At 6 p.m. on Wed. October 16th 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
Sought-after three-language ship’s paper for a West Indies trade voyage, boldly signed by President Washington
1. George Washington Document Signed as President - Ship’s Papers for a West Indies Trade Mission. Partly-printed DS as president, signed “Go: Washington,” one page, 12.75 x 15.5, December 23, 1795. Three-language ship’s papers issued to “Samuel Rolfe, master or commander of Brig’ne called the Edmund…lying at present in the port of Newb’yport, bound for the West Indies, and laden with Beef, Boards, Salmon, Rum, Linins, Dry fish, hoops…shoes, bread.” Boldly signed in the center by President George Washington and countersigned by Secretary of State ad interim Timothy Pickering. The white paper seal affixed to the left side remains intact. Handsomely cloth-matted and framed with a portrait and plaque to an overall size of 32 x 27.5. In fine condition, with Washington’s signature exceptionally crisp.
Providing proof of the nationality of the ship’s owner, should the vessel be stopped by a foreign power—especially important following Washington’s Neutrality Act of 1794, solidifying America’s relationship with France—ship’s papers were crucial documents, vital to the success of international trade. This ship’s paper, sending an American brigantine on a trading voyage to the West Indies, is both highly desirable and historically significant. Starting Bid $1000
Four-language sea pass signed by Jefferson and Madison, issued for the “Ship called Alex’r Hodgdon”
2. Thomas Jefferson and James Madison Signed Four-Language Ship’s Passport. Partly-printed DS as president, signed “Th: Jefferson” as president and “James Madison” as secretary of state, one page, 22.25 x 17.5, September 10, 1802. Four-language ship’s pass issued to “Nehemiah W. Skillings, master or commander of the Ship called Alex’r Hodgdon…lying at present in the port of Boston, bound for Sumatra and laden with Ballast & Sea Stores.” Neatly signed to the center margin in ink by President Thomas Jefferson and countersigned below by Secretary of State James Madison. The original white paper seal remains affixed to the left side. Attractively mounted and framed to an overall size of 30 x 25.5. In very good to fine condition, with light staining and creasing, apparent fold repairs, and areas of paper loss to the edges. United States ships carried four-language sea letters in the 18th and 19th centuries to show ownership, nationality, cargo, and destination. This example features a most desirable combination of presidents, boasting particularly bold, crisp autographs of Jefferson and Madison. Starting Bid $500
Upon Rhode Island’s ratification of the Constitution, Thomas Jefferson signs an act to create
its federal district court
3. Thomas Jefferson Document Signed as Secretary of State - Act of Congress
Organizing Rhode Island’s US District Court. Historically significant DS, signed as Secretary of State, “Th: Jefferson,” one page, 9 x 15.25, June 23, 1790. Official printing of an act passed by the Congress of the United States during its Second Session, headed, “An Act for giving Effect to an Act, intituled, ‘An Act to establish the judicial Courts of the United States,’ within the State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations.” The act begins: “Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the act intituled, ‘An act to establish the judicial courts of the United States,’ shall have the like force and effect within the state of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations, as elsewhere within the United States… the said State shall be one district, to be called Rhode-Island district…and the same is hereby annexed to the eastern circuit.” The act further outlines the schedule for the sessions of the court, to be held alternately in Newport and Providence. Imprinted at the conclusion with the names of Speaker Frederick Muhlenberg, Vice President John Adams, and President George Washington, and prominently signed below in ink by Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson. In fine condition.
Rhode Island was the last of the original colonies to ratify the United States Constitution on May 29, 1790, less than one month earlier. Article III established only the Supreme Court while granting Congress the power to create lower courts as necessary—a modest example of the ‘checks and balances’ between the three branches of government. By this act on June 23rd, Congress organized Rhode Island as one judicial district assigned to the Eastern Circuit, authorizing one judgeship, and Jefferson subsequently notified the nation’s governors by sending copies of the newly passed statute. This signed act represents the very beginnings of the United States, with the federal government invoking the Constitutional powers granted to it upon ratification. It is an early example of Jefferson’s role in the creation of the American judicial system, an influence which would only increase during his term as president. Starting Bid $1000
Retired to Monticello in 1816, Thomas Jefferson imports wine from France
4. Thomas Jefferson
Autograph Letter Signed on Importing European Wine to Monticello. ALS signed “Th: Jefferson,” one page, 8 x 9.75, August 15, 1816. Handwritten letter from Monticello to David Gelston, continuing a correspondence concerning the disposition of various articles—specifically large shipments of wine—arriving from Europe, wherein Jefferson has provided specific destinations for the incoming goods. He reiterates the contents of earlier communications and thanks Gelston for accommodating any trouble his requests might have caused.
In full: “Your favors of July 31 and Aug. 6 are both at hand. I considered that of July 31 as answered by mine of Aug. 3, altho’ not then received: and indeed the general request I made you in that, anticipated the subject of your last letter also; by requesting all articles received for me to be consigned to Mess’rs Gibson & Jefferson of Richmond, drawing on them for whatever articles of expence may be referred to them, and notifying me of any others. If the bank paper of Richmond is receivable with you I could always myself make prompt returns to you by mail. If not receivable I should always be obliged to remit thro’ my correspondents at Richmond. I shall often be needing apologies for these trouble to you, which I hope you will excuse and be assured of my great esteem and respect.” In fine condition, with light toning from prior display. Accompanied by an engraved portrait of Jefferson featuring a facsimile signature.
Here referenced, David Gelston’s letters of July 31st and August 6th concerned ‘a case said to contain 25 bottles sautern wine’ and a separate shipment of ‘57 bottles wine,’ while Jefferson’s letter of August 3rd pertained to an incoming ‘case of Barsac wine from Bordeaux.’ Having traveled the winemaking regions of France in the 1780s, Jefferson was one of early America’s leading wine connoisseurs, preferring to drink and serve the fine lighter wines of France and Italy.
A New York merchant and politician who signed the articles of association in 1774, Gelston served as a member of the New York State Senate on two separate occasions. He was appointed by President Jefferson as Collector of the Port of New York in 1801, and held that post until his retirement in 1821. Starting Bid $1000
John Quincy Adams and James Buchanan headline an 1844 autograph album filled with over 100 Congressional figures and cabinet members
27. John Quincy Adams and James Buchanan Autograph Album with (100+) Signatures from John Tyler’s Cabinet and the 28th United States Congress (1844). Autograph album from 1844 containing over 120 signatures of notable American politicians, 6.5 x 8.5, including several notable cabinet members of President John Tyler, in addition to a large number of senators and representatives from the 28th United States Congress. The album is highlighted by the signatures of John Quincy Adams and James Buchanan, who sign as a Massachusetts representative and as a Pennsylvania senator, respectively. Cabinet members include Secretary of States John C. Calhoun and Abel P. Upshur, Secretary of War William Wilkins, Secretary of the Navy John Y. Mason, Secretary of the Treasury George M. Bibb, Postmaster General Charles A. Wickliffe, and Attorney General John Nelson. Congressional figures include David Rice Atchison, Willie P. Mangum, Jabez W. Huntington, John M. Niles, Thomas Clayton, Richard H. Bayard, John J. Crittenden, George Evans, Rufus Choate, Isaac C. Bates, Levi Woodbury, John A. McClernand, Robert C. Winthrop, Joseph Grinnell, and more. The album contains five pages individually signed by a cabinet member, 12 pages signed by 54 senators, and 19 pages signed by 53 house representatives. In very good to fine condition, with the covers detached, and several pages loose, but interior pages are generally clean and fine. Starting Bid $200
The pivotal framer declines to opine on “numerous amendments wch you think are required by the Constitution of the U.S.”
5. James Madison Autograph Letter Signed on US Constitution, Declining to Opine on “Numerous Amendments”. ALS, one page, 7.75 x 9.75, February 5, 1833. Handwritten letter to “Mr. Griffith,” in part: “I have rec’d your letter..inclosing a sketch of numerous amendments wch you think are required by the Constitution of the U.S. I am duly sensible to the respect you manifest for my opinions on such subjects. But mere opinions without a full view of the reasons for them, could be of little value, and this is a task wch in my enfeebled condition & in the midst of other demands on the scanty remnant of my time, I cannot undertake. I am now within a few weeks of my eighty third year, and have for many months been confined to my house & a great part of the time to my bed, by a chronic & latterly an acute disease…This explanation will I am sure satisfy you.” In fine condition, with some trivial edge loss, and toning from prior display. A scarce and important handwritten letter by the ‘Father of the Constitution,’ whose wisdom and political advice continued to be sought well into his old age. That Madison should mention the famous document in any context is remarkable. Starting Bid $1000
“The freedom of speech and of the press are the distinguishing characters of free government”—Harrison outlines his values during the 1840 presidential campaign, including his technical views on slavery and states’ rights
6. William Henry Harrison Handwritten Manuscript on Rights and Slavery.
Important unsigned handwritten manuscript by William Henry Harrison, totaling four pages on three sheets, 8 x 10, no date but circa 1840. During his campaign for the presidency, Harrison drafts a careful response to questions posed to him by an abolitionist society, citing the United States Constitution while asserting states’ rights. Harrison begins the manuscript, in part: “Having recently received a letter from a personal friend who is a member of an abolition society proposing to me two questions…I willingly embrace the opportunity of answering them.” The two questions follow, penned neatly in another hand: “Do you believe the people of the United States possess an unrestricted right to discuss any subject that to them may seem worthy of consideration?…Do you believe the people of the United States have the right to petition their Legislature for the redress of whatever they may deem a grievance, and for the adoption of such measures as the petitioners may think conducive to the welfare of the nation?”
Harrison replies below, writing, in part: “I do not hesitate to answer both questions in the affirmative. The Constitution of the United States & that of our own state have secured to the people the enjoyment of the rights referred to in both questions, entirely unrestricted but by their own sense of propriety & the legal rules which protect the rights of others. The freedom of speech and of the press are the distinguishing characters of free government. Without them we might call our country a Republic but it would be so only in name, like that of Rome under the Emperors, it might be a mask to cover the most horrible despotism. [struck through: The Constitution of the U.S. has reserved these rights to the people entirely without restriction…].”
Harrison continues: “The authors of our Constitution must have known that it would be subject to abuses, to be used for improper & indeed sometimes for criminal purposes, yet they declared it without restriction. More than half a century has passed away since it came into operation, and altho’ upon one memorable occasion it was resorted to for the purpose of giving effect to councils tending to paralyze the efforts of the nation in the midst of a dangerous war, and to encourage the enemy to persevere in supporting their unjust pretensions, still these declarations of rights in relation to writing, speaking & publishing, have been suffered to remain in all their pristine force. I should be the last person who could under any circumstances consent to restrict them by legal enactments.
But in which of these characters either as citizens of the Ohio or citizens of the US, could we consistently with the theory and
spirit of the Constitution discuss a subject belonging exclusively to any other State? There are many principles to be found in the Constitutions of some of the States, other than the toleration of slavery, which are very much unlike those of Ohio. The property qualification of voters for instance. This is a restriction upon the right of suffrage to which personally I am opposed, I would accord this important privilege to every citizen, I would not proceed to enquire the am’t of money he had in his pocket, or what other specie of property he might possess. With these sentiments I might offer for your adoption a resolution declaring that the restricted suffrage in some of the States was an aristocratical feature in their systems of Gov’t & should be abolished. Such a proposition could not fail to create much surprise & bring to the mind of every man in the assembly that neither in his capacity as a citizen of Ohio nor of the US, could he interfere with the people of Massachusetts, Virginia & Louisiana in the management of their domestic concerns. Should I be asked if I thought any harm could arrive from such a discussion I answer decidedly in the affirmative. Harm in more ways than one. It would tend more perhaps than anything else to destroy the idea of the perfect individuality & distinctness of the State governments which has been considered as one of the most important features in our system…which in the opinion of our wisest & best statesmen would be the immediate precursor of the downfall of liberty. It could not fail also to produce a state of unfriendly feeling between the people of the respective states which is the only effective bond of our union.”
Harrison reiterates his unequivocal belief in the right to free speech, yet again qualifying his answer: “The abuse of these rights is no argument for abolishing them. In the forcible language of the late distinguished Chief Justice of the US, ‘it is an evil inseparable from the good to which it is allied—a shoot which cannot be stripped from the stalk without vitally wounding the plant from which it is torn.’”
In overall fine condition. Harrison addresses several topics of great importance, notably alluding to the House of Representatives’ ‘gag rule’ of 1836, which tabled all discussions relating to the slavery issue. In defending free speech as a core value of the United States and its Constitution, Harrison speaks in opposition to the gag rule itself, but cedes control of slavery matter to the states. A Southern slaveholder by birth, Harrison would echo these ideals in his inaugural address: ‘The attempt of those of one state to control the domestic institutions of another can only result in feelings of distrust and jealousy, the certain harbingers of disunion, violence, and civil war, and the ultimate destruction of our free institutions.’ With these observations, Harrison thus predicted the Civil War. Starting Bid $1000
President Tyler and Secretary Webster approve
“the Barque called Cora…lying at present in the port of New Bedford...for a whaling voyage”
7. John Tyler and Daniel Webster Document Signed as President and Secretary of State for a Whaling Voyage. Partly-printed DS, signed “J. Tyler” as president and “Dan’l Webster” as secretary of state, one page, 19.25 x 15.5, September 2, 1841. Four-language ship’s paper issued to “Archelaus Baker, master or commander of the Barque called Cora…lying at present in the port of New Bedford, bound for Pacific Ocean and laden with Provisions, Stores and Utensils for a whaling voyage.” Boldly signed by President John Tyler and countersigned by Secretary of State Daniel Webster. The middle portion retains the original white paper seal. Handsomely matted and framed to an overall size of 27.5 x 23.5. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
8. James K. Polk Document Signed as President, Appointing a Soon-to-Be Hero of the Mexican-American War. Partly-printed vellum DS as president, one page, 12.5 x 16.5, March 25, 1847. President Polk appoints John M. Brannon as “First Lieutenant in the First Regiment of Artillery, in the service of the United States.” Signed at the conclusion in ink by President James K. Polk, and countersigned by Secretary of War William L. Marcy. The white paper seal affixed at the upper left remains intact. Nicely cloth-matted and framed with a portrait and plaque to an overall size of 27 x 24.75. In fine condition, with some skipping to Polk’s somewhat light signature. The appointee, John Milton Brannan (1819–1892) was a career U.S. Army officer who served with distinction in the Mexican–American War; he was promoted to the rank of brevet captain for ‘gallant and meritorious conduct’ during the battles of Contreras and Churubusco in 1847, and was severely wounded during the battle for Mexico City. Starting Bid $200
9. Franklin Pierce and Jefferson Davis Document Signed as President and Secretary of War. Partly-printed vellum DS, signed “Franklin Pierce” as president and “Jeffer. Davis” as secretary of war, one page, 12.5 x 16.5, April 30, 1856. President Pierce appoints Henry E. Maynadier as a “First Lieutenant in the Tenth Regiment of Infantry in the service of the United States.” Signed at the conclusion by President Pierce and countersigned by Secretary of War Davis. The beige paper seal remains affixed to the upper left. In very good to fine condition, with slight fading and overall wrinkling. Starting Bid $200
In August 1861, President Lincoln approves Orville E. Babcock as “Second Lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers,” an early military commission for a controversial member of U. S. Grant’s inner circle
10. Abraham Lincoln Document Signed as President (August 1861) - Early Military Appointment for Orville E. Babcock, the Future Aide-de-Camp for General U. S. Grant. Civil War-dated partly-printed vellum DS as president, one page, 14.25 x 17.25, August 10, 1861. President Lincoln appoints Orville E. Babcock as “Second Lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers in the service of the United States.” Signed at the conclusion by Abraham Lincoln, and countersigned by Secretary of War Simon Cameron. The embossed green seal remains affixed to the upper left. Cloth-matted and framed with a portrait and engraved plate to an overall size of 29.25 x 25.25. In very good to fine condition, with light staining slightly affecting Cameron’s signature, but not Lincoln’s bold signature. A notable military commission from President Lincoln that represents one of the earliest appointments in the formidable and controversial career of Orville Elias Babcock (1835–1884), an engineer and Union general who served as the aide-de-camp to General U. S. Grant during the Civil War. Starting Bid $1000
Autograph letter by Abraham Lincoln as a ‘prairie lawyer’—“I guess we will have to take the deposition of the man on the land”
11. Abraham Lincoln Autgoraph Letter Signed as an Attorney in Springfield, Illinois. ALS signed “A. Lincoln,” one page, 7.75 x 9, May 22, 1858. Handwritten letter to “W. H. Davenport,” in full: “Yours of the 14th is just received. In your case at Danville, I got just so far, and no farther, that to be ready to take testimony for the next term—I guess we will have to take the deposition of the man on the land. (I forget his name just now). We want to prove by him that he was not notified of his entry being canceled. At this sitting I write Judge Harriott about your father’s business.” In fine condition, with some scattered light soiling. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed by Abraham Lincoln to William H. Davenport in Eureka, Illinois, postmarked at Springfield.
This letter is recorded in the Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln, Vol. II, edited by Roy P. Basler. The recipient, William H. Davenport, was a farmer near Eureka, Illinois, and brought a legal case against Lafayette H. Sconce and William C. Don Carlos concerning a fraudulent land registration made by Don Carlos while a clerk in the Land Office at Danville, Illinois. Davenport retained Abraham Lincoln and Shelby M. Cullom to represent him in the case, which was ultimately decided in his favor on November 24, 1860. Starting Bid $1000
President Grant grants full power to the U.S. Consul of Colombia for “an extradition Treaty”
12. U. S. Grant Document Signed as President, Concluding an Extradition Treaty with Colombia. Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 8.5 x 11, April 4, 1871. President Grant directs the Secretary of State to affix the Seal of the United States to “my full power to Stephen A. Hurlbut, Minister Resident to the United States of Colombia, to conclude and sign an extradition Treaty.” Signed at the conclusion by U. S. Grant. In fine condition, with some ink smudging, and light edgewear.
Stephen Augustus Hurlbut was an attorney, politician, and Civil War officer (1815–1882) who commanded the U.S. Army of the Gulf, was present at the Battle of Shiloh, and served under General Sherman during the Meridian Expedition. After the war, he returned to politics and served in various capacities, most prominently as the U.S. Minister to Colombia and then as a U.S. congressman from Illinois. Starting Bid $200
13. U. S. Grant Document Signed as President. Partly-printed vellum DS as president, one page, 14.25 x 17.25, March 25, 1875. President Grant appoints John H. Calef as a “Captain in the Second Regiment of Artillery in the service of the United States.” Signed neatly at the conclusion by U. S. Grant and countersigned by Secretary of War William W. Belknap. The crisp original gold foil seal remains affixed to the upper left. Handsomely matted and framed with a portrait and engraved plate to an overall size of 30 x 26. In fine condition, with a couple of small stains, and loss to the upper left corner. Starting Bid $200
14. U. S. Grant Document Signed as Commanding General of the U. S. Army. Rare partly-printed DS, one page, 15.75 x 10.25, November 1, 1866. Official ‘Army of the United States of America’ military commission issued to Robert L. McGeorge, “a recruit of the United States Army,” which appoints him as a “Hospital Steward.” Signed at the conclusion by U. S. Grant as Commanding General of the U. S. Army, and countersigned by Edward D. Townsend as Assistant Adjutant General. In fine, folded condition. A rare and attractive postwar document that dates shortly after Congress promoted Grant to the newly created rank of General of the Army of the United States on July 25, 1866. Starting Bid $200
15. U. S. Grant Signed Book - Report of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue (1866). Signed book: Report of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue on the Operations of the Internal Revenue System for the Year Ending June 30, 1866. First edition. Washington: Government Printing Office, 1866. Hardcover bound in quarter morocco with marbled boards, 6 x 9, 349 pages. Signed on a free end page in ink, “U. S. Grant, General, March 14th, 1867.” Autographic condition: very good to fine, with scattered staining to the signed page, and haloing to the ink in Grant’s handwriting; his autograph is large and bold. Book condition: VG-/None, with minor foxing to the textblock, edgewear and scuffing to spine, and rubbing to boards and corners.
In the report, the commissioner comments on the proceeds of the Internal Revenue Office for the previous year, stating that ‘their aggregate amount is considerably in excess of the estimate at the date of my last report.’ He observes that this is a direct result of the successes of the postbellum economy: ‘This excess came largely from the manufactures stimulated by the opening of southern markets, and from cotton, of which there was a greater supply than was anticipated.’ Starting Bid $200
Remarkably rare check signed by President Garfield less than a month into his incumbency
16. James A. Garfield Elusive Signed Check as President. Exceptionally rare Riggs & Co. bank check, 8 x 2.75, filled out in another hand and signed by President Garfield, “J. A. Garfield,” payable to “Chr. Ruppert” for $45, March 22, 1881. In very good to fine condition, with trivial brushing to the signature, a short split to the top of one of the vertical folds, and light wrinkling from an old mounting remnant on the back. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Accompanied by a handsome vintage matte-finish 8.5 x 12.5 profile portrait of Garfield by the Sarony Studio of New York. Given the briefness of his incumbency, Garfield remains rare across all presidentially signed formats, and especially so on checks, with this being only the second example that we have ever offered. Moreover, Garfield assumed the presidency a mere 18 days before signing this check. An elusive and sought-after presidential treasure. Starting Bid $300
Youthful 1903 signed portrait of President Theodore Roosevelt
17. Theodore Roosevelt Signed Photograph as President. Terrific sepia-tone 5.5 x 8.75 portrait photo of Theodore Roosevelt in a handsome three-quarter-length pose, signed in the upper right in fountain pen as president, “Theodore Roosevelt, Feb. 2d 1903.” Archivally double-matted and framed to an overall size of 13.75 x 16.75. In fine condition, with lightly trimmed edges. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from Beckett Authentication Services. An uncommon signed pose of Theodore Roosevelt, who signed this picture at the age of 44, some 16 months after becoming the youngest person to become U.S. president. Starting Bid $200
18. Theodore Roosevelt Signed Photograph. Uncommon matte-finish 3.25 x 5.25 postcard photograph of Theodore Roosevelt by the Pach Brothers Studio of New York, as part of the ‘Rotograph’ series, signed nicely in the lower border in fountain pen. Archivally matted and framed to an overall size of 13.75 x 15.75. In very fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. Starting Bid $200
19. Theodore Roosevelt Document Signed as President. Partly-printed vellum DS as president, one page, 14.5 x 17.5, January 18, 1906. President Roosevelt appoints Fred H. Soleel as “an Ensign in the Navy.” Signed at the conclusion in ink by President Theodore Roosevelt, and countersigned by Acting Secretary of the Navy Truman H. Newberry. Handsomely cloth-matted and framed with a portrait and plaque to an overall size of 31.5 x 27.5. In fine condition, with heavy overall rippling, light foxing to the top edge, and the seal missing. Starting Bid $200
The Roosevelts celebrate the 1941 Easter Egg Roll at the White House
20. Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Signed Photograph as President and First Lady. Uncommon vintage matte-finish 7.75 x 9.75 photo of a little boy holding an Easter basket on the South Lawn of the White House during the 1941 Easter Egg Roll event, signed in fountain pen as president and first lady by Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. The reverse is dated to April 14, 1941. In very good to fine condition, with a light unobtrusive vertical crease, a short edge tear, and the first half of Eleanor’s signature light but legible. Starting Bid $200
President Truman’s historic WWII victory proclamation, framed in White House relic roof timbers: “The Allied Armies, through sacrifice and devotion and with God’s help, have wrung from Germany a final and unconditional surrender”
21. Harry S. Truman Signed 1945 WWII Victory Proclamation Broadside, in a White House Roof Timber Relic Frame. Extraordinary printed World War II proclamation broadside presented as a Christmas gift by President Harry S. Truman in 1945, 12.75 x 19.75, signed in the lower right corner in fountain pen, “Harry S. Truman.” The broadside is stunningly displayed in a 16.25 x 23.25 frame crafted from White House roof timbers, with engraved plaque at the bottom: “This wood was part of the White House Roof, erected about 1817 and removed in 1927.”
The decorative broadside contains President Truman’s V-E Day proclamation of May 8, 1945, the day following the German surrender, calling for a day of prayer to be celebrated on May 13, 1945. The text reads, in part: “The Allied Armies, through sacrifice and devotion and with God’s help, have wrung from Germany a final and unconditional surrender. The Western World has been freed of the evil forces which for five years and longer have imprisoned the bodies and broken the lives of millions upon millions of free-born men. They have violated their churches, destroyed their homes, corrupted their children, and murdered their loved ones. Our Armies of Liberation have restored freedom to these suffering people, whose spirit and will the oppressors could never enslave. Much remains to be done. The victory won in the West must now be won in the East. The whole world must be cleansed of the evil from which half the world has been freed. United the peace-loving nations have demonstrated in the West that their arms are stronger by far than the might of the dictators or the tyranny of military cliques that once called us soft and weak…
Now, therefore, I, Harry S. Truman, President of the United States of America, do hereby appoint Sunday, May 13, 1945, to be a day of prayer. I call upon the people of the United States, whatever their faith, to unite in offering joyful thanks to God for the victory we have won and to pray that he will support us to the end of our present struggle and guide us into the ways of peace. I also call upon my countrymen to dedicate this day of prayer to the memory of those who have given their lives to make possible our victory.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
Candid letter from Eisenhower to a West Point classmate, referencing Washington and Sherman and dismissing reports of his desire to enter public office:
“I see no reason for my getting particularly excited about it except to say what I have already said, and mean, that I want no part of any political job”
22. Dwight D. Eisenhower
Typed Letter Signed to a Former West Point Classmate - “I want no part of any political job”. TLS signed “Ike E.,” three pages, 8 x 10.5, War Department, Chief of Staff letterhead, October 31, 1947. Marked “Personal and Confidential,” an outspoken and lengthy letter to former West Point classmate Earl M. Price, to whom the general responds with no small amount of irritation. In part: “You devoted a considerable portion of your letter to discussing political affairs, more particularly as they might affect me personally. It is true that numbers of friends, acquaintances, or old associates around the country have done some talking about the possibility of my standing for political office. That has happened to every man who has
ever had his name favorably mentioned in the newspapers and I see no reason for my getting particularly excited about it except to say what I have already said, and mean, that I want no part of any political job. Since no man – at least since Washington’s day – has ever gone to high political office except with his own consent, indeed with his own connivance, I feel perfectly secure in my position and I do not consider it either approproate or in good taste that I say another word about it. If you ever find any statement anywhere that purports to quote me as saying that I want a political office, and I mean now or in the future, then you send it on to me and remind me of this statement.” Starting Bid $1000
Historic pen from President Lyndon B. Johnson’s signing of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, presented to a Michigan Democrat and civil rights crusader
23. Lyndon B. Johnson Civil Rights Act Signing Pen
Presented to an Influential Michigan Congressman. Historic dipping pen attributed to President Lyndon B. Johnson’s signing of the the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964 (H.R. 7152), presented to Michigan Congressman James G. O’Hara. 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.” The pen is mounted with a mimeographed copy of the first page of the act: “To enforce the constitutional right to vote, to confer jurisdiction upon the district courts of the United States to provide injunctive relief against discrimination in public accommodations, to authorize the Attorney General to institute suits to protect constitutional rights in public facilities and public education, to extend the Commission on Civil Rights, to prevent discrimination in federally assisted programs, to establish a Commission on Equal Employment Opportunity, and for other purposes.” Framed to an overall size of 10.25 x 13.5. In fine condition, with mottled toning to the page.
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. Its 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.
A Democrat from Michigan, the Hon. James G. O’Hara served in the House of Representatives from 1959 to 1977. He was recognized as one of his party’s most skilled floor leaders and legislative strategists, and led efforts to secure voting rights for Black Americans. A liberal ally of the Civil Right Movement, O’Hara helped to ensure the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
The pen originates directly from O’Hara’s son, who notes: “My father Hon. James G. O’Hara, former Congressman from the 7th and 12th district of Michigan, was a crusader for civil rights and a close friend of president Lyndon Baines Johnson. He received this pen used in the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as well as several other pens from LBJ. He also received a plaque from Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. for his devoted efforts in getting the Civil Rights Act passed into law. I always felt that these represented the most important achievement of his 18 years in Congress.” Starting Bid $500
Amidst escalation in the Vietnam War, LBJ appoints Gen. Earle Wheeler as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
24. Lyndon B. Johnson Document Signed as President, Appointing Gen. Earle Wheeler as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 15.25 x 11.5, July 2, 1966. President Johnson appoints General Earle G. Wheeler as “Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.” Nicely signed at the conclusion in fountain pen by President Lyndon B. Johnson, and countersigned by Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara. The embossed gold foil seal affixed at the lower left remains intact. In very good condition, with significant dampstaining, and associated wrinkling, to the left side of the document, affecting appearance but not the signatures.
With this appointment, President Johnson renewed Wheeler’s appointment as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, a role he had taken in 1964. Wheeler’s tenure as the nation’s top military officer spanned the height of America’s involvement in the Vietnam War. He was a key military advisor to Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon, advocating for increased troop deployments and escalation strategies. Despite his efforts to strengthen U.S. military operations, the war became increasingly controversial and divisive under his leadership. Starting Bid $200
25. 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 Herron Enterprises for $1,200, January 27, 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 less than two months away from the March 17th primary, when he won his renomination unopposed. At the November 3rd general election, Obama was re-elected to a four-year term as state senator with a landslide victory. Obama remains rare in signed checks. Starting Bid $200
26. Donald Trump Presidential Gift - Shinola Watch . Beautiful White House-exclusive Shinola Runwell 47mm presidential wristwatch presented to foreign dignitaries and other VIPs during the administration of President Donald Trump. The polished stainless steel watch features an Argonite 1069 high-accuracy movement, a doubledomed sapphire crystal, and a classic white dial with a small presidential seal to the left side. The case back, with laser-etched serial number “S0100118755,” is engraved on the side, “Donald J. Trump.” Includes a handsome Largo Tan leather strap. In very fine, never-worn condition. Accompanied by its original wooden presentation case with the upper lid laser-engraved with the presidential seal.
From the personal collection of Kevin Chmielewski, who served as Lead Advance/Staff Lead for Donald Trump during his 2016 presidential campaign and subsequent administration. Starting Bid $200
Notables
American Politicians and Leaders
Garrison sends “one of the Sonnets that I wrote during the Anti-Slavery struggle”
147. William Lloyd Garrison Autograph Letter Signed and “Sonnet to Liberty” Manuscript - “One of the Sonnets that I wrote during the Anti-Slavery struggle”. Journalist, editor, and social reformer (1805-1879) best known as one of the most influential abolitionists in the decades leading up to the Civil War. Two items: an ALS signed “Wm. Lloyd Garrison,” one page, 5 x 7, December 17, 1869, in part: “I send you my autograph; copying, for this purpose, on the third page of this sheet, one of the Sonnets that I wrote during the Anti-Slavery struggle”; and the enclosed “Sonnet to Liberty,” signed “Wm. Lloyd Garrison,” one page, 5 x 7, concluding: “Know this, O man! whate’er thy earthly fate— / God never made a tyrant nor a slave: / Woe, then, to those who dare to desecrate / His sacred image!—for to all He gave / Eternal rights, which none may violate; / And by a mighty hand th’ oppressed He yet shall save.” Attractively matted and framed together with an engraved portrait of Garrison (featuring his facsimile signature) to an overall size of 20 x 11; the frame’s backing bears an affixed Goodspeed’s Book Shop label. In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Desirable free frank from Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton to a hero of the Revolution
148. Alexander Hamilton Signed Free Frank to Jedediah Huntington. Free franked mailing panel, 5.5 x 3.5, address in another hand to “Jedediah Huntington, Esqr., Collector, New London, Connecticut,” and franked in the lower left by Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton, “Free, A. Hamilton.” Marked “Treasury Department” at the top, the panel is postmarked “Free” and “17 No.” Attractively mounted and cloth-matted with an engraved portrait to an overall size of 14 x 21.75. In very good to fine condition, with scattered light staining, and toning from prior display.
The recipient, Jedediah Huntington (1743–1818), served as a general in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, helping to fortify and hold Dorchester Heights in 1776, forcing the British to evacuate from Boston. He was later appointed by President George Washington to be the customs house collector for the coastal area from the Connecticut River to Rhode Island. Starting Bid $200
World Leaders and Politicians
Madame Chiang reminisces about World War II, recalling the “comic fact of the Japanese force”
155. Madame Chiang Kai-shek Typed Letter Signed on World War II. TLS signed “Mayling Soong Chiang,” one page, 8.5 x 11, personal letterhead, February 24, 1978. Letter to William LaVarre, in full: “Thank you for your letter of February 7. Yes, I do recall the expeditionary Forces comprising the major allies at the time and also the comic fact of the Japanese force which for ever and anon wanted to have their Commanding General outrank the other commanders either in rank or in seniority.
I realize that Archangel is 4,000 miles from the Manchurian border as the crow flies but in my letter I did not make myself too clear on this point. What I meant was that those AntiBolsheviks who were given the impression that they would be evacuated by the Allies in the Archangel area were forsaken at the very last without warning and left to the tender mercies of the Reds whereas those who fled east towards Manchuli did not suffer the same cruel fate. Thank you again for Colonel Faymonville’s memoirs.” In fine condition, with a PSA/DNA label affixed to the lower corner. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from PSA/DNA. Starting Bid $200
War-dated autograph book containing Winston Churchill and various members of his war ministry, including Eden, Attlee, Anderson, and more
156. Winston Churchill and War Ministry (50+)
Autograph Book. World War II-dated leather-bound autograph book, 4.5˝ x 2.25˝, signed inside in crisp black ink, “Winston S. Churchill.” The book also contains over 50 signatures of British notables, including several members of Churchill’s war ministry, including Clement Attlee, Herbert Morrison, John Anderson, Brendan Bracken, Stafford Cripps, Frederick Lindemann, Oliver Stanley, Max Aitken, Archibald Sinclair, John Simon, Philip Cunliffe-Lister, Frederick Leathers, Robert Gascoyne-Cecil, and many others. Of note is the autograph of Sir Alfred Edward Webb-Johnson, president of the Royal College of Surgeons, who adds “VE Day” below his signature. In fine condition, with a few pages detached but present. Starting Bid $200
157. Winston Churchill Signature - PSA GEM MT 10. Beautiful ink signature, “Yours sincerely, Winston S. Churchill,” on an off-white 4.5 x 1.75 sheet clipped from the close of a letter. In fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “GEM MT 10.” Starting Bid $200
“Things look a little better but the dangers are very great”—war-dated letter from Weizmann to physicist Max Born, relaying his belief that the British oppose a Jewish state in Palestine: “The Conservative Party are frightened of it; they suspect the Jews, they have no confidence. This does not apply to Mr. Churchill”
158. Chaim Weizmann War-Dated Autograph Letter Signed to Max Born On Establishing a Jewish Homeland in Palestine: “A strong Jewish State in P’ne is obviously of advantage to the British and we have been preaching this doctrine for almost a generation”. World War II-dated ALS signed “Ch. Weizmann,” one page both sides, 6 x 8, The Dorchester Hotel (London) letterhead, July 31, 1941. Content-rich handwritten letter to Nobel Prize-winning physicist Max Born in Edinburgh, discussing English resistance to the creation of a Jewish state in Palestine and asking Born to connect him with the influential physicist Frederick Lindemann, in part: “Your opinion about the necessity of Palestine for the Jews coincides with mine and with that of millions of Jews all over the world. A strong Jewish State in P’ne is obviously of advantage to the British and we
have been preaching this doctrine for almost a generation to them. I am however driven to the melancholy conclusion that a large number of Englishmen, particularly of the Conservative Party are frightened of it; they suspect the Jews, they have no confidence. This does not apply to Mr. Churchill and to a great many members of the present Govt, but there are powerful reactionary elements operating against it. I am seeing Lord Cherwell [Frederick Lindemann] occasionally (very rarely) on scientific problems but I have never discussed Palestine with him. He is a close friend of the P.M. and a good influence and it would be most valuable if he could be interested...I hope you are well; things look a little better but the dangers are very great.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original handaddressed mailing envelope. Starting Bid $1000
159. William Wilberforce Autograph Letter Signed. British politician, evangelist, and philanthropist (1759-1833) who played an important role in the movement to abolish slavery. ALS signed “W. Wilberforce,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.75 x 9.25, October 14, 1789. Handwritten letter to an unknown recipient, in part: “Different matters have intervened to prevent my saying anything respecting my motions sufficiently certain to allow me to answer your friendly letter; I have been in much doubt about the practicability of getting to you from circumstances which it would be too long a story to tell, but the idea of our being but about 20 miles asunder still recurs & does not allow me to quit this part of the country with’t fulfilling my engagement.” Wilberforce adds a lengthy postscript that continues onto the reverse of the second integral page. In fine condition, with some light edge toning. Starting Bid $200
Royalty
“There is nothing more important than the reestablishment of discipline”— letter from the arrested king following his disastrous flight to Varennes in 1791
165. King Louis XVI Letter Signed While Under House Arrest (October 1791). Revolution-dated LS in French, signed “Louis,” one page, 7.25 x 9, October 20, 1791. Addressed from Paris, a letter from King Louis XVI while under house arrest following his unsuccessful flight to Varennes in late June. Sent to an unidentified recipient, cryptically referred to as “B” on the reverse of the second integral page, in part (translated): “I called on you to command the French troops because I believed that I had found in you a distinguished soldier and an excellent citizen...There is nothing more important than the reestablishment of discipline. I am constantly concerned with this, and I have charged M. de Narbonne, who is going to visit the borders, with collecting very detailed information in this regard, so that I may be in a position to take effective measures.” In very good to fine condition, with some light soiling and foxing, and expert professional reinforcements to the intersecting folds. Starting Bid $200
Diana and Charles during their 1987 Royal Tour of Spain
166. Princess Diana and King Charles III Signed Photograph.
Color semi-glossy 9.5 x 6.5 group photo of Princess Diana and King Charles III with the staff of the British Embassy during the tour to Spain in 1987, affixed to its original 12 x 10 mount, boldly signed on the mount in fountain pen, “Charles, 1987” and “Diana.” In fine condition, with a few tiny edge dings, easily matted out. Starting Bid $200
167. 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, “Mr. Fryer, from Charles and” and “Diana.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Starting Bid $200
“Our son is growing very fast and is already trying to sit up”
168. Queen Elizabeth II Autograph Letter Signed on Baby Charles - “He is most affable and laughs a great deal”. ALS signed “Elizabeth,” one page both sides, 4.5 x 7.5, Buckingham Palace letterhead, April 22, 1949. Handwritten letter to Richard, in part: “Our son is growing very fast and is already trying to sit up. He is most affable and laughs a great deal. I hope your nephew is well—I was very envious of his luxurious hair in the photograph of his christening. I hope Ela’s baby is going on well, too—I expect you are a busy uncle, now!” In very fine condition. An appealing letter from Princess Elizabeth as a new mother. Her first child, Charles, was only five months old when this letter was written. Starting Bid $200
Marvelous matched pair of mounted royal portraits of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in 1953
169. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip (2) Oversized Signed Photographs. Magnificent pair of vintage mattefinish portraits of the royals: a 13.75 x 17.75 portrait of Queen Elizabeth II wearing her glimmering crown jewels, taken by Royal Court photographer Dorothy Wilding, affixed to its 14.75 x 19.75 paper mount, signed on the mount in fountain pen, “Elizabeth R, 1953,” and affixed to a 19 x 26 mount with Wilding’s studio label on the reverse; and a 15 x 18 portrait of Prince Philip in his decorated uniform, taken by Baron Studios (Sterling Henry Nahum), affixed to its 16 x 20 paper mount, signed on the mount in fountain pen, “Prince Philip, 1953,” and affixed to a 19 x 26 mount with Baron’s studio stamp on the reverse. In fine condition, with one tiny gouge to the background of the Philip photo, and trivial dampstaining to the extreme bottom edge of Philip’s mount. Starting Bid $200
Martin Luther explains a religious principle to a noble follower:
“Even if someone comes into such guilt willfully or through carelessness, or inherits it with innocence, it is still decreed by God”
170. Martin Luther Partial Autograph Letter Signed on Religion: “It is still decreed by God...Amen”. German priest and theologian (1483–1546) who became the seminal figure of the Protestant Reformation. Extremely rare partial ALS in German, signed as part of the Latin date, “Martin,” one page, 7.5 x 4.5, March 12, 1530 [“12 Martin 1530”]. Fragment of a handwritten letter on religion to his follower Joseph Levin Metzsch, Lord of the Castle of Mylau, on the question of whether debt inherited from the parents is an act of God’s will and punishment.
In part (translated, with bracketed sections sourced from the Weimar edition of Luther’s works): “[Because guilt, thirst, or poverty are no small punishment for those who do not know how to bear them, it is without doubt a noticeable particle of the Holy Cross for children of God] who can bear and use it. [However], like all other punishments from the dear Father, it should not frighten the [conscience] as a serious disgrace, but rather [comfort] and strengthen it as a fatherly rod of the fox[tail]. For even if someone comes into such guilt willfully or through carelessness, or inherits it with innocence, it is still decreed by God, and such a rod is bound by the same carelessness and willfulness. Hereby commended to God, Amen.” Addressed on the reverse by Luther to “The punctilious and steadfast Joseph Levin Metzsch zu Mylau, my favorable good Lord and friend.” Laid down to a slightly larger sheet, with openings cut to reveal the address panel and small seal. Though the bottom of the letter has been cut off, the top of the “M” from his Latin signature (“M[artinus]”) is preserved along the lower edge. In very good condition, with paper loss to the left side (affecting portions of the text), toning and soiling, and two vertical folds.
The complete text of Luther’s letter is recorded in the Weimar Edition of his works (Vol. V, No. 1537), with minor deviations from the original. The recipient, Joseph Levin Metzsch (1507–1571), was a nobleman and early follower of Luther who provided protection and political backing, allowing Luther’s ideas to spread more freely. Metzsch had participated in the disputation between Martin Luther and Johann Eck in Leipzig in 1519, and was responsible for introducing the Reformation into the Dominion Mylau-Reichenbach in 1526–27. A remarkable letter fragment by the celebrated leader of the Protestant Reformation, explaining some of his religious principles. Starting Bid $2500
Activists and Social Leaders
Rare autograph of ‘Johnny Appleseed,’ the pioneer of American apple orchards
174. John ‘Johnny Appleseed’ Chapman Autograph Document Signed. American pioneer nurseryman (1774–1845) who introduced apple trees to large parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Ontario, as well as the northern counties of West Virginia. ALS signed “John Chapman,” one page, 7.5 x 4, July 25, 1826. Handwritten document by Johnny Appleseed, in part: “Rec’d…a deed for a peace of Land on Section 29, Township 19 and Range 14 containing 14 acres…& Bond gave to John Chapman signed by Timothy Wells.” Attractively matted and framed with a small image of Johnny Appleseed to an overall size of 11 x 11. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Image larger than actual size.
176. Martin Luther King, Jr. Signature.
Sought-after vintage ballpoint signature, “With Best Wishes, Martin Luther King,” on a blue 3.25 x 2 slip. In fine condition, with trimmed edges and light rippling from old mounting residue on the back. Starting Bid $500
177. Nelson Mandela Twice-Signed Book - June 16. Signed book: June 16, 1976: Never, Never Again by Peter Magubane. Later printing. South Africa, 2000. Hardcover, 10.25 x 12.5, 124 pages. Signed on the first free end page in white ink, “N. Mandela, 6.9.2002,” and also signed on a color glossy 6 x 8 photo affixed inside the front cover in black felt tip, “N. Mandela, 19.11.2002.” A “Welcome Home Mandela” sticker is also affixed inside the front cover. Additionally signed and inscribed on the title page in black felt tip, “David, Best wishes, Magubane.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Martin Luther King, Jr. authorizes a translation of Stride Toward Freedom— resulting in his first Spanish-language book
173. Martin Luther King, Jr. Signed Contract for a Spanish Version of ‘Stride Toward Freedom,’ with His Literary Agent’s File Copy of the Book. Partly-printed DS, signed “Martin L. King, Jr.,” three pages, 8.5 x 14, August 30, 1962. Publishing contract between Martin Luther King, Jr., and Editorial Agora in which King attests that he is “the sole and exclusive Owner of the copyright in a work entitled Stride Toward Freedom…and is also the Owner of all translation rights,” and “conveys for the term of the copyright thereof the right to translate the work into the Spanish language and to publish and sell copies of such translation in volume form.”
For these rights, the publisher agrees to pay a $150 advance plus royalties at the rate of 7.5% of the retail price for the first 3,000 books sold, and 10% for all copies sold thereafter. The publisher also agrees to send ten copies of the book to King in care of his literary agency, “Marie Rodell and Joan Daves, Inc., 15 East 48th Street, New York.” Signed at the conclusion in blue ballpoint by Martin Luther King, Jr., and countersigned in fountain pen by the publisher. In fine condition. Includes the resulting Spanish-language book, Los Viajeros de la Libertad [The Freedom Riders], hardcover with dust jacket, published in Barcelona by Editorial Fontanella in 1963, stamped on the first free end page with his literary agent’s ownership stamp: “Joan Daves, File Copy, Do Not Remove.”
Published in the United States by Harper & Brothers in 1958, Martin Luther King, Jr.’s first book, Stride Toward Freedom:
The Montgomery Story, chronicles the planning, events, and aftermath of the first successful large-scale application of nonviolent resistance in the Civil Rights Movement: the year-long Montgomery bus boycott. A comprehensive and insightful account, the book traces the journey of a community and highlights King’s transformative devotion to equality and non-violence.
To assist him in dealing with publishers, contract negotiations, and publicity relating to Stride Toward Freedom, King hired New York literary agent Joan Daves. As his stature grew and the book came to the attention of people worldwide, a demand arose for foreign-language editions. Daves negotiated terms agreeable to King for a Spanish version, making the work accessible to readers throughout Spain and Latin America. King’s global impact would be recognized the following year by the Nobel Committee, who awarded him the Nobel Peace Prize. Daves would accompany King to Oslo for his acceptance of the prize—a testament to her importance in spreading King’s message across the globe.
Daves remained King’s literary agent for his next three books: Strength to Love (1963), Why We Can’t Wait (1964), and Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community? (1967), and continued to work with King’s literary property until her death in 1997. Starting Bid $1,000
Historic certificate signed by MLK Jr. and fellow leaders of the Council for United Civil Rights Leadership, recognizing
Congressman O’Hara’s “dedication to American principles in helping to secure passage of the historic Civil Rights Bill of 1964”
175. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Civil Rights Leaders Signed Certificate to Hon. James O’Hara, for “his dedication to American principles in helping to secure passage of the historic Civil Rights Bill of 1964”. Rare and significant partly-printed DS, one page, 12.75 x 9.75, no date but circa 1964. Citation presented by the Council for United Civil Rights Leadership to Hon. James G. O’Hara, “for his devoted efforts, his inspired leadership in the national interest and, above all, his dedication to American principles in helping to secure passage of the historic Civil Rights Bill of 1964, which offers a new hope of equality and opportunity for constructive citizenship to millions of Americans.” Signed at the conclusion by Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. (Southern Christian Leadership Conference), James Farmer (Congress of Racial Equality), Whitney Young, Jr. (National Urban League), Jack Greenberg (NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund), Dorothy Height (National Council of Negro Women), Roy Wilkins (NAACP), and James Forman (Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee). The embossed gold foil seal and blue ribbon affixed at the bottom remain intact. Displayed in its original 14 x 11 frame, with an address label on the backing: “The Hon James O’Hara, House of Rep, Washington DC 20515.” In fine condition, with slight fading to King’s signature.
This remarkable document is signed by the heads of the diverse organizations—ranging from the the radical Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) to the conservative National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)—that formed the Council for United Civil Rights Leadership (CUCRL), an umbrella group established in June 1963 to organize and regulate the Civil Rights Movement. The Council was responsible for organizing the August 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, headlined by Martin Luther King’s enduring ‘I Have a Dream’ speech, and played a key role in promoting the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
A Democrat from Michigan, the Hon. James G. O’Hara served in the House of Representatives from 1959 to 1977. He was recognized as one of his party’s most skilled floor leaders and legislative strategists, and led efforts to secure voting rights for Black Americans. A liberal ally of the Civil Right Movement, O’Hara helped to ensure the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964—Lyndon B. Johnson’s landmark legislation prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin, and one of the most significant legislative achievements in American history. Starting Bid $1000
Remarkable archive chronicling
Malcolm X’s transformative time in prison:
“If I had completed my education I never would have been in prison today. I’m serving ten years for burglary on my first offense—my first crime.
That doesn’t hurt so because, being a Negroe, I’m used to heavier punishment than usual”
178. Malcolm X Prison Archive: (80+) Documents with an Autograph Letter Signed, Mug Shot Photograph, and Internal Records. Extraordinary, comprehensive archive of over 80 documents concerning Malcolm X’s arrest, conviction, imprisonment, and parole—highlighted by a twice-signed ALS (signed “Malcolm Little”) and an original mug shot photograph from his intake into the Massachusetts State Prison system—plus a wealth of internal files from the Massachusetts Department of Correction, court records, parole board documents, and the like, circa 1946 to 1952.
Malcolm Little was found guilty of larceny and breaking and entering in 1946, and began serving his eight-to-ten year sentence at Charlestown State Prison in February. He made efforts to reform and educate himself while there, and with his sister Ella began a letter-writing campaign in hopes of getting transferred to the Norfolk Prison Colony (today known as MCINorfolk)—it offered broader educational opportunities that did not exist in Charlestown or Concord. This exceptional archive contains one such letter (the lone Malcolm X autograph within), in which he pleads his case, expressing remorse and explaining his plight: “If I had completed my education I never would have been in prison today. I’m serving ten years for burglary on my first offense—my first crime. That doesn’t hurt so because, being a Negroe, I’m used to heavier punishment than usual. But, I have long ago realized my mistake and cannot see how an educated man would break into people’s houses.”
He ultimately found success, and was transferred to Norfolk the next year, on March 31, 1948. In The Autobiography of
Malcolm X, he described the colony as ‘comparatively, a heaven, in many respects,’ observing: ‘Norfolk Prison Colony represented the most enlightened form of prison that I have ever heard of. In place of the atmosphere of malicious gossip, perversion, grafting, hateful guards, there was more relative ‘culture,’ as ‘culture’ is interpreted in prisons. A high percentage of the Norfolk Prison Colony inmates went in for ‘intellectual’ things, group discussions, debates, and such.’ He joined the weekly debate team, where he honed his oratorical skill, and devoted much of his time to studying in the prison library. Most importantly, it was during this time that Malcolm discovered the Nation of Islam. It seems that he began to question authority after becoming involved with the Nation of Islam, and was shipped back to Charlestown State Prison for being ‘undesirable.’
Paroled on August 7, 1952, after seven years served, Malcolm Little left prison as Malcolm X, a devout member of the Nation of Islam and a committed disciple and pupil of Elijah Muhammad. He soon moved to Detroit—as authorized by the Massachusetts Parole Board and documented herein—and began an intensive recruiting campaign for the Nation of Islam. Relying on the rhetorical skill honed during his time in prison, Malcolm X attracted new members wherever he spoke. Within a year, he would triple the membership of Detroit’s Temple No. 1. Increasingly recognized as the public face of the Nation of Islam, he returned to the east coast in late 1953 and continued to grow the organization.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE.
SOME HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EXTENSIVE ARCHIVE:
- ALS signed twice, “Malcolm Little,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 6 x 9.25, July 28, 1947, to “Mr. Dwyer” of the “Norfolk Prison Colony Transportation Board.” Little makes a plea for transfer to the Norfolk Prison Colony, In full: “A year ago, while an inmate of Charlestown State Prison, I was interviewed by the Norfolk Board. I was terribly upset when the warden told me that I wasn’t to be transferred so I wrote to you for consideration. I was rewarded with another interview from the Board. After re-hearing my plea they told me that I would be transferred and in the meantime to keep a clean record. Well, I’ve kept my record clean and, instead, they’ve sent me here at Concord. My sole purpose for wanting to go to Norfolk was the educational facilities that aren’t in these other institutions. If I had completed my education I never would have been in prison today. I’m serving ten years for burglary on my first offense—my first crime. That doesn’t hurt so because, being a Negroe, I’m used to heavier punishment than usual. But, I have long ago realized my mistake and cannot see how an educated man would break into people’s houses.
Since my confinement I’ve already received a diploma in Elementary English through the State Correspondence Courses. I’, very much disatisfied, though. The[re] are many things that I would like to learn that would be of use to me when I regain my freedom. I do know that if I prepare myself now, while I have the time, I will never have to break the law to secure a living. It does hurt, tho’, to watch murders, thieves with records dating back to the cradle, and ‘what not’ going to Norfolk every day, while I (for reasons unknown to me) want to benifit by the place and can’t get there for nothing. I’ve been confined for eighteen months now and my record is clean. I’ve been here in Concord under Mr. O’Grady for six months and can only refer you to him for any reference of my character. All I’m asking you for is a chance to ammend my mistakes. Then, if I fail, I have no one to hate but myself.”
- Original vintage glossy 5.25 x 3 ‘mugshot’ photograph of Malcolm Little taken on February 28, 1946, on his intake into the Massachusetts State Prison system. The photo is affixed to a sheet annotated in type with his personal details: “Name: Malcolm Little, #MSP 22843, Height: 6-2, Weight: 172, Hair: Lt Brown, Eyes: Brown, Complexion: Negro.”
- Massachusetts Department of Correction “Initial Interview Sheet,” 31 pages, March 8, 1946, recording extensive details of his background and personal history, filled out in another hand with data on his family and upbringing, home conditions, education, employment history, criminal history (“No previous record”), and habits and interests: “Liquor, occasionally to excess. Drugs; used when in company of those who were addicts, claims to have gone long periods without using or having a longing for them…Musicians and actors among his men associates; Women, subj. says that most of his women acquaintances have been made in night clubs, of a ‘pick up’ variety.” The interview then records impressions of Malcolm’s personality: “Subject a light complexioned mulatto was re-
served, calculating and cautious throughout the interview. He has fatalistic views, is moody, cynical, and has a sardonic smile which seems to be affected because of his sensitiveness to his color. To affect this he seems to assume a nonchalant, complacent, superior attitude. He is worldly, wily and amoral and states ‘I’ve been heading here a long time.’ He further says that prior to accepting a life of crime he had weighed the penalty (of what he thought would be a three yr. sentence) against what he hoped to gain. He again says that had he anticipated the 8-10 yr. sentence that he would have gone in for armed robbery instead of burglary.”
- Ten-page “Police and Court Data” carbon document, recording details about his arrest and sentencing, family information, educational history, employment history, residences, criminal record, and descriptions of his offenses.
- Commonwealth of Massachusetts Parole Board document granting Malcolm Little’s request to leave the state, allowing him to live with his brother and work at a department store in Michigan.
- TLS signed by Deputy Superintendent Edward S. Grennan, one page, March 20, 1920, to Department of Correction Commissioner Elliott E. McDowell, requesting Malcolm’s transfer, in part: “Since he has been at this institution he has been unnecessarily race conscious and has taken up the Moselm faith. He has frequently complained about the prejudice of officers and interference in his religious beliefs.”
- Massachusetts State Prison disciplinary reports citing Malcolm Little for the offense of “shirking”: “I detailed this man to work, but he loafed and fooled.”
- Massachusetts State Prison psychiatrist’s report, May 4, 1951, in part: “This twenty-six year old colored man from the British West Indies has a most peculiar appearance, with his bald head, carefully trimmed beard, and general air of importance. He reached the eighth grade in school and has average adult intelligence…His history says he took drugs for a number of years. He claims to be a Mohammedan, but his conversation expresses a confused jumble of ideas which make little sense. He is a responsible offender, although a peculiar personality characterized by disordered, incoherent thinking.”
The remainder of the archive includes a mimeographed fingerprint card of his brother, Earl Little; carbon copies of court records; correspondence related to his appeal for parole; Mass. State Prison work reports, evaluating his subpar performance in the laundry room, yard, and auto shop; a circa 1950 carbon report documenting his academic performance and that he “studies Moselm faith”; prison transfer summary documents; Board of Probation reports; and parole officer’s field reports. Overall, it is an absolutely remarkable, comprehensive archive from Malcolm X’s time in prison, offering unparalleled insight into the most transformative period of the life of the Civil Rights icon. Starting Bid $10,000
Businessmen
Important archive of Bugatti materials on his giant 500 horsepower, 16 cylinder engine—licensed to Duesenberg for American production
184. Ettore Bugatti Archive: Typed Letter Signed on 500-HP, 16-Cylinder Engine, with Photographs and Supplements. Archive of material by and related to Ettore Bugatti, highlighted by a four-page TLS in French to the director of Duesenberg in Elizabeth, New Jersey: TLS signed twice by Ettore Bugatti, and also initialed by him at the foot of the first two pages, four pages, 8 x 10.5, personal stationery, April 11, 1918, in part: “As regards the changes made to my engine, I regret that these were made without prior notice. I have no intention of calling into question the ability of the engineers who carried out these transformations, and I simply limit myself to giving my opinion....The mixed lubrication under pressure and by centrifugal force of my engine has been eliminated by a lubrication under pressure. It is possible that you have a satisfactory result, but I consider my device as being more certain... The upper part of the cylinder, cast with the cylinder itself, is part of my construction of series cars, which I have been manufacturing for about ten years...The modified water circulation device: in fact, the water enters from the propeller side into the cylinders; after cooling the first group of cylinders, it passes into the 2nd group and exits at the rear, on the water pump side. When the engine is put into the up position, you will have pockets of vapor that will form and that will completely disturb the water circulation, compromising the efficiency of the cooling. To avoid this disadvantage, you could have the water enter the cylinders on the water pump side and leave it in the cylinders on the propeller side, because the front cylinders cool more than the rear cylinders in the machine…
The exhaust and intake sections are rounded. You must have seen that, for the same passage, you were obliged to raise the cylinder. As a result, an increase in weight. I am against the theory which admits that a gas passage must be round instead of being square. It is simply a matter of its opening being proportionate to the work that the engine must do, to have no difference in efficiency. I add, in parentheses, that the efficiency that I obtained with this engine is superior to anything that has been obtained, even with racing car engines, considering the number of revolutions, and the volume of the cylinders...For the crankshaft, the rounding that you have done is a completely natural thing, but it was not done in Europe, because we are not able, here, during the war, to forge the parts as you forge in your factories. This rounding would have required an additional machining operation...The carburetor piping heated by the water circulation will certainly give you trouble. The seal between the cylinder and the pipe is difficult to obtain, and it will happen, as a result, a suction of water into the intake valves. Which will cause you serious inconvenience...The transformation that you were able to make to the piston must be considered as
a very delicate thing, because the aluminum piston is unergonomic very difficult, and it was in my construction the object of long tests….
In principle, it is always possible to change, especially in its appearance, an engine, but it should not be overlooked that these engines, in 8 and 16 cylinders, have carried out their official 50-hour test, the results of which have been most satisfactory, and it is certainly imprudent to make changes, before having tried these modifications, on engines of the same type, built after the original.
The tests must be made with a propeller, and the power curve with a four-bladed reel. This reel must be made of several thicknesses of glued wood, to avoid unbalancing due to the difference in density of the wood used…A motor should never be tested with an electric brake; this would be to sacrifice this motor to a breakage, by making it support a work which is not appropriate for it, given that it must have a mass which serves as a flywheel identical to that which is mounted in an airplane, by the fact of its propeller. No test has ever been successful on an electric brake or on a hydraulic brake, unless proceeding with cooling of the crankcase and of all the artificial parts.” He goes on to define his engine’s power curve, which tops out at 527 horsepower. Additionally includes two related unsigned pages on Bugatti’s personal stationery, conveying some information about his engine with details on its cylinders, exhaust pipe, spark plugs, fuel lines, and oil circulation; the second page boasts original hand-drawn sketches of setups for the gasoline and oil filters.
Further accompaniments are a manuscript page in French on Duesenberg Motors Corp. letterhead pertaining to the “moteur 500 HP,” a letter regarding the manufacture of the King-Bugatti engine, and eight original vintage glossy photographs, all about 2.5 x 4, one showing Ettore Bugatti as part of a group, and the others showing his 500 horsepower, 16 cylinder aviation engine. In overall fine condition.
These materials pertain to Bugatti’s powerful piston aircraft engine, the Bugatti U-16, and its American-made successor. The Bugatti U-16 was a 16-cylinder water-cooled double-8 vertical in-line ‘U engine’ designed by Ettore Bugatti in 1915 to 1916 and built in France in small numbers. The Bolling Commission bought a license to build a version of the engine in the United States, with modifications made by Signal Corps aeronautical mechanical engineer Colonel Charles Brady King. Small numbers of this slightly revised version—approximately 40 engines—were built by the Duesenberg Motor Corporation as the King-Bugatti. About 40 of these King-Bugatti engines were made before the end of World War I caused building contracts to be canceled. Starting Bid $1000
183. Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger Signatures. Ballpoint signature, “Warren E. Buffett,” on an off-white 3.75 x 2 sheet printed to resemble Buffett’s personal calling card, which lists contact information for Berkshire Hathaway headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. The card is also signed by Buffett’s right-hand man, Charlie Munger. In very fine condition. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
185. Elon Musk Signed Photograph - PSA GEM MINT 10. Color satin-finish 8 x 10 photo of Elon Musk posing triumphantly in front of one of his SpaceX Falcon Heavy launch vehicles, signed in blue felt tip. In very fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “GEM MT 10.” Starting Bid $300
186. Elon Musk Signed Tesla Model S P100D Scale Model. Spectacular 1:18 die-cast scale model of the Tesla Model S P100D, nicely signed on the hood in silver ink by Elon Musk. In very fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA, as well as the model’s original box (which exhibits some wear). The Model S P100D with Ludicrous mode was the quickest production car in the world at the time of its 2016 introduction, with a 0-60 mph time of 2.5 seconds. Starting Bid $200
187. Elon Musk Signature - PSA NMMT 8. Felt tip signature, “Elon Musk,” on a glossy white 3.25 x 1.75 sheet printed to resemble Musk’s personal SpaceX business card, which lists Musk as “CEO, CTO” above the company’s headquarters address: “Rocket Road, Hawthorne, California.” In very fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “NM-MT 8.” Starting Bid $300
188. Cornelius Vanderbilt Signed Ledger Page. American businessman (17941877), one of America’s first millionaires, who built his fortune in shipping and railroads. Uncommon ink signature, “C. Vanderbilt,” on an off-white 11 x 9.25 partial ledger page, with Vanderbilt’s entry dated “Oct. 15.” In very fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Scientist and Inventors
194. Niels Bohr Typed Letter Signed. Danish physicist (1885–1962) who was awarded the 1922 Nobel Prize in Physics for his theory of atomic structure. TLS in Danish, one page, 8.75 x 11.25, University Institute for Theoretical Physics letterhead, November 2, 1945. Letter replying to an invitation to lecture, in part: “Thank you for your kind letter with the invitation to give a lecture at the Officers’ Association. I am very sorry that I will not be able to give such a lecture, as all my time and energy are completely absorbed by the work that has accumulated during my long absence, and I have therefore had to decline all invitations to give more lectures than those I committed to immediately upon my return home. However, I have heard that my long-time colleague here at the Institute, Dr. Jørgen Koch, has agreed to give a lecture at the Sub-Lieutenant Association, and I believe that he would gladly also speak at the Officers’ Association if desired. In that case, you might write to him yourself, or if you prefer, I will gladly speak to him about the matter.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Magnificent oversized portrait of Thomas Edison, presented to his right hand-man W. H. Meadowcroft
195. Thomas Edison Oversized Signed Photograph. Superlative vintage matte-finish 11 x 13 photo of a painted portrait of Thomas Edison, beautifully signed and inscribed in the lower border in bold ink by the subject, “To Mr. and Mrs. Meadowcroft, Thos. A. Edison.” In fine to very fine condition, with light silvering to the edges of the image. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. William Henry Meadowcroft (1853–1937) was the secretary of Thomas Edison, author of several books including The ABC of Electricity, and a vice president of the Edison Electric Light Company. A marvelous association piece. Starting Bid $200
Scarce ticket for the 1933 “Professor Einstein Meeting” at the Royal Albert Hall— his last public appearance in Europe
196. Albert Einstein: 1933 Royal Albert Hall Ticket Stub - His Last Public Appearance in EuropePSA NM 7. Desirable original 3.5 x 3 ticket stub for the “Professor Einstein Meeting” held at the Royal Albert Hall in London on October 3, 1933, marked “W 1928 Balcony.” Held just a few months after the Nazis’ rise to power in Germany, this was Albert Einstein’s last public appearance before leaving Europe. In the address, he spoke on the subjects of academic freedom and the dangers faced by the intelligentsia under the new regime in Germany. Other speakers at the meeting were physicist and Nobel Prize winner Lord Ernest Rutherford; leading anti-Nazi politician and Nobel Prize winner Sir Joseph Austen Chamberlain; preacher and suffragist Dr. Maude Royden; and leading economist and social reformer Sir William Beveridge. In fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA as “NM 7.” Starting Bid $200
“The war was suspended. The Christmas peace had done it”—epic 24-page handwritten letter from Otto Hahn sent from the Western Front, with unique, unparalleled insight into the miraculous ‘Christmas truce’ of 1914
197. Otto Hahn War-Dated 24-Page Autograph Letter Signed from the Western Front, Sending Holiday Wishes and News of the ‘Christmas Truce’ Miracle. World War I-dated ALS in German, signed “Otto,” 24 total pages, 4.5 x 7, December 25 and 26, 1914. Addressed from the field in Warneton, France, a lengthy handwritten letter from Otto Hahn to his wife, Edith, penned on Christmas day during the Christmas truce, a series of widespread unofficial ceasefires along the Western Front. In part: “For the moment I am sitting here on Dec. 25, alone with you, my love, and thinking of all that has happened over the past few months and of the past few wonderful years that you and I have spent together…Here in Warneton the Christmas celebrations, but in Comines something unusual. I am afraid I shouldn’t even talk about it, I am convinced the senior officers are suppressing it, but it is true: even our soldiers in the trenches celebrated Christmas.
Who knows just how it began? A Bavarian rifleman started it, after the British across the way shouted Merry Christmas when they saw our men raising a Christmas tree on a pole out of the trench. The Bavarian rifleman crawled forward and stared at the English in their trench, or maybe he crawled forward just a little and they encouraged him to come closer. He came back with cigarettes and tobacco. One believed him; he went back again and returned with several Scottish Highlanders in their short kilts who went all the way to our trenches. Our men joined them. Not a shot was fired. Cigarettes were smoked, candles were placed on the edge of the trenches; they spoke with one another. They didn’t chat only yesterday, but today as well. Officers from our regiment crossed over and the troops came out in throngs. The war was suspended. The Christmas peace had done it…
But now back to the real reality. For some time now our artillery has clearly indicated that our ‘Christmas peace’ is at an end. They are shooting so close to us with heavy artillery that my window panes rattle. I believe it was ordered so that one sees that the truce is over. The other side also now seems to be starting up again, too, so we’re back to the nice order of war.” In fine condition. A full transcription of this phenomenal letter can be viewed online. Starting Bid $1000
Eli Whitney writes to his brother, instructing him to use “your own discretion relative to the Cotton belonging to me in your hands”
198. Eli Whitney Autograph Letter Signed - “You will act [at] your own discretion relative to the Cotton”. Important American inventor (1765–1825) remembered for developing the cotton gin, revolutionizing agriculture in the American South. ALS, one page, 7.5 x 9.25, July 25, 1809. Handwritten letter to his brother, “Josiah Whitney,” in part: “Mr. Jonathan Hall has obtain an answer from his son George in the State of N. York informing him that he can take no part in the settlement of his Brother Leverett’s Estate whereupon he has delivered to me the inclosed Letters to Judge Davis, to be forwarded to you; so that no obstacle now will probably remain to our immediate settlement of Leverett Hall’s affairs…You will act [at] your own discretion relative to the Cotton belonging to me in your hands—do as you would if acting for yourself—ship it or sell it as you may judge most proper.” Impressively cloth-matted and framed with a portrait and two plaques to an overall size of 24 x 20.5; the letter is hinged against the backing, with a window in the rear for viewing the address panel. In fine condition, with light staining to the address leaf. Starting Bid $300
Steve Jobs signs a page from the 1990 Seybold Seminars on ‘The Evolving Process of Communication’
199. Steve Jobs Signed Seybold Seminar Guide Page - PSA NM-MT 8. Page from the guidebook for the Seybold Computer Publishing Conference, hosted from October 2-5, 1990, at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco, 8 x 10.75, beautifully signed in black ballpoint by Jobs as founder of NeXT, “steve jobs.” In fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “NM-MT 8,” and accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
This iteration of the Seybold Computer Publishing Conference focused on the theme of ‘The Evolving Process of Communication.’ The conference’s opening session, “Publishing & Computing in the ‘90s,” featured Steve Jobs and Bill Gates as speakers. The recipient of the autograph, Michael Astrachan, spoke at the conference as part of a panel on ‘Building Systems: Marketing and Advertising.’
Accompanied by a detailed letter of provenance from Michael Astrachan, in part: “I obtained Steve Jobs’ autograph, who at the time was CEO of NeXT, after the opening session…I recall that Mr. Jobs was more formally dressed in a suit and tie, as opposed to the casual black turtleneck and jeans of which he is often associated. At the conclusion of the session, I approached the lectern where Mr. Jobs was packing up his presentation materials. With my conference guide turned to his bio page, and pen in hand, I introduced myself, telling him how much I enjoyed his talk and asked if he would be willing to sign my guide. While I think he might have been a little surprised that I was asking for his autograph, he politely obliged and I thanked him before moving onto the next session. To many of us, Steve Jobs was viewed as a rock star of the computing world. He revolutionized the design and publishing world with the invention of the Macintosh computer and, in turn, created a whole new industry and class of careers.”
These Seybold Seminars came at a transitional point in the evolution of modern communication, as many traditional printing processes could now be accomplished in the digital realm. Discussions ranged from color calibration and font formats to building efficient publishing workgroup environments. A seminar on color compression excitedly anticipated the introduction of the JPEG standard, which promised to ‘make desktop color systems a widespread phenomenon.’ The primary focus was still on print media, though the sessions included two panels on ‘publishing without paper’—one year before the introduction of the World Wide Web. This piece is valuable not just as rare Steve Jobs autograph, but as a relic from a moment of tech-driven upheaval in a centuries-old industry. Starting Bid $1,000
Intellectuals
Elusive English-language handwritten letter from Sigmund Freud on a recent “psychoanalytic study” on former President Woodrow Wilson: “I detest the man who is the object of your study. As far as a single individual can be responsible for the misery of this part of the world he surely is”
204. Sigmund Freud Autograph Letter Signed on Woodrow Wilson - “I detest the man who is the object of your study”. Rare English-language ALS signed “Freud,” one page both sides, 5.25 x 8.25, personal letterhead, January 15, 1922. Handwritten letter to American journalist William Bayard Hale, in part: “I greatly enjoyed your book, ‘The Story of a Style.’ I had felt prejudiced against it by your publisher advertising it as a ‘psychoanalytic study’ of Woodrow Wilson, which designation you yourself disclaim. But there is the true spirit of psychoanalysis in it. You have indeed opened up a new field of analytic research and your first results however incomplete may be correct as far as I can judge them. That kind of a higher and more scientific ‘graphologie’ is sure to
find a broad application in literary criticism…There is a deep passion behind your investigation, it often betrays itself in your lines…You need not be ashamed of it, yet I cannot overcome my objection that what you have done is a bit of vivisection and that psychoanalysis should not be [used] practiced on a living individual…And now let me add in a purely confidential way: I detest the man who is the object of your study. As far as a single individual can be responsible for the misery of this part of the world he surely is. With the expression of my sincere respect.” In fine condition.
Provenance: Ex Forbes Collection; Christie’s, New York, November 15, 2005, Lot 173. Starting Bid $2500
Boldly signed letter to a fellow Austrian psychoanalyst, one of Freud’s earliest supporters who later served as his official representative
205. Sigmund Freud Typed Letter Signed. TLS in German, signed “Freud,” one page, 5.75 x 8.5, personal letterhead, October 27, 1924. Brief letter to Austrian psychoanalyst Paul Federn, in full (translated): “With this letter I ask you to bring all your opinions on the attached letter during the General Committee.” Impressively matted and framed with a portrait photo of Freud to an overall size of 22 x 17.5. In fine condition, with old tape stains to the front and back of the top edge. A desirable letter closely associated with Freud’s work, highlighted by its bold, crisp signature. Starting Bid $300
“I would be interested in the mandalas” —war-dated letter from Jung to his most promising German protege
206. Carl Jung War-Dated Typed Letter Signed to His Leading German Pupil. World War II-dated TLS in German, signed “C. G. Jung,” one page, 7.25 x 5, January 4, 1941. Letter to Wolfgang Müller Kranefeldt, in full (translated): “I would be interested in the mandalas. Wilhelmus de Duobus montibus is an unknown figure to me. I would be grateful if you could also tell me the title and nature of the text in which these mandalas are contained.” Framed with a photo and the original mailing envelope to an overall size of 19 x 16.5. In fine condition. Wolfgang Müller Kranefeldt was a German psychotherapist (1892–1950) who was closely associated with Carl Jung and was regarded as Jung’s ‘leading pupil in Germany.’ Starting Bid $200
Rare handwritten 1788 document from Immanuel Kant in his final year as rector of the University of Königsberg
207. Immanuel Kant Rare Autograph Document
Signed as Rector of the University of Königsberg (1788). Exceptionally rare ADS in German, signed “I. Kant,” one page, 8.25 x 11.25, July 15, 1788. Handwritten document from Immanuel Kant as the rector of the University of Königsberg, regarding a petition from an academic secretary, with Kant resolving that a period of four weeks to settle a scholarship debt of 1272 florins cannot be granted. As such, he threatens the use of legal action and punishment. In very good to fine condition, with a small stain, and small areas of loss along the left edge.
Kant’s tenure as rector was relatively brief and primarily ceremonial, lasting from 1786 to 1788. As was customary during that time, the role of rector was more of an honorary position, with the actual administrative duties largely delegated to other officials. Kant’s contributions as a professor at the university, where he remained for the entirety of his professional career, from circa 1755 until his retirement in 1796, continue to reshape how society thinks about knowledge, ethics, science, and politics. An exquisite example of Kant’s handwriting and signature — holographic documents from the great philosopher remain exceedingly rare and, as such, are highly coveted by museums and private collectors alike. Starting Bid $1000
Titanic and American West
214. Jack Thayer Twice-Signed Limited Edition Book - The Sinking of the S.S. Titanic. Rare twice-signed book: The Sinking of the S.S. Titanic: April 14-15, 1912. Limited first edition, numbered 316/500. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Privately printed, 1940. Hardcover with green boards and gilt lettering, 6 x 9, 30 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page in fountain pen, “To Mrs. Charles M. Long, with best wishes from John B. Thayer,” and then again on the colophon in the same manner. Autographic condition: very good to fine, with scattered staining to the signed page. Book condition: VG/ None, with minor edgewear and aforementioned staining to endpapers. Starting Bid $200
220. William F. ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody Signed Personal Calling Card. ANS signed “W. F. Cody,” penned on the reverse of one of his 3.5 x 2 personal calling cards, no date. Handwritten note, in full: “Mr. Lee, Fix it so this Gentleman & friends can ride in the coach.” The front is imprinted: “Hon. W. F. Cody, Nebraska.” In very good to fine condition, with toned adhesive residue to the unsigned side. Accompanied by a metal plaque engraved on opposite sides with Cody’s name and the text of the note, ideal for display purposes. Starting Bid $200
Notorious Figures and Lawmen
Magnificent “gold coin” Chicago bank interest note from 1926, twice-signed by Al Capone, his wife, and his mother
221. Al Capone Rare 1926 Twice-Signed ‘Gold Coin’ Chicago Bank
Document - PSA/DNA NM-MT 8. Rare partly-printed DS, signed twice by legendary Chicago Outfit gangster Al Capone, “Alphonse Capone,” and also twice-signed by his mother, “Theresa Capone,” and his wife, “Mae Capone,” one page, 8.75 x 3, November 18, 1926. An interest note for “Loan No. 6223,” in part: “Due to the order of Ourselves…$45.00 in gold coin of the United States of America of the present standard of weight and fineness, on the 18th day of May A.D. 1931 without grace, at the office of Lawndale National Bank in the City of Chicago…with interest after maturity until paid, at the rate of seven percent, per annum, being for an installment of interest on our principal and note No. 5 being of even date herewith for the sum of $1500.00.” Signed at the conclusion by Al Capone, his mother Theresa Capone, and his wife Mae Capone, and also endorsed on the reverse by all three. In fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “NM-MT 8 (Front Auto Grade Only).”
Capone rose to prominence throughout the 1920s, making a name for himself as a leader of the Chicago underworld. Increasingly implicated in the corruption of political, law enforcement, and labor officials, he was convicted of income tax evasion in 1931 and sentenced to 11 years of imprisonment, serving part of his sentence on Alcatraz. His autograph is scarce in any format, and this extraordinary example—a twice-signed “gold coin” Chicago bank document boasting two full-name autographs, plus the signatures of two members of the Capone crime family—stands out as one of the best Capone documents we have ever offered. It is one of just a handful of these Al Capone bank documents to come to market in the past twenty years, and would be the ‘kingpin’ of any collection of 20th-century Americana. Starting Bid $2500
“I am glad of an occasion to join you in congratulations for our tricolor revolution”
337. Marquis de Lafayette Autograph Letter Signed on “our tricolor revolution”. ALS in French, signed “Lafayette,” one page, 7.75 x 9.75, October 2, 1830. Handwritten letter to a colleague, written from Paris in the aftermath of the July Revolution of 1830. In part (translated): “I have also learned that you are taking a kind and appreciative interest in my son-in-law Charles Remusat...I thank you as a father for your goodwill toward him, and I encourage you in it as a citizen, at the same time that I am glad of an occasion to join you in congratulations for our tricolor revolution and to renew the alliance of lively and constant friendship that I have entered into with you.” Mounted and framed with an original portrait by Richard Gibney to an overall size of 16.5 x 28.5. In very good to fine condition, with scattered light foxing, and some damage to the old frame. Starting Bid $200
“He seems to have no bad habits and has given great satisfaction here”—
General Doubleday recommends his aide-de-camp for “the position of Asst. Adg. Genl.”
338. Abner Doubleday Autograph Letter Signed (1863). Civil Wardated ALS signed “A. Doubleday, Brig. Genl. Vol., Comg. 3d Div. 1st Corps,” one page, 5 x 8, Head Quarters 3d Division 1 Army Corps (Army of the Potomac) letterhead, February 25, 1863. A handwritten letter of recommendation addressed from “Camp near Belle Plain” in Virginia, in full: “Lieut. Jones Acting A. D. C. at these Head Qs is a young man of good education and decided ability. He is an applicant for the position of Asst. Adg. Genl. in the Army & I have no doubt would do full justice to the appointment as he is fully capable. He seems to have no bad habits and has given great satisfaction here.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Rare handwritten letter by “Bonaparte,” transmitting a large sum of money
339. Napoleon Rare Autograph Letter Signed “Bonaparte”. Rare ALS in French, signed “Bonaparte,” one page, 4.75 x 7.25, Floreal 23rd (no year), in full (translated): “I am sending you, Madam, 10,000 ff. I thank you for having addressed me. I will always be very happy to find the opportunity to be agreeable to you.” An ink notation below indicates that the addressee is Marie-Euphémie-Désirée de Tascher de La Pagerie (1739-1803), paternal aunt of the future Empress Joséphine. A close friend of the governor of Martinique, the Marquis François de Beauharnais, she had arranged the marriage of her niece to his youngest son, Alexandre de Beauharnais. In very good to fine condition, with overall light creasing. Starting Bid $1000
Scarce letter signed by Napoleon Bonaparte during his campaign in Egypt, preceding the discovery of the Rosetta Stone by mere days
340. Napoleon Letter Signed from Cairo, Egypt - Days Before the French Discovery of the Rosetta Stone. LS in French, signed “Bonaparte,” one page, 8 x 12.5, Republique Francaise letterhead, July 4, 1799. Untranslated letter signed by Napoleon Bonaparte at his headquarters in Cairo, during his campaign in Egypt, ordering the organization of customs in Egypt for his financial administrator Jean-Baptiste-Étienne Poussielgue. Notably, Bonaparte makes two rare handwritten corrections to the letter’s text. In fine condition.
This letter dates to Napoleon’s campaign in Egypt and Syria, which he proclaimed to ‘defend French trade interests’ and to establish ‘scientific enterprise’ in the region. One of the campaign’s enduring legacies was discovery of the Rosetta Stone on July 15, 1799—mere days after the present document—inspiring a burst of Egyptomania across Europe. Starting Bid $300
341. Napoleon Partial Letter Signed. LS in French, signed “Bonaparte,” one page, 5.75 x 7.25, no date. Untranslated letter fragment signed by Napoleon Bonaparte, penned on the reverse of a page written in another hand. In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
Aviation and Space
367. Charles Lindbergh Signed Photograph. Appealing 5.25 x 8 book photo of Charles Lindbergh posing in front of his famous transatlantic airplane, the ‘Spirit of St. Louis,’ signed in the lower border in fountain pen, “Charles A. Lindbergh,” and dated in another hand, “June 10, ‘28.” In fine condition, with staining along the right edge (easily matted out). Starting Bid $200
388. Mercury Astronauts (6) Signed Photograph. Official color 10 x 8 NASA lithograph of the original Mercury astronauts posing in front of a Convair F106-B aircraft at Langley Air Force Base on January 20, 1961, signed over their respective images in blue or black felt tip, “Scott Carpenter,” “Gordon Cooper,” “John Glenn,” “Wally Schirra,” “DK Slayton,” and “Alan Shepard,” who adds the inscription above, “To Bruce.” In very fine condition. Starting Bid $200
18 astronauts representing each manned mission from the historic Apollo program
387. Apollo Astronauts Multi-Signed (18) Moon Photograph, with Seven Legendary Moonwalkers. Magnificent color semi-glossy 8 x 10 photo of the moon, signed in silver ink and black felt tip by 18 of NASA’s storied Apollo astronauts, a group that includes seven moonwalkers: “Buzz Aldrin, Apollo XI,” “Alan Bean, Apollo 12,” “Gene Cernan, Apollo XVII,” “Charlie Duke, Apollo 16,” “Edgar Mitchell, Apollo 14,” “Dave Scott, Apollo 15 CDR,” and “John Young, Apollo 10 CMP, Apollo 16 CDR.” The other astronauts include: “Frank Borman, Apollo 8,” “Michael Collins, Apollo XI,” “Walt Cunningham, Apollo 7,” “Richard Gordon, Apollo XII,” “Fred Haise, Apollo 13,” “James Lovell, Apollo 8, 13,” “Ken Mattingly,” “Jim McDivitt, Apollo 9,” “Rusty Schweickart, Apollo 9 LMP,”
“Tom Stafford, Apollo 10,” and “Al Worden, Apollo 15 CMP.” The photo is also signed by X-15 pilot and Space Shuttle astronaut Joe Engle, who adds “Apollo 17,” a reference to his near assignment as the mission’s Lunar Module Pilot. In very fine condition.
Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from Zarelli Space Authentication, certificates of authenticity from Astronaut Central for Collins, Young, Borman, and McDivitt, certificates of authenticity from Novaspace for Cernan and Engle, and several photos of astronauts taken at the time of their respective signing. Starting Bid $200
Apollo 8 launch cover presented by Bill Anders to a beloved NASA secretary
389. Bill Anders Signed Apollo 8 ‘Launch Day’ Cover. Commemorative ‘launch day’ cover with a cachet honoring the Apollo crew and mission, postmarked at the Kennedy Space Center on December 21, 1968, signed in black felt tip by Bill Anders, who writes on the reverse, “Thanks.” The cover is addressed to Hazel Sekac, a NASA clerk stenographer who worked in the KSC flight crew training building from 1965 to 1971; she also famously appeared in a gag film made by the Apollo 12 backup crew that premiered at the prime crew’s postflight bash. In very fine condition. Accompanied by a handwritten certificate of authenticity from aerospace memorabilia specialist Ken Havekotte. Starting Bid $200
390. Apollo 11 Signed Photograph. Official color 10 x 8 NASA lithograph of the Apollo 11 crew posing together in their white space suits in front of a lunar backdrop, signed and inscribed in black felt tip, “To Bruce – Neil Armstrong,” “Michael Collins, Apollo XI CMP,” and “Buzz Aldrin, Apollo XI LMP.” The upper Collins signature is autopen and the rightside Aldrin signature is stamped with a secretarial dedication. In fine condition, with a faint vertical bend passing through Armstrong’s image. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from Zarelli Space Authentication. Starting Bid $200
391. Neil Armstrong Signature. Ink signature, “Neil Armstrong,” on an off-white 11 x 14 cardstock sheet bearing an affixed matte-finish photo of the Apollo 11 moonwalker. In fine condition, with a few spots of light silvering to the image. Starting Bid $200
392. Apollo 13 Crew-Signed Recovery Cover - Scarce Beck Crew Cover. Apollo 13 recovery ‘Beck Crew Cover’ with a stamped cachet honoring the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Recovery Force, postmarked on the USS Iwo Jima recovery ship on April 17, 1970, signed neatly in black ink by James Lovell and Fred Haise, and in black ballpoint by Jack Swigert. In fine condition, with light evidence of a removed mailing label in the lower right corner. Accompanied by photos of Lovell and Haise taken at the time of their respective signings, and an information sheet detailing ship enthusiast and cover designer Morris Beck, who created the offered Apollo 13 cover. Starting Bid $200
393. Apollo 13 Signed Launch Day Cover. Desirable Apollo 13 launch day cover with a cachet honoring the mission and crew, postmarked at Kennedy Space Center on April 11, 1970, signed in ink by James Lovell, Fred Haise, and Jack Swigert. In very fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from Zarelli Space Authentication. Starting Bid $200
“Thanks for your hospitality and all your help in getting me properly attired”—Swigert-signed NASA litho and a letter of thanks from the Apollo 13 CMP
394. Jack Swigert (2) Signed Items - Official NASA Lithograph and Autograph Letter. Two items: an official color 8 x 10 NASA lithograph of Jack Swigert in his white space suit with a model of the lunar module, signed and inscribed neatly in black felt tip, “To Laura Graham, All best wishes, Jack Swigert”; and an ALS signed “Jack,” one page, 5 x 8, Committee on Science and Astronautics (U.S. House of Representatives) letterhead, in full: “Thanks for your hospitality and all your help in getting me properly attired. Come see me when you’re in D.C.” In overall fine condition. Accompanied by the original NASA mailing envelope, which contained both the photo and the handwritten letter. Starting Bid $200
Tom Stafford’s flown Apollo-Soyuz Beta patch that was “carried, by me, aboard our spacecraft during the first flight of international cooperation”
395. Apollo-Soyuz Flown Beta Patch - From the Personal Collection of Tom Stafford. Tom Stafford’s flown 5.5˝ x 5.5˝ swatch of Beta cloth bearing a 3.5˝ diameter emblem of the Apollo–Soyuz Test Project, signed around the insignia in blue ink or ballpoint by Vance Brand, Valeri Kubasov, Alexei Leonov, and Thomas Stafford, who adds, “Flown on ASTP, July 1975.” Includes a signed letter of authenticity from Commander Stafford, in part: “This is to certify that the accompanying Apollo/ Soyuz Test Project Beta Cloth Patch…was carried, by me, aboard our spacecraft during the first flight of international cooperation.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by an ALS from Stafford, forwarding the Beta patch to the consignor. Starting Bid $200
Art, Architecture, and Literature
505. Federal Duck Stamps: 6-Stamp Plate Blocks (2) - Blue Geese and American Merganser (1955-56). Sought-after pairing of two six-stamp plate blocks of $2 Federal Duck Stamps of 1955 and 1956: the 1955 example featuring an illustration of blue geese by Stanley Stearns (RW22, VF centered and mint, never hinged); and the 1956 example featuring American mergansers by Edward J. Bierly (RW23, VF centered and mint, never hinged). Issued by the U.S. Department of the Interior as a “Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp,” each stamp carries a warning on the reverse: “It is unlawful to hunt waterfowl unless you sign your name in ink on the face of this stamp.” Starting Bid $200
506. Kenneth Grahame: ‘Wind in the Willows’ Watercolor Painting by Peter Barrett. Original watercolor painting by illustrator Peter Barrett inspired by Kenneth Grahame’s classic children’s tale The Wind in the Willows, 9.5 x 7.5, signed and dated in the lower left by the artist, “Peter Barrett, 2019.” The scene features Mr. Toad having a fine picnic with friends, Mole and Badger, outside a fancy stagecoach as the sun sets. Handsomely matted and framed to an overall size of 15 x 12. In fine condition.
The artist, Peter Barrett, created illustrations for a 1987 edition of The Wind in the Willows, a 65th Anniversary Edition of Three Little Pigs, and dozens of other animal-themed children’s books. Starting Bid $200
Scarce original sketch from the adored German fashion designer
507. Karl Lagerfeld Rare Original Fashion Design Sketch. Rare original fashion design sketch by Karl Lagerfeld, accomplished in mixed media on an offwhite 8.25 x 11.75 sheet, which depicts a female model wearing a multi-buttoned long-sleeved collared shirt, signed in the lower left in black ink by Lagerfeld, who annotates the upper right, “Chemise, body.” In fine condition. A decidedly rare fashion sketch from the influential designer, who was known to discard his sketches after the initial design phase. Starting Bid $200
Appealing triple-signed handwritten letter from Pablo Picasso
509. Pablo Picasso Thrice-Signed Autograph Letter to His Financial Advisor. Thricesigned ALS in French as “Picasso,” one page, 8.25 x 10.75, March 28, 1955. Addressed from Vallauris, a handwritten letter to his friend and financial advisor Max Pellequer, in part (translated): “I’d perhaps like to buy a house here. I’d like to know if I can use the money I banked. Let me know as soon as possible. I very much enjoyed seeing you the other day. I’m preoccupied by my sad departure. Sending you a kiss.” Below the artist has added two postscripts, both signed “Picasso,” with the first dated a day later on March 3rd: “Tomorrow, my friend Mr. Yve Pellous leaves for Paris. He will phone you or go to see you on my behalf to discuss all my affairs relating to the purchase. He will tell you everything in detail.” The second postscript, in part: “We should get together with the former owner, Minister Lucien Dalaviens.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
“I hope you got home safely last night”— rare handwritten letter from Picasso the day after the premiere of Parade, a collaborative ballet with Erik Satie
508. Pablo Picasso Autograph Letter Signed - A Day After the Premiere of the ‘Parade’ Ballet. Rare ALS in French, signed “Picasso,” one page, 5.25 x 7, May 19, 1916. Addressed from “5 bis rue Victor Schoelcher” in Paris, a handwritten letter from Pablo Picasso to his friend André Level, in full (translated): “Rue la Boétie at the Haussmann gallery at 29 exhibition—sale of paintings, drawings, sculptures, &. for the benefit of the works La Table familiale and la Cantine D of the Entraide Artistique Française (there is a drawing by me). I hope you got home safely last night.” In fine condition.
This letter was written on the day after the tumultuous and chaotic premiere of the ballet Parade, to which the painter alludes in the last sentence of his letter. A collaboration of artistic minds, Parade is a ballet choreographed by Leonide Massine, with music by Erik Satie and a one-act scenario by Jean Cocteau. Composed in 1916–17 for Sergei Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes, the ballet premiered on Friday, May 18, 1917, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, and featured costumes and sets designed by Picasso. Although initial reactions to Parade were mixed, the performance has since been lauded as a surreal masterpiece.
André Level, a businessman, patron, and collector, frequented modern art galleries after meeting the Bernheim brothers in 1895. In 1904, he founded the association La peau de l’Ours, which played a role in launching Picasso and modern art. The public auction he organized in 1914 was one of Picasso’s early successes. The Table familiale and Entraide artistique française were charitable associations that provided meals to artists in need. Starting Bid $1000
Original pen-and-ink illustration for the first edition of Stuart Little
510. Garth Williams: Stuart Little Original Drawings for First Edition Endpapers. American children’s book illustrator (1912–1996) celebrated for his work on such classics as Stuart Little, Charlotte’s Web, and the Little House series. Charming original unsigned artwork by illustrator Garth Williams for the endpapers of the first edition of E. B. White’s classic, Stuart Little, published by Harper & Brothers in 1945, accomplished in pen-and-ink on an off-white 15.25 x 11.25 sheet. The marvelous illustration features two scenes: one of Stuart Little in the garden, and one of a bird overlooking a pastoral woodland river landscape, both over a crosshatched ‘windowpane’ background. Annotated with some lightly penciled printer’s measurements. Beautifully matted and framed to an overall size of 22 x 18. In fine condition, with some scattered light creasing.
E. B. White’s classic children’s novel Stuart Little stands as a testament to the power of imagination and the resilience of the human spirit. Through the charming adventures of a small mouse navigating a vast world of humans, White imparts invaluable lessons on courage, kindness, and the beauty of embracing one’s uniqueness. The classic tale captivates readers of all ages not only with its whimsical narrative, but through the enchanting artwork of Garth Williams, who vividly brings Stuart’s world to life. Together, White and Williams craft a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire imagination and wonder in generations of readers, reminding us that no matter how small we may feel, our dreams and aspirations hold immeasurable significance. Starting Bid $500
Comic Art and Animation
Wonderful 1963 Peanuts strip evoking Charlie Brown’s unrequited love— “I wish I could eat lunch with that little red-haired girl”
539. Charles Schulz Signed Original Hand-Drawn Peanuts Daily Comic Strip (c. 1963), Featuring Charlie Brown: “I wish I could eat lunch with that little red-haired girl”. Original hand-inked four panel Peanuts daily comic strip by Charles Schulz, 28 x 7, signed and inscribed across the top in blue ballpoint, “For Sue, who knows what it’s like to be a little red-haired girl—Sparky,” and also signed vertically in the last panel with his artist signature, “Schulz.” Dating to November 14, 1963, the comic strip shows Charlie Brown sitting on a park bench with his lunch, contemplating a romantic encounter: “I wish I could eat lunch with that little red-haired girl. I wonder what I’d do if she came over here and sat down… I wonder if I… good grief! She saw me looking at her! She’s standing up! She’s coming over here!! She’s coming over here!! What’ll I do? What’ll I do?” The final panel shows Charlie Brown with his paper lunch bag over his head. Matted and framed to an overall size of 31 x 10. In fine condition, with Schulz’s signature and inscription a shade light. Starting Bid $1000
540. Charles Schulz Signed Linus Sketch on a First Day Cover. FDC with a cachet honoring progress in electronics, signed in black felt tip by Charles M. Schulz, “Schulz,” who adds a lovely portrait sketch of Linus to the left of his signature. In fine condition. A desirable original sketch of one of Schulz’s beloved Peanuts characters. Starting Bid $200
541. Charles Schulz Signed ‘Astronaut Snoopy’ Animation Cel. Appealing 6.75 x 7.5 hand-painted animation cel of Snoopy as an astronaut, signed in black felt tip, “Charles M. Schulz.” The cel is placed on a color copy background of an Apollo lunar landing. Attractively double-matted and framed with two embroidered patches to an overall size of 16 x 13. In fine condition. Accompanied by a 1998 transmittal letter from Schulz’s secretary. The call signs for the Apollo 10 spacecraft were the names of Peanuts characters Charlie Brown and Snoopy, the semi-official mascots of the famed ‘dress rehearsal’ Apollo mission, and creator Charles Schulz also drew some mission-related artwork for NASA. Starting Bid $200
542. Charles Schulz Signed Book - A Charlie Brown Christmas. Signed book: A Charlie Brown Christmas. First edition. Cleveland and New York: The World Publishing Company, 1965. Hardcover with dust jacket, 9 x 8.5, 42 pages. Prominently signed on the first free end page in felt tip, “Charles M. Schulz.” Autographic condition: very fine. Book condition: VG+/VG, with a price-clipped front jacket flap, and light edgewear and creasing to the jacket. Starting Bid $200
543. Superman: Siegel, Shuster, and Alyn Signed Certificate. Desirable unissued color “Superman of Metropolis Award” certificate, 11 x 14, signed in black ballpoint by Superman creators Joe Shuster (adding an “S” for Superman) and Jerry Siegel, and by actor Kirk Alyn, who was the first actor to play the role of Superman on film. In very fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Literature
Pearl Buck on race on the United States: “America is a divided nation and the American is a divided individual because of the memory of slavery”
562. Pearl S. Buck Hand-Corrected Typed Manuscript for Our Dark People: “The effect of slavery continues upon my country with little less strength today than in the day before the civil war”. 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. Hand-corrected unsigned typed manuscript draft by Pearl S. Buck for a piece entitled “Our Dark People,” sixteen pages, 8.5 x 11, no date but circa 1940. The draft has been extensively corrected in pencil throughout in Buck’s own hand, with numerous additions, deletions, and revisions—ranging from a simple edit of a single word to the deletion of nearly an entire page. The article offers insightful commentary on racism and America’s attitudes toward its Black citizens, beginning: “You have often asked me why we treat the descendants of former slaves as we still do, and I have delayed my answers. Perhaps I should still delay, since certainly what I say will be inadequate. The effect of slavery continues upon my country with little less strength today than in the day before the civil war. The stand of the country in this war for freedom is not to be understood without realizing this, for it is the prejudice against color, which is the aftermath of slavery, that, more than any other thing, explains the American sympathy with ruling Tory elements
everywhere. America is a divided nation and the American is a divided individual because of the memory of slavery.” In fine condition. Accompanied by an eleven-page typescript incorporating the changes that Buck made to the draft. Starting Bid $200
The Renaissance author prepares to deliver good news to Pope Clement VII
563. Baldassare Castiglione War-Dated Letter Signed (1524). Prominent author (1478–1529) most famous for The Book of the Courtier, considered the definitive account of Renaissance court life. Extremely rare war-dated LS in Italian, signed “Vostro come bon fratello, B. Castiglione,” one page, 8.5 x 11.5, April 30, 1524. Untranslated letter written on the day of the Battle of Sesia to Capino da Capo, a soldier in the imperial service. Castiglione desires to have a defeat of King Francis I reported to him immediately, so that he can be the first to bring this good news to Pope Clement VII, who, at that time, was allied with Charles V. In very good condition, with an area of paper loss to the top edge, a few small edge tears and ink erosion (slightly affecting a few words of writing but not the signature), and scattered creases and soiling. Accompanied by a full transcript in Italian. The Spanish-Imperial forces commanded by Don Carlos de Lannoy inflicted a decisive defeat over the French forces during the Battle of Sesia, a pivotal moment in the Italian War of 1521–26. Starting Bid $1000
Custom-bound early printing of Stephen Crane’s Civil War masterpiece, boasting a tipped-in letter
564. Stephen Crane Letter Signed in The Red Badge of Courage (Second Edition). Uncommon book: The Red Badge of Courage. Second edition, early printing. NY: D. Appleton & Co., 1896. Hardcover custom bound in three-quarter morocco with gilt-decorated spine and top edge gilt, 5 x 7.25, 233 pages. Signed on a bound-in LS, “Stephen Crane,” one page, Hartwood, New York, June 6, 1896, to Edward Peterson, in full: “I attended the Syracuse University during the winter of 90 and 91.” Autographic condition: fine. Book condition: VG/None, with edgewear and worn joints; the binding is tight. Effectively, the volume presents as a signed book—a sought-after example of Crane’s enduring Civil War work, praised in the Dictionary of American Biography as ‘an extraordinary study of the common man amid the turmoil, clamor and distortion typified by war…its intensity, its startling yet inevitable descriptive phrase, struck a new note in American prose.’ Starting Bid $200
Dickens gracefully declines an invitation to “the anniversary dinner of the London Orphan Asylum”
565. Charles Dickens Autograph Letter Signed, Declining to Attend “the anniversary dinner of the London Orphan Asylum”. ALS, one page, 4 x 6.75, February 28, 1851. Handwritten letter from Devonshire Terrace, in full: “Mr. Charles Dickens presents his compliments to Mr. Rogers, and in acknowledging the receipt of Mr. Rogers’ interesting communication, regrets that his engagements will not admit of his attending the anniversary dinner of the London Orphan Asylum.” Handsomely double-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 15.5 x 12.5. In fine condition, with a central vertical crease. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA.
Charles Dickens often portrayed orphans in his novels, reflecting his deep concern for social justice and the plight of the poor in Victorian England. Characters like Oliver Twist and David Copperfield, both orphans, navigate a harsh world filled with exploitation and abuse. Dickens used these characters to criticize the inadequate social systems of his time, emphasizing the vulnerability and resilience of orphaned children. His vivid depictions helped raise public awareness and contributed to reforms in child welfare. Superb content from the celebrated English author. Starting Bid $200
“The storage is not to be opened nor anything withdrawn...Explain to them that my wife has been a patient in a mental sanitarium... This is to prevent my books being given to the public library, or anything of that sort”
566. F. Scott Fitzgerald Typed Letter
Signed from Hollywood: “My wife has been a patient in a mental sanitarium”. TLS signed in pencil, “Scott Fitz,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, The Garden of Allah Hotel and Villas letterhead, April 19, 1938. Letter to his secretary Isabel Owens, sent from his temporary home on Sunset Boulevard during his final stint in Hollywood. In part: “Sorry to have missed you, but I decided that I had better catch that airplane, and did manage to do it at a great personal sacrifice. You confuse me about the dog. That was meant to be an Easter present to you. However, any way that you chose to dispose of it is all right with me.
I wish you would write a note to the storage company telling them that the storage is not to be opened nor anything withdrawn without specific permission from me. Explain to them that my wife has been a patient in a mental sanitarium and that any requests she may make must be referred to me. This is to prevent my books being given to the public library, or anything of that sort.”
In pencil at the upper left corner of the page, Fitzgerald teases Mrs. Owens, who was a breeder of champion Chesapeake Bay Retrievers: “Good luck with your four-legged fish—that’s a good phrase—has any one thought of it before? Probably have.” He continues the joke in the lower margin, writing: “That’d be a good ad, Mrs. Allien Owens, FOUR LEGGED FISH (and then, in smaller caps), CHESAPEAKE BAY SPANIELS (ETC).” In very good to fine condition, with overall creasing, and scattered stains from old mounting residue on the back.
Following various stints of institutionalization during the early 1930s, Fitzgerald’s wife Zelda’s condition continued to decline. In 1936, Scott placed her in the Highland Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina, and wrote to friends: ‘Zelda now claims to be in direct contact with Christ, William the Conqueror, Mary Stuart, Apollo and all the stock paraphernalia of insane-asylum jokes… For what she has really suffered, there is never a sober night that I do not pay a stark tribute of an hour to in the darkness.’ She remained hospitalized when Fitzgerald made his final sojourn to Hollywood, taking a $1,000-a-week job with MGM in June 1937. His work on Three Comrades (1938) became his sole screenplay credit. Starting Bid $500
Fleming references his secretary “Mrs. Trueblood,” whose name was used for Dr. No agent Mary Trueblood
567. Ian Fleming Typed Letter Signed, Referencing Secretary Una Trueblood of Dr. No Fame. TLS signed “Ian Fleming,” one page, 4 x 5, Kemsley Newspapers: Foreign Department letterhead, December 22, 1954. Letter to Mr. J. Ashwin, in full: “This is just to congratulate you and the Feature Section on the splendid year you have had. The quantity and quality of your output is most impressive and I know that the Editors and Mr. Hamilton are very well satisfied. Thank you all very much and a Very Happy Christmas to you, Mrs. Trueblood and Miss Hulbert.” Stapled to a slightly larger sheet and in very good to fine condition, with some minor paper loss to the trimmed edges.
After the war Ian Fleming became Foreign Manager at Kemsley News, publishing their flagship Sunday Times, which included much of Fleming’s journalism. His secretary was Una Trueblood, whose name was appropriated by Fleming in Dr. No, for the agent Mary Trueblood, No. 2 at Station (C), the Caribbean Branch of the British Secret Service. Trueblood is a former Chief Officer W.R.N.S., described as having ‘dashing good looks’ and ‘elegant knees’ [chapters 1-2]. Her disappearance is the catalyst for the Crab Key investigation, leading Bond to Honey Rider and Julius No. Miss Trueblood copied for the author the manuscript of the first James Bond TV treatment, which was developed into the novel Dr. No. Provenance: Sotheby’s, The Jon Gilbert Collection. Starting Bid $200
Exiled in Guernsey, Hugo sends an illustrated version of Les Miserables to “the library of the French refugees in London”
570. Victor Hugo Autograph Letter Signed. ALS in French, one page, 5 x 6, January 4, 1866. Addressed from Hauteville House, the Guernsey mansion where he lived during his exile from France, a handwritten letter to an unidentified recipient, in full (translated): “My dear fellow citizen, my sore eyes have delayed my reply. Here you have it! Hauteville House — 4 January 1866. I request Mr. Lacroix, Paris, Librairie Internationale, to send in my name, from the volumes to which I have a right, a copy of Les Misérables (one volume, illustrated, popular edition) to Mr. J. B. Bocquet, professor, for the library of the French refugees in London.” In fine condition, with some light edge toning. Starting Bid $200
Hemingway options The Sun Also Rises to Hollywood, selling the motion picture rights to RKO in 1932
569. Ernest Hemingway Document Signed for The Sun Also Rises Motion Picture Rights. DS, four pages, 8.5 x 11, May 6, 1932. Contract between Ernest Hemingway and RKO Radio Pictures, Inc., by which he assigns an option to purchase “all motion picture rights in an to a novel or literary writing and material known as ‘The Sun Also Rises’…written by the Author and published by Charles Scribner’s Sons” for the consideration of $2,000. Hemingway pens his initials, “E. H.,” four times in the margins to approve amendments to the contract pertaining to the option period and distribution of funds (directing $1800 to his ex-wife, Hadley, who received the royalties to The Sun Also Rises as part of their divorce settlement). Neatly signed at the conclusion in fountain pen by Ernest Hemingway and countersigned by Lee Marcus as vice president of RKO. Additionally signed by Hemingway’s close friend, Charles P. Thompson, as a witness; the last page is signed by two notaries. In fine condition.
Although RKO did exercise the option to purchase the worldwide motion picture rights for $14,500, the film would not be made for 25 years. The rights were bought and sold several times in ensuing years. Howard Hawks bought the rights in 1948, but the project did not go beyond the development stage. The film ultimately landed in the hands of Darryl F. Zanuck at 20th Century Fox, who hired Peter Viertel, a friend of Hemingway’s, to write the script. The film was finally released in 1957, directed by Henry King and starring Tyrone Power, Ava Gardner, Mel Ferrer, and Errol Flynn.
Hemingway was displeased with the result, and walked out after 25 minutes: ‘I saw as much of Darryl Zanuck’s splashy Cook’s tour of Europe’s lost generation bistros, bullfights, and more bistros… It’s pretty disappointing and that’s being gracious. Most of my story was set in Pamplona so they shot the film in Mexico. You’re meant to be in Spain and all you see walking around are nothing but Mexicans… It looked pretty silly. The bulls were mighty small for a start, and it looked like they had big horns on them for the day. I guess the best thing about the film was Errol Flynn.’ Starting Bid $500
Hemingway gets to work amidst a Spanish vacation soaked in whiskey, wine, and bullfights:
“Am very busy about The Sun Also Rises script which is unspeakably horrible and awful”
568. Ernest Hemingway Autograph Letter Signed on Health, Bullfights, and Work: “Am very busy about The Sun Also Rises script”. ALS signed “Mr. Papa,” one page both sides, 8.5 x 11, San Lorenzo del Escorial letterhead, November 2, 1956. Lengthy handwritten letter to Roberto Herrera, his close friend, part-time secretary, and brother of his Cuban doctor, sent to Herrera at Hemingway’s Cuban home, Finca Vigia. Hemingway writes from Spain, commenting on his health, bullfights, and a script for The Sun Also Rises. He also adds some direction for his Cuban affairs, referring several times to Gregorio Fuentes, the first mate of Hemingway’s boat, the Pilar, and said to be the model for the character Santiago in Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea.
In part: “We have been very happy here. Juanito Madinaveitia can practice again and he is doing a wonderful job on Mary but, knowing nothing of the human body, nor of medicine, she is very impatient and 6 days of treatment seems to her a long time to cure anemia…she wants to be cured in one day. (Naturally). Juanito found my pressure much too high…he put me on a regimen of 1 glass of wine…5 oz. of whiskey and not more than 1 quart of water (liquids he says are bad—whiskey relaxes)...
The Sierra is very good for Mary…We have had lovely weather for 3 weeks. Each day more perfect than the last. For some
strange reason am very popular and have not changed in anyway nor re-canted but now sign autograph for Guardia Civiles…In Zaragoza…the boys work very hard with any bull they dedicate and really put it on the line. Of the first 5 bulls dedicated to us all matadors cut ears, and twice tails too and once both ears, tail and a foot….The last time Ordonez… said ‘Ernesto, we know this bull is worthless. But let’s see what we can do with him and if I can kill him to please you.’ He killed 4 bulls recibiendo in front of Mary and me in the six fights we saw him in…
Enclose check for $2500 for you to deposit and write checks on for Gregorio and any emergency. I cannot say yet when we will be back. But he has until March First to get the Pilar in good shape, if it is longer I will let him know, will write him. Today have to write in a hurry to get this off as am very busy about The Sun Also Rises script which is unspeakably horrible and awful. Peter Viertel is flying down and have been on telephone all day…Best to all your family and give Mary’s and my best to the girls and the people at the Finca.” He adds multiple postscripts on the front of the letter, one noting: “Here until Nov. 12—then Paris—please find out my bank balance and inform me. Thanks. Papa.” In fine condition, with scattered small stains. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Starting Bid $500
Rare assortment of Italian patriots and politicians from the Risorgimento, highlighted by manuscripts poems by Arnaldo Fusinato, including an early version of his ‘L’ultima ora di Venezi’
571. Unification of Italy Letter and Poem Collection from Patriots Arnaldo Fusinato, Giuseppe Mazzini, Cesare Battisti, and Others. Collection of 15 handwritten letters, notes, poems, and booklets from notable Italian figures and patriots from Unification of Italy, including Giuseppe Mazzini, Count of Cavour, Cesare Battisti, Nino Bixio, Arnaldo Fusinato, and others. Dated between 1838 and 1900, the collection is highlighted by three manuscript poems from Fusinato, which include ‘L’ultima ora di libertà,’ ‘Le due Madri Ballata,’ and an early copy of ‘Brindisi.’ Also included are letters and notes by Mazzini (one in French, dated June 17, 1852, regarding “manifeste Sicilien”), a handwritten letter from Cavour to the Chevalier De Bry, postmarked February 1, 1854, about “la supression du bagne de Villefranc[h]e,” ALSs from Bixio and Battisti, a cabinet photograph of Bixio, and two period booklets commemorating the death and life of Battisti, published by Sede Dell’Unione in 1917. In overall fine condition.
‘L’ultima ora di libertà’ would appear to be an early title for Fusinato’s celebrated poem ‘L’ultima ora di Venezia,’ (or ‘La bandiera bianca’), one of the classics of the Italian Risorgimento. This manuscript includes the famous lines “Venezia! l’ultima / Ora e venuta: Illustre Martire / Tu sei perduta / Il morbo infuria / il pan ti manca / Sul ponte sventola / Bandiera bianca,” which then reappear altered at the end of this manuscript. Starting Bid $500
Sending his “little book” in 1819, the important Italian poet hopes his cousin
“will read my poor verses”
573. Giacomo Leopardi Autograph Letter Signed on Poetry, Sending His “Poor Verses” to a Cousin. Important Italian poet, essayist, philosopher, and philologist (1798-1837). Exceedingly rare ALS in Italian, one page, 4.25 x 5.75, March 15, 1819. Letter to his cousin, Conte Francesco Cassi, sending him a book. In part (translated): “On account of not trusting the mail, I waited a long time before I was offered an opportunity to send the little book that will be present with this…If you ever have this letter together with the booklet for a sign of confidence, and will read my poor verses, and reach the end, you have more friendship than I merit.” Affixed to a slightly larger card. In very good condition, with heavy overall foxing. It was around this period that Leopardi began writing his major works, beginning with the first poems of the Canti in 1818 and the Idylls in 1819. A fascinating and very early letter demonstrating Leopardi’s humility and admiration of his older cousin. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA. Starting Bid $1000
574. J. K. Rowling Signed Book - Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (First American Edition). Signed book: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. First American edition. NY: Scholastic, 1998. Hardcover with dust jacket, 6.25 x 9.25, 309 pages. Signed in black ballpoint by J. K. Rowling on a gilt-bordered bookplate affixed to the first free end page, which also bears an affixed J. K. Rowling hologram label. In very fine condition.
Accompanied by an official J. K. Rowling transmittal letter with a preprinted facsimile signature from the author, who writes: “I would like to say a very large thank you for your wonderful contribution to the Harry Potter readings, which went a long way to providing some entertainment for children, families and carers, whilst confined at home during lockdown. Everyone here on the Harry Potter At Home team really appreciates you giving your time and effort, which made the recordings so special and memorable. The response has been incred-
ible. I’m delighted to say the readings have been enjoyed over 30 million times worldwide and have inspired a whole new generation of readers! Please find enclosed a token of thanks from me for your participation and for the pleasure it has given. I hope you enjoyed it too!”
An initiative launched by J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World, in collaboration with varying publishing partners, the ‘Harry Potter at Home’ project was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to provide a free online resource for Harry Potter fans, particularly for those who were staying at home due to lockdowns and social distancing measures. Worldwide, only three families were chosen to take part and these items were given as gifts to members of the families who participated in making the Harry Potter at Home readings in 2020. This particular book and letter were given to a member of the only U.S. family selected. Truly a rare collectible originating due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting Bid $200
572. Jack Kerouac Signed Book - Excerpts from Visions of Cody (Ltd. Ed. #97/750). Signed book: Excerpts from Visions of Cody. First edition, limited issue, numbered 97/750. NY: New Directions, 1959. Hardcover, 5.5 x 8.5, 128 pages. Signed on the colophon in blue ballpoint by Jack Kerouac. Autographic condition: fine. Book condition: VG+/None, with a small stain to the dedication page. Originally written during 1951-1952, partly overlapping with what became On the Road, the complete manuscript was not edited and published in its entirety until 1972, three years after Kerouac’s untimely death. Starting Bid $200
“In Naples death is everywhere, life too. There is no difference”
575. Jean-Paul Sartre Handwritten Manuscript on ‘Monte Cassino and the Marocchinate’. Autograph manuscript by JeanPaul Sartre, unsigned, in French, penned in black ink on both sides of an 8.25 x 10.5 sheet of graphing paper, no date. Entitled “The journey, Monte Cassino and the Marocchinate, Departure,” the manuscript reads, in part: (translated): “Dry and dilapidated cities, white dust everywhere; wide streets crossing each other at right angles…these terrible towns which you would say were built to be passed through at top speed…A hearse gallops by, more extravagant than a cart…The horse looks like a prostitute. Between the twisted black wood columns, the coffin is visible through four windows, under flowers…In Naples death is everywhere, life too. There is no difference.” In fine condition, with an unobtrusive tear to the right edge. Starting Bid $200
Remarkable four-volume signed set of J. R. R. Tolkien’s classics: The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogy
578. J. R. R. Tolkien (4) Signed Books - The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Remarkable signed collection of J. R. R. Tolkien’s four most famous works, including The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogy: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. All are housed in handsome custom-made quarter-leather clamshell cases, gilt-lettered on the spines. It is difficult to find even a single signed volume of one of Tolkien’s classics up for auction; to have these four iconic works available in a single lot is truly remarkable. The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogy revolutionized the fantasy genre, establishing a rich, immersive world that continues to inspire writers and creators to this day. Their themes of friendship, courage, and the battle between good and evil resonate across cultures and generations, cementing Tolkien’s place as a literary icon. These works have not only shaped modern fantasy but also fostered a vast, global fanbase through adaptations in film, art, gaming, and other media.
Includes:
- Signed book: The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien. Third edition, first impression (sixteenth impression overall). London: George Allen & Unwin Ltd, 1966. Hardcover bound in the publisher’s original green cloth boards (lettered and decorated in blue), with original pictorial dust jacket, 5.25 x 7.5, 317 pages, featuring pictorial map endpapers, color frontispiece depicting Hobbiton, plus three other color plates (‘Rivendell’; ‘Bilbo comes to the Huts of the Raft-elves’; ‘Conversation with Smaug’). Beautifully signed and inscribed on the title page in fountain pen, “For Mr. I. Chambers, J. R. R. Tolkien.” The personal bookplate of noteworthy bookseller Ivan Chambers, O.B.E., is affixed opposite the half-title. Autographic condition: very fine. Book condition: VG+/VG, with mottled foxing on the top edge of the textblock, minor fading to the book’s spine, and the jacket’s spine toned.
The recipient, Ivan Chambers, began his bookselling career at W.J. Bryce’s bookshop in Holborn, London; the shop soon moved to Museum Street, in a building belonging to Tolkien’s publisher, Stanley Unwin, and Chambers stayed there until his retirement as the store’s managing director in 1971. Ac-
tive in the book trade, Chambers served as an executive on the National Book Council and as chairman of the London branch of the Booksellers Association. The Oxford Dictionary of National Biography notes: ‘The success of Tolkien’s writing, as well as his subsequent fanatical worldwide readership, was due in no small part to the author–publisher relationship that existed between Tolkien, Stanley Unwin, and later [Stanley’s son] Rayner Unwin.’ Considering Chambers’ proximity to the Unwin and his long-term activity in the book trade, he certainly played a part in the enduring success of Tolkien’s novels.
- Signed book: The Fellowship of the Ring by J. R. R. Tolkien. First edition, second impression (December 1954). London: George Allen & Unwin Ltd, 1954. Hardcover bound in the publisher’s original red cloth, 5.75 x 8.75, 423 pages. Signed on the first free end page in fountain pen, “J. R. R. Tolkien.” Autographic condition: very good to fine, with light foxing to signed page. Book condition: VG-/None, with foxing to endpapers, sunning to spine, and rubbing to boards; the folded map plate in the rear remains intact and fine.
- Signed book: The Two Towers by J. R. R. Tolkien. First edition, second impression. London: George Allen & Unwin Ltd, 1955. Hardcover bound in the publisher’s original red cloth, 5.75 x 9, 352 pages. Signed on the first free end page in fountain pen, “J. R. R. Tolkien.” Autographic condition: very good, with overall mottled toning to the signed page. Book condition: VG-/ None, with toning and some foxing to endpapers, sunning and a bit of staining to spine, and rubbing to boards; the folded map plate in the rear remains intact and fine.
- Signed book: The Return of the King by J. R. R. Tolkien. First edition, first impression. London: George Allen & Unwin Ltd, 1955. Hardcover bound in the publisher’s original red cloth, 6 x 9, 416 pages. Signed on the first free end page in fountain pen, “J. R. R. Tolkien.” Autographic condition: very good to fine, with light overall foxing to the signed page. Book condition: VG-/None, with light foxing to endpapers, sunning and staining to spine, and some rubbing and light staining to boards; the folded map plate in the rear remains intact and fine. Starting Bid $5000
Rare oversized portrait of the Bengali polymath
576. Rabindranath Tagore Signed Photograph - Rare Oversized Portrait. Bengali poet, playwright, philosopher, and author (1861–1941) who became the first non-European to win a Nobel Prize (Literature) in 1913. Scarce vintage sepia 8.25 x 11.5 paperstock photo of Rabindranath Tagore in a noble bust-length pose, signed in the lower border in Bengali in fountain pen. A small printed caption bearing his name is affixed to the right of the autograph. In very good to fine condition, with tears to the top, and to the side borders, repaired with tape on the reverse. The largest signed portrait of Tagore that we have ever offered, and a great portrayal of one of literature’s foremost minds. Starting Bid $300
“So, long as Boston shall Boston be, / And her Bay-tides rise & fall, / Shall Freedom stand in the Old South Church / And plead for the rights of all!”
577. John Greenleaf Whittier Handwritten Poem - ‘In the Old South Church, Boston 1677’. Wonderful handwritten poem by John Greenleaf Whittier entitled “In the Old South Church, Boston 1677,” four total pages, 7.75 x 9.75, September 2, 1877. The poem reads, in part: “She came and stood in the Old South Church / A wonder and a sign, / With the look the old-time sibyls wore / Half-crazed and half-divine…So, long as Boston shall Boston be, / And her Bay-tides rise & fall, / Shall Freedom stand in the Old South Church / And plead for the rights of all!” In very good to fine condition, with two vertical folds to each page, and staining only to the first page. Starting Bid $200
Oscar Wilde pens a passage from ‘The Garden of Eros’
579. Oscar Wilde Autograph Quotation Signed - ‘The Garden of Eros’. AQS signed “Oscar Wilde,” on two off-white 6.5 x 4 album pages adjoined at the center, June 26, 1882. Wilde quotes a stanza from his poem ‘The Garden of Eros,’ in full: “Spirit of Beauty! tarry yet a-while, / They are not dead, thine ancient votaries, / Some few there are to whom thy radiant smile / Is better than a thousand victories.” In fine condition, with light show-though from old mounting residue along the back edges.
Oscar Wilde’s poem The Garden of Eros is a lush and evocative work that explores themes of beauty, art, and the fleeting nature of life. Drawing on classical references with numerous allusions to Greek mythology, it celebrates the ideal of aestheticism, where art and beauty reign supreme over moral constraints. The poem also reflects Wilde’s admiration for the hedonistic and artistic life, invoking a sense of longing for a lost paradise. Starting Bid $1000
Extremely scarce large-format portrait of Oscar Wilde, inscribed to his dedicated The Woman’s World editorial assistant
580. Oscar Wilde Rare Signed Photograph to His Assistant Editor
Arthur Fish. Exquisite matte-finish 7.5 x 9.5 mounted portrait of Oscar Wilde in a head-andshoulders pose, boldly signed and inscribed in fountain pen to his assistant editor, “Arthur Fish, from his friend, Oscar Wilde, ‘90.” In fine condition.
Fish was Wilde’s longsuffering assistant during his editorship of The Woman’s World, a Victorian women’s magazine edited by Oscar Wilde between 1887 and 1889. When Wilde could not be bothered to write his column ‘Literary and Other Notes,’ which happened with increasing frequency as his editorship progressed, he would rely upon Fish as a ghostwriter to fill the deficiency. Fish also helped Wilde to attend to his correspondence, drafting letters on his behalf—evidently dictated by Wilde or otherwise written under his instruction.
The two stayed in touch after Wilde left the magazine. In the summer of 1890, Wilde wrote to congratulate him on his engagement, and followed with a letter on August 8th: ‘My dear Arthur Fish, You said you would like a photograph of me. I have got one for you. Will you come and get it, either tomorrow (Saturday) at six o’clock or Sunday at twelve o’clock. I fear you may be engaged, but should like to see you before your marriage, and give you my best wishes in person.’ Starting Bid $1000
Scarce 1892 Bodley Head edition of the poems of Oscar Wilde, limited to 220 signed copies
581. Oscar Wilde Signed Book - Poems (Ltd. Ed. #105/220). Signed book: Poems by Oscar Wilde. Limited edition, numbered 105/220. London: Elkin Mathews and John Lane, 1892. Hardcover bound in the original gilt-blocked cloth, top edge gilt, 5.25 x 7.5, 234 pages. Neatly signed on the colophon in ink, “Oscar Wilde.” Autographic condition: fine. Book condition: VG/None, with chipping to edges of endpapers, minor wear to the bottom of the spine, and a bookplate (“F. Wyndham Goldie”) affixed inside the front cover. Accompanied by a custom-made clamshell presentation case.
This edition of Wilde’s Poems used the sheets of David Bogue’s fifth edition of 1882—which incorporated several substantive additions and amendments (cf. Mason 308)—with a cancellans bifolium designed by Ricketts and bearing the half-title, limitation statement, and title. The penultimate leaf Q6, which bore Bogue’s advertisements, was excised. A binding design (‘The Seven Trees,’ in gold on Iris cloth, Mason 309) was also commissioned from Ricketts, and the book was published on May 26, 1892, at 15 shillings. Starting Bid $1000
Music
Chopin sells foreign publishing rights to some of his most famous piano pieces: Polonaise in A-flat major, Ballade
No. 4, and Nocturnes
628. Frederic Chopin (2) Documents Signed, Selling Copyright to Five Famous Piano Compositions - Including Polonaise in A-flat major, Ballade No. 4, and Nocturnes. Two rare partly-printed self-contained DSs in French, each signed, “Frederic Chopin,” two pages, 9.75 x 10 and 9.75 x 6.5, August 1843. An assignment of copyright for five of his significant works, plus the receipt confirming payment. In part: “I have this day sold to Messrs. Christian Rudolph Wessel & Frederic Stapleton, Importers and Publishers of Foreign Music…at the price or sum of Forty Nine Pounds, Nineteen Shillings sterling, all my Copyright and Interest, present and future…for the Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, of and in the following works for the pianoforte: Op. 52 Quatrieme Ballade, Op. 53 8eme Polonaise, Op. 54 Quatrieme Scherzo, Op. 55 Deux Nocturnes, Op. 56 Quatre Mazurkas.” Next to each title is a brief musical quote from the beginning of the piece, penned by an amanuensis. By the second document, apparently cut from the conclusion of the above, Chopin acknowledges his receipt of £49.19.0 for the sale of the publishing rights to these works. On both, Chopin
signs in ink over a still-visible pencil guideline. In very good condition, with edge staining touching the tail end of each signature, and professional archival backing to reinforce paper loss to the edges.
This document concerns some of Chopin’s most famous and best-loved works, particularly his Polonaise in A-flat major, Op. 53, which is one of Chopin’s most widely admired compositions. It has long been a favorite of the romantic piano repertoire, and is a piece that requires great virtuosity to be interpreted at a high degree of proficiency; the legendary pianist Arthur Rubinstein, one of the greatest Chopin interpreters of his time, calling it ‘the composition which is the closest to my heart.’ Chopin also sells the publishing rights to the Fourth Ballade (Op. 52) and the Nocturne (Op. 55, No. 1), both works in F minor. The Ballade is considered one of the masterpieces of 19th-century piano music, and the Nocturne remains a staple of the piano repertoire: the piece was performed by Vladimir Horowitz in his television debut concert at Carnegie Hall in 1968, which was broadcast nationwide by CBS. Starting Bid $2,500
Verdi quotes from “A Masked Ball”— his 1859 opera of political intrigue
628. Giuseppe Verdi Autograph Musical Quotation Signed - ‘A Masked Ball’. AMQS signed “G. Verdi,” one page, 15.75 x 11, Rome, February 25, 1859. Verdi pens nine bars of music and lyrics the song “È scherzo od è follia,” a piece from his opera “Ballo in maschera [A Masked Ball],” writing the music in a two-stave system. The opera had premiered at the Teatro Apollo in Rome just nine days earlier, on February 17, 1859. Affixed to a same-size sheet and in very good to fine condition, with light overall rippling, and light show-through from unrelated handwriting on the reverse. A large and impressive autograph musical quote from the hand of the Italian master.
Based on the assassination of King Gustav III of Sweden, Verdi’s opera was extensively revised and adapted to comply with the pressures of political censorship, relocating the setting from Stockholm to colonial America. The opera explores themes of political intrigue, love, jealousy, and fate, culminating in a tragic masked ball where the protagonist, Riccardo, is murdered. Verdi’s score is celebrated for its blending of the conventions of Italian serious opera with the spirit of French opera comique, and its its vivid and dramatic evocations of varying emotions. Starting Bid $1,000
629. Claude Debussy Autograph Musical Quotation Signed from ‘Pelleas et Melisande’. Desirable and scarce AMQS on an off-white 4.5 x 3.5 card, signed below in black ink, “Claude Debussy, London, 23/V/09,” who above adds two bars of music for Melisande’s theme from his 1902 opera Pelleas et Melisande. In very fine condition. The composer was in London in May 1909 for the first UK performance of Pelleas, which took place two days before this autograph was signed, on May 21, 1909, at Covent Garden. Musical quotations by Debussy are quite rare. Starting Bid $300
630. Glenn Gould Signed Program Page, Ticket Stubs, and Ephemera Scrapbook. Canadian pianist, composer, and commentator (1932-1982) revered as one of the foremost classical pianists of the 20th century, and renowned for his interpretations of the keyboard music of Johann Sebastian Bach. Page from a program for Gould’s concert at the Eastman Theatre on April 9, 1960, 6 x 9, signed in blue ballpoint, “Best wishes, Glenn Gould.” Affixed inside a disbound 12.75 x 9.5 scrapbook containing numerous newspaper clippings, programs and program pages, and ticket stubs from several of Gould’s concerts in the early 1960s. Ticket stubs include: April 9, 1960 (Eastman Theatre); March 18, 1961 (Carnegie Hall); March 19, 1961 (Carnegie Hall); April 4, 1961 (Carnegie Hall); October 22, 1961 (Detroit Symphony Hall); January 12, 1961 (University of Connecticut Auditorium); and April 8, 1962 (Carnegie Hall). In fine condition. A scarce autograph from the legendary pianist, largely enhanced by the hard-to-find accompanying scrapbook materials. Starting Bid $200
631. Franz Liszt Autograph Letter Signed. Romantic era composer and pianist (1811–1886) whose prowess at the keyboard earned him a cachet as perhaps the greatest virtuoso in the history of the instrument. ALS in French, signed “F. Liszt,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 8.25, no date. Untranslated handwritten letter by the celebrated composer. In very good to fine condition, with creasing, soiling, and short edge tears. Starting Bid $200
Sibelius quotes from his most famous work, Finlandia
632. Jean Sibelius Autograph Musical Quotation Signed from ‘Finlandia’. Coveted AMQS on an off-white 4.5 x 3.5 card, signed below in black ink, “Jean Sibelius, London, 22 II 1919,” who above adds a few bars of music from his adored 1899 tone poem “Finlandia.” In very fine condition. An impressive autograph from the great Finnish composer, rare in this format. Starting Bid $300
Elusive signed portrait of the composer of The Moldau
633. Bedrich Smetana Signed Carte-de-Visite Photograph. Rare 2.5 x 4.25 carte-de-visite photo of Smetana in a full-length pose, wearing a warm winter coat, by J. Mulac of Prague, signed on the mount in ink, “Bedrich Smetana.” In fine condition, with light scuffing to the image. This is reportedly the last photograph taken of the composer, taken in December 1881 and printed in the spring of 1882, and signed at the end of his life, when he was enfeebled, deaf, and nearly blind—lending to the extreme rarity of signed photographs from this period. Smetana is extremely scarce in signed photographs, this being just the third we have offered. Starting Bid $300
634. Richard Wagner Autograph Letter Signed. Important German composer (1813–1883) who single-handedly revolutionized opera and attained status as one of the most influential geniuses in the history of music. ALS in German, signed “Richard Wagner,” one page, 5 x 8, August 17, 1862. Untranslated handwritten letter by Richard Wagner, nicely double-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 16.75 x 14. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
635. Miles
1960
Program. Program from the
1960 UK
16 pages, 8.25 x 10.5, signed inside on his image in ballpoint by
and on the adjacent page by
In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Davis Signed
UK Tour
Miles Davis Quintet’s
Tour,
Miles Davis,
Sonny Stitt and Wynton Kelly.
Fully-signed, production-used title card from the Beatles’ 1963 TV appearance on
‘Thank Your Lucky Stars’
627. Beatles Signed 1963 ‘Thank Your Lucky Stars’ TV Broadcast Production Title Card. Original productionused title card from the Beatles’ appearance on a special ‘Summer Spin’ episode of the ‘Thank Your Lucky Stars’ British television show, recorded on June 23rd and broadcast on June 29th, 1963, measuring 12 x 10, signed and inscribed in blue ballpoint, “To Karen, Love, Paul McCartney (Beatles, xxx),” “John Lennon, xxxx,” “Lots of love from George Harrison, xxx,” and “Ringo Starr, xxx.” The title card features a matte-finish mounted photograph of a hand-painted galaxy background, with four hand-cut head shot photos of the Beatles affixed as overlays. The reverse of the mount is marked with the Roman numeral “I,” presumably to indicate its place as part of a production title sequence. In fine condition, with poorto-moderate signature contrast and a white paint touch-up (presumably from the period) to the right edge.
Accompanied by letters of authenticity from Beckett Authentication Services and from noted Beatles expert Frank Caiazzo, in part: “These signatures are found on the front of a television broadcast title card…which was used for the closing credits of the British TV program Thank your Lucky Stars, an important show that was instrumental in their early success. All four have autographed this item beautifully in blue ballpoint pen near their respective image…The autographs were obtained by a woman who worked in the wardrobe department at the TV studio, who got this item signed for her daughter. This is an
excellent representative set of Beatles autographs from this period in Beatles history, as they were fast gaining popularity in Great Britain.”
Additionally includes an original, unsigned Iris Productions Ltd. agreement between the production company and “The Beatles (Four), c/o Nems Enterprises…Attn Brian Epstein,” hiring the band to “mime and appear as required” on “’Thank Your Lucky Stars’ (anticipated transmission date 29.6.63)… Pre-recorded performance on 23rd June, 1963 at Birmingham Studios” for the sum of £12 each plus return train fares to Liverpool. Includes a certificate of authenticity from Tracks for the contract.
The Beatles would make eleven appearances on the British pop music TV show ‘Thank Your Lucky Stars’ between January 1963 and March 1965, helping the Liverpool band to attain popularity across Great Britain. On June 23, 1963, they recorded a special ‘Summer Spin’ edition of the show dedicated to the up-and-coming Merseybeat groups, which had the Beatles miming two songs—‘From Me To You’ and ‘I Saw Her Standing There’—to close the show. Although some film footage of other Beatles appearances on ‘Thank Your Lucky Stars’ is available online, no recordings of this episode are known to exist—this seems to be the lone relic from the appearance. A remarkable, one-of-a-kind autographed piece from the Beatles’ ascent to worldwide stardom. Starting Bid $1,000
Fully signed early 1963 Parlophone promo card, taken while the Fab Four recorded their first single
636. Beatles Signed 1963 Parlophone Promo Card. Scarce circa 1963 Parlophone Records promo card of the Beatles posing together behind their instruments, 3.5 x 5.75, signed on the reverse in red ballpoint by John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. The consignor notes that the autographs were obtained in the Cheshire area of England in February or March 1963. This image was originally taken by photographer Dezo Hoffman at Abbey Road Studios on September 4, 1962, when the Beatles were recording their first single, ‘Love Me Do.’ In fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks. Starting Bid $1000
The Beatles wander
the gardens of
London’s
Russell Square a day after recording their smash hit, ‘She Loves You’
637. Beatles Signed Photograph - Pictured at London’s Russell Square. Vintage glossy 10 x 8 photo of the Beatles posing together in the gardens of London’s Russell Square, one of several images photographed by Dezo Hoffman on July 2, 1963, the day after the band recorded the ‘She Loves You / I’ll Get You,’ signed and inscribed on the reverse in black ballpoint, “To Carol, love Paul McCartney,” “John Lennon,” and “George Harrison,” and in black ink, “Ringo Starr.” In very good to fine condition, with overall light creasing, and fading to Ringo’s signature.
The Beatles recorded ‘She Loves You’ five days after it was written, during a five-hour session in Abbey Road’s studio two. Documentation for the session no longer exists, but it was taped on July 1, 1963, the same day as its b-side, ‘I’ll Get You.’ ‘She Loves You’ was released as a single on August 23, 1963, and is perhaps the main song to spark the Beatlemania craze. It remains their best-selling single in the UK. Starting Bid $1000
Beautiful McCartney and Martin signed photograph, obtained during the 1982 recording of the
‘Take It Away’ music video at EMI Studios
638. Beatles: Paul McCartney and George Martin Signed Photograph - Obtained at the ‘Take It Away’ Music Video Recording. Attractive glossy 8 x 10 close-up photo of Paul McCartney holding a microphone, signed in blue ballpoint by McCartney and in black ballpoint by George Martin. Includes a glossy 10 x 8 photo of McCartney as a young member of the Beatles and as a solo musician in the 1980s, signed in black ballpoint by his wife, Linda McCartney, and by songwriter and McCartney collaborator Eric Stewart. The consignor notes that the autographs were obtained during the filming of the Paul McCartney music video ‘Take It Away’ at EMI Studios in Elstree, Borehamwood, England, on June 23, 1982. In overall very fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks, a letter of provenance from the original recipient, and ephemera related to the music video shoot. Starting Bid $200
640. Bob Dylan Signed Album - Highway 61 Revisited. Highway 61 Revisited album signed on the front cover in black felt tip by Bob Dylan. In fine condition, with a bumped corner. The record is included. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from REAL and a letter of provenance from Jeff Rosen, the president of the Bob Dylan Music Company, which reads: “I represent Bob Dylan and have done so for many years. In 2017 he signed a number of individual albums on a rare and limited basis, including the album photographed here. I can say for certain that is Bob Dylan’s signature. The chain of custody is directly from Bob Dylan to myself.” A marvelous uninscribed example of a classic record. Starting Bid $500
Sought-after example of the Eagles second studio album Desperado, signed by all four original band members
641. The Eagles Signed Album - Desperado. Desperado album by the Eagles, signed on the front cover in blue felt tip by Don Henley, Glenn Frey, and Bernie Leadon, and in black felt tip by Randy Meisner. Mounted and framed to an overall size of 16 x 16. In fine to very fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA.
After forming in 1971, the original four-man Eagles line-up would only release two albums: their eponymous debut in 1972 and Desperado, their sophomore follow-up, in 1973. Desperado remains the only Eagles album where the band members appear on the cover, with acclaimed photographer Henry Diltz capturing the memorable cowboy pose at Paramount Ranch in the Santa Monica Mountains. Desperado also contains the first two songs ever written together by Glenn Frey and Don Henley—the classic title track and Tequila Sunrise, both of which were written within the first week of their collaboration. Today, Desperado is critically acclaimed and widely considered one of the Eagles’ finest albums. Early and fully signed Eagles albums are highly sought after, with this particular example being one of the finest signed Desperado albums we have seen. Starting Bid $300
Impassioned handwritten letter from Janis Joplin to her boyfriend:
“Wow Peter, I’m crying…where are you & all my hopes”
642.Janis Joplin Emotional Autograph Letter Signed to Her Boyfriend - “It became apparent that you weren’t coming over. Too busy, I trust. ‘Amphetamine imperative’”. ALS in purple pencil, signed “Janis,” three pages, 8.5 x 11, July 12, 1965. Emotional handwritten letter to her boyfriend, Peter de Blanc, who left her during the night to be with his friends, in part: “Well so it’s happened again. I didn’t think it would. I thought I wouldn’t ever hurt & cry for you again. But I am, so...? Why? Well, just the fact that you are loaded again & identifying in that world still would be enough to make me sad…And it does. I waited for you & thought about you all morning – until it became apparent that you weren’t coming over. Too busy, I trust. ‘Amphetamine imperative’... the above alone is enough to make me sit in the bathroom &
cry, but you keep adding salt… I was just thinking when this guy came by & wanted me to cop for him. So, as a favor, I said I would, but also because I wanted to verify–disprove my feeling that you were – as I had thought – over at Maryanne’s just sort of happily & imperatively sitting around – and not even thinking or caring about me! So I went with him to see & you were, and, with bottle, I returned home – now to cry…Wow Peter, I’m crying…where are you & all my hopes.” Joplin has written “Peter....?” on the reverse of the second page. In very good to fine condition, with light dampstaining affecting some of the text, but not readability. Accompanied by a mailing envelope marked “Peter” and dated “7-12 4:30 P.M.” Starting Bid $1000
Fully signed program from Queen’s epic 1975 ‘A Night at the Opera Tour’
643. Queen Signed UK A Night at the Opera Program. Scarce original program for the UK leg of Queen’s 1975 ‘A Night at the Opera Tour,’ 16 pages, 10.5 x 8.25, signed on the front cover in black ballpoint, “Freddie Mercury,” “Brian May,” “John Deacon, xx,” and “Roger Taylor.” The consignor notes that the autographs were obtained during the group’s UK tour. In very good condition, with general handling wear, a tear to the upper right edge, and three vertical folds. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks.
To support their landmark fourth studio album, A Night at the Opera, Queen embarked on a massive 78-show world tour that began on November 14, 1975, and concluded on April 22, 1976. The tour, which marked the debut of the classic Queen rock epic ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ included a total of 26 shows in the United Kingdom that ran from mid-November to late December. Starting Bid $500
Fully signed Stones promo card from 1964
644. Rolling Stones Signed Promotional Card (1964). Vintage 5.5 x 4.25 UK promotional card for the Rolling Stones, signed and inscribed in blue ballpoint, “To Susan, Bill Wyman,” “Brian Jones,” “Keith Richard,” “Mick Jagger,” and “Charlie Watts.” The consignor notes that the signatures date to 1964. Attractively mounted and framed to an overall size of 8.5 x 7.5. In very good to fine condition, with an old tape stain to the top edge, and a missing upper left corner tip. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks. Starting Bid $300
645. Rolling Stones: Keith Richard Signed 1967 Invoice. Vintage 1967 invoice from Emmerton-Lambert, a fashion dealer at the Antiques Market in Chelsea, one page, 4.75 x 8.5, September 26, 1967, signed below in blue ballpoint by Keith Richards. The invoice details a dress, skirt, sequin beret, silk shirt, satin trousers, serge trousers, and a belt with a total of £19.06. In fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks.
Provenance: Julien’s Auctions: Music Icons - Property from Bill Wyman and his Rolling Stone archive, Lot 353. Starting Bid $200
Vintage photograph of The Who, signed on the first night of their 1975 The Who by Numbers Tour
646. The Who Signed Photograph - Dating to The First Concert of Their 1975 The Who by Numbers Tour . Vintage circa 1975 glossy 8 x 10 Polydor publicity photo of The Who by photographer Terry O’Neill, signed in blue ballpoint by Pete Townshend, John Entwistle, Roger Daltrey, and Keith Moon. The consignor notes that the autographs were obtained at a special Who performance that took place at New Bingley Hall in Staffordshire, England, on October 3, 1975, to promote the release of their album The Who By Numbers, which was released on the same day. In very good condition, with overall creasing (heaviest to the lower right), short edge tears, and light spotting to the emulsion.
Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks and a letter of provenance from the original recipient, in full: “On the evening of 3 October 1975, I was backstage at New Bingley Hall, Staffordshire, when The Who were preparing for their concert, the first in a tour and the release date of their record ‘The Who by Numbers’. Police Chief Superintendent Ken Cooke, the Police Chief of the Stafford District, was responsible for public safety and I was his deputy. At the venue, he received from The Who a signed copy of the newly released record ‘The Who by Numbers’ and also two signed photographs of all of the Who Band. Later that evening, Mr Cooke gave me the record and the two photographs for my teenage children.” Starting Bid $500
“Congratulations
on your day, love, Michael Jackson”
647. Michael Jackson Signed Album - Thriller. Thriller album signed and inscribed on the inner gatefold in black ballpoint, “To Carole, congratulations on your day, love, Michael Jackson.” In very good to fine condition, with gouges, stains, and surface impressions to the outside covers; the signed inner spread is fine, and presents nicely. The record is not included. Accompanied by a letter of provenance stating that the album was signed on July 16, 1988, at Wembley Stadium in London, in full: “Michael Jackson was due to perform one of his seven sell out shows that evening. The lady who obtained this had arrived at the venue early and asked a member of the backstage crew if Michael would sign this for her as it was her birthday. He told her to wait and that he would see what he could do. After approximately an hour of waiting the crew member returned and said that Michael had agreed to see her. He took her backstage into Michael’s dressing room and they sat and chatted for around half an hour. He even sung ‘Happy Birthday’ and then signed the inside of the album that she had taken with her.” A most highly sought signed album, rarely seen autographed on the inner gatefold.
Released on November 30, 1982, Thriller, in just over a year, became, and currently remains the best-selling album of all time, with sales estimated by various sources as being between 65 and 110 million copies sold worldwide. In 1984, the album won a record-breaking eight Grammy Awards, and in 2003, Thriller was ranked number 20 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, with the National Association of Recording Merchandisers placing the album at number three on its Definitive 200 Album of All Time list. Both the Thriller album, and its synonymous title track, were included in the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry and the National Film Preservation Board’s National Film Registry for being ‘culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.’ Starting Bid $200
19th Century Actors
771. Edwin Booth (2) Signed Checks. Famed stage actor (1833–1893) who toured the United States and Europe performing the plays of Shakespeare; his legacy as the greatest American actor of the 19th century has been overshadowed by that of his brother, John Wilkes Booth, assassin of President Abraham Lincoln. Two checks: a Second National Bank check, 7.5 x 3.25, filled out and signed by Booth, “Edwin Booth,” payable to David S. Arnott for $142.60, April 28, 1886; and a Second National Bank check, 6 x 3, filled out and signed by Booth, “Edwin Booth,” payable to S. B. Laurence for $26.85, February 14, 1891. In overall fine condition, with light creases and folds, and central cancelation cuts and punches. These originate directly from the collection of the great-great granddaughter of Edwin Booth. Starting Bid $200
772. Edwin Booth Rare ‘Othello’ Acetate
Recording. Originates directly from the collection of the great-great granddaughter of Edwin Booth, who notes that the record was produced in a limited edition of about 85 copies by Booth’s grandson circa 1939, from the original 1890 recording. The 1890 recordings of Edwin Booth reciting passages from Othello and Hamlet are the only known recordings of the great actor, made at the behest of his daughter Edwina. Starting Bid $200
‘Tobacco is his stimulant to good acting’— clay pipe used by celebrated Shakespearian
773. Edwin Booth’s Clay Pipe. Originates directly from the collection of the great-great granddaughter of Edwin Booth, who inherited it from her mother Lois Grossmann White. She inherited the pipe from her father, Edwin Booth Grossmann, who inherited it from his mother, Edwina Booth Grossmann, who inherited it from her father, Edwin Booth.
actor Edwin Booth
Well known as a pipe lover, the Georgetown Courier reported on Booth’s predilection in June 1890: “Edwin Booth’s Hobby: He insists on Smoking a Clay Pipe during a Performance...Let a woman who has regarded Booth as godlike step off Broadway a hundred feet and in through the stage door of a theatre. There you see the great actor as Brutus, completely dressed in Roman armor, and a martial sight indeed—except that in his mouth was a short, blackened clay pipe, such as a day laborer might properly use…This is an interval between acts of ‘Julius Caesar’ at a matinee and Booth is enjoying the smoke which he indulges in at every opportunity during a stage representation. Tobacco is his stimulant to good acting.” Starting Bid $200
774. Edwin Booth Original Photograph. Heartwarming original vintage 8.5 x 5.25 mounted albumen photograph of Edwin Booth with his granddaughter, Mildred, sitting on a seaside porch. In fine condition. Originates directly from the collection of the great-great granddaughter of Edwin Booth. Starting Bid $200
First version dress sketch for Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday, signed by Oscar-winning costume designer Edith Head
775. Edith Head Signed Original Costume Sketch for Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday. Marvelous original costume sketch of Audrey Hepburn in her role as Princess Ann in the 1953 film Roman Holiday, accomplished in graphite, colored pencil, and watercolor on a 14 x 16.5 sheet of sketch paper. The full-length sketch shows the first version design for a dress worn by Hepburn in the movie, which was later made in a lighter tone with floral embellishments. Signed in artist pencil in the lower left corner, “Edith Head,” who adds above, “Audrey Hepburn, Roman Holiday.” In fine condition, with trivial edgewear. Head’s influential work on Roman Holiday earned her the Oscar for Best Costume Design – Black-andWhite at the 26th Academy Awards—it was the fifth of her career eight Academy Awards. Starting Bid $200
778. Audrey Hepburn Signed Photograph - Classic Vintage Pose. Iconic vintage glossy 8 x 10 close-up photo of Audrey Hepburn wearing a heart-shaped diamond earring and her gloved hand delicately touching her chin, signed and inscribed in blue ink, “To Nick, Always good luck, love Audrey.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
“Am working very hard and naturally have to get to bed very early as I am up at five-thirty nearly every morning”–Hepburn writes to an old friend in Holland while filming her iconic role as Holly Golightly
779. Audrey Hepburn Typed Letter Signed While Filming Breakfast at Tiffany’s. TLS signed “Audrey,” one page, 5.75 x 8.25, personal letterhead, October 31, 1960. Letter to Hepburn’s old friend Nan Boissevain-Fisk, in full: “I am a shocker for not writing you sooner especially as I was so happy with your lovely gifts for Sean. But you know what it is to arrive and settle in a complete household and start a new movie plus going on location at the same time.
Thank you, dear girl, so very very much. We are back at the same house we had once before which Papa Harry knows quite well as he visited me here regularly after I had broken my back. It is lovely coming back to familiar surroundings as it seems a little more like home. I am longing to see you and Baby Harry and naturally longing to show you Sean.
Am working very hard and naturally have to get to bed very early as I am up at five-thirty nearly every morning. Weekends are spent mostly at home and Saturday is my day with the baby which I enjoy tremendously and it is nurse’s day off. I enclose a telephone number – do give us a call if and when you have time and perhaps we can arrange a time for the boys to meet.” In very good to fine condition, with overall creasing and a few small stains.
Accompanied by two printed images of Boissevain-Fisk and Hepburn dancing for family members, two photographs of individual sketches featuring Boissevain-Fisk and Hepburn, two ALSs from Hepburn’s son, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, a copy of an introductory letter that Boissevain-Fisk wrote for an ‘Audrey & Friends’ catalog that describes their friendship, and a letter from the Audrey Hepburn Children’s Fund thanking Boissevain-Fisk for supplying the introduction. Starting Bid $200
780. Laurel and Hardy Signed Photograph. Vintage matte-finish 10 x 8 photo of Laurel and Hardy in their signature bowler hats, signed and inscribed in the lower border in fountain pen, “Hello Shirley! Stan Laurel” and “Oliver Hardy.” In fine condition, with subtle tack holes to the top and bottom borders. Starting Bid $200
“Big smile!”—Ledger as the Joker
781. Heath Ledger Signed Photograph as The Joker. Extremely rare color satin-finish 10 x 8 photo of Heath Ledger in his Oscar-winning role as the Joker in the 2008 film The Dark Knight, signed and inscribed in black felt tip, “To Helen, Big smile! Heath.” Notation on reverse dates the signature to October 2007. In fine condition. Consignor notes that the autograph was obtained by Ledger’s limo driver, who presented the signed photo to his daughter.
Ledger succumbed to accidental intoxication from prescription drugs on January 22, 2008, a few months after he had finished filming his performance as the Joker in The Dark Knight. The film was in its editing phase at the time of Ledger’s death, and was released in the United States on July 18, 2008. Photos signed by Ledger as the Joker are incredibly rare and highly sought-after by cinephiles and comic book enthusiasts alike. Starting Bid $500
Incredibly early portrait of Norma Jeane as a toddler—“gidy up horsy”
782. Marilyn Monroe
Hand-Annotated Childhood
Photograph. Original glossy 4.75 x 3.75 candid photo from circa 1928, showing Norma Jeane as a toddler at the beach, with her cousin Ida Mae pictured sitting on her back; the reverse of the photo is annotated in pencil in Monroe’s teenage hand: “‘gidy up horsy,’ at the beach, Donna & me, I’m the horse.” The child who Monroe identifies as “Donna” has been attributed in various other photos as the daughter of Olive and Marion Monroe, the latter being the brother of Gladys Pearl Baker, Marilyn’s birth mother; whether “Donna” is a nickname or middle name for Ida Mae remains unknown. In fine condition, with scattered light creasing. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder.
This photograph may have originally come from the collection of Grace Goddard, Norma Jeane’s legal guardian. Various other original childhood and teenage photographs with Norma Jeane’s youthful handwriting were sold at Christie’s Auctions in New York, in September 2001, with those early images deriving from the personal collection of Grace Goddard; those photographs were given to her by either Marilyn Monroe or by Monroe’s mother, Gladys Baker. The handwriting on the reverse matches that of other examples from Monroe’s teenage years, which was made before she left home at the age of 16. A remarkably early portrait of Monroe as a nearly two-year-old. From the Marc and Mary Perkins Collection. Starting Bid $500
Sports
940. Jackie Robinson Signed Photograph. Desirable vintage glossy 3.5 x 5.5 postcard photo of Robinson wearing his Brooklyn Dodgers uniform and posing in a dugout, signed and inscribed in blue ink, “To Jacob Bacal, best wishes, Jackie Robinson.” The lower border bears a preprinted facsimile signature. In fine condition. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $300
941. Babe Ruth Signature. Sought-after vintage pencil signature, “Sincerely, Babe Ruth,” on an off-white 3.5 x 2.5 slip affixed to a larger album page. In fine condition, with uniform toning and light wrinkling. A nice and neat, uninscribed example of Babe Ruth’s desirable autograph. Starting Bid $300
“This looks like a big year in baseball”— at the height of his fame, Ruth announces a series of newspaper articles on “baseball and big league players”
942. Babe Ruth Typed Letter Signed on His Newspaper Column: “This looks like a big year in baseball”. TLS, 5 x 7.5, personal letterhead, April 12, 1930. Letter to Vick Le Bean of Brooklyn, in full: “As one of many thousands who took part in my All America Baseball Contest last year in the New York World, I want you to know that I am now on the staff of the New York Evening Journal. The Journal, as you know, has one of the biggest circulations in the world and will reach a great many more people, giving me an opportunity to spread baseball interest that much further.
This looks like a big year in baseball and the All America Contest should reach its greatest popularity this summer in The Evening Journal. Starting immediately I will have two articles every week in The Journal, and in addition a special illustrated Baseball Lesson along the lines of those that have already appeared. So don’t fail to watch the Journal and get your friends to read it if you are interested in my articles regarding
baseball and big league players.” Attractively double-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 20.5 x 16; includes the original mailing envelope, viewable on the reverse of the frame. In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA.
Babe Ruth was a larger-than-life figure in Depression-era America, and pioneering sports agent Christy Walsh helped to capitalize on his popularity. Walsh ran a built and ran a successful ghostwriting syndicate of thirty-four baseball writers who produced articles, books, and baseball tutorials under the names of famous players like Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, Dizzy Dean, and Rogers Hornsby. Interestingly enough, Ford Frick—who would go on to serve as the president of the National League and commissioner of baseball—served as the ghostwriter for Ruth’s articles in the New York Evening Journal. A desirable letter boasting an ideal, crisp Babe Ruth autograph.Starting Bid $500
34. John Quincy Adams Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
38. James Buchanan Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
Starting
35. Chester A. Arthur Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
39. George Bush Typed Letter Signed, Announcing His Move to Washingto... Starting Bid $200
36. Joe
Signed Photograph: "You should have heard what I told h... Starting Bid $200
40. George Bush Autograph Letter Signed as Ambassador to the United N... Starting Bid $200
37.
Starting Bid $200
41.
Starting Bid $200
Starting
Biden
Joe Biden Signed BookPromise Me, Dad
George Bush Signed Christmas Card
42. George W. Bush Signed Campaign Letter by Barbara Bush
Bid $200
43. Jimmy Carter Document Signed Starting Bid $200
44. Jimmy Carter Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
45. Jimmy Carter (3) Signed Books: Nobel Peace Prize Lecture, The Hor... Starting Bid $100
46. Jimmy Carter (3) Signed Books: Always a Reckoning, Living Faith, ... Starting Bid $100
47. Jimmy Carter Signed Book - Keeping Faith Starting Bid $100
48. Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
49. Grover Cleveland Document Signed as President - Prohibiting NonI...
Bid $200
50. Grover Cleveland Signed Cabinet Photograph Starting Bid $200
54.
Starting Bid $200
51.
Starting Bid $200
55.
Starting Bid $200
52.
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
60.
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $100
Starting Bid $200
65.
Starting Bid $200
Grover Cleveland Document Signed as President
Bill Clinton Presidential Gift - Putter and Golf Ball Set
53. Bill Clinton Signed Book - My Life
Bill and Hillary Clinton Signed Photograph
Calvin Coolidge Document Signed as President
56. Calvin Coolidge Signed White House Card
57. Calvin Coolidge Signed Check Starting Bid $100
58. Calvin Coolidge Signature Starting Bid $100
59. Dwight D. Eisenhower Signed White House Card
Dwight D. Eisenhower Signed White House Card Starting Bid $200
61. Dwight D. Eisenhower (3) Signatures Starting Bid $200
62. Millard Fillmore Document Signed as President
63. Millard Fillmore Signature
64. Gerald Ford Typed Letter Signed on Lt. Calley's Conviction for th... Starting Bid $200
Gerald Ford Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
66. Gerald Ford Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
70. Kamala Harris Signature Starting Bid $200
74. Rutherford B. Hayes Document Signed as President, Appointing a Ma... Starting Bid $200
67. Gerald Ford Typed Letter Signed on the Assassination of President... Starting Bid $200
71. Kamala Harris and Doug Emhoff Signed Book Starting Bid $200
68. Gerald Ford Autograph Quotation Signed Starting Bid $200
72. Benjamin Harrison Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
75. Herbert Hoover Signed White House Card Starting Bid $200
78. Andrew Jackson Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
79. Andrew Johnson Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
76. Herbert Hoover Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
80. Andrew Johnson Document Signed as President, Writing to Queen Vic... Starting Bid $200
69. Kamala Harris Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
73. Rutherford B. Hayes Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
77. Herbert Hoover Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $100
81. Lyndon B. Johnson Typed Letter Signed as President Starting Bid $200
82. Lyndon B. Johnson Document Signed as President, Recognizing a Whi... Starting Bid $200
86. John F. Kennedy Original Wirephoto - 1962 News Conference on Disr... Starting Bid $100
90. William McKinley Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
83. Jacqueline Kennedy Autograph Note Signed Starting Bid $200
87. Abraham Lincoln Silhouette by Foster Brothers (1903) Starting Bid $100
91. James Monroe Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
84. John F. Kennedy Original Wirephoto - NRECA International Contract... Starting Bid $100
88. James Madison Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
92. James Monroe Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
85. John F. Kennedy Original WirephotoPrincess Beatrix and Lady Bi... Starting Bid $100
89. James Madison Partial Autograph Letter Signed to His Parents Starting Bid $200
93. James Monroe Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
94. Richard Nixon Typed Letter Signed to Billionaire Richard Mellon S... Starting Bid $200
95. Richard Nixon Signed Book - Seize the Moment Starting Bid $200
96. Richard Nixon Signed Book - The Real War Starting Bid $200
97. Richard Nixon Signed Book - Leaders Starting Bid $200
98. Richard Nixon (2) Typed Letters Signed to Psychic Jeanne Dixon Starting Bid $200
102. Barack Obama Signature on an 8-Year Old's Fan Letter Starting Bid $200
106. Franklin Pierce Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
99. Richard Nixon (2) Signed Items - Book and Typed Letter Starting Bid $200
103. Barack Obama Signed Book - A Promised Land Starting Bid $200
107. James K. Polk Signed Free Frank Starting Bid $200
100. Richard and Pat Nixon Signed Postcard from Their Historic 1972 Tr... Starting Bid $200
104. Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen Signed Book - Renegades: Born ... Starting Bid $200
108. Ronald Reagan Signature Starting Bid $200
101. Barack Obama Signed Photograph - Bin Laden Raid Starting Bid $200
105. Mike Pence Vice Presidential Gifts - Cufflinks and Lapel Pin Starting Bid $200
109. Eleanor Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
111. Franklin D. Roosevelt Signature as President Starting Bid $200
110. Franklin D. Roosevelt Signed Book - The Public Papers and Address... Starting Bid $200
112. Franklin D. Roosevelt Signature Starting Bid $200
113. Franklin D. Roosevelt Handwritten Note to the Secretary of War Starting Bid $200
114. William H. Taft Signed Photograph as President by Harris & Ewing Starting Bid $200
118. Harry S. Truman Document Signed as President, Awarding a Citation... Starting Bid $200
115. William H. Taft Signed Photograph as GovernorGeneral of the Phil... Starting Bid $200
119. Harry S. Truman Signed Inaugural Cover Starting Bid $200
123. Donald
Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
116. William H. Taft Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
120. Harry S. Truman (2) Signed Books - Memoirs Starting Bid $200
124. Donald Trump Signed 2017 Presidential Inauguration Invitation Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
117. Harry and Bess Truman (2) Signed White House Cards Starting Bid $200
121. Donald Trump Signed $100 Dollar Bill
122. Donald Trump: Rare 2017 Inaugural Medal Process Set Starting Bid $200
Trump
125. Donald Trump Signed National Enquirer as President-Elect Starting Bid $200
126. Donald Trump Ceremonial White House Key Starting Bid $200
127. Donald Trump Signed Book - The Art of the Deal Starting Bid $200
128. Donald Trump Presidential Gift - Travel Bag Starting Bid $200
129. Donald Trump Presidential 'First Pitch' Baseball Starting Bid $200
130. Donald Trump Presidential Gift - Cufflinks Starting Bid $200
134. Donald Trump President Gift - Salt and Pepper Shakers Starting Bid $200
131. Donald Trump Presidential Gift - Cufflinks Starting Bid $200
132. Donald Trump Presidential Gift - Cufflinks Starting Bid $200
133. Donald
Presidential Gifts - Money Clip and Keychain Starting Bid $200
135. Donald Trump Presidential Gift - Pewter Serving Tray Starting Bid $200
136.
137.
141.
Trump
Melania Trump White House Gifts - Clutch and Key Tag Starting Bid $200
Melania Trump White House Gift - Bracelet Starting Bid $200
138. John Tyler Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
139. Martin Van Buren Signed Free Frank Starting Bid $200
140. Woodrow Wilson Signed Photograph by Harris & Ewing Starting Bid $200
Woodrow Wilson Typed Letter Signed as President on "the Postmaste... Starting Bid $200
142. Woodrow Wilson Document Signed as President Starting Bid $200
143. Woodrow Wilson Document Signed as President Starting Bid $100
227. Sam Altman Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
228. Antarctic Exploration: A Narrative of the Life, Travels and Suffe... Starting Bid $200
229. Susan B. Anthony Signature Starting Bid $200
233. Edvard Benes Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
237. Max Born Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
241. Camilla, Queen Consort Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
230. Charles Babbage Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
234. Mary McLeod Bethune Signature Starting Bid $100
238. Blanche Bruce Signature Starting Bid $100
242. George Washington Carver Autograph Letter Signed on Peanut Plants... Starting Bid $200
231. James A. Bailey Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
235. Jeff Bezos Signature"Customers rule!" Starting Bid $200
239. Ralph Bunche Typed Letter Signed on Peace and War Starting Bid $100
243. Fidel Castro Document Signed Starting Bid $200
232. Henry Ward Beecher Autograph Quotation Signed Starting Bid $100
236. Otto von Bismarck Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
240. Richard Byrd Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
244. Vint Cerf
Signed Items Starting Bid $200
(2)
245. Vint Cerf Signed Sketch - Basic Internet Concept Starting Bid $200
249. Madame Chiang Kaishek Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
246. Salmon P. Chase WarDated Letter Signed as Secretary of the Treas... Starting Bid $200
760. George Michael Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
762. Snoop Dogg Signed Funko Pop Starting Bid $200
763. Taylor Swift Signed Print Starting Bid $200
764. Taylor Swift (2) Signed CDs - Folklore Starting Bid $200
765. Taylor Swift Signed CD Insert - The Tortured Poets Department Starting Bid $200
794. Brigitte Bardot (4) Signed Photographs Starting Bid $200
798. Marlon Brando Original Sketch of Screenwriter Stewart Stern Starting Bid $200
790. Julie Andrews Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
795. Brigitte Bardot Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
801. Tod Browning Signature Starting Bid $200
791. Back to the Future: Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd Signed L... Starting Bid $200
796. Brigitte Bardot Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
802. Richard Burton Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
793. Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz (2) Signed Checks Starting Bid $200
797. Sarah
Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
807. Art Carney Signed Sketch Starting Bid $100
Bernhardt
808. Jim Caviezel Signed Photograph Starting Bid $100
816. Tom Cruise Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
821. James Dean Oversized Original Photograph by Roy Schatt Starting Bid $200
822. James Dean Oversized Original Photograph by Roy Schatt Starting Bid $200
823.
Signed Oversized Photograph Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
834.
Starting Bid $200
836.
Original Promotional Pilot Script - Galacti... Starting Bid $200
Benicio Del Toro
825. Johnny Depp Signed Photograph
Jose Ferrer Signed Photograph
Battlestar Galactica:
837. James Gandolfini Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
839. Judy Garland Signed Check Starting Bid $200
844. Cary Grant Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
845. Alec Guinness Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
846. Corey Haim Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
853. Audrey Hepburn Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
854. Alfred Hitchcock Signature Starting Bid $200
857. Judy Holliday Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
861. Jennifer Jones Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
864. Grace Kelly Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
867. Hedy Lamarr Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
868. Stan Laurel Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
870. Christopher
Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
871. Vivien
Signed Photograph as Scarlett O'Hara Starting Bid $200
872.
Starting Bid $200
873.
Starting Bid $200
880.
Starting Bid $200
Lee
Leigh
Vivien Leigh Signature
Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier (2) Signed Photographs
875. Jenny Lind Autograph Letter Signed
876. Sophia Loren (4) Signed Photographs Starting Bid $200
879. Lee Marvin Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Steve McQueen Rare Quadruple-Signed Document
881. Steve McQueen Original Photograph by Roy Schatt Starting Bid $200
882. Robert Mitchum Signed Photograph Starting Bid $100
883. Robert Mitchum Signed Photograph Starting Bid $100
884. Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller Original Photograph by Roy Schat... Starting Bid $200
887. Jack Nicholson Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
889. Peter O'Toole Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
892. River Phoenix Signature Starting Bid $200
893. River Phoenix and Keanu Reeves Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
894. Donald Pleasance Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
904. Harold
Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
895. William
Signed Photograph Starting Bid $100
896. Basil
Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
897.
Starting Bid $100
907.
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
909.
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Powell
Rathbone
Donna Reed Signed Photograph
Sakata
905. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Edward Furlong Signed Photograph
906. Rod Serling Signed Check
Sarah Siddons Autograph Letter Signed to R. B. Sheridan
908. Jay Silverheels Signed Poem
Frank Sinatra Signature Starting Bid $200
914. Star Trek Signed Photograph
915. Star Trek: The Next Generation (3) 'Writers/Directors' Guides and...
916. Star Wars: Carrie Fisher Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
917. Star Wars: Alec Guinness Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
918. Star Wars: Dave Prowse Signed Album Starting Bid $200
919. Star Wars: Dave Prowse Signed Souvenir Program Starting Bid $200
922.
Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Starting
923. Elizabeth
Photograph Starting Bid $200
948.
Starting Bid $200
952.
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
956.
929.
Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
949.
Starting Bid $200
953.
Starting Bid $200
931. John Wayne Typed Letter Signed: "It is refreshing to find out how... Starting Bid $200
950. Roger
TwiceSigned Book - First Four Minutes Starting Bid $200
954.
Starting Bid $200
957.
Starting
Taxi Driver: Robert De Niro and Jodie Foster
Taylor Signed
Spencer Tracy
947. Hank Aaron Signed Photograph
Bid $200
Muhammad Ali (2) Signed Items
Muhammad Ali Signed Photograph
Bannister
951. Larry Bird and Magic Johnson (2) Signed Photographs
Tom Brady and Randy Moss Signed New England Patriots Replica Foot...
Joe DiMaggio Signed Photograph
Juan Manuel Fangio Signed Promo Card
955. Roger Federer (4) Signed Promo Cards Starting Bid $200
Joe Frazier Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Wayne Gretzky Signed Hockey Card - Beckett 10
Bid $200
960. Mickey Mantle Signed Baseball Starting Bid $200
961.
962.
963.
965.
Starting
966.
Starting Bid $200
971.
Starting Bid $200
964.
967.
968.
973.
Mickey Mantle Signed Photograph by Ray Gallo Starting Bid $200
Diego Maradona Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Ondrej Nepela Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Jesse Owens Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus (2) Signed Photographs
Bid $200
Walter Payton Signed Poster
Walter Payton Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Pele Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
969. Pele Signed Soccer Jersey Starting Bid $200
Ayrton Senna Signed Photograph
Mike Tyson Signed Boxing Glove Starting Bid $200
Conditions of Sale
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This Agreement contains important provisions that control rights and liabilities, and specifically has provisions governing how disputes are handled as well as LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY that can be imposed upon RR Auction, WAIVER OF JURY and ARBITRATION PROVISIONS. This acknowledgement is a material term of these Conditions of Sale and of the consideration under which RR Auction agrees to these terms. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY.
The following terms and conditions (“Conditions of Sale”) constitute the sole terms and conditions under which RR Auction will offer for sale and sell the property on its website, and/or described in the catalog of items for auction (the “Catalog”). These Conditions of Sale constitute a binding agreement between the Parties with respect to the auction in which Bidder participates (the “Auction”). By bidding at the Auction, whether in person, through an agent or representative, by telephone, facsimile, online, absentee bid, or by any other form of bid or by any other means, Bidder acknowledges the thorough reading and understanding of all of these Conditions of Sale, all descriptions of items in the Catalog, and all matters incorporated herein by reference, and agrees to be fully bound thereby.
Section 1
The Parties1.1 RR Auction and Auction
This Auction is presented by RR Auction, a d/b/a/ of R&R Auction Company of Massachusetts, LLC, as identified with the applicable licensing information on the title page of the Catalog or on the www.RRauction.com Internet site. The Auction is conducted under these Conditions of Sale. Announcements and corrections from the podium at live auctions and those made through the Conditions of Sale appearing on the Internet at RRauction.com supersede those in the printed Catalog.
1.2
Bidder
Bidder shall mean the original Bidder on the property offered for sale by RR Auction and not any subsequent owner or other person who may acquire or have acquired an interest therein. If Bidder is an agent, the agency must be disclosed in writing to RR Auction prior to the time of sale, otherwise the benefits of the warranty shall be limited to the agent and not transferable to the undisclosed principal.
The rights granted to Bidder under these Conditions of Sale are personal and may not be assigned or transferred to any other person or entity, whether by operation of law or otherwise without the express written assent of RR Auction. Bidder may not transfer, assign, or otherwise convey these Conditions of Sale or any of the rights herein, and such purported transfer, assignment, or conveyance shall be null and void. No third party may rely on any benefit or right conferred on any Bidder by these Conditions of Sale, and no third party is intended as a beneficiary of these Conditions of Sale.
Bids will not be accepted from minor persons under eighteen (18) years of age without a parent or legal guardian’s written consent containing an acknowledgment of the Conditions of Sale herein and indicating their agreement to be bound thereby on behalf of the Bidder.
All Bidders must meet RR Auction’s qualifications to bid. Any Bidder who is not a client in good standing of RR Auction may be disqualified at RR Auction’s sole option and will not be awarded lots. Such determination may be made by RR Auction in its sole and unlimited discretion, at any time prior to, during, or even after the close of the Auction. RR Auction reserves the right to exclude any person from the Auction.
If an entity places a bid, then the person executing the bid on behalf of the entity agrees to personally guarantee payment for any successful bid and agrees to be bound by these Conditions of Sale in addition to company for whom the Bidder is acting
By accepting the Conditions of Sale, Bidder personally and unconditionally guarantees payment.
Section 2 Bidding Privileges
2.1 In order to place bids, Bidders who have not established an account with RR Auction must either furnish satisfactory credit information (including two collectibles-related business references) or supply additional information if requested, well in advance of the Auction. Bidders who are not members of RRAuction.com should pre-register before the close of the Auction to allow adequate time to contact references. Privileges will be granted at the sole discretion of RR Auction. Additionally, Bidders who have not previously established credit or who wish to bid in excess of their established credit history may be required to provide a cash deposit prior to RR Auction’s acceptance of a bid. Check writing privileges and immediate delivery of merchandise may also be determined by pre-approval of credit based on a combination of criteria: RRAuction.com history, related industry references, bank verification, a credit bureau report and/or a personal guarantee for a corporate or partnership entity in advance of the Auction venue.
2.2 Bidder providing any false or misleading information provided in connection with the registration shall be a material breach of the Conditions of Sale and in addition to any other remedies at law shall excuse RR Auction from performance under these Conditions of Sale, including the right to any refund.
2.2 Bidding privileges may be revoked without notice, for any reason, at the sole discretion of RR Auction .
Section 3
Buyer’s Premium
3.1 The Bidder acknowledges and agrees that a 25% buyer’s premium will be added to the hammer price on all individual lots sold in timed and live Auctions. . For payment other than by cash, delivery will not be made unless and until full payment has been received by RR Auction, i.e., check or wired funds have fully cleared. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, signed by RR Auction, payment in full is due within thirteen (13) calendar days of the Auction or within twelve (12) calendar days of the invoice date, whichever is earlier. Bidder’s failure to pay any payment in full when due required shall constitute a material breach, and in addition to other damages available under contract or law, at RR Auction’s election, RR Auction may cancel the sale and require full premium still be due along with interest at 1.5% per month from the date of breach, or at the maximum legally allowable rate.
Section 4
Bidding
4.1 Each Bidder’s determination of its bid should be based upon its own examination of the item(s) and independent investigation, rather than the any reliance as to what is represented in the Catalog, online or elsewhere. Bidder affirms that it regards any statements made by RR Auction concerning the item as solely opinion and that Bidder is making its own inspection and independent evaluation of the goods, and is not relying upon any description or statements by RR Auction (including as to quality, authenticity, provenance, ownership, liens existing, on goods legality, or value) in making its determination to bid on or purchase an item. In any purchase or sale, the value of the item(s) is determined by the price. THE BIDDER HEREBY ASSUMES ALL RISKS CONCERNING ANY AND ALL PURCHASES TO THE FULLEST EXTENT UNDER APPLICABLE LAW.
4.2 RR AUCTION IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ERRORS IN BIDDING. A Bidder should make certain to bid on the correct lot and that the bid is the maximum (plus the Buyer’s Premium) that the Bidder is willing and able to pay. Since other Bidders (by mail, facsimile, online, and in person) will be present, and since a reoffering could damage the momentum of the sale, once the hammer has fallen and RR Auction has announced the winning Bidder, such Bidder is unconditionally bound to pay for the lot, even if the Bidder has made a mistake.
4.3 All prospective Bidders who examine lots in person prior to the sale shall personally assume all responsibility for any damage they cause in so doing. RR Auction shall have sole discretion in determining the value of the damage caused, which shall be promptly paid by the prospective Bidder.
4.4 Title to any lot remains with Consignor, any secured party of the Consignor, or assignee of Consignor, as the case may be, until the lot is paid for in full by Bidder and Bidder has fully satisfied any outstanding financial obligations to RR Auction (including as it concerns aby other lots). RR Auction reserves the right to require payment in full before delivering any lot to the successful Bidder.
4.5 It is the Bidder’s responsibility and obligation to have the lots fully insured while in their possession. Bidder assumes any and all risk of loss upon the earlier of shipment to Bidder or in Bidder’s possession.
4.6 Bidder grants to RR Auction or its assigns the right to offset any sums due, or found to be due by RR Auction, and to make such offset from any past, subsequent or future consignment, or items acquired by Bidder in possession or control of RR Auction or from any sums due to Bidder by RR Auction. Bidder fur-
ther grants RR Auction a lien consisting of a senior security interest (or purchase money security interest to the extent applicable) in such sums or items to the fullest extent applicable, authorizes RR Auction to file documents concerning the interest, and Bidder agrees to execute any further documents as may be reasonably necessary to grant RR Auction such security interest. Bidder agrees that RR Auction and its assigns shall be a secured party with respect to items bought by Bidder and in the possession of RR Auction, to the extent of the maximum indebtedness, plus all accrued fees and expenses, until the indebtedness is paid.
4.7 By bidding in this sale, Bidder personally and unconditionally guarantees payment. The authorized representative of any corporate Bidder who is present at the sale shall provide RR Auction or its agent, prior to the commencement of the bidding (or at the time of registration), with a statement signed by a principal, director or officer that they he or she personally and unconditionally guarantees any payment due RR Auction.
4.8 RR Auction may at its sole and absolute discretion, make loans or advances to Consignors and/or prospective Bidders.
Section 5 Bidding Options
5.1 Non-Internet bids (including but not limited to in-person, facsimile, phone and mail bids) are treated similarly to floor bids in that they must be on-increment. Any in-person, facsimile, phone, or mail bids that do not conform to a full increment will be rounded up or down to the nearest full increment and this revised amount will be considered Bidder’s high bid.
5.2 When identical bids are submitted, preference is given to the first received. To ensure the greatest accuracy, written bids should be entered on the standard printed bid sheet and be received at RR Auction’s place of business at least twenty-four (24) hours before the Auction start. RR Auction is not responsible for executing mail bids or facsimile bids received on or after the day the first lot is sold, nor Internet bids submitted after the published closing time; nor is RR Auction responsible for proper execution of bids submitted by telephone, mail, facsimile, e-mail, Internet, or in person once the Auction begins.
5.3 In all Auctions, bids on an item must raise the current high bid by at least 10%, or as specified on a per-Auction basis. Bids will be accepted in whole dollar amounts only. No “buy” or “unlimited” bids will be accepted. In a live sale, bids on an item can change at the discretion of RR Auction.
5.4 RR Auction reserves the right to accept or decline any bid. Bids must be for an entire lot and each lot constitutes a separate sale. All bids are per lot unless otherwise announced. Live auction lots will be sold in their numbered sequence unless RR Auction directs otherwise. It is unlawful and illegal for Bidders to collude, pool, or agree with another Bidder to pay less than the fair value for lot(s). For live auctions, RR Auction will have final discretion in the event that any dispute should arise between Bidders. RR Auction will determine the successful Bidder, cancel the sale, or re-offer and resell the lot or lots in dispute. RR Auction will have final discretion to resolve any disputes arising after the sale and in online auctions. If any dispute arises, RR Auction’s sale record is conclusive.
Section 6 Payment
6.1 Subject to fulfillment of all of the Conditions of Sale set forth herein, upon the sooner of (1) the passing of title to the offered lot pursuant to these Conditions of Sale, or (2) possession of the offered lot by the Bidder, Bidder thereupon (a) assumes full risk and responsibility (including without limitation, liability for or damage to frames or glass covering prints, paintings, photos, or other works), and (b) will immediately pay the full purchase price or such part as RR Auction may require. In addition to other remedies available to RR Auction by law, RR Auction reserves the right to impose from the date of sale a late charge of 1.5% per month of the total purchase price if payment is not made in accordance with the conditions set forth herein. All property must be removed from RR Auction’s premises by the Bidder at his/her expense not later than sixty (60) business days following its sale and, if it is not so removed, RR Auction may send the purchased property to a public warehouse for the account, at the risk and expense of the Bidder.
6.2 Payment is due upon closing of the Auction session, or upon presentment of an invoice. RR Auction reserves the right to void an invoice if payment in full is not received within thirteen (13) calendar days of the Auction or within twelve (12) calendar days of the invoice date. In cases of nonpayment, RR Auction’s election to void a sale does not relieve the Bidder from their obligation to pay RR Auction its fees (seller’s and Buyer’s Premium) on the lot and any other damages pertaining to the lot.
6.3 All sales for total invoices greater than $1,000 are strictly for cash in United States dollars (including U.S. currency, bank wire, cashier checks, eChecks, and bank money orders), and are subject to all reporting requirements.
6.4 All deliveries are subject to good funds; funds being received in RR Auction’s account before delivery of the Purchases; and all payments are subject to a clearing period. RR Auction reserves the right to determine if a check constitutes “good funds”: checks drawn on a U.S. bank are subject to a ten (10) calendar day hold, and ten (10) business days when drawn on an international bank. Clients with pre-arranged credit status may receive immediate credit for payments via e-Check, personal or corporate checks.
6.5 In the event that a Bidder’s payment is dishonored upon presentment(s), Bidder shall pay the maximum statutory processing fee set by applicable state law. If Bidder attempts to pay via check and the financial institution denies the transfer from Bidder’s bank account, or the payment cannot be completed using the selected funding source, Bidder agrees to complete payment.
6.7 If RR Auction refers any unpaid invoice to an attorney for collection, the Bidder agrees to pay and shall be liable for RR Auction’s attorney’s fees, court costs, and other collection costs incurred by RR Auction in addition to the invoice amount and interest the greater of 1.5% per month or at the maximum legally allowable rate from date of invoice to collection. If RR Auction assigns collection to its house counsel, such attorney’s time expended on the matter shall be compensated at a rate comparable to the hourly rate of independent attorneys.
6.8 RR Auction shall have a lien against the merchandise purchased by the Bidder (as well as to the extent it is a consignor any other monies owed or due to Bidder) to secure payment of the Auction invoice. RR Auction is further granted a lien and the right to retain possession of any other property of the Bidder then held by RR Auction or its affiliates to secure payment of any Auction invoice or any other amounts due RR Auction or affiliates from the Bidder. With respect to these lien rights, RR Auction shall have all the rights of a secured creditor, including but not limited to the right of sale. In addition, with respect to payment of the Auction invoice(s), the Bidder waives any and all rights of offset he might otherwise have against RR Auction and the consignor of the merchandise included on the invoice (the Consignor”). If a Bidder owes RR Auction or its affiliates on any account, RR Auction and its affiliates shall have the right to offset such unpaid account by any credit balance due Bidder, and it may secure by possessory lien any unpaid amount by any of the Bidder’s property in their possession.
6.9 All checks, cashiers checks, bank checks, or money orders are payable to R&R Auction Company of Massachusetts, LLC. RR Auction clients with an invoice totaling $1,000 or under will have the option to pay by VISA, Mastercard, Discover or Paypal. All Paypal payments must be sent to FinanceDepartment@ rrauction.com. Authorize.net, a third-party service provider contracted by RR Auction for processing on-line payments, charges a nonrefundable service fee of 3%, which will be added to your final invoice should you pay by credit/debit card.
Section 7 Sales Tax
RR Auction is a remote seller and we are now required to collect Sales/Use Tax from our bidders. The states that we have nexus in we will be required to collect and remit sales tax on your behalf. Each state has different requirements to meet nexus. When RR Auction has achieved a certain monetary and/or invoice threshold in each state we will apply sales tax to your total invoice. The states that are affected are: ARIZONA, ARKANSAS, CALIFORNIA, COLORADO, CONNECTICUT, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KANSAS, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, NEBRASKA, NEVADA, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, NORTH CAROLINA, OHIO, OKLAHOMA, PENNSYLVANIA,RHODE ISLAND, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, UTAH, VIRGINIA, WASHINGTON, WISCONSIN
If we have not achieved nexus in a particular state it is still your responsibility to pay sales tax on your purchases.
The sales tax rate is determined by the State, Country, and City where purchases are shipped to. If you decide to pick up your purchases at our New Hampshire location you will not be required to pay sales tax. The State of New Hampshire does not have a general sales and use tax. All purchases picked up at our Massachusetts location will be taxed at the current rate of 6.25%.
If you have a resale number please email Sue@RRAuction.com or fax to (603) 732-4288 a copy of your state resale certificate and you will be exempt from paying sales tax.
Section 8
Delivery; Shipping; and Handling Charges
Bidder is liable for shipping and handling and providing accurate information as to shipping or delivery locations and arranging for such. RR Auction is unable to combine purchases from other auctions or affiliates into one package for shipping purposes. Lots won will be shipped in a commercially reasonable time after payment in good funds for the merchandise and the shipping fees is received or credit extended, except when third-party shipment occurs. Bidder agrees that
service and handling charges related to shipping items which are not pre-paid may be charged to a credit card on file with RR Auction.
Successful international Bidders shall provide written shipping instructions, including specified Customs declarations, to RR Auction for any lots to be delivered outside of the United States. NOTE: Declaration value shall be the item’(s) hammer price and RR Auction shall use the correct harmonized code for the lot. Domestic Bidders on lots designated for third-party shipment must designate the common carrier, accept risk of loss, and prepay shipping costs.
All duties, customs, and any other import charges are the responsibility of the bidder.
Section 9
Title
Title shall not pass to the successful Bidder until all invoices of Bidder (including those pertaining to the item(s) at issue) and amounts owed to RR Auction are paid in full. It is the responsibility of the Bidder to provide adequate insurance coverage for the items once they have been delivered to a common carrier or third-party shipper.
Section 10
Rights Reserved
RR Auction reserves the right, at any time before, during or after an auction has ended to: withdraw any lot before or at the time of the Auction, cancel any bid, and/or to postpone the Auction of all or any lots or parts thereof, for any reason. RR Auction shall not be liable to any Bidder in the event of such withdrawal, cancellation, or postponement under any circumstances. RR Auction reserves the right to refuse to accept bids from anyone at any time.
Section 11
Conducting the Auction
11.1 RR Auction reserves the right to postpone the Auction or any session thereof for a reasonable period of time for any reason whatsoever, and no Bidder or prospective Bidder shall have any claim as a result thereof, including consequential damages.
11.2 RR Auction’s Discretion: RR Auction shall determine opening bids and bidding increments. RR Auction has the right in its absolute discretion to reject any bid in the event of dispute between Bidders or if RR Auction has doubt as to the validity of any bid, to advance the bidding at its absolute discretion and to determine the successful Bidder in the event of a dispute between Bidders, to continue the bidding or to reoffer and resell the lot in question. In the event of a dispute after the sale, RR Auctions record of final sale shall be conclusive. RR Auction also may reject any bid if RR Auction decides either that any bid is below the reserve of the lot or article or that an advance is insufficient. Unless otherwise announced by RR Auction at the time of sale, no lots may be divided for the purpose of sale.
11.3 Reserves
Lots may be subject to a reserve which is the confidential minimum price below which the lot will not be sold. Consignors may not bid on their own lots or property. RR Auction may, from time to time, bid on items that it does not own. RR Auction may execute bids consecutively or otherwise up to one bid increment below the reserve.
11.4 Off-Site Bidding
Bidding by telephone, facsimile, online, or absentee bidding (advance written bids submitted by mail) are offered solely as a convenience and permitted subject to advance arrangements, availability, and RR Auction’s approval which shall be exercised at RR Auction’s sole discretion. Neither RR Auction nor its agents or employees shall be held liable for the failure to execute bids or for errors relating to any transmission or execution thereof. In order to be considered for off-site bidding in any manner, Bidders must comply with all of these Conditions of Sale and the terms contained on the Registration Form.
11.5 Estimate Prices:
In addition to descriptive information, each item in the Catalog sometimes includes a price range which reflects opinion as to the price expected at auction (the “Estimate Prices”). In other instances, Estimate Prices can be obtained by calling RR Auction at (603) 732-4280. The Estimate Prices are based upon various factors including prices recently paid at auction for comparable property, condition, rarity, quality, history and provenance. Estimate Prices are prepared well in advance of the sale and subject to revision. Estimates do not include the Buyer’s Premium or sales tax (see under separate heading).
11.6 Owned or Guaranteed Property:
RR Auction generally offers property consigned by others for sale at public auction; in very limited occasion, lots are offered that are the property of RR Auction.
11.7 Before the Auction:
Bidder may attend pre-sale viewing for all of RR Auction’s auctions at no charge. All property to be auctioned is usually on view for several days prior to the sale. Bidder is encouraged to examine lots thoroughly. Bidder may also request condition reports (see below). RR Auction’s staff are available at viewings and by appointment.
11.8 Maximum Bids In All Auctions:
To maximize Bidder’s chance of winning, RR Auction strongly encourages the use of maximum bids. RR Auction will then bid for Bidder until the lot reaches Bidder’s specified maximum. Maximum bids are strictly confidential. Placing arbitrary, non-incremental bids on lots with prior maximum bids may result in these lots being sold for less than 10% above the under Bidder’s bid.
11.9 Successful Bids:
The fall of RR Auction’s hammer indicates the final bid. RR Auction will record the paddle number of the Bidder. If Bidder’s salesroom or absentee bid is successful, Bidder will be notified after the sale by mailed or emailed invoice.
11.10 Unsold Lots:
If a lot does not reach the reserve, it is bought-in. In other words, it remains unsold and is returned to the Consignor. RR Auction has the right to sell certain unsold items after the close of the Auction. Such lots shall be considered sold during the Auction and all these Terms and Conditions shall apply to such sales including but not limited to the Buyer’s Premium, return rights, and disclaimers.
11.11 Bidding in Timed Auction:
Bidder may open, monitor, and/or raise bids at any time before the close of a lot through www.rrauction.com. RR Auction offers a callback service the day of the Auction, but Bidder is responsible for supplying a correct telephone number(s) where Bidder can be reached until the Auction closes. Bidder must request this service in writing. RR Auction will make reasonable efforts to ensure that Bidders who request a callback are contacted if outbid; however, RR Auction does not guarantee this service and it is merely a courtesy and not an enforceable right. The auctioneer may also execute a bid on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve, either by entering a bid in response to salesroom, telephone or absentee bids. Under no circumstances will the auctioneer place any bid on behalf of the consignor above the reserve. The auctioneer will not specifically identify bids placed on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve.
To ensure proper registration, those Bidders intending to bid via the Internet must visit www.RRauction.com and register accordingly at least one full day prior to the actual auction. Winning bidders will be notified by RR Auction. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids.
Any Bidder may bid on any lot prior to 6 pm EST/EDT. At that time, an extended bidding period goes into effect. If Bidder has not bid on a lot before 6 pm EST/ EDT, Bidder may not bid on that lot after 6 pm EST/EDT. Only those Bidders who have placed bids on a lot before 6 pm EST/EDT will be allowed to bid on that lot after 6 pm EST/EDT. If Bidder is the only Bidder on a lot at 6 pm EST/ EDT, that lot is awarded to Bidder. During the extended bidding period, a lot will remain open only to those who bid on that lot prior to 6 pm EST/EDT. All lots WITHOUT an opening bid at 6 pm EST/EDT will remain OPEN to ALL Bidders until 7 pm EST/EDT or until they receive their first bid. These lots will close immediately upon receipt of a bid or at 7 pm EST/EDT, whichever comes first. For all lots that are active after 7 pm EST/EDT, bidding will remain open until 30 minutes pass without a bid being placed on THAT lot (the “30 Minute Rule”). The 30 Minute Rule is applied on a PER LOT BASIS; each lot in the Auction closes individually based on bidding activity after 7 pm EST/EDT. On a PER LOT BASIS, the 30 minute timer will reset each time a bid is placed after 7 pm EST/EDT. If Bidder is the high Bidder, raising Bidder’s maximum bid will NOT reset the timer. RR Auction reserves the right to close the Auction at any time at its sole discretion.
11.12 Bidding - Internet Live Auction:
Bidder may open, monitor, and/or raise bids at any time before the close of a lot through www.rrauction.com. RR Auction offers a callback service the day of the Auction, but Bidder is responsible for supplying a correct telephone number(s) where Bidder can be reached until the Auction closes. Bidder must request this service in writing. RR Auction will make reasonable efforts to ensure that Bidders who request a callback are contacted if outbid; however, RR Auction does not guarantee this service and it is merely a courtesy and not an enforceable right.
To ensure proper registration, those Bidders intending to bid via the Internet must visit www.RRauction.com and register accordingly at least one full day prior to the actual auction. Winning bidders will be notified by RR Auction. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including
but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids.
During live internet or live auction, property is auctioned in consecutive numerical order, as it appears in the catalog. The auctioneer will accept bids from those present in the salesroom or absentee bidders participating by telephone, internet or by written bid left with RR Auction in advance of the auction. The auctioneer may also execute a bid or bids (successively or otherwise) on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve, either by entering a bid in response to salesroom, telephone or absentee bids. Under no circumstances will the auctioneer place any bid on behalf of the consignor above the reserve. The auctioneer will not specifically identify bids placed on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve. All auctions for lots are with reserve unless specifically stated otherwise.
During live Auctions, internet bids can be placed in real time through one or more of the following Third Party services: www.liveauctioneers.com, www.invaluable. com and www.icollector.com. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids. RR Auction treats any third-party site bids as floor or telephone bids. Floor bids and telephone bids are always considered first over third party sites bids, and floor bids are considered earlier than telephone bids. All RR Auction lots purchased through the third-party sites carry an additional Buyer’s Premium.
11.13 Miscellaneous:
Agreements between Bidders and Consignors to effectuate a non-sale of an item at Auction, inhibit bidding on a consigned item to enter into a private sale agreement for said item, or to utilize RR Auction’s Auction to obtain sales for non-selling consigned items subsequent to the Auction, are strictly prohibited. If a subsequent sale of a previously consigned item occurs in violation of this provision, RR Auction reserves the right to charge Bidder the applicable Buyer’s Premium and Consignor a Seller’s Commission as determined for each auction venue and by the terms of the seller’s agreement.
Acceptance of these Terms and Conditions qualifies Bidder as a client who has consented to be contacted by RR Auction in the future. In conformity with ”donot-call” regulations promulgated by the Federal or State regulatory agencies, participation by the Bidder is affirmative consent to being contacted at the phone number shown in his application and this consent shall remain in effect until it is revoked in writing. RR Auction may from time to time contact Bidder concerning sale, purchase, and auction opportunities available.
11.14 Rules of Construction: RR Auction presents properties in a number of collectible fields, and as such, specific venues have promulgated supplemental Terms and Conditions. Nothing herein shall be construed to waive the general Conditions of Sale by these additional rules and shall be construed to give force and effect to the rules in their entirety.
Section 12
RR Auction’s Remedies
Failure of the Bidder to comply with any of these Conditions of Sale or the terms of the Registration Form is an event of material breach or default. In such event, RR Auction may, in addition to any other available remedies specifically including the right to hold the defaulting Bidder liable for the Purchase Price or to charge and collect from the defaulting Bidder’s credit or debit accounts as provided for elsewhere herein: (a) cancel the sale, retaining any payment made by the Bidder as damages (the Bidder understands and acknowledges that RR Auction will be substantially damaged should such default occur, and that damages under subpart (a) are necessary to compensate RR Auction for such damages); (b) resell the property without reserve at public auction or privately; (c) charge the Bidder interest on the Purchase Price at the rate of one and one-half percent (1.5%) per month or the highest allowable interest rate; (d) take any other action that RR Auction, in its sole discretion, deems necessary or appropriate to preserve and protect RR Auction’s rights and remedies. Should RR Auction resell the property, the original defaulting Bidder shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price and all costs and expenses associated there with, including but not limited to warehousing, sales-related expenses, reasonable attorney fees and court costs, commissions, incidental damages and any other charges due hereunder which were not collected or collectable. In the event that such Bidder is the successful Bidder on more than one lot and pays less than the purchase price for the total lots purchased, RR Auction shall apply the payment received to such lot or lots that RR Auction, in its sole discretion, deems appropriate. If RR Auction does not exercise such discretion, the lots to which the payment shall be applied will be in descending order from the highest purchase price to the lowest. Any Bidder failing to comply with these Conditions of Sale shall be deemed to have granted RR Auction a security interest in, and RR Auction may retain as collateral such security for such Bidder’s obligations to RR Auction, any Bidder’s property in RR Auction’s possession or to which title has not yet passed to Bidder. RR Auction shall have the benefit of all rights of a secured party under the Uniform Commercial Code (U.C.C.) as adopted by the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Section 13 Warranties
13.1 RR Auction does not provide any warranties to Bidders, whether expressed or implied, beyond those expressly provided in these Conditions of Sale. All property and lots are sold ”as is” and “where is”. By way of illustration rather than limitation, neither RR Auction nor the Consignor makes any representation or warranty, expressed or implied, as to merchantability or fitness for intended use, condition of the property (including any condition report), correctness of description, origin, measurement, quality, rarity, importance, exhibition, relevance, attribution, source, provenance, date, authorship, condition, culture, genuineness, value, or period of the property. Additionally, neither RR Auction nor the Consignor makes any representation or warranty, expressed or implied, as to whether the Bidder acquires rights in copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property (including exhibition or reproduction rights) related to the item, or whether the property is subject to any limitations or other rights. RR Auction does not make any representation or warranty as to title.
13.2 All descriptions, photographs, illustrations, and terminology including but not limited to words describing condition (including any condition reports requested by Bidder, see also Terminology), authorship, period, culture, source, origin, measurement, quality, rarity, provenance, importance, exhibition, and relevance, used in the Catalog, bill of sale, invoice, or anywhere else, represent a good faith effort made by RR Auction to fairly represent the lots and property offered for sale as to origin, date, condition, and other information contained therein; they are statements of opinion only. They are not representations or warranties and Bidder agrees and acknowledges that he or she shall not rely on them in determining whether or not to bid or for what price. Price estimates (which are determined well in advance of the Auction and are therefore subject to revision) and condition reports are provided solely as a convenience to Bidders and are not intended nor shall they be relied on by Bidders as statements, representations or warranties of actual value or predictions of final bid prices.
13.3 Bidders are accorded the opportunity to inspect the lots and to otherwise satisfy themselves as to the nature and sufficiency of each lot prior to bidding, and RR Auction urges Bidders to avail themselves accordingly.
13.4 All lots sold by RR Auction are accompanied by an Auction Certificate (“AC”). On any lot presented with an AC issued by RR Auction, the certification is only as to its attribution to the person or entity described or to the lot’s usage and only as explicitly stated therein (the “AC”), to the exclusion of any other warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to those pursuant to the Uniform Commercial Code. The AC inures only to the original Bidder (as shown in RR Auction’s records). Bidder may not transfer, assign, or otherwise convey the AC and such purported transfer, assignment, or conveyance shall be null and void.
Section 14
Firearms
RR Auction complies with all Federal and State rules and regulations relating to the purchasing, registration and shipping of firearms. A Bidder is required to provide appropriate documents and the payment of associated fees, if any. Bidder is responsible for providing a shipping address that is suitable for the receipt of a firearm.
Section 15
Unauthorized Statements
Under no circumstances is any employee, agent or representative of RR Auction authorized by RR Auction to modify, amend, waive or contradict any of these Conditions of Sale, any term or condition set forth on a registration form, any warranty or limitation or exclusion of warranty, any term or condition in either the Registration Form or these Terms and Conditions regarding payment requirements, including but not limited to due date, manner of payment, and what constitutes payment in full, or any other term or condition contained in any documents issued by RR Auction unless such modification, amendment, waiver or contradiction is contained in a writing signed by all parties. Any statements, oral or written, made by employees, agents or representatives of RR Auction to Bidder, including statements regarding specific lots, even if such employee, agent or representative represents that such statement is authorized, unless reduced to a writing signed Bidder and by an authorized officer of RR Auction by all parties, are statements of personal opinion only and are not binding on RR Auction, and under no circumstances shall be relied upon by Bidder as a statement, representation or warranty of RR Auction.
Section 16
Bidder’s Remedies
16.1 Except as stated expressly herein, Bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy related to or pertaining to items it bids upon, views, or purchases from RR Auc-
tion, and any claims by Bidder related to authenticity, ownership, condition, title or value, shall be against Consignor only.
16.2 This section sets forth the sole and exclusive remedies of Bidder as against RR Auction (inclusive of its affiliates, officers, managers, employees or agents), or in any way arising out of, related to, or in connection with these Conditions of Sale, , and is expressly in lieu of any other rights or remedies which might be available to Bidder by law. Time is of the essence with respect to these procedures.
16.3
Title to Items
The Bidder hereby accepts the benefit of the Consignor’s warranty of title and any other representations and warranties made by the Consignor for the Bidder’s benefit. In the event that Bidder demonstrates in writing, satisfactory to the sole discretion of RR Auction, that there was a breach of the Consignor’s warranty of title concerning a lot purchased by Bidder, RR Auction may make demand upon the Consignor to pay to Bidder the Purchase Price (including any premiums, taxes, or other amounts paid or due to RR Auction). Should the Consignor not pay the Purchase Price to Bidder within thirty days after such demand (if any made), RR Auction may disclose the identity of the Consignor to Bidder and may assign to Bidder all or some of RR Auction’s rights against the Consignor with respect to such lot or property. Upon such disclosure and/or assignment, all responsibility and liability of RR Auction, if any, with respect to said lot or item shall automatically terminate related to or arising from these Conditions of Sale or such transaction operating as a complete waiver and general release by Bidder as to RR Auction and its agents, contractors, and affiliates, as to any and all claims concerning or related to the item, if any . RR Auction shall be entitled to retain the premiums and other amounts paid to RR Auction by Consignor only. The rights and remedies provided herein are for the original Bidder only and they may not be assigned or relied upon by any transferee or assignee under any circumstances.
16.4 Authenticity Challenge Process
(1) If Bidder wishes to dispute or challenge the Authenticity of the lot or item (including asserting that it is incorrect), Bidder must adhere to the following procedure: Within 30 days of the Auction Date, Bidder must present written evidence to RR Auction, that the lot is not authentic as determined by a known expert in the field (and one recognized by RR Auction within its discretion) and send the physical item or lot at issue to RR Auction along with all evidence relied upon by Bidder for contesting the Authenticity. (“Authenticity Challenge Process”) “Authenticity” shall mean a gross discrepancy in the between the description, genuiness, or attribution of the item as represented by RR Auction in the Catalog or at the auction, and the item. If RR Auction concurs that the lot is not Authentic as was represented (it is sole discretion), Bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy as against RR Auction (inclusive of its affiliates, agents, employees, and contractors) shall be a refund of the purchase price of the subject item paid by Bidder, with no other costs, liabilities or amounts recoverable by Bidder. If RR Auction does not agree with the assertion by Bidder, then the Parties shall follow the dispute resolution procedures of these Conditions of Sale. Strict adherence to the Authenticity Challenge Process is a condition of standing for Bidder to initiate suit or claim.
(2) So long as Bidder has complied with the Authenticity Challenge Process, any claim, suit or action, by Bidder concerning an AC or Certification of Authenticity, or related to the authenticity of the item must, without any exception, be brought within one (1) year of Auction Date and is subject to the other limitations and conditions stated in the Conditions of Sale.
16.5 Other Issues. Any dispute or claim by Bidder against RR Auction (or its affiliates, directors, employees, officers, agents, or contractors)) other than Authenticity, concerning any item or lot bid upon, or purchased, including value, title, condition, bidding process, or description must be asserted (if at all) in the following manner:
(1) If the description of any lot in the Catalog is materially or grossly incorrect (e.g., gross cataloging error), or there is any other gross material issue pertaining to the item or lot, the item or lot may be returned if returned within five (5) calendar days of receipt, and received by RR Auction no later than twenty-one (21) calendar days after the Auction Date with explanation in writing.. If there is any discrepancy between the description in the Catalog and a certificate of auction, then the description in the certificate of auction (“Lot Challenge Process”). This paragraph shall constitute Bidder’s sole right with respect to the return of items, and no refunds shall be given for any items not returned to and received by RR Auction within the period of time stated herein or not materially or grossly in deviation from the description. Such a refund is subject to RR Auction’s sole discretionary review, and any request for refund must be made concurrently with returning the physical item or lot to RR Auction. Any item not returned within said frame will constitute acceptance of the item and a waiver and release of
any and all claims by Bidder pertaining to the item other than with respect to authenticity; and
(2) Provided that the Bidder has engaged in the Lot Challenge Process, any claim concerning such must be brought no later than one (1) year of the Auction Date for the item or lot at issue and is subject to the other limitations and conditions stated in the Conditions of Sale.
NO RETURN OR REFUND OF ANY AUCTION LOT WILL BE CONSIDERED OR PROVIDED EXCEPT AS PROVIDED IN THESE CONDITIONS OF SALE AND BIDDERS OR AS MAY BE REQUIRED BY LAW. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH SUCH SHALL BE A COMPLETE DEFENSE TO ANY CLAIMS BY BIDDER RELATED TO THE CONDITIONS OF SALE, ANY AUCTION OR BID.
16.6 LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. For any and all claims by Bidder arising out of or related to this Agreement, Bidder’s viewing, bid, or purchase of items, or any agreement between the Parties, or otherwise, Bidder agrees that to the fullest extent such can be limited under the law, Bidder shall have no right to recover and hereby waives any and all rights to recover from against RR Auction or its affiliates, directors, employees, officers, agents, or contractors, consequential or indirect damages, lost profits damages, punitive, exemplary, statutory (or multiplier damages), physical or emotional distress damages, general or special damages of any kind (beyond amounts actually paid by Bidder for item(s) at issue), and in the event of recovery of any damages whatsoever, such shall be limited by the amounts actually paid by Bidder to RR Auction for the item(s) at issue in such claim, or if no money was paid to RR Auction by Bidder for items at issue, or there items are at issue, the amount of $150.00.
Section 17
RR Auction’s Additional Services
For Bidders who do not remove purchased property from RR Auction’s premises, RR Auction, in its sole discretion and solely as a service and accommodation to Bidders, may arrange to have purchased lots packed, insured and forwarded at the sole request, expense, and risk of Bidder. RR Auction assumes no and disclaims all responsibility and liability for acts or omissions in such packing or shipping by RR Auction or other packers and carriers, whether or not recommended by RR Auction. RR Auction assumes no and disclaims all responsibility and liability for damage to frames, glass or other breakable items. Where RR Auction arranges and bills for such services via invoice, RR Auction will include an administration charge.
Section 18
Headings
Headings are for convenience only and shall not be used to interpret the substantive sections to which they refer.
Section 19
Entire Agreement
Except to the extent Bidder is also a consignor (in which case the terms of the consignment agreement shall also govern), these Conditions of Sale constitute the entire agreement between the Parties together with the terms and conditions contained in the auction Registration Form. They may not be amended, modified or superseded except in a signed writing executed by all parties. No oral or written statement by anyone employed by RR Auction or acting as agent or representative of RR Auction may amend, modify, waive or supersede the terms herein unless such amendment, waiver or modification is contained in a writing signed by all parties.
If any section of these Conditions of Sale or any term or provision of any section is held to be invalid, void, or unenforceable by any court or arbitrator of competent jurisdiction, the remaining parts of the agreement and remainder of the sections or terms and provisions of the section and all sections shall continue in full force and effect without being impaired or invalidated in any way.
Section 20
Governing Law and Enforcement
20.1 The Parties agree that all agreements between the Parties including but not limited to these Conditions of Sale are entered into in Boston, Massachusetts, no matter where Bidder is situated and no matter by what means or where Bidder was informed of the Auction and regardless of whether catalogs, materials, or other communications were received by Bidder in another location.
20.2 The Parties agree that these Conditions of Sale, any other related agreement(s), along with all claims between the Parties, including those arising out of or related to such are governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Mas-
sachusetts, without regard for its conflict of laws principles. The Parties agree that any dispute between the Parties, including but not limited to those related to or arising out of these Conditions of Sale, or related to or arising out of any other related agreement(s) shall be submitted to confidential binding arbitration (the ”Arbitration”) before a single Arbitrator of the American Arbitration Association (the “AAA”) The Parties agree that the Arbitration shall be conducted pursuant to the commercial rules of the AAA in Boston, Massachusetts, unless the Consumer Arbitration Rules apply, in which case, such rules and venue will govern. In the event that the Parties cannot agree on the selection of the Arbitrator, then the Arbitrator shall be selected by the AAA. The prevailing Party in the Arbitration shall also recover all of its related fees and costs, whether before or after the formal institution of the Arbitration, including but not limited to its reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs, if RR Auction prevails, such recovery, in addition to all remedies available at agreement or law, shall include the Buyer’s Premium as defined in these Conditions of Sale. Federal arbitration law, including the Federal Arbitration Act apply to this agreement to arbitrate and its related provisions. The arbitration and all related proceedings shall be held strictly confidential and all documents and discovery shall be held confidential and not used, published or disclosed publically or to anyone outside the Parties or expert consultants or counsel who shall agree to hold such confidential.
20.3 The Parties consent to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as exclusive jurisdiction and venue for all claims between the Parties except as provided specifically herein and may seek confirmation of the decision in the Arbitration pursuant to the Federal Arbitration Act in any Court of competent jurisdiction, including the courts of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts. To the extent such is necessary under the law, RR Auction may enforce the Arbitration award against Bidder and any related Party in any court of competent jurisdiction. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as RR Auction consenting to jurisdiction or venue in any location outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
THE PARTIES MAY NOT BRING CLAIMS AGAINST EACH OTHER AS A CLASS OR CLASS MEMBER IN ANY CLAIMED CLASS, OR IN A REPRESENTATIVE ACTION UNLESS OTHERWISE AGREED. UNLESS OTHERWISE AGREED, THE CLAIMS AGAINST EACH OF THE OTHER CANNOT BE CONSOLIDATED OR JOINED WITH MORE THAN ONE ADDITIONAL PERSON OR ENTITIES’ CLAIMS. NO INJUNCTIVE OR DECLATORY RELIEF SOUGHT BY BIDDER IF ANY, CAN AFFECT OR BE ORDERED TO AFFECT ANY OTHER BIDDERS OR PERSONS.
20.4 Except as provided specifically in these Conditions of Sale in Bidder’s Remedies against RR Auction (along with its affiliates, directors, agents, officers, employees, and contractors) for any dispute, claim, cause of action related to or arising out of these Conditions of Sale or any other related agreement(s), brought by Bidder must be brought within the earlier of the Auction Date as it pertains to the item(s) at issue or no later than one (1) year of the acts, omissions or circumstances occurred giving rise to the alleged claim, without exception. This provision is intended as a full, complete and absolute bar to and release of any claims by Bidder initiated after one (1) year of such acts, omissions or circumstances. The Parties agree further that these waiver provisions are intended to be binding in the event of any dispute, specifically including but not limited to third party claims and cross-actions brought by Bidder. These provisions are consideration for the execution of these Conditions of Sale.
20.5 To the fullest extent under applicable law and except as specifically stated herein Bidder hereby holds harmless, releases and discharges RR Auction and its agents, officer’s directors, affiliates, successors, and assigns from any and all claims, liabilities, obligations, promises, agreements, damages, causes of action, suits, demands, losses, debts, and expenses of any nature whatsoever, known or unknown, suspected or unsuspected existing prior to these Conditions of Sale. Bidder agrees to the Conditions of Sale and upon each instance that Bidder participates in any auction, bids, or otherwise agrees to such terms and reaffirms this release as of the date of so participating or agreeing unless Bidder otherwise provides clear written notice to RR Auction prior to so bidding.
20.6 The Bidder hereby agrees that RR Auction shall be entitled to present these Conditions of Sale to a court in any jurisdiction other than set forth in this paragraph as conclusive evidence of the Parties agreement, and the Parties further agree that the court shall immediately dismiss any action filed in such jurisdiction.
20.7 Liquidated Damages for Specific Breaches
In the event that Bidder provides false information in connection with registering for bidding, fails to correct or update information or breaches the Conditions of Sale by failing to pay the purchase price when due after becoming the winning bidder, as liquidated damages associated with such breaches, R&R may obtain from Bidder the greater of (1) 150% the reserve of the item (if any); (2) the amount bidder bid; or (3), the full amount that bidder would have otherwise paid. Bidder will also be liable for an additional 20% of such amount to account for additional administrative costs, shipping, additional advertising, and other dam-
ages and liabilities fees that are difficult to calculate on an item-by-item basis.
20.8 Indemnity. Bidder agrees to defend, indemnify, hold harmless RR Auction (along with its officers, directors, agents, contractors, and affiliates) from and against any and all claims, costs, fees, damages, and liabilities arising out of or related to these Conditions of Sale, view of items, or lots, bidding, or participation in any auction by RR Auction, and/or or in any way connected to any item you viewed, bid upon or purchased through RR Auction.
Section 21: State-by-State Law Issues
This Auction is being conducted in and the sale shall take place in the State of Massachusetts. Notwithstanding, the foregoing, should these terms and conditions violate the law of any State should that state’s law be found to govern, or any provision herein determined to be invalid, the clause itself and the remainder of the Agreement shall be valid to the fullest extent allowed. Also, to the extent other states law apply to any transaction arising out of the Agreement (without admitting such), RR Auction states:
For Residents of California:
SALE OF AUTOGRAPHED COLLECTIBLES: AS REQUIRED BY LAW, A DEALER WHO SELLS TO A CONSUMER ANY COLLECTIBLE DESCRIBED AS BEING AUTOGRAPHED MUST PROVIDE A WRITTEN EXPRESS WARRANTY AT THE TIME OF SALE. THIS DEALER MAY BE SURETY BONDED OR OTHERWISE INSURED TO ENSURE THE AUTHENTICITY OF ANY AUTOGRAPHED COLLECTIBLE SOLD BY THIS DEALER.
A written express warranty is provided with each autographed collectible, as required by law. This dealer may be surety bonded or otherwise insured to ensure the authenticity of any autographed collectible sold by this dealer.
Section 22
Glossary of Condition terms
Information provided to prospective Bidders with respect of any lot, including any pre-sale estimate, whether written or oral, and information in any catalogue, condition or other report, commentary or valuation, is not a representation of fact but rather a statement of opinion held by RR Auction.
Use of the following terms constitutes an opinion as follows:
VERY FINE describes an item believed to be in virtually flawless condition, and is used sparingly for items of exceptionally attractive appearance.
FINE is the most common statement of condition, and applies to most items that we offer. It describes items that we believe to show expected handling wear, generally acceptable random flaws (such as light creases, small bends, etc.), and an overall appearance that is pleasing to the majority of collectors.
VERY GOOD describes an item that we believe exhibits more moderate flaws (such as toning, light staining, professional reinforcements or repairs, etc.). Most collectors would be comfortable with items in very good condition, and this would be the expected condition for many formats (early presidential documents, for example).
GOOD describes an item which we believe to have obvious visible flaws, including heavy wear, missing portions, or repairs that affect appearance; generally items in this condition are offered only if an item is otherwise believed to be exceedingly rare or important.
Bidder may call and request further details and information about RR Auction’s opinions concerning any item via phone or email which shall provided in RR Auction’s discretion.
Certificate of Auction, Certificate of Authenticity and Goods Acquired:
Bidder warrants that Bidder (and its agents, assigns, successors, and affiliates) shall not purposely deface, destroy, dismember, cut-up into parts the item or Lot purchased at auction from RR Auction and in the event such shall occur whether purposefully or accidently, Bidder (and its agents, assigns, successors, and affiliates) shall refrain from advertising, promoting, or marketing the item as having been purchased from RR Auction and shall in no event display, expressly claim, or imply that the item was certified or auctioned in such state by RR Auction. As liquidated damages for such breach, Bidder agrees to be liable to RR Auction for the greater of the amount of three (3) times the hammer price of the item along with all other fees and costs as otherwise provided in this Terms of Sale.