kelley of East Boston. The facts as presented by him will be taken up with the Veterans’ Administration and you will be advised as to what action will be taken on your case.” Kennedy adds a handwritten and initialed postscript, “I will keep after that matter—J.F.K.” In fine condition.
Following his stint as a foreign correspondent with Hearst Newspapers, Kennedy returned to America and stayed at the Hotel Bellevue in Boston where his grandfather John F. Fitzgerald, former Boston Mayor and U.S. Congressmen, was spending his retirement. When Kennedy decided to run for Congress in April 1946, his father rented a two-room suite for him at the hotel so he had an official residence in the Congressional district. With the support of his grandfather—and the family name—JFK was elected to Congress as a representative for Massachusetts’s 11th district on November 5, 1946, and would take his seat in the House of Representatives on January 3, 1947. An early letter from the aspiring politician, promising to attend to veterans’ affairs. Starting Bid $200
High school physics worksheet by the young JFK, plus one by his lifelong best friend Lem Billings
31. John F. Kennedy Choate Physics Lab Handwritten and Signed Worksheet (c. 1935), with a Physics Lab Page by Lem Billings. Choate physics laboratory worksheet filled out by Kennedy and signed in pencil at the top, “John F. Kennedy,” one page both sides, 7.25 x 10.25, no date but circa 1935. Kennedy answers twelve questions for a laboratory experiment involving a lead-acid battery, recording his observations: at the conclusion of the experiment an electric “bell rings,” showing that the battery had “electrical energy stored up.” Additionally includes a similar physics lab worksheet filled out and signed by Kennedy’s Choate roommate and lifelong best friend Lem Billings, “K. LeMoyne Billings,” answering four questions about an experiment to determine the specific gravity of bodies heavier than water. In overall fine condition.
This unique worksheet reveals JFK’s understanding and grasp of a difficult subject in the physical sciences. Kennedy attended Choate from 1931 to 1935, and was elected as ‘most likely to succeed’ from his graduating class.
John F. Kennedy and Kirk LeMoyne Billings met at Wallingford, Connecticut’s prestigious Choate Preparatory School in 1933 and formed an instant connection. Consummate pranksters,
the boys found comfort away from home in their similar senses of humor-during their senior year, they formed a secret society known as ‘The Muckers Club.’ The bane of their Choate headmaster’s existence, Jack and Lem were known as Public Enemy Number 1 and Number 2 and were nearly expelled on several occasions.
Jack spent much of his time at Choate very ill, and it was Billings who gave him the unwavering support he needed to persevere. In pain most of his life, JFK hardly ever complained—Lem was the first and virtually only person with whom he shared his physical suffering. He lifted Jack’s spirits at such a formative time when the future president could have easily sunk into despair. It has been reported that Lem, a closeted gay man, secretly loved Jack and made an unrequited pass at him early in their relationship. The resulting awkwardness didn’t put a damper on their friendship, and upon their 1935 Choate graduation they exchanged senior portraits.
At all the difficult turns in Kennedy’s presidency, Lem was there—he talked him through the Cuban Missile Crisis and even had his own room at the White House. Their inseparable 30-year friendship lasted right up to that fateful day on November 22, 1963. Starting Bid $200
“Your son’s loyal services as a member of our United States Air Force are worthy of the highest praise”
32. John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed as President, Sending Condolences to the Family of a Fallen Airman. TLS as president signed “John Kennedy,” one page, 6.75 x 9, White House letterhead, July 5, 1963. Letter of condolence to the family of a fallen airman, in full: “It was with sincere sorrow that I learned of the death of your son, Airman Second Class Albert A. Genato. Your son’s loyal services as a member of our United States Air Force are worthy of the highest praise. He was held in esteem by all who knew him for his willingness to assume any task. I hope the memory of Airman Genato’s dedication to his country will be a source of comfort to you. Mrs. Kennedy and I extend our sympathy in the loss you have sustained.” Includes a TLS from Air Force General Curtis LeMay, who also offers his sympathy to the family of Albert A. Genato: “We of the Air Force share your sorrow in the death of Airman Second Class Albert A. Genato. Your son’s many friends and associates feel a deep sense of loss in his death. I trust the memory of his faithfulness to his country will, in some measure, comfort you in your grief. My heartfelt sympathy is extended to you in your bereavement.” In overall fine condition. Accompanied by both original mailing envelopes. Starting Bid $300
33. John F. Kennedy 1961 White House Christmas Gift Print. Gorgeous color glossy 14.75 x 12.75 mounted photo by famed White House photographer Cecil Stoughton, showing Caroline’s ducks in the fountain on the South Lawn, with “With our appreciation and best wishes for a happy Christmas, John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy, 1961” printed in facsimile below. Attractively suede-matted and ornately framed to an overall size of 24.75 x 22.5. In fine condition.
These historic official Kennedy White House Christmas gifts are discussed in detail in Mary Evans Seeley’s Season’s Greetings from the White House (pp. 87-95). Seeley reports that ‘this Christmas remembrance was presented to some 1,000 White House executive and military employees at an informal reception on December 13, [1961].’ Starting Bid $200
34. John F. Kennedy 1963 White House Christmas Gift Print. Gorgeous color 14.75 x 12.75 lithograph print produced by Hallmark from Edward Lehman’s Green Room painting, with “With our appreciation and best wishes for a happy Christmas, 1963, John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy,” printed in facsimile below. Handsomely suede-matted and ornately framed to an overall size of 24.75 x 22.5. In fine condition.
These historic official Kennedy White House Christmas gifts are discussed in detail in Mary Evans Seeley’s Season’s Greetings from the White House (pp. 87-95). Per Seeley, ‘Hallmark art director Jeannette Lee sent a telegram to Pamela Turner, Jackie Kennedy’s press secretary…advising that [only] 2000 Green Room folders…had left [Hallmark’s headquarters in Kansas City] on November 22, the day of the assassination and would arrive at Washington’s Friendship Airport at 1:38 that afternoon.’ Seeley further reports that ‘Mrs. Kennedy gave [this gift print] to the White House staff for Christmas after the President’s death.’ Starting Bid $200
“Revoked by Death”—a rare bounced check from November 14, 1963, returned unpaid due to the president’s assassination
35. John F. Kennedy Bounced Assassination Check (November 14, 1963) - “Revoked by Death”. Personal check drawn on the First National City Bank, 8.5 x 3.25, filled out in another hand and signed by a Kennedy secretary on the president’s behalf, payable to C&P Tel. Co. for $0.85, November 14, 1963. Two internal bank documents are stapled to the check: a “Returned Unpaid” slip, annotated “Revoked by Death”; and a “Dishonored Check Advice” slip, noting that the check was “revoked by death” due to Kennedy’s assassination on “11/22/63.” In fine condition. Consignor notes that he acquired the check from the estate of noted JFK collector Robert L. White, who had obtained three similar bounced checks from Kennedy’s personal secretary, Evelyn Lincoln. Starting Bid $200
Profiles
in Courage signed in person by JFK while campaigning in Pennsylvania
36. John F. Kennedy Signed Book - Profiles in Courage. Signed book: Profiles in Courage. Later printing. NY: Pocket Books, Inc. Cardinal Edition, 1960. Paperback, 4.25 x 6.25, 233 pages. Signed inside the front cover in blue ballpoint by John F. Kennedy. In very good to fine condition, with heavy wear from reading affecting the covers and spine, and light creasing touching the otherwise clean, bold signature. Accompanied by a provenance note from the original recipient, in part: “I went to see Kennedy at a campaign stop on the square in front of the theatre in Market Square in Harrisburg. We were on the rope line and either Gram or Mom, I forget which, it was so long ago, put this in front of JFK. He signed ‘John’ and was whisked away before completing.” Interestingly, the recipient naively believed that the autograph was signed “John” because JFK was in such a rush, but it is indeed a complete—albeit rushed—exemplar, characteristic of Kennedy’s hurried in-person autographs. Starting Bid $200
37. John F. Kennedy Presidential Inauguration Archive: ‘No Parking’ Street Sign, Parade Ticket Stub, Deluxe Program, Pins, and Bumper Sticker. Exceptional archive from the inauguration of John F. Kennedy as president on January 20, 1961. Includes:
- an original “No Parking” street sign from the “Presidential Inauguration” of John F. Kennedy at the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. on January 20, 1961. The patriotically colored metal sign measures 12 x 18, with bold red and blue text reading: “Presidential Inauguration, No Parking, Midnight January 19 to Midnight January 20, 1961.”
- a ticket stub from the “1961 Inaugural Parade,” for a reserved seat in “Stand 31,” on the north side of Constitution Ave.”
- a hardbound limited deluxe edition of the 1961 inaugural program (no. 855 of an unspecified edition), 8.5 x 11.5, signed on the limitation page by Inaugural Committee Chairman E. H. Foley.
- a 1.75˝-diameter button honoring Kennedy’s inauguration, featuring an image of JFK and the US Capitol, with purple ribbon below: “I was at the Inauguration of President Kennedy, Jan. 20, 1961, Washington, D.C.” A silvertone 3D Democratic donkey pin is affixed to the ribbon.
- a small .75˝-diameter “Kennedy and Johnson” pinback button.
- a “Kennedy/Johnson” campaign bumper sticker distributed by “Citizens for Kennedy and Johnson.”
In overall very good to fine condition, with a broken hinge to the hardcover inaugural program and the sign exhibiting some staining, soiling, and other expected wear.
Following Kennedy’s swearing-in as president and iconic inaugural address—which featured the famous line, ‘Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country’—a vast parade to the White House took place along Pennsylvania Avenue. The three-hour-long procession was watched by tens of thousands of spectators in person and millions on television. Starting Bid $200
Historic life preserver ring from John F. Kennedy’s treasured sailboat, the ‘Victura’
38. John F. Kennedy: Life Preserver Ring from the Victura, JFK’s Treasured Sailboat. Historic life preserver ring from John F. Kennedy’s beloved sailboat ‘Victura,’ measuring 19˝ in diameter, featuring “Victura” painted in large navy blue lettering over the white-painted surface. The canvascovered life ring features four canvas bands retaining a hemp rope, and includes a bill issued to customer “John F. Kennedy” by the Hyannis Marine Service, dated September 30, 1961, charging $44 for “Hurricane haul out, shore up, relaunch” for the “Sailboat ‘Victura.’” The ring is impressively mounted in a shadowbox display with the bill and two images of JFK on the boat to an overall size of 29.5 x 35. In very good to fine condition, with expected wear and flaking to paint.
Provenance: Lot 277, Alexander Historical Auctions, February 24, 2007; originally obtained from the auction of a delinquent Hyannis storage locker, believed to have belonged to an employee of Joan Bennett Kennedy.
Dave Powers, a longtime friend of President Kennedy and founding curator of the Kennedy Library, wrote: ‘Victura was among the President’s most prized possessions. A gift on his fifteenth birthday, he sailed it as a young man, Navy hero, Congressman, Senator, and finally as President. It was on the Victura that he began winning races at the age of 15, and on which he taught his wife Jacqueline how to sail. If the President wasn’t sailing on Victura, he was thinking about it as evidenced by his many doodles of the sailboat…When the President visited Hyannis Port, he was never happier than when he was at the helm of Victura.’
The ‘Victura’ remains an enduring symbol of JFK’s passion for the sea. Since 1980, the sailboat has been exhibited from May to November on the grounds of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, overlooking the Dorchester Bay section of Boston Harbor. An important, highly appealing Kennedy relic. Starting Bid $1000
39. John F. Kennedy 1935 Choate ‘The Brief’ Yearbook. Leatherbound hardcover 1935 ‘The Brief’ yearbook from John F. Kennedy’s senior year at Choate in Wallingford, Connecticut, 7.25 x 9.5, 292 pages plus 48 pages of advertisements in the rear. Kennedy is pictured as part of the senior class on page 76, along with a list of his extracurricular accomplishments. On page 107, he is listed as the leading vote-getter for “Most Likely to Succeed”; and on pages 116–117 he is shown as business manager of The Brief. In very good to fine condition, with light rubbing and scuffing to the spine. Accompanied by a custommade half-leather clamshell case. Starting Bid $200
Unique piece connecting JFK’s grandfathers—an elegy for P. J. Kennedy, signed by ‘Honey Fitz’
40. Patrick J. Kennedy: Hand-Illuminated Mourning Poem, Signed by Boston Democratic Leaders including John ‘Honey Fitz’ Fitzgerald. Hand-illuminated mourning poem honoring the memory of Patrick J. Kennedy, the paternal grandfather of President John F. Kennedy, one page, 14 x 20.5, no date but circa 1929. Commissioned by leaders of the Democratic Party in Boston, the poem is headed: “In wholehearted desire to memorialize East Boston’s native son, our late, love associate and cherished friend, Patrick J. Kennedy, who truly lived for men in emulation of the Gentle Nazarene, whose teachings our deceased comrade unfailingly followed.” The first verse reads: “Great Heart and Noblest Roman of them all, / in tender fragrant memory we recall / that gentle voice and smiling mien / pulsating sympathy so keen / that those distressed were wont to lean / on Kennedy.” Signed at the conclusion in ink by eight prominent Boston Democrats, including John F. ‘Honey Fitz’ Fitzgerald, the maternal grandfather of President John F. Kennedy. Archivally double-matted and framed to an overall size of 20 x 26.5. In fine condition, with a bit of scattered foxing. Starting Bid $200
Rare Cuban Missile Crisis commemorative calendar presented by President John F. Kennedy to the Chief of Staff of the United States Army
41. John F. Kennedy: Cuban Missile Crisis Sterling Silver Calendar Gift by Tiffany & Co., Awarded to US Army Chief of Staff. Sterling silver plaque calendar by Tiffany & Co. representing the 13 days of the Cuban Missile Crisis, mounted on a walnut base, presented by President John F. Kennedy to the Chief of Staff of the United States Army, General Earle Wheeler, with both sets of initials—”E.G.W., J.F.K.”—engraved at the top. Measuring an overall 4.5˝ x 3.75˝ x 1˝, the piece features an October 1962 calendar with the days of the international emergency—October 16th through 28th—emphasized in bold. The sterling silver plaque bears the “Tiffany & Co., Sterling” hallmark in the lower right corner. In fine condition.
During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, General Earle Wheeler was serving as Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army; in that capacity, he played an important, supportive role in preparing U.S. military forces for potential conflict. Wheeler would go on to be the longest-serving Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, overseeing the United States military from 1964 to 1970 during the height of its involvement in the Vietnam War.
Commissioned by JFK to give to his closest advisors following the peaceful conclusion of the Cuban Missile Crisis, this is one of the rarest and most important presidential gifts. President Kennedy is believed to have presented 34 of these calendar paperweights to people in his strategic inner circle: among the recipients were the members of the Executive Committee of the National Security Council (including Vice President Lyndon Johnson, Secretary of State Dean Rusk, Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, and others), close military aides and advisors (including General Chester V. Clifton, General Curtis LeMay, and Admiral George W. Anderson), and key White House staff (including First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, Press Secretary Pierre Salinger, and Personal Secretary Evelyn Lincoln). These were the heroic few who, with the world on the brink of nuclear destruction, helped President Kennedy to persevere through the crisis. As an exceedingly rare token of Kennedy’s personal gratitude for aid during the Cuban Missile Crisis, this is a truly exquisite, museum-quality piece. Starting Bid $1000
Unique pair of original sketches of the PT-109 incident by John F. Kennedy, drawn for the Navy Log screenwriter and once exhibited at the JFK Library
42. John F. Kennedy (2) Original Sketches of the PT-109 Incident, Made for the Screenwriter of Navy Log: ‘PT 109’. Two original pencil sketches of the PT-109 incident, drawn by Senator John F. Kennedy on off-white 3.75 x 5 sheets of “From the Desk of John F. Kennedy” memo paper, sketched as part of his work as technical advisor for the ‘PT 109’ episode of the CBS television series Navy Log. One sketch shows the layout of the PT-109 with its guns, torpedoes, and some crew members; the diagonal dotted line shows where the Japanese destroyer Amagiri cut through the boat. Kennedy indicates the locations of some of the his men: Barney Ross (“Ross”) was on the bow; Harold Marney (“Marney”), who was killed instantly at impact, is shown in a front gun turret; JFK indicates himself and radioman John E. McGuire in the cockpit, “K” and “McG.” The second sketch shows the patrol boat formation of the PT-109 leading the PT-162 and PT-169 through the Blackett Strait prior to the collision. Impressively suede-matted and framed together with a photograph of JFK and his PT-109 crew, as well as two PT-109 campaign pins, to an overall size of 21 x 27. In very good to fine condition, with light creasing and toning.
These remarkable drawings originated from the collection of Allan Sloane, a screenwriter for the CBS television series Navy Log, dramatizing the greatest survival war stories in the history of the United States Navy. In August 1957, then-Senator John F. Kennedy served as technical adviser for the ‘P. T. 109’ episode of Navy Log, which related the story of the sinking of the patrol torpedo boat that he commanded during World War II. Kennedy also appeared as a guest on the broadcast of that episode.
Further, these drawings were exhibited as part of the ‘JFK in World War II’ exhibition held at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, from May 21, 2005 through Spring 2006. Includes a copy of the museum’s receipt for the loan of the objects, a printout of the press release billing “Sketches created by Senator John F. Kennedy on his personal stationery to illustrate the collision of PT 109” as a key item in the exhibition, an original mailer advertising the special exhibit, and a pair of courtesy admission passes. Both sketches were also illustrated in the article ‘The Making of JFK’ by Brian John Murphy, published in the August 2008 issue of America in WWII (Vol. 4, No. 2), a copy of which is included.
In the early morning of August 2, 1943, Lieutenant Kennedy’s PT-109 was struck by the Japanese destroyer Amagiri in the Blackett Strait of the Solomon Islands. Following a miraculous 3.5-mile swim to shore, Kennedy and his ten surviving crew members were rescued from Olasana Island a full six days later. The young lieutenant’s grace under pressure made him a national hero when the story was picked up by John Hersey and covered in The New Yorker and Reader’s Digest.
Later on during JFK’s run for president in 1960, in an effort to quell public concerns about what some called candidate Kennedy’s ‘inexperience,’ the campaign sought to publicize his heroic naval service. Utilizing the PT Boat as a recognizable symbol, various tie bars, pins, clasps, and charms were produced as campaign tokens and became highly sought-after mementos—two such examples are displayed here. Starting Bid $1000
“Thank you or taking the time to attend the
Boston Chamber of Commerce Luncheon”
44. John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed as a Massachusetts Congressman. TLS signed “John,” one page, 6.25 x 9, personal Congress of the United States, House of Representatives letterhead, November 29, 1951. Letter to John J. O’Rourke, a fellow state representative from Massachusetts, in full: “I want to thank you for taking the time to attend the Boston Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. Your being there certainly added a great deal to the success of the affair, and I certainly appreciate your interest.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. Starting Bid $200
45. John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed as a Massachusetts Senator. TLS signed “John,” one page, 8 x 10.5, United States Senate, Committee on Labor and Public Welfare letterhead, April 8, 1953. Letter to William E. Kelly, in full: “This will acknowledge your recent letter in behalf of Mr. Gerard C. Kelley. Mr. Kelley was in the office and talked to Ted for a long time. At the conclusion of this discussion he is to get in touch with Ted again. Haven’t heard anything on your case as yet but will check into it again if I don’t hear anything soon. Assuring you of my willingness to be of assistance. Matted and framed with a color portrait of JFK to an overall size of 25 x 17.5. In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. Starting Bid $200
President Kennedy’s stainless steel pill box that housed his back pain medication, deriving from the collection of a White House supply officer and military aide
46. President John F. Kennedy’s Custom-Made Belt Pill Box for His Back Pain Medication. John F. Kennedy’s custom-made pill box that he kept in a modified belt around his waist during his tenure in the White House. Made of stainless steel, this small circular container, measuring .75˝ in diameter, housed the president’s daily pain medication that he used to mitigate the near-constant discomfort in his back. In fine condition. Lt. Henry Hirschy, on the order of Dr. George Burkley, the personal doctor to Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Johnson, commissioned an old gun factory in the Washington Navy Yard to make this and other small stainless steel pillboxes for JFK. Originates from Lt. Hirschy’s personal collection and is accompanied by two handwritten notes. Provenance: Guernsey’s: The Kennedy Era Auction - Oct. 7, 2017. Starting Bid $200
Remarkable 1960 DNC archive, highlighted by autographs of the three leading candidates: Kennedy, Johnson, and Symington
47. John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson Signatures, in an Archive of 1960 Democratic National Convention Ephemera. Remarkable archive of ephemera from the 1960 Democratic National Convention held in Los Angeles from July 11–15, 1960, highlighted by three ink signatures of leading candidates for the Democratic presidential nomination—”Best wishes, John Kennedy,” “Lyndon B. Johnson,” and “Stuart Symington”—on individual 2.5 x 3.75 cards, each annotated on the first day of the convention, “7-11-60.” All are encapsulated in Beckett authentication holders. Includes several pieces of ephemera from the DNC: ticket stubs for the First Session, Second Session, and Third Session; a “Distinguished Guest” ticket stub for the acceptance speech rally on July 15th; a Democratic National Convention acceptance speech program voucher, stamped “Young Democratic Clubs of America”; a ticket stub from the Democratic National Convention Dinner at the Beverly Hilton on July 10th; a 1960 Democratic National Convention directory; a 1960 Democratic National Convention “Demonstration” badge; a “Kennedy/Johnson” pin; and a detached “Delegate” ribbon. Also accompanied by a 10K gold-filled pendant from the 1961 inaugural ball, housed in its original box. In overall fine condition, with creasing to the wrappers of the directory. Starting Bid $200
Historic pen used by LBJ to
sign one of the most important acts of our time—
the 1964 Civil Rights Act
59. Lyndon B. Johnson 1964 Civil Rights Act Bill Signing Pen - From the Collection of JFK Assistant Dave Powers. Historic dipping pen attributed to President Lyndon B. Johnson’s signing of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964 (H.R. 7152), originating from the collection of Dave Powers, who served as Special Assistant to the President in the administration of John F. Kennedy. The official ‘bill signer’ Esterbrook pen measures 6.25˝ long and features a black plastic grip with a Lucite handle imprinted with “The President—The White House.” Housed in a beautiful mahogany display case with an engraved plaque inside the lid, reading: “Lyndon B. Johnson – Bill Signing Pen – July 2, 1964.” A small piece of tape on the grip is annotated: “Johnson 1964.” In fine condition.
Accompanied by a letter of provenance from David F. Powers (1912-1998), who was Special Assistant and Assistant Appointments Secretary to John F. Kennedy, and also a long-time museum curator of the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum. In full: “I certify that the pen labeled ‘Johnson 1964’ is one of the pens that President Lyndon B. Johnson used to sign the Civil Rights Act in 1964 (2nd of July), H.R. 7152. The pen was part of my personal collection of various presidential collectibles. In 1960, I worked on Kennedy’s campaign, and I later worked for Kennedy as Special Assistant. I had a good relationship with the Johnson administration and was given this as a gift.”
Prior to his assassination, President Kennedy had called for legislation to end racial discrimination and segregation in public accommodations, public education, and federally assisted programs. Shortly after his death, President Johnson urged Congress to honor his memory by passing such an act, declaring, ‘We have talked long enough in this country about equal rights. We have talked for one hundred years or more. It is time now to write the next chapter, and to write it in the books of law.’ His appeal was successful and manifested itself in HR 7152, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a landmark piece of legislation that banned segregation and racial discrimination while guaranteeing equal job opportunities. The tremendous sociopolitical impact made the Civil Rights Act a crowning achievement of the 1960s Democrats and one of the most important laws passed in the 20th century. While any bill-signing pen is of great interest to presidential collectors, those used to sign significant legislation are of the utmost desirability. As a pen used to sign one of the nation’s most important acts of the modern age, this is a superior and historically meaningful example. Starting Bid $500
“Pleased to see that the black Timex is still ticking”
61. George Bush Autograph Letter Signed as President and Timex Watch Gifted to Republican Congressman Bill Young. A unique presidential gift: a black Timex quartz wristwatch given to Republican Congressman Bill Young by President George Bush, which has “George Bush” in gold lettering at the six o’clock position; and an ALS as president referring to the watch, one page both sides on a 6.25 x 4.25 stationery card imprinted “The President,” January 30, 1990, to Congressman Young’s wife, Beverly, in full: “It was great seeing you and Bill here at the White House. I was especially pleased to see that the black Timex is still ticking. The Congress watch you & Bill gave to me is still on time. I am grateful to your husband for his support and to you for being my friend.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA for the autograph letter.
Republican Congressman Bill Young represented Florida in the House of Representatives from 1971 until his death in 2013. Young was a delegate to the Republican National Conventions which nominated Nixon in 1968 and 1972, Ford in 1976, and Reagan in 1984. An exceptional presidential piece. Starting Bid $200
62. Barack Obama Signed Check - PSA GEM MT 10. Friends of Barack Obama check, 8.25 x 3, filled out in another hand and signed by Obama, “Barack Obama,” payable to The Ridgeland Club for $169.85, March 12, 1998. In very fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “GEM MT 10.”
Friends of Barack Obama was his official campaign committee; at the time he signed this check, Obama was days away from the March 17th primary, when he won his re-nomination unopposed. At the November 3rd general election, Obama was reelected to a four-year term as state senator with a landslide victory. Obama remains rare in signed checks. Starting Bid $200
63. Donald Trump Signed Mini Declaration of Independence. Desirable 5.5 x 6.5 print of the Declaration of Independence, prominently signed in the center in black felt tip by Donald Trump. In very fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “GEM MT 10.” Starting Bid $200
$100
signed by Trump—“GEM MT 10”
64. Donald Trump Signed $100 Dollar Bill - PSA GEM MT 10. Series 2013 one-hundred-dollar bill, signed prominently on the portrait side in black felt tip by Donald Trump. In fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “GEM MT 10.” Starting Bid $200
65. Donald Trump Signed Golden 58th Inauguration Pass for ‘The President’s Box’. Scarce golden pass issued for ‘The President’s Box’ at the 58th Presidential Inaugural, which marked the commencement of Donald Trump’s term as president and Mike Pence’s term as vice president on January 20, 2017, signed prominently in black felt tip by Trump. The pass lists the names of Trump and Pence on either side of an embossed gilt emblem of the Great Seal of the United States. In very fine condition. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
Declaration
of Independence Notables
Rare document related to Pennsylvania’s influential passage of ‘An Act for the Regulation of Bankruptcy’—Benjamin Franklin supervises an early bankruptcy case between Philadelphia merchants
147. Benjamin Franklin Document Signed as President of Pennsylvania, Overseeing an Early Bankruptcy Case (1787). Historic manuscript DS, signed “B. Franklin,” two pages, 7.25 x 12, March 7, 1787. Petition submitted to “his Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esquire President of the Supreme Executive Council of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” in part: “The Petition of Conrad Hester and Elizabeth Singeisen of the City of Philadelphia in Behalf of themselves and other Creditors of Abraham Bachman…Abraham Bachman using & exercising the Trade of a Merchant…being indebted unto your Petitioners in the Sum of Three hundred Pounds on or about the Sixth Day of March Instant did become Bankrupt within the Meaning of the Act of Assembly of this State lately made entitled ‘An Act for the Regulation of Bankruptcy’ to the Intent to defraud & hinder your Petitioners and others…May it please your Excellency to grant unto your Petitioners a Commission under the Great Seal of the Commonwealth…authorising them thereby not only concerning the said Bankrupt his Body, Lands & Tenements, Goods, Chattels, Debts, and others Things whatsoever…To do and execute all and every the Thing & Things whatsoever as well for & towards Satisfaction & Payment of the said Creditors.” Signed at the conclusion by the petitioners with their marks, and countersigned as “sworn before me” by Benjamin Franklin. Handsomely cloth-matted and framed with a plaque and engraved portrait to an overall size of 35 x 20.5. In fine condition, with trimming to the bottom of the signed page.
An exceptional document linked to the first modern bank-
ruptcy law enacted in Pennsylvania in 1785, ‘An Act for the Regulation of Bankruptcy,’ one of the first instances the term ‘bankruptcy’ is used in American law. Very few jurisdictions during the later part of the 17th century and the beginning of the 18th century, and Pennsylvania in 1785, enacted legislation based on the English bankruptcy acts, in which the creditors initiated proceedings against merchants. Franklin, in his capacity as president of Pennsylvania’s Supreme Executive Council, played a role in overseeing the legal proceedings related to bankruptcy, connecting the document to a pivotal period in American legal history. In essence, this handwritten artifact reflects the practical application of early bankruptcy regulations and stands as a tangible link between Franklin’s influence, the evolving legal landscape of the late 18th century, and the nascent stages of modern bankruptcy regulation in the United States. Starting Bid $1000
Impressively displayed signature of Benjamin Franklin
146. Benjamin Franklin Signature. Ink signature, “B. Franklin,” on an off-white 5 x 1.5 sheet, which is double-matted with a $100-dollar bill, a 1962 Franklin Half Dollar, a color portrait, and an engraved nameplate. Framed together to an overall size of 17.5 x 14.5. In fine condition. Starting Bid $1000
John Hancock
certifies the election of Elbridge Gerry by the people of Massachusetts “to represent them in the Congress of the United States of America”
148. John Hancock Document
Signed as Governor of Massachusetts, Certifying the Election of Elbridge Gerry to Congress. Manuscript DS, signed “John Hancock,” one page, 7.75 x 12.5, November 4, 1790. As governor of Massachusetts, John Hancock certifies the election of Elbridge Gerry as a Congressman. In part: “Know ye, that the Hon’ble Elbridge Gerry, esq’r, on the fourth day of October…was chosen by the people of this State, legally qualified therefor, a Representative to represent them in the Congress of the United States of America.” Prominently signed at the head in ink by Governor John Hancock, and countersigned at the conclusion by John Avery as secretary. The white paper seal affixed at the upper left remains intact. In very good to fine condition, with scattered staining, affecting only appearance.
With this document, John Hancock certified the re-election of Elbridge Gerry to a second term in Congress. Gerry had played a major role in the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, famously refusing to sign the Constitution because it did not contain a Bill of Rights. After its ratification, Gerry recanted his opposition and was elected to the inaugural United States Congress, where he was actively involved in the drafting and passage of the Bill of Rights as an advocate of individual and state liberties. He would also go on to serve as vice president under James Madison, but might be best remembered as a result of his support of politically advantageous redistricting—a process now commonly known as ‘gerrymandering.’ Starting Bid $500
“The advices p[er] express from the Eastward has put this City in a violent ferment”—
the Declaration signer on NYC’s reaction to the Battles of Lexington and Concord
149. Francis Lewis Autograph Letter Signed on NYC’s reaction to the Battles of Lexington and Concord: “This City in a violent ferment” (April 26, 1775). Signer of the Declaration of Independence from New York (1713–1802). Revolutionary War-dated ALS signed “Fra’s Lewis & Son,” one page, 7.5 x 8.75, April 26, 1775. Handwritten letter to Philadelphia merchant to William Pollard, in full: “We have been favored with your letters of the 30 & 31 ult’o also 20 April. The money you sent by Mr. Rotch we received agreeable to your list for which please to accept our thanks. Your last letter informs us that you had receiv’d the amount of Kenneer’s order which we are glad to he[ar].
Mr. Johnston with part of his family sailed f[or] Jamaica a few days before your last was received; you there say you forwarded his and our Letters, (suppose f’m Jamaica) by a Mr. Mitchell of this city, those letters are not yet come to hand. The advices p[er] express from the Eastward has put this City in a violent ferment[;] expresses are forwarded to to [sic] the So[uth]ward with the particulars to which shall reffer [sic] you.” Addressed on the reverse in Lewis’s hand. Professionally inlaid into a
slightly larger sheet and in very good to fine condition, with scattered light staining.
On April 23, 1775, a broadside was printed and distributed in New York City, headlined: ‘The following interesting Advices were this Day received here by two Vessels from Newport and by an Express by Land.’ It contained transcriptions of communications from Rhode Island Supreme Court Chief Justice Stephen Hopkins and other leaders of Providence conveying the first reports of the battles of Lexington and Concord: ‘About 1200 of the regular troops have proceeded from Boston toward Concord; and having fired on the inhabitants, and killed a number of them at Lexington, are now actually engaged in butchering and destroying our brethren in the most inhuman manner.’
In his 1995 reference History Comes to Life, Kenneth Rendell places Lewis’s autograph material into the ‘very rare’ category among the Signers; as choice example from the dawn of the American Revolution, this is a particularly desirable example. Starting Bid $2500
The rare Declaration signer’s resolution before the Continental Congress regarding the maintenance of prisoners of war—
a fate he knew well
150. Arthur Middleton Extremely Rare Handwritten Revolutionary War-Era Congressional Resolution on Maintenance of Prisoners of War. Signer of the Declaration of Independence from South Carolina (1742–1787). A radical Whig, Middleton was one of the more vocal members of the South Carolina’s Council of Safety and was known for his ruthless treatment of Loyalists. Middleton was imprisoned in 1780 when the British captured Charleston and spent a year in custody in St. Augustine. Rare Revolutionary War-era unsigned handwritten document by Arthur Middleton, one page both sides, 8.25 x 13.5, no date but circa June 1782. Handwritten resolution by Arthur Middleton, a representative of South Carolina in the Second Continental Congress, regarding the investigation of passports authorizing the importation of British goods for use by prisoners of war, and concerning the inventory and control of goods imported for prisoners by enforcing a contraband list. In part: “Resolved, That investigation be made by the Sec’y at War & that he report to Congress the Causes why Passports have been granted for the Introduction of British goods under Colour of supplying the British Prisoners with necessaries & the Names of Persons by whom such Passports were granted.
That the Sec’y at War cause an inventory to be taken of the British goods now at Lancaster, & that He take measures for returning such Articles to N. York as he may judge to be improper for the supply of Soldiers, & some calculated for the purposes of Trafficking with the Citizens of these States.
That the Persons authorized to grant Passports or permissions for the Necessaries intended for the British Prisoners be charged to scrutinize strictly into the Packages & parcells forwarded for that purpose, & to let none pass but such as contain necessary Articles bona fide intended for the Use of the Prisoners and agreeable to a Schedule pick’d by the Sec’y at War limiting the Articles in quantity & Quality proportion’d to the Number of Prisoners & agreeable to the usual mode
of supplying Soldiery by the Powers to where they belong.
That the Sec’y at War draw up a Schedule of such Articles as will be allow’d the Prisoners in future, & that the British Commissaries be inform’d that, if any extra Articles different in quantity & quality from the said Schedule should be attempted to be forwarded, the said Extra Articles shall be held to be contraband, & the whole of the parcells or packages in which they are contained shall be forfeited to the use of the United States.
That the American Officers commanding the posts where such Prisoners are Kept, be directed to Search the Bales & Packages & see that the Articles agree with the Invoices mentioned in the Passports, previous to their being issued to the Soldiery, & that he make proper returns to the Board of War.”
A mono-alphabetic cipher key is written vertically on verso, likely in holograph; cipher keys were used frequently during the Revolutionary War by spies, diplomats, and others to prevent important communications from being understood by the enemy. Most keys were simple substitutions, like that denoted on the present document, in which one could create an encrypted message by finding, for each alphabetic letter in the original message, the matching letter in the top row of the key, and writing down the letter found just below it. The recipient could decode the message by employing the identical key in reverse. In fine condition.
Examples of Arthur Middleton’s autograph are extremely rare, and he is often cited as the third-rarest signer of the Declaration of Independence following Gwinnett and Lynch. Most are enumerated in ‘A Census of Important Middleton Documents’ in Joseph E. Fields’s article, ‘The Autographs of Arthur Middleton’; this resolution listed as No. 42. [Taylor, ed., Manuscripts: The First Twenty Years (Westport, 1984), 86-104.] Starting Bid $1000
American Politicians and Leaders
Congressional circulating copy of William Marbury’s petition to the U.S. Senate, soon to be adjudicated by the Supreme Court in the landmark Marbury v. Madison case
157. Marbury v. Madison: Contemporary Congressional Circulating Copy of William Marbury’s Petition to the United States Senate. Manuscript document containing William Marbury’s petition to the United States Senate asking for release of the results of its vote confirming his appointment as justice of the peace for the District of Columbia by President John Adams, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 8 x 10, no date but circa 1801. Apparently one of a number of manuscript copies of Marbury’s petition made for circulation among members of Congress, signed by the copyist: “Signed, Wm. Marbury, R. T. Hooe, Dennis Ramsay.”
The petition begins, in part: “To the honorable the Senate of the United States of America, the petition of Wm. Marbury, Rob. Townsend Hooe & Dennis Ramsay most respectfully sheweth, That your Petitioners have been informed & verily believe that John Adams, while President of the United States, nominated to the Senate of the United States, for their advice & consent your petitioner, William Marbury, to be a Justice of the Peace in the County of Washington, in the district of Columbia, & your Petitioners Robert Townsend Hooe & Dennis Ramsay to be Justices of the Peace in the County of Alexandria, in the same district; that the said nominations were duly taken into consideration by the Senate, who on or about the first day of March…were pleased to give their advice & consent that your petitioners should be severally appointed to the offices aforesaid; that commissioners were accordingly in due form signed by the said President, & directed to be sent to your Petitioners by the Secretary of States; but that your Petitioners from some cause have been deprived of their Commissions & are reduced to the necessity of asserting their rights to the same in a judicial court of proceedings, in which as they are advised it will be requisite to produce satisfactory evidence of the advice & consent of the Senate to the appointment… Application has been made to the Secretary of the Senate for his certificate that the advice & consent of the Senate was given in consequence of the nominations aforesaid, that your petitioners should be appointed to be Justices of the Peace in the District of Columbia, which your secretary has declined giving without the leave of the Senate.” In fine condition.
The Dictionary of American History notes: ‘The importance of the decision in American constitutional history lies chiefly in the position taken that the Court would declare unconstitutional and
void acts of Congress in conflict with the Constitution. By this decision the doctrine of judicial review was firmly entrenched in the governmental system, and the position of the judiciary was strengthened in the balance of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the Government.’
William Marbury was among a number of last minute appointments to federal office given by the Adams administration as its term of office came to an end. As Secretary of State under Jefferson, James Madison refused to turn over the commissions for Marbury and others, forcing them to seek other means of redress; a petition to Madison failed, as did a petition to the Senate (represented by the circulating copy offered here), and this petition notes that the legal case they are about to file would be aided by proof of the vote of the awarding of the judgeships.
The Senate’s vote had been taken in secret, and, as such, could not be divulged without the Senate’s consent; now controlled by Jefferson’s adherents, it declined Marbury’s petition. Filing suit in the Federal courts, Marbury sought a mandamus to force the Secretary of State to act. Eventually the court upheld Marbury’s right to his commission, but, moving the case away from his particular plea, ruled that the act of Congress establishing the granting of mandamuses, included in the Judiciary Act of 1789, was unconstitutional, since it had the effect of expanding the original jurisdiction of the court beyond the powers enumerated in the Constitution, leaving no recourse for Marbury to obtain what had been ruled was legally his.
Provenance: From the papers of Federalist Congressman Nathan Read who represented the Salem, Massachusetts, area in the United States House of Representatives, 18001803. Read (1759-1849) graduated from Harvard in 1781 and taught school in Beverly and Salem for two years before being elected a tutor at Harvard. He resigned that position in 1787 to study medicine, but soon decided to begin a business career, leading to the establishment of his Salem Iron Factory. His success in business led to his being appointed to Congress in 1800 to fill an unexpired term and he was returned in the following election. In 1807 Read moved to Belfast, Maine, where he spent several decades as a judge in addition to running a successful farm and other businesses. Starting Bid $200
King Charles II
proclaims the Treaty of Westminster, marking the return of New York to British control
156. King Charles II: Broadside Proclaiming the 1674 Treaty of Westminster, Which Returned New York to Great Britain. Broadside proclamation by King Charles II, one page, 11.5 x 14.75, February 27, 1674. Significant broadside issued by King Charles II, proclaiming the Treaty of Westminster, headed: “By the King. A Proclamation For Publishing the Peace between His Majesty and the States General of the United Netherlands.” The text begins: “Whereas a Peace hath been Created and Concluded at Westminster, betwixt His Majesty, and the States General of the United Netherlands, and the Ratifications thereof exchanged, and Publication thereof made at the Hague…In conformity thereunto His Majesty hath thought fit hereby to Command, That the same be Published throughout His Majesties Dominions.” The king’s name, “Charles R,” is imprinted at the top, and the proclamation concludes, “God save the King.” Printed in London by John Bill and Christopher Barker. Tipped into a quarter-morocco binding. In fine condition.
This broadside proclaims the Treaty of Westminster, which ended the Third Anglo-Dutch War in February 1674. Most significantly, the treaty provided for the return of the colony of New Netherland (now New York) to England, it having been seized by the Dutch fleet a year earlier. Interestingly, as news of the peace could not be communicated quickly to all parts of the world, different dates had been determined upon which legal hostilities would end. Starting Bid $500
Supreme Court
“More than 25 years ago, when I entered upon the Jewish work, I concluded that my contributions, financial and otherwise, should be concentrated on Palestine”
163. Louis Brandeis Autograph Letter Signed on Zionist Activities: “When I entered upon the Jewish work, I concluded that my contributions, financial and otherwise, should be concentrated on Palestine”. Associate justice of the US Supreme Court (1856–1941) from 1916 to 1939, who was the first Jewish justice to serve on the nation’s highest bench. ALS signed “Louis D. Brandeis,” one page, 6 x 7, personal letterhead, March 14, 1941. Handwritten letter discussing the cause of Zionism, in part: “More than 25 years ago, when I entered upon the Jewish work, I concluded that my contributions, financial and otherwise, should be concentrated on Palestine. Later I concluded that the financial contributions should be made to the Palestine Endowment Funds Inc.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a handsome custom-made half-morocco presentation folder.
Louis Brandeis was appointed to the US Supreme Court by Woodrow Wilson in 1916, becoming the first Jewish justice to sit on the nation’s highest court. His activism was well-regarded by peers and colleagues, and his opinions comprised some of the greatest defenses of freedom of speech and the right to privacy ever written by a member of the Supreme Court. He was also a prominent figure in the Zionist movement, advocating for the re-creation of a Jewish national homeland as a solution to rampant anti-Semitism throughout the world. When the Provisional Executive Committee for Zionist Affairs was established in New York, Brandeis accepted unanimous election to be its head and served in that capacity from 1914 to 1918. Starting Bid $200
World Leaders and Politicians
Castro’s panoramic perspective on the Bay of Pigs—an extraordinary hand-annotated oversized map of Cuba, marked up during a 1977 interview with Bill Moyers
165. Fidel Castro Signed and Annotated Bay of Pigs Map - Created During a 1977 Interview with Bill Moyers. Historically significant 35 x 13 map of Cuba, hand-annotated in blue ballpoint by Fidel Castro to represent the Bay of Pigs operation, signed below, “Fidel Castro, Enero 30, 76.” The map, which is intended to provide information on daily rainfall, has been copiously annotated by Castro to show the Bay of Pigs invasion from his perspective: at the top, he writes dates from April 14–17, with brief notes on what happened each day in 1961; at the bottom, he draws a diagram of the US fleet off the Cuban coast; and at the “Bahia de Cochinos [Bay of Pigs]” he sketches the route of the invasion force. Nicely double-matted and framed with the passport page that allowed the recipient (William C. Moyers) to travel from the United States to Cuba in 1977, as well as an image of Castro being interviewed, to an overall size of 51 x 21. In fine condition, with scattered light creasing and light overall wrinkling.
Accompanied by a notarized letter of provenance from William C. Moyers, the son of noted journalist and political commentator Bill Moyers, who traveled to Cuba in January 1977 as part of the crew shooting a documentary on relations between Cuba
and the United States, during which time the team secured interviews with Fidel Castro. In part: “In January of 1977 I traveled with my father, Bill Moyers, to Cuba. He was shooting a documentary for CBS News called ‘The CIA’s Secret Army.’ It was about U.S. efforts to overthrow Fidel Castro. We spent several days in Cuba shooting at the Bay of Pigs site and other locations. At the same time, dad was seeking an interview with President Castro. However, nothing came of those efforts until late one evening, when we were suddenly summoned to the presidential palace in Havana.
There we met Fidel Castro. He spoke to us for several hours, and then met with us over the course of the next few days. At one point dad asked him about the Bay of Pigs operation. Castro turned to an aide and asked for a map. The only map the aide could find was used to measure rainfall on the island nation. For the next hour or so, Castro sketched the invasion from his perspective. The lines at the bottom of the map, furthest from shore, he drew to depict the U.S. Fleet. The lines along the shore he drew to depict the invasion force coming ashore. At the top of the map is the day-by-day listing, in his hand, of what transpired.
Finally, after Castro was done with his detailed description of the invasion, I asked him to sign the document. He did. But when he dated the signature he slipped and wrote the wrong date (‘76). We were there in January of 1977. Goes to show that even communist dictators make mistakes! Apparently his internal clock had not yet caught up with the new year. One more thing: getting the document back into the United States was not easy, as the INS agents at the airport in Miami were Cuban exiles and did not take kindly to the fact that we had been in Cuba (this was many years before travel back and forth became commonplace again). Our backs were checked thoroughly and the agents went so far as to expose several rolls of film that I had taken of the people and countryside. But the autographed map was tucked in a very private place and the immigration agents missed it.”
Additionally includes a notarized letter signed by Bill Moyers, attesting to the accuracy of his son’s story and offering further background on the Bay of Pigs fiasco and his work for CBS. Moyers recalls the moment that Castro marked up this map, in small part: “Late one evening, as we returned to the hotel from a long day of filming in the countryside, there was a knock on the door. A Castro courier was waiting to tell us El Jefe would see us: Get dressed and bring your camera crew. We hastened to the palace. Castro took a particular interest in William Cope, getting down on the floor with him to draw a map of how his forces were deployed to meet the invaders and demolish them.” Interestingly enough, Moyers was reportedly being considered by the newly inaugurated Jimmy Carter to fill the vacant CIA director position at the time he was in Cuba, meeting in person with one of the agency’s prime targets for assassination. Of course, Moyers would remain with CBS News, and Castro would die of natural causes at age 90.
Conceived by Eisenhower and executed by Kennedy, the Bay of Pigs invasion was designed to covertly and quickly displace Fidel Castro and his communistic government from power. The secret offensive was in response to Castro’s overthrow of Cuba’s former US-backed dictator, Fulgencio Batista, and his ever-increasing diplomatic ties with the Soviet Union, America’s principal Cold War opponent.
The first of two planned airstrikes occurred on April 15, 1961, but with news breaking that Cuban bases were under attack by disguised American planes, President Kennedy called off the second air assault in an attempt to deny US involvement. Two days later, over 1,400 CIA-trained Cuban exiles traveled on a seaborne force from Guatemala to the Bay of Pigs on the south coast of Cuba. The exiles, known as Brigade 2506, were met with heavy fire and then badly outnumbered, with Castro advancing 20,000 troops to the beachhead. The US-sponsored forces retreated within 24 hours, with over 1,200 exiles captured and nearly 500 either wounded or killed. The botched invasion at the Bay of Pigs embarrassed President Kennedy on the international stage, and uplifted Castro as a national hero in Cuba while bolstering Cuban-Soviet relations. A large, remarkable document offering Castro’s personal perspective on a major event of the Cold War and Kennedy administration, bolstered by its rock-solid provenance and amazing backstory. Starting Bid $5000
166. Fidel Castro Signed Photograph. Scarce color glossy 8 x 10 photo of Fidel Castro in his typical olive-green military fatigues, signed and inscribed in blue felt tip in Spanish (translated), “For Mrs. Gisela Braukmann, with an apology for the delay in sending the photo, which we are now gladly and gratefully sending immediately, Fidel Casto, Sept. 19, 93.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
170. Benito Mussolini Signed Photograph. Vintage matte-finish 5.75 x 8.75 portrait photo of Mussolini by the Pandimiglio Studio of Rome, affixed to the original 8.5 x 12 mount, which is signed prominently in bold black ink, “Benito Mussolini.” In fine condition, with the photo partially detached from the mount, but easily reattached. A superb uninscribed portrait of the Italian dictator. Starting Bid $200
Chamberlain writes to a supporter days 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”
167. Neville Chamberlain World War II–Dated Typed Letter Signed on “Difficult Days”. 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. World War II-dated TLS, signed “Yours sincerely, Neville Chamberlain,” 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.” Chamberlain adds the salutation in his own hand. In fine condition, with multiple horizontal 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 from the premiership but remained leader of the Conservative Party. Starting Bid $300
Magnificent formal presentation portraits of Hirohito and Nagako, displayed in leather frames boasting the Imperial Seal of Japan
168. Emperor Hirohito and Empress Nagako Signed Photographs. Majestic pairing of official matte-finish 6 x 8.5 formal portraits of Emperor Hirohito and his wife Princess Nagako Kuni, depicting the heads of Japanese state in handsome three-quarter-length poses, both beautifully signed in bold black ink in Japanese. Beautifully presented in their original 8 x 10.5 leather frames with the Imperial Seal of Japan (golden chrysanthemum) at the top. In overall very fine condition, with a bit of tarnishing to the golden chrysanthemums. Few Hirohito portraits are made available to the collecting public, particularly in photos of this superior quality. Starting Bid $500
Deng Xiaoping, Nelson Mandela, and the Dalai Lama highlight over 100 signatures of international statesmen and politicians
171. Statesmen and Politicians Autograph Album with (100) Signatures, Including Deng Xiaoping, Nelson Mandela, and the Dalai Lama. Outstanding leather-bound autograph album, 7.25 x 7.75, containing approximately 100 ink and felt tip signatures of well-known international statesmen and politicians from 1977 to 2009. Album highlights include: Nelson Mandela; the Dalai Lama; Deng Xiaoping; Hu Yaobang; Zhao Ziyang; Mikhail Gorbachev; Josip Broz Tito; Margaret Thatcher; Edward Heath; Abdullah II of Jordan; Yasser Arafat; Robert Mugabe; Mohammed VI of Morocco; Henri, Grand Duke of Luxembourg; Rainier III, Prince of Monaco; Charlotte, Grand Duchess of Luxembourg; Helmut Schmidt; Franz Josef Strauss; Hans-Dietrich Genscher; Helmut Kohl; Hussein of Jordan; Jack Lang; Rajiv Gandhi; Ramaswamy Venkataraman; Wojciech Jaruzelski; Václav Havel; Alexander Dubcˇek; Hosni Mubarak; Kim Young-sam; Kim Dae-jung; Paavo Lipponen; Ezer Weizman; Ehud Barak; Ariel Sharon; Shimon Peres; Moshe Katsav; Thabo Mbeki; Frederik Willem de Klerk; Giorgio Napolitano, and more. The album contains a handful of photographs, some of which are affixed next to the signature. In fine condition. Accompanied by a list of signers and numerous transmittal letters from secretaries and diplomatic representatives. Starting Bid $2500
Long, detailed handwritten letter by the great British abolitionist William Wilberforce:
“I was…plunged up to the chin in slave papers, having absconded…for the sole purposes of making myself complete master of my subject”
172. William Wilberforce
Autograph Letter Signed on Politics and Abolition: “Plunged up to the chin in slave papers”. British politician, evangelist, and philanthropist (1759–1833) who played an important role in the movement to abolish slavery. ALS signed “W. Wilberforce,” eleven pages three sets of adjoining sheets, 7.5 x 9.25, January 20, 1790. Lengthy handwritten letter to his friend Joseph Walker, largely in relation to the Corporation and Test Acts, shedding light on the in-fighting relating to the Protestant Dissenters’ opposition to the Act. In small part: “For several days I have been wanting to write to you, but I have been hindered partly by the pressure of business and still more by the weakness of my eyes, the subject of this letter not allowing one to avail myself of the help of my amanuensis…Whilst I was your guest at Eastwood I purposely abstained from the mention of the test and corporation acts; my reason I need not state to you, it must have been suggested by the delicacy of mind which indeed you on your part to observe a similar silence...When Mr. Beaufort gave his notice last year I was in the country plunged up to the chin in slave papers, having absconded from London for the sole purposes of making myself complete master of my subject, scarce condescending so much to the affairs of common life as to look into a newspaper, I heard and saw nothing of notice. I was never more surprised or vexed than to find accidentally the night I returned into the neighbourhood of London that Beaufort was to come on the third day after. My own motion was to follow on the Monday immediately succeeding. I, having been repeatedly delayed, could be put off no longer.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
Wilberforce sets up a contribution for “a distressed Man” who he asserts has “been almost always in difficulties, & suffering”
173. William Wilberforce Letter Signed. British politician, evangelist, and philanthropist (1759–1833) who played an important role in the movement to abolish slavery. LS signed “W. Wilberforce,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7.25, June 9, 1819. Addressed from Kensington Gore, a letter to Reverend Charles P. Burney, in part: “Allow me to trouble you by requesting any information you can supply concerning a distressed Man of the name of Crammond, who says that you know him to be deserving of assistance. If I mistake not, he has applied to me at intervals, for a considerable time past, & from the account he gave me of himself in a late short interview; he is one of those men who partly perhaps from imprudence, have during a long life been almost always in difficulties, & suffering…I suggested to him the idea of a contribution from all whom I could interest in his favour; each contributing a little. His reply, you will see…appears to accept the proposal.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Royalty
The Catholic monarchs issue a penalty for smuggling “at the time that the Jews left by our mandate”
175. Ferdinand and Isabella Document Signed, Relating to the Expulsion of Jews from Spain. Manuscript DS in Spanish, signed by Ferdinand, “Yo el Rey,” and by Isabella, “Yo la Reyna,” one page, 8.5 x 12.25, in part (translated): “Whereas we have ordered the seizing of the goods and the debts owed to Diego Alvarez de Herrera…in the amount of 240,000 maravedas which the said Diego Alvarez admitted having passed from these our dominions into the Kingdom of Portugal at the time that the Jews left by our mandate…for a price charged the said Jews and which they then paid him.” In fine condition, with a couple of short fold splits.
Issued by Ferdinand and Isabella on March 31, 1492, the Alhambra Decree ordered the removal of all practicing Jews from the regions of Castile and Aragon within a four-month span, an edict designed to purge Jewish influence from Spain’s large ‘converso’ population. The broad expulsion also meant that monies and property left behind were to be roundly confiscated by the Spanish crown. The expelled Jews were forbidden from carrying gold or silver out of the kingdom, and remaining Spanish Christians who were caught helping to smuggle gold or silver out of the country were penalized by a fine of equal value to the amount smuggled.
In the same year as the Alhambra Decree, Ferdinand and Isabella famously sponsored the voyage of Christopher Columbus to the New World, which set sail from Palos, Spain on August 3, 1492. Two months later on October 12, Columbus made landfall on San Salvador in the Bahamas—a date now immortalized as ‘Columbus Day’ in America. Later that month, Columbus sighted Cuba, which he thought was mainland China, and in December the expedition landed on Hispaniola, which Columbus thought might be Japan. The explorer returned to Spain with gold, spices, and ‘Indian’ captives in March 1493, where he was received with the highest honors by the Spanish court. Starting Bid $1000
Elusive original royal summons from King Edward VII for
“the Solemnity of Our Royal Coronation,”
a celebration that was ultimately postponed due to the king’s medical emergency
176. King Edward VII Rare Signed Summons for His 1902 Coronation. Rare official royal summons for the coronation of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, signed “Edward R.,” one page, 8 x 11.75, June 2 [1902]. The summons, issued to Hamilton Cuffe, 5th Earl of Desart, reads: “Whereas the twenty sixth day of June next is appointed for the Solemnity of Our Royal Coronation. These are to Will and Command you and the Countess your wife (all excuses set apart) to make your personal attendance on Us at the time abovementioned, furnished and appointed as to your Rank and Quality appertaineth, there to do and perform all such Services as shall be required and belong unto you respectively. Whereof you and she are not to fail. And so We bid you most heartily farewell. Given at Our Court at St. James’s this second day of June in the second year of Our Reign.” Signed in the upper border by the king and countersigned below by the Duke of Norfolk. In very good to fine condition, with some foxing and toning to the lightly trimmed top edge.
The coronation of Edward VII and his wife, Alexandra, as king and queen of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions took place at Westminster Abbey, London, on August 9, 1902. The coronation was originally scheduled for June 26th, as this summons states, but it was postponed with very short notice when the King took ill with an abdominal abscess that required immediate surgery.
In place of the coronation, a ‘solemn service of intercession’ was held at St Paul’s Cathedral on June 26th, and was attended by many of the British and foreign dignitaries who were in London for the celebration. Determined to keep his promise to his people, Edward was insistent that regional celebrations and a planned ‘Coronation Dinner for the Poor of London’ should go ahead. Organized by Sir Thomas Lipton, 500,000 dinners were served to Londoners on July 5th at 800 locations around the capital, with the King personally contributing £30,000 toward the cost. Royal summons to coronations rarely appear at market, with this being the first Edward VII example that we have ever offered. Starting Bid $300
178. Princess Diana and King Charles III Signed Christmas Card (1987). 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, “Collie…& with love from us all, Diana” and “and Charles.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope and a certificate of authenticity from Tracks. An uncommon signed Christmas card, examples of which are typically inscribed by Charles. This card was sent to Violet Collison – who Diana knew simply as “Collie” – the housekeeper at Park House on the Sandringham Estate, where the princess spent her childhood years. Collie remained close to Diana and sent gifts to both her and the princes, William and Harry, for which Diana responded with thank you letters and Christmas cards. Starting Bid $200
179. Princess Diana and King Charles III Signed Christmas Card (1985). Desirable Christmas card from 1985, embossed on the front with the Prince of Wales’s feathers and Order of the Garter motto and the Spencer family arms, measuring 10.25 x 7.25 open, featuring an affixed color portrait of the royal family with Prince Harry and Prince William riding a pony, signed and inscribed inside in fountain pen, “Mrs. Gaunt, from Charles and” and “Diana.” In very fine condition. Starting Bid $200
“I was so very pleased to receive your kind letter of congratulations on my engagement”
180. Queen Elizabeth II Autograph Letter Signed on Her Engagement to Prince Philip. ALS signed “Elizabeth,” one page both sides, 4.75 x 7.5, Balmoral Castle letterhead, August 11, 1947. Handwritten letter to Richard, in full: “I was so very pleased to receive your kind letter of congratulations on my engagement, and I send you my sincere thanks for your good wishes, which I much appreciate. It is so nice to know that one’s friends are thinking of one at such an important moment of one’s life. It must be lovely to be home again, for you seem to have been away for a long time. I hope you found your family well – Ela’s baby sounds very sweet, though I thought the bit about the girl guide hat was a bit unkind! We have just arrived up here, where it is all
wonderfully peaceful and a great change from London. Thank you again so much, and I hope we shall see you again before too long.” In fine condition.
Princess Elizabeth met her future husband, Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark, in 1934 and again in 1937. They were second cousins once removed through King Christian IX of Denmark and third cousins through Queen Victoria. After meeting for the third time at the Royal Naval College in Dartmouth in July 1939, Elizabeth—though only 13 years old—said she fell in love with Philip, who was 18, and they began to exchange letters. She was 21 when their engagement was officially announced on July 9, 1947. Starting Bid $300
Religious Figures
Historic Salt Lake City deed to Brigham Young for the Pioneer Square site, where the Mormons first settled in Utah
182. Brigham Young: Original Land Deed for Pioneer Square, Where Mormons First Settled in Salt Lake City. DS signed by the mayor of Salt Lake City, “Daniel H. Wells,” one page, 9.5 x 15, January 10, 1873. Deed of conveyance issued to Brigham Young, in part: “In consideration of the sum of Thirty two 50/100 ($32.50) Dollars, paid by Brigham Young, Sen., of Salt Lake City, County of Salt Lake, Territory of Utah, the receipt whereof is acknowledged, the said Brigham Young, Sen., having been adjudged by the Probate Court of Salt Lake County, Territory aforesaid, to be the rightful owner and possessor of the following described piece or parcel of land, viz: All of Block Forty eight (48), containing Ten (10) acres, as plotted in Plot A, Salt Lake City Survey.” Signed at the conclusion in ink by Mayor Daniel Wells, and countersigned by Notary Public James Jack. The two embossed gold foil seals affixed at the lower left remain intact. In fine condition.
Led by Brigham Young, the Mormon pioneers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley in July 1847 after a long and arduous journey westward seeking religious freedom. Young set forth a plan to map the city, requesting that it be surveyed and drawn according to Joseph Smith’s vision established in the ‘Plat of the City of Zion.’ Young selected a 40-acre site for the temple, and the rest of the city was divided into 135 ten-acre blocks.
Young added his own touches to Smith’s plan, including four public squares featuring ‘playgrounds and walks,’ as well as ‘promenades, with fountains of the purest water, and each square, ornamented with everything delightful.’ The four public squares would ultimately become Pioneer Square (Block 48),
Temple Square (Block 87), Washington Square (Block 38), and Union Square (Block 102).
They soon commenced the construction of a fort on Block 48, which became a focal point of early Mormon activity. The Daughters of Utah Pioneers (DUP) writes: ‘What Plymouth is to New England, the Old Fort is to the Great West.’ Designed for self-protection, the fort had nine-foot adobe walls on three sides, with the fourth side composed of log cabins. It became a bastion for Mormon settlers as they sought respite after weeks of difficult travel. The fort was completed in November 1847, and but by the fall of 1848 had expanded to 450 log cabins, including two additional ten-acre blocks, all enclosed by a strong adobe wall.
The signer of this document, Daniel Wells, was baptized into the LDS Church on August 9, 1846, and emigrated to the Salt Lake Valley with the Mormon pioneers in 1848; later serving as the city’s mayor from 1866 to 1876. James Jack, a Scottish immigrant who initially traveled to the Salt Lake Valley in the Appleton M. Harmon Company in 1853, had participated as one of the rescuers sent out in the winter of 1856 to assist the members of the Mormon Church stranded in Wyoming.
A remarkable document concerning a Mormon landmark: dedicated as a public park on July 24, 1898, today the site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the ‘Old Pioneer Fort Site.’ Several plaques and markers displayed in the park recognize the location’s importance in Mormon history. Starting Bid $500
Activists and Social Leaders
184. Nelson Mandela and Graca Machel Signed Book. Signed book: Mandela by Charlene Smith. First edition. London: Johnnic / Struik, 1999. Hardcover with dust jacket, 10 x 12, 168 pages. Signed and inscribed on the page adjacent to the pictorial dedication page in black ink, “To Danie, Best wishes to a remarkably warm person, G. Machel” and “N. Mandela, 22-8-99.” In fine condition. A rare dual-signed book from the former president and first lady of South Africa.
The consignor notes that this book was signed for a flight attendant assigned as part of President Mandela’s flight crew and that Mandela and his wife signed this book en route to a UN general assembly in New York. Starting Bid $200
Businessmen
186. Elon Musk Signed Photograph - PSA GEM MINT 10. Color satin-finish 10 x 8 photo of Elon Musk posing in front of a NASDAQ Tesla Roadster in Times Square following the electric automaker’s initial public offering, signed in blue felt tip. In very fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “GEM MT 10.”
Tesla’s IPO took place on June 29, 2010, when the company offered 13.3 million shares at $17 per share, raising approximately $226 million. Today, it is the world’s most valuable car company with a market capitalization of over $600 billion. Starting Bid $300
$100 bill signed by Elon Musk, world’s richest man
187. Elon Musk Signed $100 Dollar Bill - PSA GEM MINT 10. Series 2013 one-hundred-dollar bill, prominently signed on the portrait side in black felt tip by Elon Musk. In very fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “GEM MT 10.” Musk placed first on Forbes’ list of the ‘top 10 richest people in the world’ in July 2024 with a net worth of over $252 billion dollars. Starting Bid $200
Significant Standard Oil stock certificate issued to the trust’s founding partner and treasurer, signed by Rockefeller, Flagler, and Bostwick
188. John D. Rockefeller and Henry M. Flagler Signed Standard Oil Trust Stock Certificate. Partlyprinted DS signed “John D. Rockefeller” and “H. M. Flagler,” one page, 11.75 x 7.75, December 5, 1883. Stock certificate for 2,000 shares in Rockefeller’s Standard Oil Trust issued to J. A. Bostwick, signed at the conclusion by John D. Rockefeller as president, Henry M. Flagler as secretary, and Jabez A. Bostwick as treasurer. The original receipt remains affixed at the left edge, also signed by Bostwick. In fine condition.
John D. Rockefeller (1839-1937) was a business magnate and philanthropist whose Standard Oil empire made him the wealthiest man in the world. Henry Flagler (1830-1913) was a real estate and railroad entrepreneur who also co-founded Standard Oil, remembered for his efforts to make Florida the ‘Newport of the South’ by providing extensive rail access and grand hotels to lure wealthy vacationers. Jabez Abel Bostwick (1830-1892) was a founding partner of Standard Oil, serving as the company’s first treasurer. Starting Bid $200
Scientists and Inventors
Beautifully signed letter from Bell, sending thanks for “ideas concerning the substance ‘of the energy known to us as heat’”
190. Alexander Graham Bell Typed Letter Signed. TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, personal letterhead, February 17, 1916. Letter to E. Kohan, in full: “Many thanks for your note of February 16, in which you outline some of your ideas concerning the substance ‘of the energy known to us as heat.’ I am interested to note what you say, and am at all times glad to hear from you relating to this or allied subjects.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Choice signature of the celebrated evolutionary biologist
191. Charles Darwin Signature. Superlative, bold ink signature, “Charles Darwin, Down, Kent, March 17th 1880,” on an off-white 4 x 2.5 slip, handsomely suede-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 12.25 x 19. In fine condition. A marvelous display boasting a choice Charles Darwin autograph. Starting Bid $300
192. Thomas Edison Signature. Bold vintage fountain pen signature, “Thos. A. Edison, April 4, 1929,” on the reverse of an offwhite 4 x 2.5 calling card imprinted with the name of Czech railway inspector Frantisek Cech. In fine condition, with a trivial brush to the date. An ideal example of Edison’s classic ‘umbrella’ autograph. Starting Bid $200
Einstein writes to his portraitist, humorously sending thanks for ‘remedying his lack of fire’
194. Albert Einstein Autograph Letter Signed to Artist Hermann Struck, Sending Thanks for a Cigarette Lighter. ALS in German, signed “A. Einstein,” one page, 8.5 x 11, September 17, 1924. Handwritten letter to artist Hermann Struck, humorously thanking him for the gift of a cigarette lighter which has remedied his lack of fire; Einstein says that the lighter works quite well and represents a real improvement to his lifestyle. In fine condition. Hermann Struck was a German Jewish artist and passionate Zionist known for his etchings; he created portraits of several distinguished subjects including Einstein, Freud, Nietzsche, and Ibsen. A fantastic Einstein letter that captures his playful side, and an excellent association piece. Starting Bid $1000
“I finally solved to my total satisfaction, after immensely intensive work, my gravitation-electricity problem. This, in a way, concludes my life’s work”
193. Albert Einstein Autograph Letter Signed on Solving the Unified Field Theory: “I finally solved to my total satisfaction, after immensely intensive work, my gravitation-electricity problem. This, in a way, concludes my life’s work”. ALS in German, signed “Papa,” one page both sides, 5.75 x 8.25, no date but circa early 1929. Handwritten letter to his son Eduard Einstein, nicknamed “Tetel,” in full (translated): “Your letter made me very happy, particularly your comment regarding the hotel. Just like you, I hate it and it is with delight that I am detecting here a deep inner kinship between us, which I treasure. It seems to me it has been so long since I have seen you and I am longing to have you around me once again. For Easter, Albert and his wife will be visiting here. You could be coming at the same time, no matter. I would make sure you have sleeping quarters at a friend’s house while Albert is here. By the way, there is still another hurdle. On the 14th of March I have to flee to escape from my 50th Birthday Party otherwise I would run the risk of perhaps getting seasick. But there is still a lot of time until Easter. At any rate, I certainly want to see you before you graduate from High School.
I am now very happy because I finally solved to my total satisfaction, after immensely intensive work, my gravitationelectricity problem. This, in a way, concludes my life’s work—the remainder simply is bonus material. Remarkably, how through all this strenuous work I made it in good shape and am feeling quite well. I do, however, practically live the life of a recluse and follow a frugal way of live. When we see each other again, I shall try to explain to you and describe this lifestyle a bit. In
no way do I expect your approval and perhaps desire to join this guild. I could not care less.
Don’t get overwhelmed by that heavy volume of a book I sent you. One should read it in small segments, always keeping in mind that this represents chosen selections of intellectual work through the centuries, expressed by an unimportant, but decent and clear thinking human being.”
He adds a postscript, in full: “I have been reading with great admiration Bernard Shaw’s new book on Socialism and Capitalism. I will be sending it to you soon and strongly recommend you definitely read this remarkable book.” In fine condition.
In 1924, Einstein had finished laying the essential groundwork for his most complex and ambitious theory yet—the Unified Field Theory, an attempt to explain the nature of gravity in terms of the laws of electromagnetism. After making further refinements, he published the theory in 1929. The ideas he put forward conflicted with the emerging understanding of quantum mechanics, which put him at odds with much of the physics community at large; these disagreements led to a famous falling out with fellow Nobel winner Niels Bohr. Although he continued to work on the Unified Field Theory for the rest of his life, Einstein—despite his exuberance in the present letter—was never able to satisfactorily master the problem, and it remains unsolved to this day. Revealing Einstein as both an accomplished physicist and caring father, this is a remarkable letter with simply extraordinary content. Starting Bid $2500
As death looms, Einstein recalls his youth with nostalgia: “Much time has gone by since we were squatting in that marvelous crate at the Munich courtyard and played ship”
195. Albert Einstein Autograph Letter Signed to His Cousin, Recalling His Youth with Nostalgia. ALS in German, signed “Albert,” one page, 8.5 x 11, August 11, 1952. Handwritten letter to his cousin Alfred, in full (translated): “Thank you for relaying the sad news, we had already heard it from Alice. Even though, is it really so sad? We too are ready for departure without passports and without any luggage. And once departed, everything will fall into place all by itself. Much time has gone by since we were squatting in that marvelous crate at the Munich courtyard and played ship. You were a splendid captain, I can vouch to that. Later on, fate led me to cross my path again in Arau with Robert and we both fell in love with Maja’s future sister-in-law. All of that is over and done with, seems as if it never had happened. I am feeling very sorry for Alice. She is suffering greatly and from afar her condition does not look very promising. At any rate it is fortunate that you are still there for her. I suppose too that Ogden is the personification of the ideal divorced gentleman.” Also bears a two-line postscript written by “Margaret” at the bottom of the page: “Cordial greetings! (Do you still remember who I am?).” In fine condition, with intersecting folds and a trivial chip to one edge.
Writing that he has heard “the sad news”—seemingly of his cousin Robert Koch’s death—from his other cousin Alice, Einstein recalls their early boyhood days together in Munich. Born in 1879, Albert and Robert were the same age and thus spent a good deal of time together, from playing on a pretend boat as children to rooming together with Jost and Pauline Winteler during their adolescence in Arau while attending the Aargau Cantonal School. Einstein fell in love with the Wintelers’ eighteen-year-old daughter Marie, who he mentions as his sister Maja’s “future sister-inlaw.” Following in Albert’s footsteps, Maja also went to school in Arau and fell for the Winteler’s son, eventually marrying him. Between his poetic memories of past relationships and his peaceful concept of death as a trip without luggage or passports, this is a positively remarkable and intimately personal letter. Starting Bid $1000
197. Guglielmo Marconi Signed Photograph. Superb vintage matte-finish 4.25 x 4.25 circular profile portrait of the radio and telegraphy pioneer, affixed to its original 5.75 x 9.25 studio mount, signed and inscribed on the mount in bold fountain pen, “To Captain R. G. McConnell, with very kind regards, Guglielmo Marconi, Honolulu, November 1933.” Framed and in fine condition. Starting Bid $200
198. Lise Meitner Signed Photograph. Cardstock 3.75 x 5.75 photo of Lise Meitner taken by her sister-in-law, the Austrian photographer Lotte Meitner-Graf, signed in the lower border in blue ballpoint, “Best wishes, Lise Meitner, 31.III.1966.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Nobel philosophizes on happiness:
“It is the highest among virtues, even though it often leads to vice”
199. Alfred Nobel Autograph Letter Signed: “I’m too much of a philosopher”. Swedish chemist, engineer, inventor, businessman, and philanthropist (1833–1896) known for inventing dynamite and for bequeathing his fortune for the establishment of the Nobel Prize. ALS in Swedish, signed “Alfred,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 4 x 6.75, June 30, 1889. Handwritten letter to his brother Robert, the founder of Branobel and a pioneer in the Russian oil industry. Nobel explains that his delayed response is due to his slavish commitment to duty and sends thanks photographs of his son Hjalmar, remarking that Hjalmar seems happiest of the Nobels and speculating that happiness is the greatest virtue. He wonders whether or not a telegram got through to him, explaining that he could not go to Saint Petersburg due to illness and commitments relating to business in Baku, Azerbaijan. Nobel considers discontinuing relationship with Berlin banking firm Disconto-Gesellschaft, and remarks that the largest market for selling shares would be in Russia.
In part (translated): “I’m too much of a philosopher to consider anything to be really imposing, but you get into a certain circle
of influence and if you have a trace of the twisted quality of duty, you slave until you drop. Thanks for the photographs of [Robert’s son] Hjalmar. The sun has not flattered him: his own appearance is, as I remember it, yet another whole degree… more beautiful and graceful. He is also, I think, the only one truly happy among the Nobels, and in my eyes, it is the highest among virtues, even though it often leads to vice…As to your telegram, I was at a loss as to how to address the reply. Åby, as a telegraph address, is not listed here…Hope it came out anyway. You ask if I am traveling to Petersburg…Lately I have been incredibly tired and by no means in satisfactory health. I’ve even started taking medication, which I loathe and which I don’t resort to without…good reasons. If I felt healthy enough for that, I would certainly have gone. But my presence would be needed to get the Baku actions ready to go… Disconto Ges[ellschaf]t in Berlin…are overly cautious and I assume that one could become independent from them. The biggest market for these shares will certainly be in Russia, but capital increases will hardly exceed…8% dividend.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $1000
Intellectuals
A book sent to Freud “whose contents positively cry out for analytical interpretation”
201. Sigmund Freud Autograph Letter Signed on ‘Behind the Nightlight,’ on the Dreams of a ThreeYear-Old Child: “Interesting little book whose contents positively cry out for analytical interpretation”. ALS in German, signed “Freud,” one page, 5.5 x 3.5, March 27, 1923. Handwritten letter to N. Teulon Porter about a book entitled Behind the Nightlight, by Joan Maude, as recorded by Nancy Price, purporting to recount the dreams and fantasies of Miss Maude, a three-year-old, as told to her mother. In full (translated): “Thank you for sending the extraordinarily interesting little book whose contents positively cry out for analytical interpretation. What the preface says about the origin of the fantasies is obviously impossible.” Accompanied by a copy of the book, inscribed in an unknown hand [presumably Porter’s], “With a reader’s compliments to The Author (& her
daughter),” with a translation of Freud’s letter affixed inside the font. In very good to fine condition, with uniform moderate toning and a bit of scattered light soiling.
Price was an English stage actress, as was her daughter, the subject of Behind the Nightlight. Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, introduced the idea that dreams are a window into the unconscious mind. In his groundbreaking work The Interpretation of Dreams, he proposed that dreams serve as a form of wish fulfillment, revealing hidden desires and unresolved conflicts. Freud believed that by analyzing the symbols and themes in dreams, we can gain deeper insights into our psyche and emotional experiences. A great example of Freud’s professional interest piqued by an unusual subject. Starting Bid $1000
“I can tell you that I am prepared to participate in your planned founding of a central newspaper”
202. Sigmund Freud Autograph Letter Signed on Founding the First Psychoanalytic Journal. ALS in German, signed “Freud,” one page, 5.5 x 8.25, personal letterhead, June 4, 1908. Handwritten letter, in full (translated): “After receiving the message from my friends in Zurich, I can tell you that I am prepared to participate in your planned founding of a central newspaper.” In fine condition, with light corner creasing, and multiple file holes. The “central newspaper” that Freud refers to is the ‘Jahrbuch fur Psychoanalytische und Psychopathologische Forschungen’ [Yearbook for Psychoanalytic and Psychopathologic Research], the first official journal of the psychoanalytic movement. Starting Bid $1000
American West
Bold signature of the legendary pioneer and frontiersman
206. Daniel Boone Rare Signature - Bold Example of the Fabled Frontiersman. Sought-after ink signature, “Daniel Boone,” on an off-white 2.75 x .75 slip. In fine condition. Encapsulated by Beckett Authentication Services. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. An exquisitely bold signature of the elusive folk hero. Starting Bid $500
Prison letter from Jim Younger on keeping information from his brother:
“I never told Cole any thing of this, for it could do him no good…and if you will pardon me this once, that would have raised the devil him”
208. Jim Younger Autograph Letter Signed from Minnesota State Prison. ALS, one page both sides, 7.75 x 12.5, embossed ‘Hygeia Springs’ letterhead, “May Day” 1899. Addressed from the Minnesota State Prison, a handwritten letter to Cora “Corona” McNeill,. Full letter available online at www.RRAuction. com. In fine condition.
Cole and Jim Younger began their life of crime during the Civil War as members of the notorious Quantrill’s Raiders. The brothers avoided arrest longer than many other outlaws due to the sympathy and support of many of their fellow Confederate veterans. However, in 1876, the Younger luck ran dry when their attempted bank robbery in Northfield, Minnesota, went famously awry. Armed townsfolk disrupted the robbery, chased off the gang, and in the ensuing melee, two townspeople were killed. When the Youngers were finally captured, they were tried and sentenced to life imprisonment at the Minnesota State Prison in Stillwater—a guilty plea saved them from the hangman’s noose. After two years of legislative wrangling, a parole bill was passed in Minnesota’s legislature and Cole and Jim Younger were freed on July 10, 1901. After his release, Jim became engaged to Alix Mueller, but due to the terms of his parole, Jim was not legally allowed to marry. In 1900 he was listed as a farmer in the census and killed himself on October 19, 1902, in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Cora McNeill was born in St. Clair, Missouri, in 1862. She was an admirer of Cole and Jim Younger, and it is believed that she was a sweetheart of Jim’s before he went to prison. She continued her correspondence to both Jim and Cole while they were incarcerated in Minnesota following the botched Northfield bank robbery. She was married to Minneapolis judge George M. Bennett who attempted to secure a pardon for the Younger brothers. Starting Bid $300
“Tell her there is an old bald headed fellow very anxious about his little fellow”—prison letter from Cole Younger, seeking an update on an unlikely friend
207. Cole Younger Autograph Letter Signed from Minnesota State Prison . ALS, one page both sides, 8 x 12.5, September 18, 1898. Addressed from the Minnesota State Prison in Stillwater, a handwritten letter to Minneapolis Judge George M. Bennett, in part (spelling and grammar retained): “Your note received many thanks for the note and a shake for the little Rebels success. We looked for a letter from his yesterday as to day but none came. But I suppose she was buisy and knew you would let us know, I suppose she will spend to day with Sister Bells family. I hope all the news in regard to Mizzouri has been good I have read it over several times and it bears acquaintance gets better each time. Have you send any to Stillwater yet. Capt. W. H. H. Taylor is the only book worm connected with the prison when he rreads it I will get his opinion and he is capable of judgeing for when I was librarian & he was store keeper I furnished him a novel every two days I think he read several hundred during the time. Send circulars to W. O. Selkirk 1904 Ave. L. Galveston, Texas, Miss Lida Harvey N. Kansas St. El Paso, Texas, W. W. Cain Tylar Texas, Miss Addie Fisher, Albany, Texas.” Younger continues in this manner, adding the names of several of his supporters before continuing: I have merely given you the above names to use if you think best. How is Mrs. Grew and Horace not forgetting Capt. and miss Grace Gates. Have not heard a word from Horace I fear she is sick she was to have been here during the fair week write he if you have not done so already and tell her there is an old bald headed fellow very anxious about his little fellow we haven’t any news so will stop this scrall. Love and good wishes to all friends not forgetting the little twins.” Younger adds the initial of his first name, “C,” to a postscript. In fine condition.
Cole and Jim Younger began their life of crime during the Civil War as members of the notorious Quantrill’s Raiders. The brothers avoided arrest longer than many other outlaws due to the sympathy and support of many of their fellow Confederate veterans. However, in 1876, the Younger luck ran dry when their attempted bank robbery in Northfield, Minnesota, went famously awry. Armed townsfolk disrupted the robbery, chased off the gang, and in the ensuing melee, two townspeople were killed. When the Youngers were finally captured, they were tried and sentenced to life imprisonment at the Minnesota State Prison in Stillwater—a guilty plea saved them from the hangman’s noose. 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. After his release, Cole 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.
The “Horace” mentioned by Younger is assuredly Horace Greeley Perry, a young girl Cole Younger had first met when he and his gang rode their beautiful horses through the town of St. Peter, Minnesota years prior. When the six-year-old Perry expressed her amazement at Younger’s horse, the outlaw picked her up, sat her on the saddle, and let her ride with him down the street. When she alighted, Younger reportedly smiled and said ‘I hope you will always remember me,’ to which the small girl replied: ‘I will always be your friend.’ Perry, who was the daughter of a local newspaperman, kept her promise and visited Younger in prison some 15 years later. She later joined the James-Younger Wild West Show as a publicity agent in 1903. Starting Bid $500
From the collection of William Randolph Hearst— a handwritten letter from Benedict Arnold to Prime Minister Pitt, demanding money owed for wartime service in the West Indies Military
308. Benedict Arnold Autograph Letter Signed to Prime Minister Pitt - From the Collection of William Randolph Hearst. ALS signed “B. Arnold,” one page, 7.5 x 12.5, August [8], 1800. Handwritten retained draft of a letter to Prime Minister William Pitt the Younger, demanding payment for his claims from the West Indies. In part: “Having had the honor of addressing you so late as the 13 May last on the subject of my claims on government for cash advanced for the Public Service in the Wt. Indies more than seven years ago: I had hoped from the sacrifices I have made and the services I have rendered to the Public, that some attention would have been thought due…Were my finances such that I could with justice to my family make a further sacrifice of this money to the public, I should not again trouble you.” Docketed on the reverse [obscured by framing], “Copy to Mr. Pitt, Aug’t 8th.” Archivally double-matted and framed under museum glass with a portrait, plaque, and descriptive caption to an overall size of 20 x 23. In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
Provenance: Collection of William Randolph Hearst, ParkeBernet Galleries, November 16, 1938, lot 12.
After spending several years in Canada, Arnold returned to England in 1791, but he left to spend several years privateering in the West Indies before permanently settling at Gloucester Place in London, from where he penned this letter. His work in the West Indies was dangerous due to the hostilities of the French Revolution, and was imprisoned by French authorities on Guadeloupe amid accusations of spying for the British. Arnold narrowly eluded hanging by escaping to the blockading British fleet after bribing his guards. He helped organize militia forces on British-held islands, receiving praise from the landowners for his efforts on their behalf. He hoped that this work would earn him wider respect and a new command; instead, it earned him and his sons a land-grant of 15,000 acres in Upper Canada. Plagued by debt and poor business decisions, he here reaches out to the British prime minister in hopes of receiving his pecuniary due. Starting Bid $1000
Napoleon Bonaparte approves Berthier’s promotion of war hero P. B. Soult
310. Napoleon and Louis-Alexandre Berthier Document Signed, Promoting War Hero P. B. Soult. Manuscript DS in French, signed “Bonaparte,” one page, 7 x 9.5, no date. Military document referred to Napoleon Bonaparte, nicely endorsed by him in the left margin. Addressing Minister of War Louis-Alexandre Berthier, the future French Marshal Jean-de-Dieu Soult requests the position of squadron leader on behalf of his younger brother Pierre Benoit Soult, whose name is now inscribed under the Arc de Triomphe as one of French Empire’s war heroes. Berthier, one of Napoleon’s favorite marshals, endorses the document at the lower left (“Alex. B.”), and refers it to Napoleon Bonaparte for his approval. In fine condition. A remarkable document connecting three of the highest ranking officials of the French Empire: Bonaparte, Berthier, and Soult.Starting Bid $300
“Each lieutenant colonel or deputy major will keep the uniform they had at their previous rank, only changing the epaulettes”
311. Napoleon Letter Signed to Minister of War on Military Uniforms: “Each lieutenant colonel or deputy major will keep the uniform they had at their previous rank, only changing the epaulettes”. LS in French, signed “Nap.,” one page, 7 x 9, March 9, 1811. Interesting letter to his Minister of War, the Duc de Feltre, General Henri-Jaques Guillaume Clarke, in part (translated): “Monsieur the Duke of Feltre, I do not make any distinction between the Line Infantry and the Light Infantry for the position of Lieutenant Colonel and Deputy Major. I have consequently made a correction to the decree you had proposed to me in this sense—each lieutenant colonel or deputy major will keep the uniform they had at their previous rank, only changing the epaulettes.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
Space Exploration
Fantastic fully signed photo of the ‘Mercury Seven’ in 1959
326. Mercury 7 Signed Photograph. Vintage matte-finish 10 x 7.75 photo of the ‘Mercury Seven’ admiring a model of the Atlas rocket in 1959, signed in the lower border in ink by all seven original astronauts: “Alan B. Shepard, Jr.,” “Virgil I. Grissom,” “John H. Glenn, Jr.,” “M. Scott Carpenter,” “Walter M. Schirra, Jr.,” “Leroy S. Cooper, Jr.,” and “Donald K. Slayton.” In very good to fine condition, with slight fading to Shepard and Schirra, light speckled silvering to the image, a short tear to the lower right edge, and a trimmed top edge. A historic and highly sought fully signed image of NASA’s inaugural astronaut class. Starting Bid $500
327. Apollo 11 (3) Signed Photographs. Appealing set of three official color 8 x 10 NASA lithographs of the Apollo 11 crew members posing in their white space suits against a lunar backdrop, individually signed and inscribed in green or black felt tip: “To David Clark – Neil Armstrong,” “To David Clark, Best wishes, Buzz Aldrin,” and “Mike Collins.” In overall very good to fine condition, with some light surface creasing to the top of each photo, as well as a light paperclip impression to Armstrong. A desirable set given the coincidental name of the recipient—the David Clark Company designed and manufactured pressure/ space suits and life support systems for NASA and U. S. Air Force. Starting Bid $200
328. Neil Armstrong Signed Photograph. Choice official color 8 x 10 NASA lithograph of Apollo 11 moonwalker Neil Armstrong posing in his white space suit against a lunar background, beautifully signed in black felt tip. In very fine condition. A superior, uninscribed example of this highly sought portrait. Starting Bid $300
Art, Architecture, and Design
439. Pablo Picasso Signed Toros Magazine (1958) with Spanish Bullfighters Luis Miguel Dominguin and Jaime Ostos. Vintage Toros magazine from July 13, 1958, 16 pages, 8.5 x 10.75, featuring a cover image of famed Spanish bullfighters Luis Miguel Dominguin and Jaime Ostos, signed in the upper left corner in black ballpoint, “Picasso.” The cover is also signed in ink by the two pictured matadors. In very good condition, with general handling wear, and various folds and creases, none of which affect Picasso’s signature.
Dominguin was a friend of Pablo Picasso, who created a portrait of the bullfighter on July 13, 1959. The bullfight was
a subject Picasso returned to frequently, particularly from the mid-1950s, and also one of his favorite spectator sports. Picasso, who had been taken to the Malaga bullring from an early age, was an avid follower of bullfights and after moving to Provence would often travel to the arenas of Arles, Nîmes or Vallauris to see them. Picasso’s friend and biographer Roland Penrose has written that, apart from his enjoyment of the action, ‘the main involvement for Picasso was not so much with the parade and the skill of the participants but with the ancient ceremony of the precarious triumph of man over beast…The man, his obedient ally the horse, and the bull were all victims of an inextricable cycle of life and death.’ Starting Bid $200
French artists Picasso and Leger pay tribute to their late friend, the Surrealist poet Paul Eluard
440. Pablo Picasso and Fernand Leger Signed Book - Poèmes pour tous par Paul Eluard. Signed French-language book: Poèmes pour tous par Paul Eluard: Choix de 1917-1952. First edition. Paris, France: Editeurs Francais Reunis, 1952. Softcover, 4.75 x 7.5, 233 pages. Signed prominently on the first free end page in red artist pencil, “Picasso,” and in ballpoint by Eluard’s widow, Dominique Lemort. The half-title page is signed in blue artist pencil by fellow French artist Fernand Leger. Autographic condition: fine, with some light surface impressions in the lower blank area of the signed page. Book condition: VG/None, with minor creasing to spine and uniform toning to textblock and wrappers. A desirable book signed by two of France’s most esteemed and influential creators, their ‘artist pencil’ signatures a fitting tribute to the book’s late author, Paul Eluard, a fellow master of the surreal who was close friends with both Picasso and Leger. Starting Bid $200
Frank Lloyd Wright’s exhaustively hand-corrected “definitive manuscript” for “The New Architecture: A Testament”—a lengthy treatise on his architectural philosophy
441. Frank Lloyd Wright Hand-Corrected Typed Draft for ‘The New Architecture: A Testament’ - The “Definitive Manuscript” Discussing His Architectural Philosophy. Extensively hand-corrected typed manuscript draft for “The New Architecture: A Testament” by Frank Lloyd Wright, 224 pages, 8.5 x 11, annotated at the head of the first page in another hand, “Definitive manuscript. Corrections by FLLW and by B. R.—all retained by FLLW as final,” and stamped with the address of the publisher, Horizon Press in New York. This definitive, hand corrected, pre-publication manuscript opens (as corrected): “Philosophy is to the mind of the architect as eyesight to his steps and the term ‘genius’ when applied to him simply means a man who understands what others only know about. A poet, artist or architect necessarily ‘understands’ in this sense and is likely, if not careful, to have the term ‘genius’ applied to him; in which case he will no longer be thought human, trustworthy or companionable. Whatever may be his medium of expression he utters truth with manifest beauty of thought…
Everyone engaged in creature work is subject to persecution by the odious comparison. Odious comparisons dog the footsteps of all creation wherever the poetic principle is really concerned because the inferior mind, infected by them, leans by them only. Comparisons are usually equivocal—made by selfish interests in one form or another. But the superior mind learns by analyses: the study of Nature.
What has been brought together here in this collected evidence of my own active work-time is for my guidance, pride and pleasure as much as for any other reason half so good. Romanticist by nature—self-confessed—I am pleased by the thread of structural consistency I see inspiring the complete texture of my work as revealed in this collection of designs and plans now coming forward, varied building for my American people over a long period of time: from the beginning—1893—to this time, 1957. This architecture is often called ‘engineeringarchitecture.’ I plead guilty to the tough impeachment.”
Wright goes on to touch upon some of his artistic influences— William Blake, Victor Hugo, and others—and offers a robust
philosophical summation of his architectural career. Hardly a page goes by without major edits and revisions; Wright’s are typically made in pencil in his distinctive cursive, while those by editor Ben Raeburn are often printed in blue ink.
Wright discusses the development of American architecture at length, levying criticisms at the American Institute of Architects, writing at the bottom of one page: “If the A.I.A. had not been more interested in architects than in architecture, the story by now might have been different. How could the architect’s vision in such circumstances become effective action?” In a section headed “The Common Man and His Education,” Wright pens a complete passage: “Form—birth—is needed. But it is not to be formed in sporadic endeavour to remodel our philosophy by hearsay, or by imported aesthetics. We will not be able to maintain the religion of democracy by profit-system equipment, nor help it grow by the conditioning our youngsters receive by current education. Managed publicity of any kind designed to please the public taste cannot be good enough.” Commenting on the politics in America, he writes: “When quality does not find its way into government, the individual becomes sacrificed to quantity.” In addition to writing out these longer revisions, Wright makes frequent edits and deletions to single words or sentences as he formulates his final draft for publication. In fine condition. Accompanied by a handsome custom-made full morocco slipcase with chemise.
During the last years of his life, Frank Lloyd Wright—an acknowledged and self-proclaimed genius—was often before the publish, where his outrageous remarks and irreverence for established institutions enhanced his reputation as an ‘eccentric’ genius. A Testament, his aptly titled final personal statement, is a reflective work where the renowned architect outlines his influential philosophy of organic architecture. The book combines personal anecdotes, design principles, and critiques of modern architecture. Wright emphasizes harmony between architecture and nature, advocating for buildings to be integrated with their environments. Most importantly, it serves as an autobiographical statement on his approach to architecture, with significant commentary on his beliefs and influences. Starting Bid $2500
Animation and Comic Art
Image is larger than actual size
461. Walt Disney Signature. Bold pencil signature, “Walt Disney,” on the reverse of an off-white 3 x 1.5 calling card of Arthur H. Brown of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). In fine condition, with light soiling, and a paperclip impression touching the first name. Starting Bid $300
Scarce production of Mickey Mouse from Plane Crazy—the first finished project to feature the iconic Disney character
462. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse production drawing by Ub Iwerks from Plane Crazy - The First Mickey Cartoon. (Walt Disney Studios, 1928) Original production drawing by Ub Iwerks featuring Mickey and Minnie Mouse from Plane Crazy, showing the pair in the cockpit of a propellor-driven airplane. Accomplished in graphite on untrimmed 12 x 9.5 animation paper, marked “205” in the lower right. Image measures 1.5 x 1.5. In fine condition.
Plane Crazy was extremely significant in the history of animation, as it marked the creation of Mickey Mouse. The short was co-directed by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, with Iwerks serving as the main animator. Plane Crazy was a silent film and given a test screening to a theater audience on May 15, 1928, but failed to pick up a distributor; later in 1928 Disney released Steamboat Willie as a very successful sound cartoon, which is generally considered Mickey’s debut despite being made after Plane Crazy. With sound added, the film was released to the general public on March 17, 1929, as the fourth Mickey Mouse short. Starting Bid $500
Massive original Schulz sketch of Snoopy daydreaming on his doghouse
465.Charles Schulz Signed Oversized Original Sketch of Snoopy. Gigantic original sketch of Snoopy by Charles Schulz, depicting Charlie Brown’s beloved pet lying atop his doghouse, accomplished in black crayon on an off-white 23 x 31 board, which is signed at the bottom, “Schulz.” Reverse bears an affixed label indicating that this unique piece was “Drawn Before the Hollywood Radio and Television Society, April 26, 1977” (covered by the frame’s backing). Handsomely matted and framed to an overall size of 26.5 x 34.5. In fine condition, with faint overall toning, and scattered small stains. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA. An amazing poster-sized original drawing from the adored Peanuts creator—unquestionably the largest Schulz sketch we have offered. Starting Bid $1000
Working draft for a Pearl Buck short story published in Woman’s Home Companion
486. Pearl S. Buck Handwritten Manuscript for “Enough for a Lifetime”. American writer and novelist (1892–1973) best known for The Good Earth, a novel that dramatizes family life in a 20th-century Chinese village, which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1932 and contributed to her receipt of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1938. Unsigned handwritten draft manuscript by Pearl S. Buck for a piece entitled “Enough For A Lifetime,” totaling 49 pages on 26 loose-leaf leaves neatly tied together at left margin, no date but first published in the January 1935 issue of Woman’s Home Companion. Buck has extensively corrected the text, with numerous deletions and revisions throughout. The manuscript begins: “Miss Willey hesitated a moment before she opened the door into the courtyard. She dreaded more sharply each autumn these winter mornings of cold yellow sandy winds. ‘May and June don’t make up to me for it,’ she thought miserably, staring through the square of glass set in the door.” In fine condition. A desirable working draft by the Nobel and Pulitzer winner. Starting Bid $500
Scarce signed portrait of Karel Capek, the Czech writer that introduced ‘robot’ to the global lexicon
487. Karel Capek Signed Photograph - The Inventor of the Word ‘Robot’. One of the most influential Czech writers of the 20th century (1890–1938) who introduced and made popular the word ‘robot,’ which first appeared in his 1921 play R.U.R. (Rossum’s Universal Robots). Scarce vintage matte-finish 3.25 x 5 postcard photo of the Czech author, signed in the lower border in bold fountain pen, “Karel Capek.” In fine condition, with faint silvering to darker areas of the image.
In R.U.R., Capek conceived his ‘robots’ as artificial biological beings, not as the mechanical automatons we associate with the word today. Still, they had all the characteristics of a modern robot, as explained in the play: ‘Robots are not people. They are mechanically more perfect than we are, they have an astounding intellectual capacity, but they have no soul… They learn to speak, write, and do arithmetic. They have a phenomenal memory. If one read them the Encyclopedia Britannica they could repeat everything back in order, but they never think up anything original. They’d make fine university professors.’ Starting Bid $200
Twice-signed ‘autograph edition’ of The Innocents Abroad, issued as part of Mark Twain’s collected writings
489. Samuel L. Clemens Twice-Signed Book - The Innocents Abroad (Ltd. Ed. #302/512). Signed book: Mark Twain’s Works, Vols. I and II: The Innocents Abroad. Autograph edition, limited issue, numbered 302/512. Hartford, CT: The American Publishing Company, 1899. Hardcover bound in threequarter morocco with marbled boards, 6 x 8.5, 377 and 446 pages. Signed on the colophon in ink, “S. L. Clemens, (Mark Twain).” Autographic condition: very fine. Book condition: VG/None, with repairs to partial edge splits along edges of the leather spine, and minor foxing to textblocks. A desirable set boasting a choice ‘double autograph’ of the great American author. Starting Bid $200
Marvelous seated portrait signed by “Mark Twain”
488. Samuel L. Clemens Signed Photograph as ‘Mark Twain’. Exceptional vintage matte-finish 3.5 x 5.5 Rotary postcard photo of Samuel L. Clemens by H. T. Reed of London, which shows the writer seated in a wicker chair with a newspaper on his lap, signed vertically with his nom de plume in fountain pen, “Mark Twain.” In fine condition, with some light silvering to the bottom edge of the image. A wonderful and uncommon portrait of the revered author made special by the presence of his neatly and boldly signed pen name. Starting Bid $300
“This sums up all that I have experienced and learned. I do not say it is original, but I say (for me) it is true”
490. Philip K. Dick Typed Letter Signed on “The Great Enlightenment”. TLS signed ““Love, Phil,” who adds Greek characters below, “ΙΧΘΥΣ,” two pages, 8.5 x 11, August 31, 1981. Letter to science fiction author Patricia Warrick, in part: “This is not my latest, newest theory; this is my distillation from all my years of searching, my satoris, my mystical and epistemological experiences…I offer it to you not as the truth but the truth as I, personally, have found it: The Great Enlightenment comes—is—at the moment when you recognize something in world as familiar, and from this recognition—called by Plato anamnesis—comes the realization that world, creation, is your creation, that you are Pantocrator…Thus you are not what you thought you are, and you have an origin and nature different from what you supposed; you have a history, and if that history is followed backward in time (and up the ladder of ascending ontology) you arrive at the Absolute, call it Ch’ang Tao, or Brahman, or God, or the one, or the Good, or the Prime Mover—names do not matter; perhaps it has no name. This realization is the Awakening, but it leads, after a time, to further realizations equally great…This sums up all that I have experienced and learned. I do not say it is original, but I say (for me) it is true.” In fine condition, with a rusty paperclip impression to the upper left corner. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Starting Bid $200
Scarce uninscribed first printing of Gone With the Wind
492. Margaret Mitchell Signed Book - Gone With the Wind (First Printing). Signed book: Gone With the Wind. First edition, first printing (with “Published May, 1936” on the copyright page, and “1936” on the title page). NY: The Macmillan Company, 1936. Hardcover with facsimile jacket, 6 x 8.75, 1037 pages. Signed on the first free end page in fountain pen, “Margaret Mitchell.” Autographic condition: fine, with mild soiling to signed page. Book condition: VG/None, with minor wear at spine ends and a cracked front hinge. Accompanied by a copy of a letter of provenance, in part: “My mother…purchased this copy of ‘Gone With the Wind’ in 1936 at Rich’s Department store in Atlanta, Georgia where she was employed. The store was holding a book signing when the book first came out and my mother had her copy signed during her lunch break.” Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA. When Mitchell wrote Gone With the Wind, she had no idea of the sensation it would become. It was an instant bestseller, selling over 1,000,000 copies within the first six months of its publication, and she became so overwhelmed by the countless requests that she received to autograph copies of her novel that less than a year after its publication, she vowed not to sign any more—not even for close friends or relatives. A sought-after copy of this 20th century classic, particularly elusive in uninscribed examples. Starting Bid $200
Mitchell sends thanks to a Maine admirer:
“I appreciated your letter so very much and the many fine things you wrote about ‘Gone With the Wind’”
493. Margaret Mitchell Typed Letter Signed on ‘Gone With the Wind’. TLS signed “Margaret Mitchell Marsh,” one page, 7 x 10.25, personal letterhead, December 15, 1937. Letter to Mrs. Gates, in part: “I appreciated your letter so very much and the many fine things you wrote about ‘Gone With the Wind.’ I am glad, too, that you liked the article in Collier’s Magazine. My friends and family thought it the best that has been written about me, and, after all, families are hard to please. You were kind to invite me ‘to refugee to Maine and spend the time in your white canoe.’ In the present rush of my life that sounds so quiet and peaceful. However, I do not know when I can ‘refugee,’ as business matters seem to keep me very busy. I always wanted to go to Maine.” Double-matted and framed with a portrait photo to an overall size of 19.25 x 17. In fine condition, with a few light stains at the top. Starting Bid $200
Elusive signature of the celebrated Chinese scholar and poet
491. Guo Moruo Rare
Signature. Highly regarded Chinese intellectual and poet (1892–1978) who once called himself the Chinese answer to the German Goethe. Rare ink signature of Guo Moruo on an off-white 4.75 x 3.5 autograph card, who adds a lengthy handwritten inscription in Chinese, dated to Peking on May 3, 1958. In very fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Starting Bid $500
“One must love life, even a bad one, and live it bravely”
494. Emile Zola Signed Engraving: “One must love life, even a bad one, and live it bravely”. Prolific French journalist, novelist, and activist (1840-1902) best known as one of the leading figures of naturalism and for his inflammatory 1898 open letter, ‘J’Accuse!,’ which exposed the anti-Semitism of the French press and government in the infamous Dreyfus Affair. Scarce 6.5 x 9.75 engraved portrait of the esteemed author, signed and inscribed in ink in French, “Coulin. Il faut aimer la vie, même mauvaise, et la vivre bravement, pour enfanter, car l’oeuvre n’est faite que de volonté et d’amour [One must love life, even a bad one, and live it bravely, to give birth, because the work is made only of will and love], Emile Zola.” Affixed to a larger mount and in very good condition, with overall toning, soiling, and staining to the mount, easily matted out. An outstanding sentiment from the celebrated French writer. Starting Bid $200
Classical Music
Rare Polish piano music from the pen of Frederic Chopin
515. Frederic Chopin Rare Autograph Musical Quotation Signed for ‘Wiosna,’ Op. 74, No. 2. Rare AMQS on an off-white 8.25 x 5.5 sheet featuring an ornate purple border, signed and inscribed at the conclusion in ink, “Madame Kiéné, hommage respectueux de son devoué, Chopin.” Chopin pens the complete piano score of the Polish song “Wiosna, paroles de Witwicki,” op. posth. 74 nr. 2 in g minor, indicated “All[egre] tto.” This composition, originally written as ‘Andantino’ for one singing voice with piano accompaniment, probably in the spring of 1838, set to a text by Stefan Witwicki, is a typical Dumka, the melancholic counterpart of Polish idyllic song. The oscillation between g minor and b flat major creates a nostalgic ‘senza-fine’ mood. It is probably dedicated to the pianist Marie Catherine Kiéné, née Leyer, the mother of the pianist and composer Anne Marie Bigot de Morogues, who died at a young age, and taught the piano to Fanny Hensel and Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy. In fine condition.
Stefan Witwicki, who wrote most of the texts of the surviving Chopin songs, pressured him to compose a Polish opera. Chopin however, who only enjoyed improvising on Polish songs in a private circle, neither included them in his concert programs, nor had them published. Some songs only existed as drafts and were to be burned, according to Chopin’s last will. Up to date, a total of merely 19 songs are known. The first edition of this song was published as late as 1856 by Aleksander Gins in Warsaw, set to the text of a poem by Stanislaw Jachowicz. Starting Bid $10000
Mendelssohn prepares a festival program:
“I would very much like to see a Bach composition on the program (no matter how short it is)—some quite forceful double-chorale or a cantata...Has
Beethoven’s Eroica been performed recently?”
516. Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy Autograph Letter Signed on Performing Bach, Beethoven, and Handel, with AMQ and Partial ALS (Lot of 3): “It seems to be so timely to at last use one of Bach’s great chorales besides Handel’s music”. Prodigiously gifted German Romantic composer (1809–1847) whose musical output represents virtually every form and genre of the era. ALS in German, signed “Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 8 x 9.5, January 18, 1838. Handwritten letter to the president of the Lower Rhenish Music Festival, in part (translated): “You will have heard that the Committee has asked me to go to Cologne and to conduct at this year’s Music Festival during the weekend of Pentecost. And therefore you also know that, since receiving that letter, I think of you and your family with redoubled intensity, wishing to hear from you personally, longing to ask you several questions: this is the purpose of my letter now. Regarding your previous Music Festivals, I know that, long before the actual performance, you had involved yourself with the selection of the musical offerings and with other important matters, and that many of your quietly thought-out ideas benefitted the other people engaged in this undertaking. No doubt you prepared things in the same way this time also and, if I am not wrong in this supposition, I would like to ask for your opinion.
On the one hand, you are so well informed about musical matters, but you are also intimately acquainted with the circumstances there, so that your views are very important for me to learn. Through one of its members, the Committee has sent me some suggestions which I liked, but which seemed to me not progressive enough for a Music Festival that had previously distinguished itself by performing original Handel music on the organ. It seems to me that such a development is extremely important, even though it might not have been noticed at the time. In any case, my main interest points in that direction. I would very much like to see a Bach composition on the program (no matter how short it is)—some quite forceful double-chorale or a cantata with some lively chorales (I own several of these) and I feel if something like that is played on the first day, before the Handel Oratorio, which should be one of the shorter ones, the Festival could only profit from such a performance. But I think the Committee will be fearful of such a step. And yet, it seems to be so timely to at last use one of Bach’s great chorales besides Handel’s music, and I feel that it would be of considerable merit to set the pace with something like this. What is your opinion?
I would also like to know if Haydn’s Four Seasons has been performed yet at one of the Music Festivals? The Creation? Handel’s Saul? A symphony by Haydn and which one? Has Beethoven’s Eroica been performed recently? You alone can answer these questions satisfactorily for me and, above all, give me your views about the approaching festival.
Thank God my wife and I are, so far, well. My wife expects her confinement any day now, and I pray that everything will go well at the moment I can hardly think of anything else. My mother-in-law and my sister-in-law, whom you have met, have arrived from Frankfurt, and they will remain with us for the next month.” In fine condition, with small mounting strips to edges and the seal clipped off.
Among the works featured at Cologne’s 1838 Lower Rhenish Music Festival were Ries’s ‘Symphony in C minor,’ Handel’s ‘Joshua,’ Mozart’s ‘Prague’ Symphony, and compositions by Luigi Cherubini and Ludwig van Beethoven. Ries, Beethoven’s pupil, had died on January 13th, just five days before these lines were penned, and the performance of his symphony was considered a ‘memorial offering.’ Mendelssohn himself performed Handel’s oratorio with the organ accompaniment intended by its composer. Haydn’s oratorios, ‘The Creation’ and ‘The Seasons’ are still frequently performed, and Beethoven’s Eroica symphony was offered at Dusseldorf’s Lower Rhenish Festival that same summer. However, Mendelssohn’s reference to Johann Sebastian Bach is, perhaps, of greatest importance, given his devotion to the master’s music. It was Bach’s Himmelfahrts-Kantate that was offered in July 1838, the first Bach cantata to be performed at a music festival.
Additionally includes:
- a scarce autograph musical quotation in pencil by Mendelssohn on an off-white 4.25 x 3.25 album page, identified along the bottom in another hand, “Napoli, Mendelssohn-Bartholdy,” perhaps a recording of a piece that he heard played by street musicians while staying in Naples in April–June 1831. In fine condition, with scattered light foxing.
- a partial ALS signed “Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy,” one page, 7.5 x 2.25, no date, containing four lines from an untranslated handwritten letter sent to a gentleman in Bonn. In fine condition, with trimmed edges.
Accompanied by a carte-de-visite portrait of Mendelssohn, as well as an engraved portrait featuring his facsimile signature. Starting Bid $1000
Entertainment
“What you need is a long walk on a short pier”— Fatty Arbuckle’s handwritten joke book
565. Roscoe ‘Fatty’ Arbuckle Handwritten Comedy Reference Notebook - Filled with Lyrics, One-Liners, and Witticisms. Roscoe ‘Fatty’ Arbuckle’s personal comedy reference notebook, 5.28 x 8, containing 29 handwritten pages filled with humorous lyrics, one-liners, clever sayings, and witty observations, signed and dated on the first page in fountain pen, “Roscoe Arbuckle, April 14th, 1932.” Highlighting the notebook are dozens of short jokes and one-line zingers, for example: “Hollywood is a great place, I knew an actor out there who was broke six months before he found it out,” “I joined the navy to see the world and spent four years in a submarine,” “What you need is a long walk on a short pier,” “A sock on the foot is worth two in the eye,” “I drank his health so often I almost ruined my own,” and “A cynic is a person who knows the price of everything and the value of nothing.”
Other notes offer bits of witty dialogue to incorporate into comedy sketches: “Who’s that funny looking girl I saw you
with yesterday? / Why that’s my wife. / I’m sorry, my mistake. / No, mine”; “Will you join me in a bowl of soup? / Do you think there’s room?”; “I’m tired of working so hard, from now on I’m going to live by my wits. / Well, a half a living is better than nothing”; “She looks like she was poured in that dress. / Yes, but she forgot to say when”; and “How many people work here? / About one out of every ten.”
On a page headed “Postal cards, Telegrams,” he records some dubious fan interactions, including one about signing autographs: “Dear Mr. Arbuckle, Will you please give ten autographed photographs of yourself. This may sound silly to you but they told me if I got ten pictures of you I could trade them in for one of Clark Gable.” Arbuckle also makes lists of “Spot Gags” and “Song Titles,” and pens complete lyrics to several comedic songs. A remarkable piece encapsulating the legendary comic actor’s impeccable sense of humor. In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
Rare and wonderful photo of Gwenn in his iconic Oscar-winning role as Santa Claus
566. Edmund Gwenn Signed Photograph as Santa Claus from Miracle on 34th Street. Vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 photo of Edmund Gwenn as Kris Kringle in the 1947 Christmas classic Miracle on 34th Street, signed neatly in fountain pen. In very fine condition. One of the finer Gwenn photos we have ever offered, an example highlighted by its large size, great image, and lack of inscription. A superb signed photo of the only actor to have won an Academy Award for playing the role of Santa Claus. Starting Bid $200
Morning gown design worn by Sophia Loren in Houseboat, signed and approved by Edith Head
567. Edith Head Signed Original Costume Sketch for Sophia Loren in Houseboat. Original costume sketch for Sophia Loren and her role in the 1958 film Houseboat, accomplished in graphite, colored pencil, and watercolor on a 14 x 16.5 sheet of sketch paper. The sketch shows the design for the morning gown worn by Loren in a kitchen scene with Cary Grant, signed in artist’s pencil at the lower right corner, “Edith Head,” with notations to upper corners, “OK Kitchen, Kitchen, Sophia Loren #8 or 9,” and “#8, Entrance, cooking from pool looking at Jack to tight to Sophia.” The reverse bears additional notations, including Head’s directions to keep “black white” with “no pink,” which is ultimately how the gown appeared on screen. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
568. Alfred Hitchcock Signed Oversized Photograph.
Large vintage semi-glossy 11 x 14 silver gelatin portrait photo of the influential filmmaker, signed in white grease pencil. The reverse is date-stamped October 8, 1976. In very good to fine condition, with creasing and surface impressions along the bottom edge, and a heavier diagonal crease to the upper right corner area. Starting Bid $200
569. Harry Houdini Signed Photograph. Outstanding vintage glossy 3.5 x 5.5 postcard photo of the legendary Harry ‘Handcuff’ Houdini in formal attire, nicely signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “With best wishes and kindest regards to Mrs. Ganty, Harry Houdini, Cardiff, May 26/14.” In fine condition, with old mounting remnants on the back. Encapsulated by Beckett Authentication Services.
In 1914, Harry Houdini visited Wales as part of his European tour, called the ‘Grand Magical Revue,’ performing at the Empire Theater in Cardiff on May 29th. Rather than performing his famous escape acts, Houdini focused his ‘Magical Revue’ on card tricks and classic illusions like the ‘Egg Bag,’ ‘Goodbye Winter,’ ‘Calico Conjuring,’ and ‘Metamorphosis.’ Starting Bid $300
“‘Love
Laughs at Locksmiths,’ so does Harry Handcuff Houdini”
570. Harry Houdini Signed Autograph Book - “‘Love Laughs at Locksmiths,’ so does Harry Handcuff Houdini”. Vintage leather-bound autograph album, 7.75 x 5, signed inside in bold black ink, “‘Love Laugh at Locksmiths,’ so does Harry Handcuff Houdini, Cardiff, March 14/1911, Empire.” The album also contains signatures of other period notables like ballerina Anna Pavlova (2), magician Horace Goldin (who adds a self-portrait sketch of himself performing a magic trick), comedian Little Tich, composer Ivor Foster, and others. The album also contains several original drawings and sketches by cartoonists of the day. In very good to fine condition, with damage to spine and most pages, while detached, are very clean. Starting Bid $200
571. Steve McQueen Signed Photograph. Satin-finish
8 x 10 Paramount Pictures publicity photo of McQueen as the title character in the 1966 Western film Nevada Smith, signed and inscribed in felt tip, “To Pete – Steve McQueen.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. Starting Bid $200
Monroe studies dialogue in Odets’ classic play:
“Success and fame or just a lousy living—your lucky you won’t have to worry about those things”
572. Marilyn Monroe Handwritten Notes with Dialogue from Golden Boy: “Success and fame or just a lousy living—your lucky you won’t have to worry about those things”. Rare unsigned handwritten notes in pencil, written entirely in the hand of Marilyn Monroe, one page, 8 x 12.5, seldom-seen “MMM” letterhead, no date but circa 1956. The notes consist of a partial dialogue for the character of Lorna from Clifford Odet’s 1937 play Golden Boy, in full: “Success and fame or just a lousy living—your lucky you won’t have to worry about those things / Unless Tom Moody’s a liar / I like him / No I never did—thats the Carousel that music. Did you ever ride on one of those / weren’t you ever a kid for God’s sake / Why / I wouldn’t have taken that too serious / Lot of horses trot around here—the rich know how to live—You’ll be rich / Whats that / No when I came out of the cocoon I was a butterfly and butterflies don’t work / He goes up to see his kid on Tuesday night—Its a sick kid, a girl. His wife leaves it at her mothers house / What are you hinting at / Why think about it / I don’t why should you.” In very good to fine condition, with some tears and creasing to the top edge
Not long after her marriage to Arthur Miller, Monroe began using the moniker ‘Marilyn Monroe Miller,’ the basis for the “MMM” letterhead. Around this same time period Monroe had become determined to improve herself as an actress, studying and training under Lee and Paula Strasberg while living in New York City. Her performance in the 1956 film Bus Stop earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress. Starting Bid $300
573. Marilyn Monroe Signed Check. Marilyn Monroe Productions, Inc. business check, 8.5 x 3, filled out in type and signed by Monroe, “Marilyn Monroe,” payable to Paul A. Reilly & Co. Inc. for $74.45, January 19, 1960. In fine condition, with a small area of paper loss to the upper left.
Monroe first met Milton Greene in September 1953 when the latter was a photographer on assignment for Look magazine, and the two quickly became friends. Spurred by Monroe’s desire to have more control over her career, the pair formed an independent film production company, Marilyn Monroe Productions, in 1955. After making Bus Stop in 1956, the Prince and the Showgirl was the company’s second project. However, Monroe’s cordial relationship with Greene soon dissolved and Marilyn Monroe Productions folded after making only two films. Starting Bid $500
“Another original from the original negative—again many thanks for your help in the Monroe show”
574. Marilyn Monroe Original Oversized Photograph
Signed by Joseph Jasgur to George Hurrell. Original matte-finish 16 x 20 photograph of Marilyn Monroe standing in a snug sweater and plaid pants, originally taken by Joseph Jasgur in 1946 and printed later from the original negative, signed and inscribed in ink to fellow photographer George Hurrell, “To George—another original from the original negative—again many thanks for your help in the Monroe show at the Holiday Inn (Hollywood). Joe Jasgur, June 9, ‘88, Age—19 yrs.” In fine condition. A classic, early image of Marilyn Monroe and a wonderful association piece as a presentation from one photographer to another. From the Marc and Mary Perkins Collection. Starting Bid $200
575. The Outsiders Cast-Signed Photograph. Color glossy 9.75 x 8 photo of the cast of The Outsiders, signed in black felt tip by C. Thomas Howell, Ralph Macchio, Matt Dillon, Patrick Swayze, Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, and Tom Cruise. In fine condition, with scattered small surface creases. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. Starting Bid $200
576. Bettie Page Document Signed. DS, one page, 8.5 x 11, September 24, 1953. Assignment of rights to photographer Irving Klaw, in full: “I, the undersigned, being of lawful age, or and in consideration of $ received, do release and give all commercial and publication rights to photographs and motion picture films taken of myself, with or without the use of my name, solely and exclusively to Irving Klaw or assigns.” Signed at the conclusion by Bettie Page, who adds her address, “65 W. 46th St., N.Y.C.” In fine condition.
In 1952, a few years after moving to New York City, Page began modeling for noted fetish photographer and filmmaker Irving Klaw. During the five years they worked together, both Page and Klaw gained widespread popularity in the erotic photographic industry, with the former ultimately becoming the first famous bondage model. Given the time period of her hiring, this early document marks the ascent of Page as one of history’s most popular pinup models. Starting Bid $200
754. Enzo Ferrari Typed Letter Signed. TLS in Italian, signed “Ferrari,” one page, 6.25 x 8.25, Ferrari letterhead, December 14, 1983. Letter to Francesco Santovetti, in full (translated): “Thank you for your greetings, which I reciprocate. When you have the opportunity to pass through Modena, I will be happy to deliver my latest book to you.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Starting Bid $200
American Legion Junior Baseball promo photo signed by Babe Ruth
756. Babe Ruth Signed Photograph. Vintage glossy 5 x 6.5 promo photo of Babe Ruth taking a mighty swing for the New York Yankees, nicely signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To My Little Pal Mike Sainsbury, From Babe Ruth, 1947.” The lower border is imprinted, “Consultant, Ford Motor Company, American Legion Junior Baseball.” In very good condition, with overall creasing, and some tiny tears in the borders. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA.
In his retirement, Ruth traveled the country doing promotional work for American Legion Baseball on behalf of the Ford Motor Company, which sponsored tournaments for the amateur league; many Ford dealers also supported the cause, supplying uniforms to their local teams. A desirable autographed photo from the ‘Sultan of Swat.’ Starting Bid $1000
“I am going to be a Boxer when I get out”— busted for burglary, the future
Rocky Graziano ponders his fate
755. Rocky Graziano Prison Archive: (45+) Documents with (8) Early Autographs (“Rocco Barbella”), Mug Shot, Fingerprint Cards, and Police Records. Rocky Graziano’s jailhouse file—an incredible, unique archive of over 45 documents primarily chronicling Graziano’s legal troubles as a young man. This is a fascinating collection documenting the life and times of one of boxing’s most colorful characters, highlighted by eight documents signed using his legal name, “Rocco Barbella”—the only known examples of this early version of his signature. Most significant are his original mug shot, fingerprint records, and prison intake questionnaire in which he defiantly declares: “I am going to be a Boxer when I get out.”
Born Thomas Rocco Barbella in 1919, the legendary boxer is better known to the world as the heavy-hitting Rocky Graziano, a name he took to evade authorities after deserting the US Army. The pieces offered in this collection mainly come from an earlier, troubled time in his life, circa 1938, when he was arrested for petit larceny after breaking into a cafe to steal cigarettes, wine, and other articles valued at a total of $63. Within the archive are various police reports, court documents, and correctional institution correspondence related to the 19-year-old’s crime and punishment.
The historic archive is highlighted by the eight items signed by Graziano, six of which are accompanied by full letters of authenticity from JSA:
- the original double-sided 8 x 8 New York State Vocational Institution fingerprint card of “Rocco Barbella,” with one side featuring an affixed mugshot photo from June 28, 1938, detailing his personal information and criminal history; the reverse features his ten individual fingerprints in ink, with full impressions below. Graziano signs with his legal name and address in fountain pen, “Rocco Barbella, 141—1 Ave., New York City.”
- two New York State Vocational Institution correspondence slips filled out and signed in pencil, “Rocco Barbella,” addressed to his mother, “Ida Barbella,” at her home in New York City, dated June and July 1938.
- New York Court of General Sessions sentencing document ordering Barbella to be sent to the New York State Vocational Institution following his “conviction by confession of Petit Larceny,” endorsed on the reverse in fountain pen, “Rocco Barbella.”
- New York State Vocational Institution four-page intake form filled out and signed by Barbella, incorporating his name “Rocco Barbella” twice within the text and signed once at the conclusion, also noting his alias “Rockey Bob,” June 28, 1938, offering details on his crime and personal life. In the explanation of his crime, Barbella writes (spelling and grammar retained): “I am here for robing a store and a school and I and not glity for the crime. They frame me. Because the cops around my block do not like me. I sold a moovie camer in a shop on 3rd Ave. NYC and the cop got me in the store. I went to the Tombs an was out on Bail. and the cope come up my house and told me that I rob a store. which I do not know any thing about.” He notes that the last school he attended was St. Ann’s on 11th Street, and that he had worked for the WPA for two weeks before his arrest. He also gives the names of his parents, “Nick Barbella, Ida Barbella, 141—1 Ave., NYC.” At the conclusion he requests assignment to “General Duty,” explaining: “I am going to be a Boxer when I get out. So the hard work will get me strong.”
- two City of New York Police Department investigation documents detailing the charges against Barbella, documenting his offense, criminal history, upbringing, personality, and other pertinent details, with an attached fingerprint sheet featuring original ink fingerprints of the prisoner, signed in fountain pen, “Rocco Barbella.”
- New York State Vocational Institution Censor Authorization and Property Record document, signed twice in fountain pen, “Rocco Barbella,” authorizing the warden to open his mail, and certifying that he surrendered no property on intake.
Following Barbella’s release, he joined the United States Army but went AWOL, escaping from Fort Dix in New Jersey and starting his boxing career as ‘Rocky Graziano.’ He came to the military’s attention after gaining some popularity under that name, and in 1941 finally turned himself in. He was courtmartialed, dishonorably discharged, and sent to serve time at Fort Leavenworth, where he showed promise as a fighter. Graziano was eventually pardoned and given the opportunity to box by the Army.
He would go on to become one of boxing’s greatest brawlers, known for his powerful knockout punch. During his ten-year professional career, he assembled a stellar record of 67 wins to 10 losses, with 52 wins by knockout. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame and was named to Ring
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Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Punchers of All-Time. A celebrity in popular culture, he made regular guest appearances on TV shows like The Martha Raye Show, Miami Undercover, Car 54, Where Are You?, I’ve Got a Secret, and Naked City. His autobiography, Somebody Up There Must Like Me (described by the Saturday Review as ‘the blood-soaked autobiography of a happy hoodlum), was turned into a film starring Paul Newman in one of his early roles.
The balance of the archive includes:
- October 31, 1934 - Carbon copy of Dorothy Stabler’s letter to Dr. George W. Mills, outlining her knowledge of the Barbella family
- May 11, 1938 - State of New York Department of Correction Division of Criminal Identification record
- June 20, 1938 - Court of General Sessions sentencing document for petit larceny
- June 23, 1938 - New York State Vocational Institution record of Barbella’s medical history on admission
- June 23, 1938 - New York State Vocational Institution psychologist’s examination report, recording “dull normal intelligence with poor mechanical ability”
- June 23, 1938 - New York State Vocational Institution discipline document recording Barbella’s IQ as 81
- June 23, 1938 - New York State Vocational Institution list of Barbella’s relatives
- June 29, 1938 - Social Service exchange form
- June-July 1938 - New York State Vocational Institution record of visitors
- July 8, 1938 - The Brooklyn Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children letter regarding Barbella’s family life and upbringing
- July 8, 1938 - Carbon copy of the superintendent’s letter to the Registrar of Records, requesting a copy of his birth certificate
- July 22, 1938 - Certified copy of Rocco Barbella’s State of New York birth certificate, signed by the Assistant Registrar of Records
- July 6, 1938 - Brooklyn Bureau of Charities letter concerning the family
- July 6, 1938 - Brooklyn State Hospital letter reporting that his mother, Ida, had been diagnosed with “Dementia Praecox, Paranoid Type”
- July 6, 1938 - New York State Vocational Institution Warrant for Retaking Paroled Prisoner, ordering Barbella’s return to the institution
- July 11, 1938 - Vocational Service for Juniors letter reporting Barbella’s failure to attend testing appointments
- July 13, 1938 - City of New York Department of Welfare let-
ter regarding the family and “Rocco’s social mal-adjustment”
- July 21, 1938 - Coxsackie, New York Parole Department transmittal letters for paperwork pertaining to Barbella
- July 28, 1938 - State of New York Department of Correction letter granting a request to transfer Barbella due to his age
- July 29, 1938 - Carbon copies of the acting superintendent’s letter to the court, indicating that Barbella’s age had been reported incorrectly and he was six months over the limit at the time of his admission
- August 1, 1938 - New York State Vocational Institution Parole Department chronological history record
- October 14, 1938 — City of New York Department of Correction letter requesting a report on Barbella’s personal and family history
- November 1, 1938 - Federal Bureau of Investigation record documenting receipt of his fingerprints and criminal history
- November 24, 1939 - Federal Bureau of Investigation record documenting receipt of his fingerprints and criminal history
- January 11, 1941 - New York State Vocational Institution carbon copy letter with reference to Barbella’s rape charge
- January 16, 1941 - Federal Bureau of Investigation record documenting receipt of his fingerprints and criminal history
- May 13, 1944 - Medical survey for the Selective Service System
- Mary 27, 1944 - New York State Vocational Institution carbon copy of a letter briefly documenting Barbella’s criminal history and time at the institution
- April 1949 - New York State Vocational Institution file copies of the Collier’s article “Trouble Is My Middle Name” by Rocky Graziano
- November 14, 1955 - Carbon copies of letters authorizing Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer to photograph the New York State Vocational Institution in connection with their intent to film “the Rocky Graziano story based on the book ‘Somebody Up There Likes Me.’” Starting Bid $1000
8. U. S. Grant Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
68. Donald Trump Signed Book - The Art of the Deal Starting Bid $200
77. Joe Biden Signed BookPromise Me, Dad Starting Bid $200
81. George W. Bush Typed Letter Signed as President: "Establishing ac... Starting Bid $200
43. John F. Kennedy's Hand Towel, Embroidered "JFK" Starting Bid $200
69. Donald Trump Signed Book - Surviving at the Top Starting Bid $200
78. George Bush Signed Engraving Starting Bid $200
82. George W. Bush (2) Signed Books - 41: A Portrait of My Father and... Starting Bid $200
66. Donald Trump Signed 'Mug Shot' Oversized Plexiglas Print Starting Bid $200
70. Donald Trump Signed 'Make America Great Again' Cap Starting Bid $200
79. George Bush Typed Letter Signed as President Starting Bid $200
83. Jimmy Carter Signed Engraving Starting Bid $200
67. Donald Trump Signed 'The Silent Majority' 2016 Presidential Campa... Starting Bid $200
71. Donald Trump Signed Limited Edition BookSurviving at the Top Starting Bid $200
80. George Bush Typed Letter Signed as President: "I appreciate, too,... Starting Bid $200
84. Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter
Signed Photographs Starting Bid $200
(4)
85. President Grover Cleveland Authorizes His Secretary of State to A... Starting Bid $200
89. Dwight D. Eisenhower (4) ‘Military Aide to the President’ Insigni... Starting Bid $200
93. Dwight D. Eisenhower's (3) Golf Balls - From the Family Collectio... Starting Bid $200
97. U. S. Grant: The World Newspaper from November 4, 1868 - Results ... Starting Bid $200
86. Bill Clinton Typed Letter Signed as President Starting Bid $200
90. Dwight D. Eisenhower White House 1950 Renovation Wood Display wit... Starting Bid $200
94. Dwight D. Eisenhower's Personalized 'DDE' Matchbook - From the Fa... Starting Bid $200
98. U. S. Grant: The Cleveland Daily Leader from March 5, 1869 - Hist... Starting Bid $200
87. Bill Clinton Signed Presidential Medal of Freedom Program Starting Bid $200
91. Dwight D. Eisenhower (4) Signatures Starting Bid $200
95. Dwight D. Eisenhower Vintage 'White House' Zippo Lighter - From t... Starting Bid $200
99. U. S. Grant: The NewYork Tribune from July 24, 1885 - The Death ... Starting Bid $200
88. Dwight D. Eisenhower (5) Gift Pocketknives - From the Family Coll... Starting Bid $200
92. Dwight D. Eisenhower Typed Letter Signed, One Week After the 1952... Starting Bid $200
96. Dwight D. Eisenhower Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
100. President Rutherford B. Hayes Sends a Ceremonial Letter to German... Starting Bid $200
101. Andrew Johnson Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
105. John F. Kennedy 1937 Harvard vs. Yale Freshman Swim Meet Program Starting Bid $200
109. John F. Kennedy Presidential Inauguration 'No Parking' Street Sig... Starting Bid $200
102. Andrew Johnson Document Signed as President, Pardoning a Counterf... Starting Bid $200
106. John F. Kennedy: 1935 Festivities Issue of The Choate News Starting Bid $200
110. John F. Kennedy Inauguration Invitation Package Starting Bid $200
103. Andrew Johnson Impeachment: The New York Times from February 25, ... Starting Bid $200
107. John F. Kennedy HandCorrected Telegram as President to the Presi... Starting Bid $200
111. John F. Kennedy Inauguration Ephemera: Automobile Pass, Button, a... Starting Bid $200
104. John F. Kennedy 1963 Funeral Procession Invitation Starting Bid $200
108. John F. Kennedy Inauguration Ceremonies and Inaugural Ball (4) Ti... Starting Bid $200
112.
John F. Kennedy 1962 Midterm Election Campaign Original Wirephoto Starting Bid $100
113. John F. Kennedy 1963 Easter Seals Original Wirephoto Starting Bid $100
114. John F. Kennedy 1962 Mexico City Parade Original Wirephoto Starting Bid $100
115. John F. Kennedy and Harry S. Truman 1960 Election Campaign Origin... Starting Bid $100
116. John F. Kennedy 1963 Voice of America Original Wirephoto Starting Bid $100
117. John F. Kennedy 1963 USS Oriskany Original Wirephoto Starting Bid $100
121. John F. Kennedy's Original Political Cartoon by Frank Dahl - 'The... Starting Bid $200
118. John F. Kennedy 1961 Hyannisport Marlin Original Wirephoto Starting Bid $100
122. James Madison: Perpetual War, The Policy of Mr. Madison Booklet b... Starting Bid $200
119. John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Robert McNamara 1961 Orig... Starting Bid $100
123. William McKinley Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Starting
120. John F. Kennedy: American Flag Flown Over United States Capitol (... Starting Bid $200
124. James Monroe Document Signed as President
Bid $200
125. Richard Nixon Signed Book - The Memoirs of Richard Nixon Starting Bid $200
126. Richard Nixon Signed Book - Seize the Moment Starting Bid $200
127. Richard Nixon Signed Engraving Starting Bid $200
128. Richard Nixon Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
129. Richard Nixon Photograph Starting Bid $100
130. Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen Signed Book - Renegades Starting Bid $200
131. Nancy Reagan Signed Photograph Starting Bid $100
132. Ronald Reagan Autograph Letter Signed as President, Donating His ... Starting Bid $200
133. Franklin D. Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed as President: "The worl... Starting Bid $200
210. Lee Harvey Oswald 1957 High School Yearbook Starting Bid $200
215. American Manufacturing (4) Documents Starting Bid $100
134. William H. Taft Typed Letter Signed as Secretary of War Starting Bid $200
212. 19th-Century Business and Military (4) Items Starting Bid $100
216. Clara Barton Signed National First Aid Association of America Cer... Starting Bid $200
135. Harry S. Truman (2) Signed Books - Memoirs: Year of Decisions and... Starting Bid $200
213. 19th-Century Statesmen: William Hunter and Samuel J. Tilden (2) S... Starting Bid $100
217. Annie Besant Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
136. Donald Trump Signed 2017 Inaugural Ceremonies Pass - PSA GEM MT 1... Starting Bid $200
214. American Banking and Commerce (4) Documents Starting Bid $100
218. Richard Byrd Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Signed Coronation Card Starting Bid $200
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Starting
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219. Camilla, Queen Consort
220. Al Capone: (6) Photographs of Capone, Residences, and Wife
Bid $200
221. Al Capone: (8) Photographs of Capone, Wife, and Son
Bid $200
222. Al Capone: Prison Guard Letter on Capone's Personality and Autogr...
Bid $200
223. Charlotte, Grand Duchess of Luxembourg Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
227. Andre Citroen Signed Photograph to Maurice Chevalier Starting Bid $200
231. Frederick Douglass Document Signed Starting Bid $200
224. Madame Chiang Kaishek Signed 'Paintings' Book and Typed Letter S... Starting Bid $200
228. Dalai Lama Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
225. Madame Chiang Kaishek Typed Letter Signed on the New Life Moveme... Starting Bid $200
229. Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
748. Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory Signed Photograph
Bid $200
Wizard of Oz: Ray Bolger and Jack Haley Signed Poster
Bid $200
Wizard of Oz: Jerry Maren Signed 'Yellow Brick Road' Relic
Bid $100
Wizard of Oz: Jerry Maren Signed Photograph
Bid $100
753. Fay Wray Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
762. Muhammad Ali Signed Pamphlet
Bid $200
763. Muhammad Ali Signed Pamphlet Starting Bid $200
764. Muhammad Ali Signed Photograph
765. Muhammad Ali Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
766. Lance Armstrong Signed Photograph Starting Bid $100
767. Roger Bannister Signed Book - First Four Minutes Starting Bid $200
768. Roger Bannister and Chris Chataway Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
769. Roger Bannister, Chris Chataway, and Chris Brasher Signed FDC Starting Bid $200
773. Chicago Blackhawks: Bobby Hull and Stan Mikita (2) Signed Hockey ... Starting Bid $200
770. Larry Bird and Magic Johnson Oversized Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
775. Jaroslav Drobny Signed Photograph Starting Bid $100
778. Ben Hogan Signed Check Starting Bid $100
782. John McEnroe Signed Photograph Starting Bid $100
771. Tom Brady Signed Ticket for Super Bowl XXXIX - Beckett 10 Starting Bid $200
776. Roger Federer (4) Signed Promo Cards Starting Bid $200
779. LeBron James Signed 2005-06 Upper Deck 'Signature Portraits' Card Starting Bid $200
783. Joe Montana Signed Check to the San Francisco 49ers - PSA MINT 9 Starting Bid $200
Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
777. Wayne Gretzky Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
780. Jake LaMotta Signed Photograph Starting Bid $100
784. NY Yankees: 1989 Team-Signed Spring Training Roster with George S... Starting Bid $200
781. Mickey Mantle Signed Baseball Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $100
772. Primo Carnera
785. Danica Patrick Signed Photograph
786. Pele Signed Soccer Jersey Starting Bid $200
787. Pele Signed Postcard Starting Bid $200
788. Frank Robinson Signed Baseball Starting Bid $100
789. Mike Trout Signed 2011 All-Star Futures Game Locker Tag Name Plat... Starting Bid $200
790. Mike Tyson Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
791. Jim Valvano Signature Starting Bid $200
792. Jerry West Signed Basketball Jersey Starting Bid $100
793. Emil Zatopek and Dana Zatopkova Signed Sketch Starting Bid $200
795. Robert F. Kennedy Signed Book - To Seek a Newer World Starting Bid $200
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.
All duties, customs, and any other import charges are the responsibility of the bidder.
Section 9
Title
Title shall not pass to the successful Bidder until all invoices of Bidder (including those pertaining to the item(s) at issue) and amounts owed to RR Auction are paid in full. It is the responsibility of the Bidder to provide adequate insurance coverage for the items once they have been delivered to a common carrier or third-party shipper.
Section 10
Rights Reserved
RR Auction reserves the right, at any time before, during or after an auction has ended to: withdraw any lot before or at the time of the Auction, cancel any bid, and/or to postpone the Auction of all or any lots or parts thereof, for any reason. RR Auction shall not be liable to any Bidder in the event of such withdrawal, cancellation, or postponement under any circumstances. RR Auction reserves the right to refuse to accept bids from anyone at any time.
Section 11
Conducting the Auction
11.1 RR Auction reserves the right to postpone the Auction or any session thereof for a reasonable period of time for any reason whatsoever, and no Bidder or prospective Bidder shall have any claim as a result thereof, including consequential damages.
11.2 RR Auction’s Discretion: RR Auction shall determine opening bids and bidding increments. RR Auction has the right in its absolute discretion to reject any bid in the event of dispute between Bidders or if RR Auction has doubt as to the validity of any bid, to advance the bidding at its absolute discretion and to determine the successful Bidder in the event of a dispute between Bidders, to continue the bidding or to reoffer and resell the lot in question. In the event of a dispute after the sale, RR Auctions record of final sale shall be conclusive. RR Auction also may reject any bid if RR Auction decides either that any bid is below the reserve of the lot or article or that an advance is insufficient. Unless otherwise announced by RR Auction at the time of sale, no lots may be divided for the purpose of sale.
11.3 Reserves
Lots may be subject to a reserve which is the confidential minimum price below which the lot will not be sold. Consignors may not bid on their own lots or property. RR Auction may, from time to time, bid on items that it does not own. RR Auction may execute bids consecutively or otherwise up to one bid increment below the reserve.
11.4 Off-Site Bidding
Bidding by telephone, facsimile, online, or absentee bidding (advance written bids submitted by mail) are offered solely as a convenience and permitted subject to advance arrangements, availability, and RR Auction’s approval which shall be exercised at RR Auction’s sole discretion. Neither RR Auction nor its agents or employees shall be held liable for the failure to execute bids or for errors relating to any transmission or execution thereof. In order to be considered for off-site bidding in any manner, Bidders must comply with all of these Conditions of Sale and the terms contained on the Registration Form.
11.5 Estimate Prices:
In addition to descriptive information, each item in the Catalog sometimes includes a price range which reflects opinion as to the price expected at auction (the “Estimate Prices”). In other instances, Estimate Prices can be obtained by calling RR Auction at (603) 732-4280. The Estimate Prices are based upon various factors including prices recently paid at auction for comparable property, condition, rarity, quality, history and provenance. Estimate Prices are prepared well in advance of the sale and subject to revision. Estimates do not include the Buyer’s Premium or sales tax (see under separate heading).
11.6 Owned or Guaranteed Property:
RR Auction generally offers property consigned by others for sale at public auction; in very limited occasion, lots are offered that are the property of RR Auction.
11.7 Before the Auction:
Bidder may attend pre-sale viewing for all of RR Auction’s auctions at no charge. All property to be auctioned is usually on view for several days prior to the sale. Bidder is encouraged to examine lots thoroughly. Bidder may also request condition reports (see below). RR Auction’s staff are available at viewings and by appointment.
11.8 Maximum Bids In All Auctions:
To maximize Bidder’s chance of winning, RR Auction strongly encourages
the use of maximum bids. RR Auction will then bid for Bidder until the lot reaches Bidder’s specified maximum. Maximum bids are strictly confidential. Placing arbitrary, non-incremental bids on lots with prior maximum bids may result in these lots being sold for less than 10% above the under Bidder’s bid.
11.9 Successful Bids:
The fall of RR Auction’s hammer indicates the final bid. RR Auction will record the paddle number of the Bidder. If Bidder’s salesroom or absentee bid is successful, Bidder will be notified after the sale by mailed or emailed invoice.
11.10
Unsold Lots:
If a lot does not reach the reserve, it is bought-in. In other words, it remains unsold and is returned to the Consignor. RR Auction has the right to sell certain unsold items after the close of the Auction. Such lots shall be considered sold during the Auction and all these Terms and Conditions shall apply to such sales including but not limited to the Buyer’s Premium, return rights, and disclaimers.
11.11 Bidding in Timed Auction:
Bidder may open, monitor, and/or raise bids at any time before the close of a lot through www.rrauction.com. RR Auction offers a callback service the day of the Auction, but Bidder is responsible for supplying a correct telephone number(s) where Bidder can be reached until the Auction closes. Bidder must request this service in writing. RR Auction will make reasonable efforts to ensure that Bidders who request a callback are contacted if outbid; however, RR Auction does not guarantee this service and it is merely a courtesy and not an enforceable right. The auctioneer may also execute a bid on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve, either by entering a bid in response to salesroom, telephone or absentee bids. Under no circumstances will the auctioneer place any bid on behalf of the consignor above the reserve. The auctioneer will not specifically identify bids placed on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve.
To ensure proper registration, those Bidders intending to bid via the Internet must visit www.RRauction.com and register accordingly at least one full day prior to the actual auction. Winning bidders will be notified by RR Auction. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids.
Any Bidder may bid on any lot prior to 6 pm EST/EDT. At that time, an extended bidding period goes into effect. If Bidder has not bid on a lot before 6 pm EST/EDT, Bidder may not bid on that lot after 6 pm EST/EDT. Only those Bidders who have placed bids on a lot before 6 pm EST/EDT will be allowed to bid on that lot after 6 pm EST/EDT. If Bidder is the only Bidder on a lot at 6 pm EST/EDT, that lot is awarded to Bidder. During the extended bidding period, a lot will remain open only to those who bid on that lot prior to 6 pm EST/EDT. All lots WITHOUT an opening bid at 6 pm EST/EDT will remain OPEN to ALL Bidders until 7 pm EST/EDT or until they receive their first bid. These lots will close immediately upon receipt of a bid or at 7 pm EST/EDT, whichever comes first. For all lots that are active after 7 pm EST/EDT, bidding will remain open until 30 minutes pass without a bid being placed on THAT lot (the “30 Minute Rule”). The 30 Minute Rule is applied on a PER LOT BASIS; each lot in the Auction closes individually based on bidding activity after 7 pm EST/EDT. On a PER LOT BASIS, the 30 minute timer will reset each time a bid is placed after 7 pm EST/EDT. If Bidder is the high Bidder, raising Bidder’s maximum bid will NOT reset the timer. RR Auction reserves the right to close the Auction at any time at its sole discretion.
11.12 Bidding - Internet Live
Auction:
Bidder may open, monitor, and/or raise bids at any time before the close of a lot through www.rrauction.com. RR Auction offers a callback service the day of the Auction, but Bidder is responsible for supplying a correct telephone number(s) where Bidder can be reached until the Auction closes. Bidder must request this service in writing. RR Auction will make reasonable efforts to ensure that Bidders who request a callback are contacted if outbid; however, RR Auction does not guarantee this service and it is merely a courtesy and not an enforceable right.
To ensure proper registration, those Bidders intending to bid via the Internet must visit www.RRauction.com and register accordingly at least one full day prior to the actual auction. Winning bidders will be notified by RR Auction. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays,
or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids.
During live internet or live auction, property is auctioned in consecutive numerical order, as it appears in the catalog. The auctioneer will accept bids from those present in the salesroom or absentee bidders participating by telephone, internet or by written bid left with RR Auction in advance of the auction. The auctioneer may also execute a bid or bids (successively or otherwise) on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve, either by entering a bid in response to salesroom, telephone or absentee bids. Under no circumstances will the auctioneer place any bid on behalf of the consignor above the reserve. The auctioneer will not specifically identify bids placed on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve. All auctions for lots are with reserve unless specifically stated otherwise.
During live Auctions, internet bids can be placed in real time through one or more of the following Third Party services: www.liveauctioneers.com, www.invaluable.com and www.icollector.com. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids. RR Auction treats any third-party site bids as floor or telephone bids. Floor bids and telephone bids are always considered first over third party sites bids, and floor bids are considered earlier than telephone bids. All RR Auction lots purchased through the third-party sites carry an additional Buyer’s Premium.
11.13 Miscellaneous:
Agreements between Bidders and Consignors to effectuate a non-sale of an item at Auction, inhibit bidding on a consigned item to enter into a private sale agreement for said item, or to utilize RR Auction’s Auction to obtain sales for non-selling consigned items subsequent to the Auction, are strictly prohibited. If a subsequent sale of a previously consigned item occurs in violation of this provision, RR Auction reserves the right to charge Bidder the applicable Buyer’s Premium and Consignor a Seller’s Commission as determined for each auction venue and by the terms of the seller’s agreement.
Acceptance of these Terms and Conditions qualifies Bidder as a client who has consented to be contacted by RR Auction in the future. In conformity with ”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 damage to frames, glass or other breakable items. Where RR Auction arranges and bills for such services via invoice, RR Auction will include an administration charge.
Section 18
Headings
Headings are for convenience only and shall not be used to interpret the substantive sections to which they refer.
Section 19 Entire Agreement
Except to the extent Bidder is also a consignor (in which case the terms of the consignment agreement shall also govern), these Conditions of Sale constitute the entire agreement between the Parties together with the terms and conditions contained in the auction Registration Form. They may not be amended, modified or superseded except in a signed writing executed by all parties. No oral or written statement by anyone employed by RR Auction or acting as agent or representative of RR Auction may amend, modify, waive or supersede the terms herein unless such amendment, waiver or modification is contained in a writing signed by all parties.
If any section of these Conditions of Sale or any term or provision of any section is held to be invalid, void, or unenforceable by any court or arbitrator of competent jurisdiction, the remaining parts of the agreement and remainder of the sections or terms and provisions of the section and all sections shall continue in full force and effect without being impaired or invalidated in any way.
Section 20 Governing Law and Enforcement
20.1 The Parties agree that all agreements between the Parties including but not limited to these Conditions of Sale are entered into in Boston, Massachusetts, no matter where Bidder is situated and no matter by what means or where Bidder was informed of the Auction and regardless of whether catalogs, materials, or other communications were received by Bidder in another location.
20.2 The Parties agree that these Conditions of Sale, any other related agreement(s), along with all claims between the Parties, including those arising out of or related to such are governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of 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.
