RR Auction Quality Autograph Auction 385 2012 Apr 18 (UTC-5 : EST/CDT)

5 Rt 101A Suite 5, Amherst, New Hampshire, 03031, United States
Browse & Bid Online: www.icollector.com
Thumbnail 1 John Adams Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 Free-franked address panel, 5.25 x 3, addressed in another hand to “John P. De Wint, Esq., New York,” and franked in the lower left, “J. Adams,” with “Quincy Ma. Nov. 23rd,” written across the top in another hand. Matted and framed, with an engraved portrait of Adams, to an overall size of 13.25 x 23.5. John Peter De Wint was married to Adams's granddaughter Caroline Abigail Smith. In very good condition, with bisecting folds, scattered light creases and wrinkles, lightly affecting signature, and date clipped from top right corner. De Wint (1787-1870), a wealthy man and staunch Republican, had married Caroline Abigail Smith in 1814.
Thumbnail 2 John Quincy Adams Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 LS, one page, 7.5 x 6.5, September 29, 1817. Just days after assuming the role of Secretary of State, Adams writes from Washington, in full: “I have the honor to inform your Excellency that eleven boxes containing printed copies of the Acts of the second session of the Fourteenth Congress, appropriated by Law for the State of Pennsylvania, have been forwarded from this place to the Collector of the Customs at Philadelphia, safely and expeditiously, to Harrisburgh in order that they may be thence distributed by the proper authority of the Commonwealth.” In very good condition, with show-through from a heavy strip of adhesive remnant to the reverse, securing the previously separated two halves of the letter, a small area of paper loss, and both the top corners clipped. In this letter, the newly-minted secretary of state dispatches information about the Tariff of 1816 to one of the largest American ports. Otherwise known as the Dallas tariff, it was the first passed by Congress intended to protect American manufacturing from foreign competition. Appointed by President Monroe, Adams was one of the greatest secretaries of state in US history: he played a major role in the acquisition of Florida, negotiated the Transcontinental Treaty, and formulated the Monroe Doctrine with the president. He would serve as secretary of state until elected president in 1825. An early document from Adams’ tenure as secretary.
Thumbnail 3 John Quincy Adams Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Ink signature, “John Quincy Adams,” on an off-white 3.75 x 3.25 slip clipped from a larger document, dated May 10, 1821. Two vertical folds, one through a single letter of signature, a uniform shade of mild toning, with some slightly heavier spotting along left edge, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 4 John Quincy Adams Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 5,000.00 - 6,000.00 ALS signed “J. Q. Adams,” one page both sides, 7.75 x 9.75, February 2, 1831. Letter to Joseph Blunt. In full: “Your order upon P. Thompson for the British Annual Register of 1829 has been delivered, but he has not the book, and I doubt whether it has yet reached this Country. The Volume of the New Monthly for 1829 has come to hand, but that of 1830 which you promised has not and the file of Bell’s weekly Messenger which you sent me commences only in February—under these circumstances, I cannot put pen to paper which afflicts me much, for I hoped by this time to have got half through my Task—Do help me if you can, with some clue to begin with. The Politics of New-York are to me a Labyrinth without an Ariadne. It is useless to reason with Mason or Anti-Mason, each of them will have his way—The Clay-Masons so called for the mere pleasure of defeating the Anti-Masons, hitched themselves like Mules to the Car of the Regency, and dragged it in Triumph over the Necks of the Anti-Masons—They succeeded completely—They brought the enemy into the Citadel, and threw up their Caps at his Victory, as if it had been their own—They exulted—They insulted—And cried out to the Anti-Masons—‘See what comes of your Anti-Masonry?—There you are—biting the dust—now come—turn short round—acknowledge yourselves knaves and fools and vote with us for the free and accepted Royal Arch-Mason Henry Clay.’—This is the ne plus ultra of political canvassing. I have no intercourse with the New-York Anti-Masons—I think none of them have called upon me this year–not even of those with whom I had been before acquainted—I see Masons–and Quasi-Masons—That is persons who side with them against what they think persecution—sometimes they tell me that the Anti-Masons are going down—That their Waterloo-defeat has broken them up—That their party is manifestly falling off and that they will drop into the Ranks of Mr Clay at the very next Election—At other times I hear that soothing words are spoken to them—That their aid and co-operation is solicited—That they are asked to forget the Election of Governor Throop—and to forgive the loss of Election to Congress of Judge Spencer, of Mr Dickinson, of Mr Cady, of Mr Martindale and perhaps of others—And that promises are made to them that they shall be better treated hereafter—I understand you that a compromise has been offered them—That is to say—Granger for Governor, and a Clay-Mason electoral ticket—Perhaps this may be accepted—But the Masonic Newspapers which support Mr Clay are as virulent as ever against Anti-Masons, and appear determined to reject their aid even if they offer it—There is perhaps some lurking Anti-masonry in the recent nomination of Judge McLean at Philadelphia. There will soon be a great splitting up of Parties in this Country—and European Politics will again influence ours.—Whoever looks for preferments will do well to mount the fence.” After his signature, Adams adds “P.S.—I have received the second Part of American Annual Register Vol. 3.” Intersecting folds, a few small repairs to fold separations at edges, a bit of scattered light soiling, and a thin transparent glassine strip along one vertical edge, otherwise fine condition. Blunt, like Adams, was a member of the Whig party who worked as the editor of the American Annual Register from 1827 to 1835. It was during his journalistic tenure that Adams sent this lengthy correspondence, three months after his election as a member of the US House of Representatives and two years after vacating the presidency. Much of Adams’ frustration centered around the political turmoil created by the Anti-Masonic Movement, as he states, “It is useless to reason with Mason or Anti-Mason, each of them will have his way – The Clay-Masons so called for the mere pleasure of defeating the Anti-Masons, hitched themselves like Mules to the Car of the Regency, and dragged it in Triumph over the Necks of the Anti-Masons.” Lamenting the political landscape even further, Adams sadly predicts, “There will soon be a great splitting up of Parties in this Country—and European Politics will again influence ours.” Great and lengthy content as the former president looks toward the future of the nation.
Thumbnail 5 Chester A. Arthur Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Bold ink signature on an off-white 4 x 1 slip. In fine condition, with a trivial spot of soiling below, but not affecting, the signature.
Thumbnail 6 Chester A. Arthur Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Bank check, 7.5 x 2.75, filled out and signed by Arthur, “C. A. Arthur,” payable to his mother-in-law E. H. Herndon for $300.00, August 23, 1875. In very good condition, with three vertical creases, one through a single letter of signature, two cancellation cuts, small area of paper loss to lower left, and some light toning and soiling.
Thumbnail 7 George Bush and Congressmen Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Philatelic display of twelve National Capital Sesquicentennial stamps picturing the US Capitol Building affixed on a blank sheet of Thomas P. ‘Tip’ O’Neill’s engraved stationery, 7 x 9, signed by the ten leaders. Signers are: “George Bush, vice-president,” “Thomas P O’Neill Jr., Speaker,” “Bob Dole” (as Senate Majority Leader), “Al Simpson” (as Senate Majority Whip), “Robert C. Byrd” (as Senate Minority Leader), “Alan Cranston” (as Senate Minority Leader), “Jim Wright” (as House Majority Leader), “Thomas S. Foley” (as House Majority Whip), “Bob Michel” (as House Minority Leader), and “Trent Lott” (as House Minority Leader). Matted to an overall size of 11 x 13. In fine condition, with a couple signatures light, but legible.
Thumbnail 8 George Bush Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 TLS, one page, 6.5 x 4.25, Vice President of the United States blue-bordered cardstock stationery, December 7, 1984. Vice President Bush writes to an admirer, in part: “We are, of course, delighted that the election is now behind us, and we are ready to get back to the job at hand.” In fine condition, with a stray pencil mark.
Thumbnail 9 George Bush Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 ANS on an off-white 6.5 x 4.25 cardstock sheet of stationery with a printed vignette of Walker’s Point at the top, May 30, 1993. Bush writes a brief note, in full: “Thanks for your little note on Somalia. It pleased me very much.” In fine condition, with some light rubbing to the top right corner. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 10 George Bush Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 ALS, signed “George,” one page, both sides of a George Bush, Ambassador embossed card, 6.5 x 4.25, December 24, 1971. Written on Christmas Eve to Daniel Patrick Moynihan. In full: “Thanks so very much this fall. Particularly for helping me focus on the important things, and particularly for contributing so much to active, loyal, and dedicated representation of the US of A in the GA (see I'm an integral part of the alphabet soup). It was my selfish pleasure working with you—watching your style and skill with what I hope was unnoticeable jealousy and just plain being with you. Thanks for so much from a grateful heart. A great ’72 to you and yours. George Bush." In fine condition.
Thumbnail 11 George and George W. Bush Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two signed bookplates: a 4.5 x 3.5 bookplate for Decision Points, signed in black felt tip by George W. Bush; and a 4 x 6 bookplate, signed and inscribed in black ballpoint by George Bush. In very fine condition.
Thumbnail 12 George W. Bush Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Signed book: Decision Points. First edition, first printing. NY: Crown Publishers, 2010. Hardcover with dustjacket, 6.5 x 9.5, 497 pages. Signed on the half-title page in black felt tip. In very fine condition.
Thumbnail 13 George W. Bush Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Time magazine, dated September 24, 2001, showing Bush at Ground Zero, signed in black felt tip. Triple matted and framed, with a small plaque and a large presidential seal, to an overall size of 27 x 23. Oversized.
Thumbnail 14 George W. Bush Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Middle Eastern $250.00 currency note, 7 x 3.25, featuring a likeness of Saddam Hussein and signed on the front in black felt tip, “George W. Bush.” In fine condition, with light creasing.
Thumbnail 15 George W. Bush Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Pristine color satin-finish 8 x 10 head-and-shoulders portrait as president, signed and inscribed in the bottom border in black felt tip, likely as president, “Arthur, Best wishes, George W. Bush.” In very fine condition.
Thumbnail 16 George W. Bush Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Two items: iridescent blue and green silk DKNY tie, signed on the backside in black felt tip; and TLS of provenance, one page, 7 x 8.5, January 2, 1997, State of Texas, Office of the Governor letterhead. Bush writes, in full: “The blue DKNY tie, which accompanies this letter and which has been signed by me, has been donated from my personal wardrobe to the Youth for Christ fundraiser. It comes with my best wishes for a successful auction.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 17 The Bushes Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Four bookplates: a 3.75 x 5.5 bookplate for A World Transformed, signed and inscribed in black ballpoint by Scowcroft, and signed in black ballpoint by Bush; a 4.25 x 3.75 bookplate for Decision Points, signed in black felt tip by George W. Bush; a 4 x 3.5 bookplate for Spoken from the Heart, signed in blue felt tip by Laura Bush; and a 5 x 3.5 bookplate for My Father, My President, signed in black felt tip by Doro Bush Koch. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 18 Jimmy Carter Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Sheet of six blue-bordered bookplates, each measuring 4 x 3, and each signed in black ballpoint, “J. Carter.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 19 Jimmy Carter Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Engraved portrait, 6 x 8, by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, signed in black ink, “J. Carter.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 20 Frances Cleveland Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 ALS signed vertically along the left edge of the first page, “Frances F. Cleveland,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 4 x 6, green monogrammed Executive Mansion letterhead, October 16, 1893. Letter of thanks to Mr. Childs. In part: “The magnificent gift which you have sent to our dear little Esther came safely to her today. And I want to hasten to thank you. The things are very beautiful and very useful and I (now—as will she in the future) appreciate them truly—but the nicest thing in the whole matter is that you cared to send her your own face in silver—on the spoon. She shall early learn to know your face, and her close association with it in this way in the days to come will always remind her of a true, kind friend…The President joins me in messages of remembrance & good will to you both.” In fine condition, with a few small blocks of light toning.
Thumbnail 21 Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Color 11 x 14 cardstock portrait photo of the presidential couple, signed in black felt tip, “Jimmy Carter” and “Rosalynn Carter.” Scattered light surface and corner creasing, and slightly irregular ink adhesion to Jimmy’s signature, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 22 Grover Cleveland Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Original 4 x 6.5 cabinet photo of Cleveland in profile, signed in the lower border in black ink. Matted and framed to an overall size of 7.75 x 10.5. In fine condition, with a touch of light silvering.
Thumbnail 23 Grover Cleveland Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Crisp ink signature, “Grover Cleveland, Albany, Jan. 1, 1885,” on an off-white 3.25 x 1.75 card. In fine condition. Accompanied by a vintage, gold-embossed postcard honoring Cleveland, with ink notations along the bottom edge.
Thumbnail 24 Bill Clinton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Engraved portrait, 6.5 x 8, signed in black felt tip, “Bill Clinton, 11-7-2000.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 10.25 x 12. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 25 Bill Clinton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: Back to Work. First edition. NY: Alfred A. Knopf, 2011. Hardcover with dustjacket, 6 x 8.5, 196 pages. Signed in black felt tip on the title page. In fine condition, with slightly irregular ink adhesion.
Thumbnail 26 Bill Clinton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 TLS signed “Bill,” one page, 6.25 x 9.25, March 22, 2002. Letter to Reverend Stan Easty, one of Clinton’s closest friends and spiritual advisors. In full: “Thank you for your recent letter. It’s always good to hear from you. I really appreciate your words of advice and support. I’m glad Reba is on the mend, and I hope you’ll keep me posted on your possible upcoming surgery. I’ll be thinking about you.” In fine condition, with a couple of diagonal creases to lower right.
Thumbnail 27 Bill Clinton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 TLS signed “Bill,” one page, 6.25 x 9.25, personal letterhead, March 5, 2001. Letter to Reverend Stan Easty, one of Clinton’s closest friends and spiritual advisors. In full: “Thank you for the thoughtful message. It meant a lot to me, as have your friendship and prayers over the years. I’ll keep your availability in mind. Thanks again for all the support.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 28 Hillary Clinton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Red, white, and blue “Hillary for President,” campaign poster, 21.75 x 14, signed in black felt tip, “Hillary.” A few scattered creases, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 29 Calvin Coolidge Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Flowing ink signature on an off-white 3.5 x 1.75 card. In fine condition, with adhesive remnants from previous mounting on the reverse.
Thumbnail 30 Calvin Coolidge Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Partial DS, one page, 9 x 6, December 11, 1918. Coolidge signs below the Commonwealth of Massachusetts seal to confirm the apprehension and delivery of Lawrence J. McCarthy. Also signed by Deputy and Acting Secretary of the Commonwealth. Light toning from the ribbon, trimmed edges, and a pencil notation to the bottom right corner, otherwise fine condition. Blue Massachusetts seal is crisp and intact.
Thumbnail 31 Calvin Coolidge Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 300.00 - 500.00 Vintage matte-finish 8 x 11.25 Harris and Ewing bust portrait, signed and inscribed in the lower border in fountain pen, “To Arthur J. Burch, With regards, Calvin Coolidge.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 12 x 16. In fine condition, with some light silvering around photographer’s stamp.
Thumbnail 32 Calvin Coolidge Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS as president, one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, February 8, 1927. Letter to Edward W. Bok. In full: “I have received your letter of February 6th and have been interested in what you tell me of your conferences with the members of the General Committee of the American Peace Award. Thank you for letting me know about them. Of course, I shall be glad to see you at any time.” In fine condition, with paperclip impression to top, and some light edge toning from previous display. The American Peace Award was first proposed by Bok in 1923. It is awarded to an American citizen or citizens who best represent the spirit of world peace through their thoughts and actions. The award winner is determined by a group of artists, who present each recipient with an original work of art to honor their efforts.
Thumbnail 33 Grace Coolidge Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 ALS, two pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, gold embossed White House letterhead, January 28, 1926. Letter to Mrs. Darwin P. Kingsley. In part; “I think we have Mr. de Larglo ‘headed’ in the right direction and we know that as a ‘work of art’ he will turn out something fine. Wherever the portrait may be when you are in Washington we’ll see it to-gether and I shall want to have you come to the White House. We’ll show the daughters what a beautiful place it is. Your health report pleases me very much and I hope your southern sojourn will complete your restoration to health.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope addressed in Coolidge’s hand.
Thumbnail 34 Dwight D. Eisenhower Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 ANS as president, on a 4.25 x 2.25 gilt edged card with and, engraved presidential seal, July 28, 1955. Brief note to his secretary. In full: “For Helen Weaver, Happy Birthday!” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original transmittal envelope.
Thumbnail 35 Dwight D. Eisenhower Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS, one page, 6 x 8, Headquarters U. S. Forces, European Theater, Office of the Commanding General letterhead, September 17, 1945. Just weeks after the official Japanese surrender, Eisenhower writes to Charles Ellicock of the American Society for Metals, in full: “My sincere thanks for your note and very generous commendations. I was delighted to learn that members of your family are serving with the armed forces.” In very good condition, with a crease to the bottom right corner, a repaired tear to the top right corner, some trivial paper loss to the top left, and creasing along the top edge from mounting remnants on the reverse. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 36 Dwight D. Eisenhower Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 Scarce full-page ALS signed “Ike E.,” one page, 7 x 10.25, personal letterhead, March 17. Letter to British Admiral of the Fleet Bruce Fraser. In full: “It would scarcely be possible for me to tell you how deeply I appreciate your fine note, to say nothing of the cooperative spirit that brought you to agree to acceptance of command in the north. I know that you did not particularly care for that one—but I assure you that you’ve cemented some firm friendships in Denmark & Norway by taking it on. Come over to see me when you can! In the meantime I have a little present for the BC/S waiting upon the scheduling of some necessary flight to the U. K. Its purpose is to merely remind you that ‘The man means well, even though he’s too often a so and so and a this and that.’” Intersecting folds, a few wrinkles and creases, and staple holes to upper blank corner, otherwise fine condition. Writing as Supreme Allied Commander of NATO in the early 1950s, Eisenhower placates the British Chiefs of Staff with a gift after requesting the Royal Navy appoint an admiral in the Northern Command, a move the navy was strongly against. The appointment was part of Eisenhower’s Exercise Mainbrace, the first large-scale naval exercise conducted by the newly-formed Allied Command Atlantic. Eisenhower began the initial planning of Mainbrace, but he resigned his position as NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander to run for president before it took place. Mainbrace was conducted over twelve days in September of 1952 and involved nine navies, with the objective of demonstrating the NATO could defend Norway and Denmark in the event of an attack. Admiral Fraser, the letter’s recipient, commanded the British Home Fleet in the the North Atlantic and then the British Pacific Fleet during World War II, and signed the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on behalf of Great Britain. Fraser also did not participate in the exercise, having retired in 1951. An insightful letter displaying Eisenhower’s diplomatic touch.
Thumbnail 37 Dwight D. Eisenhower Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS as president, one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, October 20, 1956. Eisenhower writes to James Lyons, in full: “I was distressed to learn that you were a ‘casualty’ of our Washington State visit and that we had to leave you in the hospital in Tacoma. I sincerely trust that your knee is not too painful and that you will soon be back with us on your regular assignment.” Intersecting folds, light toning, and some trivial adhesive remnant below, but not affecting, the crisp signature, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, an unsigned photo of Eisenhower and a troupe of men in the Oval Office, and an original pass to the Vice Presidential Ball Committee held on January 24, 1969.
Thumbnail 38 Dwight D. Eisenhower Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS as president signed “D. E.,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, White House letterhead, May 15, 1959. Eisenhower writes to David Marx, in full: “My inaccurate secretary says she is thinking of paying you back for the first shipment. But she feels guilty—and so do I—in putting you to all that trouble and expense for a completely out-of-season gift. But it’s all welcome and I am most grateful to you, as I have so many times said,” adding the post script, “Howard is wrong, incidentally. I like both brands equally well.” In fine condition, with light creasing and adhesive remnants along the top edge on the reverse side.
Thumbnail 39 Dwight D. Eisenhower Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Christmas card measuring 6.25 x 5 closed, with a Currier and Ives image entitled ‘Winter in the Country,’ with the inside bearing a short pre-printed sentiment, signed inside, “For Helen Weaver, Dwight D. Eisenhower.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 40 Millard Fillmore Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Clean ink signature, “Millard Fillmore, Buffalo, March 13, 1872,” on an off-white 4 x 1.25 slip. In fine condition, with show-through from mounting remnant on the reverse, lightly affecting the date.
Thumbnail 41 Dwight D. Eisenhower Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 2,500.00 TLS signed “D.D.E.,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, February 19, 1968. Letter to Earl Mazo, at The Reader’s Digest. In part: “Thank you very much for the explanation of Clemson’s venture into the blue cheese business; it was interesting—not to say romantic. I have heard the war between the States described as, The Civil War, the Late Unpleasantness, the War to Liberate the Slaves, but never before have I heard it called the War of Northern Aggression. You were very thoughtful to send along to me the Gallup report on relative popularity of public figures. While, of course, I was pleased that I was named No. 1, the amazing thing was that I cannot recall ever having heard of this particular evaluation, yet I find that I have been included on each of the 22 years the report has been published; however, by far, the most interesting point in your letter was the postscript about your son, Mark. I hope that his victory when running as an ‘Eisenhower-Nixon Republican’ has real significance for the upcoming election.” In fine condition, with some light corner creasing. The “romantic” history of Clemson University’s blue cheese, according to legend, is the story of an Indian maiden Isaqueena who fell in love with David Francis, a silversmith. Learning that her tribe planned a surprise attack on her lover's settlement, they fled into the mountains to escape the fury of her betrayed tribe and lived in a large hollow tree or Stumphouse. They later fled to Alabama and lived happily ever after. In 1852, work on a tunnel through Stumphouse Mountain began but digging was abandoned after what Clemson graduate Mazo no doubt referred to as the War of Northern Aggression. In 1940, a Clemson College dairy professor recognized the possibilities of curing blue mold cheese in the abandoned Stumphouse Mountain Tunnel. With this thought in mind, the Clemson College Dairy Department began experimenting with the manufacture of blue cheese and curing it in the tunnel. Since 1958, the cheese has been made in Clemson’s Newman Hall, where air-conditioned rooms replicate the temperatures and humidity of the tunnel; Clemson blue cheese has been rated among the best in the nation.
Thumbnail 42 Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two engraved portraits, both by the Bureau of Printing and Engraving: a 9 x 12 of Gerald Ford, signed in black felt tip; and a 6 x 8 of Jimmy Carter, signed in blue felt tip, “J. Carter.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 43 Gerald Ford and Spiro Agnew Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two bright white White House cards, one signed in black ink, “Gerald R. Ford,” and one signed in blue ballpoint, “Spiro T. Agnew.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 44 Gerald Ford Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Limited edition color 16 x 26 lithograph entitled ‘The Wisdom of Choosing Dick Cheney,’ Ford’s Op-Ed piece that appeared in the July 31, 2000, issue of The New York Times, signed at the bottom in blue felt tip, “Gerald R. Ford.” In fine condition, with a couple small corner tip creases. This is one of only ten of this particular type of lithograph created.
Thumbnail 45 Gerald and Betty Ford Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Glossy 8 x 10 photo of the Fords sitting together, signed in blue felt tip by Gerald and Betty Ford. In very fine condition.
Thumbnail 46 James A. Garfield Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Free franked address panel, 5.25 x 3, addressed in another hand to “A. W. Willard, Boston, Box 1377,” and franked in the upper right, “J. A. Garfield, M. C.” Panel also bears a May 12, Washington D.C. postmark. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, some light adhesive remnants, a few stray ink marks, and a pencil notation.
Thumbnail 47 Lucretia Garfield Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Black-bordered free franked envelope, 4.25 x 3.25, with Garfield’s embossed initials on the reverse, addressed in another hand to “Messrs. Tiffany & Co., Union Square, New York City, N.Y.,” and franked along the top, “Lucretia R. Garfield.” Envelope is also postmarked February 23. In very good condition, with repaired tear to top left corner affecting beginning of signature, scattered toning and soiling, and a pencil notation to bottom.
Thumbnail 48 U. S. Grant Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 8.5 x 11, July 29, 1872. President Grant orders the Secretary of State “to affix the Seal of the United States to a Warrant for the conditional pardon of Winn Raymond.” Signed at the conclusion in purple ink by Grant. In very good condition, with a horizontal fold through signature, a couple small edge separations to horizontal folds, some light toning, and a bit of trivial foxing.
Thumbnail 49 U. S. Grant Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Dignified ink signature on an off-white 3.25 x 1.25 card. In fine condition, with a light spot of soiling affecting the first letter of the signature, and mounting remnants on the reverse.
Thumbnail 50 Warren G. Harding Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Check-style receipt in payment for the Marion Weekly Star, 7 x 3.25, in the amount of $2.50 for a two-year subscription, starting January 21, 1896, and ending January 21, 1898, dated July 31, 1891, completely filled out and signed in Harding’s hand, “W. G. Harding.” Several vertical folds, creasing, some light toning and soiling, and brushing to the text and signature, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 51 U. S. Grant Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Original 2.25 x 4 carte-de-visite photo of Grant in uniform, by F. Gutekunst of Philadelphia, signed under the image and lower border in black ink, “U. S. Grant, Lt. Gen. U.S.A.” Missing lower right corner, some light surface loss along top edge, paperclip impression to top, and some scattered light soiling and surface marks, otherwise very good condition. Grant was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General by Abraham Lincoln in March of 1864, a rank to which no US Army officer except George Washington had been promoted before on a permanent basis.
Thumbnail 52 U. S. Grant Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Eye-catching DS, one page, 14 x 17, August 28, 1865. Document bears several vignettes including Abraham Lincoln surrounded by clouds, rays of light, US flags, and six tattered banners, crowned by an eagle with a scroll in its beak. Unissued Soldiers Monument Association membership, signed at the conclusion by Grant as the association’s president, and countersigned by J. C. Smith. Some light feathering to signature, a central horizontal fold, light lines of toning from previous display, and some light creasing and wrinkling, otherwise fine condition. The association is named in honor of Joseph Hamilton Daviess, a Kentucky lawyer, who had volunteered to serve in the Indiana militia in 1811. He was put in command of two companies of dragoons, and all the cavalry in Governor William Henry Harrison’s army, and was mortally wounded on November 6, 1811, in the Battle of Tippecanoe.
Thumbnail 53 Warren G. Harding Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 300.00 - 500.00 Vintage glossy 9.75 x 7.75 photo of a vehicle, with luggage in the rear, in front of Myron D. Kidder, Inc., distributor of cars and trucks, in Portland, Maine, with four men in or around the vehicle, signed in fountain pen as President, “Gratefully yours, Warren G. Harding,” and also signed by “Secretary of War John W. Weeks.” Photo is affixed by its bottom edge to an identical size piece of heavy cardstock. In very good condition, with mild overall rippling, lightly trimmed edges, a few surface marks and creases, and Weeks’s signature light, but legible. In August 1921, President Harding was invited by his Secretary of War John W. Weeks to spend a few days at his summer home in Lancaster, New Hampshire. On August 2, 1921, the presidential yacht Mayflower arrived at Portland, Maine, at 9:30 A.M. After a short speech from the steps of the Portland Municipal Building, President Harding departed by automobile for Lancaster at 11 A.M. This is undoubtedly a photograph of the vehicle carrying President Harding’s luggage to Lancaster.
Thumbnail 54 Benjamin Harrison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Three bank checks, all filled out and signed by Harrison, “Benj. Harrison,” all measuring 7 x 2.75, two from March of 1885, one from September of 1885. In very good condition, with vertical folds to each check, a single cancellation cut to each, and expected stamps.
Thumbnail 55 Benjamin Harrison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 Original 4 x 6.25 cabinet photo by Clark Studio of Indianapolis, signed in the lower border in black ink, “Benj. Harrison.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 7.75 x 10.5. In very good condition, with scattered spotting and foxing to background, light soiling to bottom border, and a small ding to bottom edge.
Thumbnail 56 Caroline Harrison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 Wife of Benjamin Harrison and First Lady from 1889 until her death in 1892 ALS signed “Mrs. Benjamin Harrison,” one page both sides, 4 x 6, Executive Mansion letterhead, June 18. Letter to the Postmaster of Washington, D. C. In full: “By mistake a package for Mr. Alburtus [sic] Shelley was sent to 839 N. 5th St. Washington the correct address being 839 N. 5th St. Philadelphia. Will you kindly make inquiry & have it forwarded & oblige.” In fine condition, with some light soiling to first page and a couple trivial brushes to signature. On May 17, 1891, 19-year-old violinist Albertus Shelley was invited by First Lady Caroline Harrison to perform at the White House. Present were the President and Mrs. Harrison, several members of the Cabinet, and other distinguished guests. Rev. Abraham James Fretz wrote in A Brief History of Bishop Henry Funck… (Elkhart, Indiana: Mennonite Publishing Co., 1899), which included short biographies of descendants of Funck who had come to America in 1719, that ‘Mrs. Harrison presented Shelley with a diamond scarf pin.’ Fretz does not say when the pin was given to Shelley. It is possible that the diamond pin was mailed by Mrs. Harrison to Shelley a few weeks later in the package that mistakenly was sent to an address in Washington instead of the same address in Philadelphia.
Thumbnail 57 William Henry Harrison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 Manuscript DS, signed “Wm. H. Harrison, A. D. C.,” one page, 6.5 x 4, April 13, 1794. As aide-de-campe to Anthony Wayne, Harrison signs off on orders to the commissary to issue two complete rations for a dragoon of the 2nd troop for 2 days beginning the following day. In very good condition, with a central horizontal and vertical fold, scattered light toning, a trimmed bottom edge, and slightly irregular ink adhesion to the signature.
Thumbnail 58 Rutherford B. Hayes Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Partly-printed DS, signed as president, “R. B. Hayes,” one page, 8 x 10, June 6, 1879. Hayes instructs the Secretary of State to affix the United States seal “to a warrant for the pardon of Henry McGinley.” In fine condition, with a light block of toning and pencil notation, both to the top left corner.
Thumbnail 59 William Henry Harrison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 Partly-printed DS, secretarially signed “W. H. Harrison by N.P. Causin Jr Secy,” one page, 16.25 x 10, March 25, 1841. A land grant issued to John Hustis in the Wisconsin Territory for 80 acres. Intersecting folds, small hole along one fold, and some scattered light toning and soiling, otherwise fine condition. The white wafer seal is worn, but intact. Due to the extremely busy schedule of the president and the desire to have the West settled as quickly as possible, the task of signing land grants had been relegated to a senate-approved secretary by an act signed into law by Andrew Jackson. This particular land grant, dated the day before Harrison became sick with the illness that would take his life nine days later, was issued to a prodigious settler who purchased over sixty plots of government land in Wisconsin between 1840 and 1844 and founded Hustisford, Wisconsin. Though Hustis himself received many land grants, those issued during Harrison's thirty-two day presidency are extremely scarce, making this one of the most desirable documents from the shortest presidential administration.
Thumbnail 60 Rutherford B. Hayes Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Neat ink signature on an off-white 3 x .75 slip. In fine condition, with some trivial soiling and trimmed edges.
Thumbnail 61 Herbert Hoover Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 TLS as president, one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, February 21, 1930. Hoover writes to E. J. Murphy, President of the Washington Board of Trade, in full: “Many thanks for your letter of February 20th. I am glad indeed to have the views of your organizations on the subject you mention.” In fine condition, with uniform toning and a bit of dampstaining.
Thumbnail 62 Herbert Hoover Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two items: TLS, one page, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, January 27, 1936. Hoover writes to Fenton Hall, in full: “That was a most helpful bit of information”; and a fountain pen signature on an off-white 3.5 x 2 autograph card. In fine condition, with light toning to the letter. Accompanied by two original mailing envelopes.
Thumbnail 63 Herbert Hoover Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: The Basis of Lasting Peace. First edition. NY: D. Van Nostrand Company, 1945. Hardcover with dustjacket, 5.25 x 7, 44 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page, “To Lucius Boomer, with the good wishes of Herbert Hoover,” and “& Hugh Gibson, April 27th ‘45, Publication Day.” In very good condition, with uniform light toning to signed page and remaining pages, with dustjacket showing scattered soiling and toning, as well as some small tears and creases.
Thumbnail 64 Herbert Hoover Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 300.00 - 500.00 Vintage matte-finish 8.25 x 11.75 Underwood and Underwood bust portrait, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “To H. C. Branch, with the Respects of Herbert Hoover.” Framed to an overall size of 10.25 x 13.25. In fine condition, with a couple light border creases.
Thumbnail 65 Andrew Jackson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 ALS, one page, 8 x 10, September 10, 1817. Letter to James Monroe, addressed in the lower left of the letter “James Munroe [sic] President of the U. States.” In full: “I beg leave to renew the application of Mr. Richard C. Cross for a cadets warrant to enter the military academy at West Point, he is the same young gentleman I introduced to you some time since. There was no vacancy in the academy at that time. Mr. George Graham, then acting Sec of War gave him the promise of the first vacancy; being now advised that there are many vacancies, Mr Cross goes on fully persuaded that he will not be disappointed, relying on the promise made him by the acting Sec of War. Mr Cross is a young man of good chosen stock & respectable parentage and bids(?) to become use full member of the task, for the youth, your attention & fulfillment of the promise of the Sec of War, I hope he may receive his warrant without delay, so that he may proceed to West Point with thy[sic] nephew and ward, Cadet A.J. Donelson and E. Button, whom I have charged to wait upon & pay their respects to you as they pass treaty.” Integral leaf is addressed in Jackson’s hand to “James Munroe [sic] President of the United States, City of Washington.” Letter and panel have been heavily professionally cleaned, silked, and de-acidified. In very good condition, with a few small areas of paper loss to letter, paper loss to address panel from wax seal, previous intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, and some scattered light toning. Jackson’s letter in support of fellow Tennessee native Cross gained the young man admission at West Point in 1817. Graham, Monroe’s secretary of war, was instrumental in founding the prestigious military academy. A few months after writing this letter, Monroe would order Jackson to lead a campaign against the Seminole and Creek Indians, which ultimately resulted in Spain ceding Florida to the United States. His adopted son Donelson would serve under him until after the close of the Florida campaign. A rare letter to the president from Old Hickory.
Thumbnail 66 Andrew Jackson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 15.5 x 10, June 1, 1831. President Jackson grants 80 acres of land in Lawrence County, Indiana, to Ralph Lowder. Signed at the conclusion by Jackson, and countersigned by Commissioner of the General Land Office Elijah Hayward. In very good condition, with intersecting storage folds, one through a single letter of signature, and some scattered toning and creasing. The white seal is worn, but intact, and Jackson’s signature measures an impressive 6? long.
Thumbnail 67 Andrew Jackson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 ALS, one page, 7.5 x 11.5, February 23, 1820. Letter to General John Coffee. In part: “I have recd a letter from Mr. James Jackson advising me that you had been very much indisposed but had recovered your health, you must be more carefull than heretofore, your constitution, much like mine…exposure - we must content ourselves with things as they are, wind up our worldly concerns, & take care of our health. I have heard nothing from Congress…the Misouri question has occupied all their attention, of late, at length is determined in the Senate by a great majority against the instructions. Congress may soon begin to do something for the national benefit, as yet they have done nothing, but spend the public money in useless debate. In passing from Franklin court I called at Judge Overtons, when he presented me with the enclosed papers & a warrant to transfer. as these papers may be of use to you I enclose them, that you may either file or destroy them.” At the bottom, Jackson adds a brief postscript, “P.S. I have endeavored to see Joe Smith but as yet am disappointed. Mr. Washington has not returned. A. J.” Reverse of second integral page bears an address panel in another hand and is docketed by Coffee, "The enclosed business has all been settled long since and the parties concerned all satisfied.” Double suede matted and framed to an overall size of 20.5 x 17. In good condition, with partial separations along intersecting mailing folds (affecting legibility of portions of a couple lines of text), scattered areas of paper loss along folds (affecting a few words of text and portion of signature), some small areas of ink erosion, scattered tape toning, old cellophane tape repairs to second page, a couple areas of paper loss from wax seal, and a couple pencil notations. Jackson expresses disdain for the protracted congressional negotiations that would result in the Missouri Compromise, an agreement between pro- and anti-slavery lawmakers limiting the expansion of slavery in new states admitted to the Union. The agreement admitted Missouri as a slave state and Maine as free, but would exacerbate the growing North-South tensions that led to the Civil War. Both Coffee and Jackson owned slaves, and as president from 1829 to 1837, Jackson showed no interest in abolishing or reforming the peculiar institution. John Coffee (1772-1833) was a fellow Tennessean who became Jackson's business partner, military associate, confidant, adviser, and fearless friend. Coffee served under Jackson during the Creek War, during which he was promoted to brigadier general, and at the Battle of New Orleans. When Jackson wrote this letter, Coffee was serving as surveyor general of public lands in Alabama. Jackson alludes to his own frequently poor health; on at least one occasion during his presidency, his family questioned whether he would survive a bout of illness. Jackson also mentions John Overton, a Tennessee judge and friend who later became an important advisor to Jackson as president. An exceptionally frank letter in which the future president airs his views on the most contentious issue in nineteenth century American politics.
Thumbnail 68 Andrew Jackson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 Partly printed DS, in Latin, one page on vellum, 18 x 17, October 5, 1842. A diploma from the University of Nashville granting the degree of Bachelor of Arts to John Wharton Williams. Jackson has signed in full at the head of a list of several trustees; among the other prominent signers are John Bell (secretary of war under Harrison and Tyler and unsuccessful presidential candidate in the 1860 election), congressman John Trimble, university president Philip Lindsley, and Nashville founder Francis Fogg, among others. The silk and paper seal, though worn, remains intact at center. Scattered wrinkles (mainly to blank margins), a few small spots, and subtly irregular ink adhesion, otherwise fine condition. Jackson’s signature is quite large and bold. Vanderbilt University later acquired the medical school and other departments of the University of Nashville. The only such example of Jackson’s involvement with the university we have seen, boasting a grandiose signature.
Thumbnail 69 Andrew Jackson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Partly-printed DS as president, two pages, 11.25 x 14.5, March 18, 1834. A patent issued to Isaac Robinson, who “hath alleged that he has invented a new and useful improvement in the mode of Softening Hides and Skins for Tanning & Dressing which improvement he states has not been known or used before his application…These are therefore to grant, according to law, to the said Isaac Robinson his heirs, administrators or assigns, for the term of fourteen years, from the eighteenth day of March one thousand eight hundred and thirty four the full and exclusive right and liberty of making, constructing, using and vending to others to be used, the said improvement; a description whereof is given in the words of the said Isaac Robinson himself, in the schedule hereto annexed.” Second page bears a lengthy detailed description of the improvement, written and signed by Robinson. In good condition, with trimmed top edge to first page, intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, small hole along fold of both pages, scattered creasing, toning, and soiling, most of Jackson’s large signature and handwritten text on first page a shade light, some of Robinson’s writing light, but legible, binding holes to left edges. The white wafer seal is worn and toned, but intact. The “new and useful improvement in the mode of Softening Hides and Skins for Tanning & Dressing” included a solution comprised of potash, lime, salt, salt peter, and muriatric acid, in which hides and skins were submerged. While Jackson was signing this innovative document, he was simultaneously thrust into the spotlight when the Senate launched a proposed censure upon the president for refusal to turn over his cabinet’s documents. Just three years earlier, Jackson made a move to dismantle the Bank of the United States; in 1831, he vetoed the Senate’s renewal of the bank’s charter, and the subsequent meeting with his cabinet produced the classified documents the Senate now demanded. On March 28th, after 10 days of deliberation in Congress, Jackson became the first president to be publicly and officially censured. A truly pinnacle day in history, on all accounts!
Thumbnail 70 Thomas Jefferson and James Madison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 5,000.00 - 6,000.00 Partly printed DS, signed “Th: Jefferson” as president and “James Madison” as secretary of state, one page on vellum, 12 x 15.5, May 29, 1801. A grant for a 1000-acre parcel of land, issued to Holt Richeson, “a Lieutenant Colonel for three years,” under the provisions of “An Act to enable the Officers and Soldiers of the Virginia Line on Continental Establishment.” Signed at the conclusion by Jefferson and countersigned by James Madison. Matted and framed with portraits of Jefferson and Madison to an overall size of 33.5 x 23.5. Previous storage folds, scattered wrinkling and soiling, light mirroring of text, and a worn but intact seal, otherwise very good condition. Colonel W. Holt Richeson served in the Revolutionary War, and was given grants of land in Ohio and Kentucky. A very desirable presidential combination. Oversized.
Thumbnail 71 Thomas Jefferson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 10,000.00 - 15,000.00 Revolutionary War-dated ALS signed “Th: Jefferson,” one page, 7.5 x 5.5, August 14, 1780. In full: “Your regiment having now received their pay & equipments for marching are put under General Muhlenberg’s direction by an order of this day: so that they will be considered as in continental service from this time. From him therefore you will be pleased to receive your future orders.” Double suede matted and framed with a color portrait of Jefferson to an overall size of 17.25 x 25.5. In good condition, with letter affixed to an identical sized sheet, repaired intersecting folds, moderate to heavy toning and soiling, a bit darker under signature, a few small areas of paper loss and scattered creases. In August of 1780, Jefferson was in an unenviable position as the governor of Virginia. The British had completely overrun Georgia and South Carolina and were making their way north. The Viriginia Line had been sent to defend the deep south and sustained a crushing defeat at the Seige of Charlestown in mid-May and was further decimated at the Battle of Waxhaws at the end of the month. This left the defense of the Old Dominion to whatever local militias could be mustered. In this letter, Jefferson assigns a regiment to the command of General Peter "Devil Pete" Muhlenberg, who had seen significant action in the battles of Brandywine, Monmouth, and Germantown. When this letter was written in 1780, Muhlenberg was commanding the Virginia militia units. In September, the British would defeat Gates at Camden and a month later stage a full-scale invasion of Virginia with Muhlenberg and his troops providing the only defense. Jefferson letters from this time period are seldom encountered. Oversized.
Thumbnail 73 Andrew Johnson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Neat and clean ink signature on an off-white 3.75 x 1 lightly-lined slip clipped from a larger document. In very good condition, with show-through from previous mounting adhesive, and trimmed edges.
Thumbnail 74 Lyndon B. Johnson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS signed “Lyndon,” one page, 8 x 10.5, Congress of the United States, House of Representatives letterhead, September 20, 1943. As a representative of Texas’s 10th District, Johnson writes to J. B. Mathis of Austin, Texas, in part: “While I would like nothing better than to be of assistance to your son, and I deeply sympathize with his desire to serve overseas and in a commissioned capacity, there is very little that a Congressman can do in a matter of this kind. The Army and Navy feel their efficient operation depends on placing personnel where vacancies occur and where men are needed most at a particular time. I shall be more than glad to contact the Adjutant General in behalf of your son, but I feel I should tell you that such action is sometimes more harmful than helpful to the boy. Under the circumstances, if you feel there is anything I can do, I will appreciate hearing from you further, and of course will take any action you suggest,” adding a brief, handwritten note below, “Jimmie—I’m mighty afraid to intervene but will do anything you say—I just don’t want to hurt our boy.” In fine condition, with scattered creasing. Accompanied by four letters and two mailing envelopes of correspondence concerning the friend’s request. A desirable letter, featuring crisply-penned, concerned sentiments from Johnson while the nation’s military forces were being battered in the invasion of Italy.
Thumbnail 75 Jacqueline Kennedy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Glossy 8 x 10 photo of a young Jackie in a black dress and pearls, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition, with a couple small spots of light staining inherent to the original photo, including a bit under signature.
Thumbnail 76 Jacqueline Kennedy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 TLS signed “Jacqueline Onassis,” one page, 8.5 x 11, Doubleday letterhead, April 23, 1981. Letter to an aspiring author. In full: “Your notebook on le hameau de Marie Antoinette is enchanting. You have done so much marvellous research. The trouble is that such a book would be enormously expensive to do. One would need the co-operation of Versailles, a photographer to take exciting new photographs, etc. And then Doubleday doesn’t feel that there would be a large enough audience to justify the expense of such a book. As you perhaps know, beautifully illustrated books are the first casualties in this very difficult time in the publishing business, when everyone is retrenching. It could be a marvelous book and I hope you can make it happen at a house that would welcome it. Why don’t you try Rizzoli or Harry Abrams? They do books like that much more than Doubleday does. Thank you for sending it to me and for the great pleasure I had in reading your proposal. I wish you the very best of luck.” In fine condition, with a bit of light edge toning and creasing.
Thumbnail 77 Jacqueline Kennedy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 2,000.00 Unusually lengthy ALS signed “Jackie,” fourteen pages on five sets of adjoined sheets, 5.25 x 6.75, Hammersmith Farm letterhead, no date. Letter to her close girlfriend, Woodley. In full: "I'm back in school now and this is the first chance I've had to answer your letter, I've been dying to — for it will make me think of summer all over again & I miss it so — At John Sterling's cocktail party the other day I talked to Nicky King about you — He said Bayard had gotten a letter from you & that you were fine but that your house was damaged & it was very hard as you had to start from scratch & it was just like living in war time England — You never tell me things like that Woodley — You are the most uncomplaining person I've ever seen — I hope it isn't too awful — I'll send you anything you want — That's the most exciting thing I've ever heard of in my life — Bayard giving you that watch — & then you ask me if I think he likes you — not much — Just enough to spend $100's of dollars on you! I know he likes you for since you went away I’ve never seen him with any other girl except dancing & he never seemed to be rushing anyone — & don't worry about Diana Lanier — She goes around With Nicky & some decrepit Navy officers You really have a devout follower in Henry Ripley — He said to me at the beach one day — Last year Woodley just used to go around with you (me) & Tanya but this year Bayard & I & Bob Ohst & Danny someone & Turk all miss her terribly & he said how much all the debs — Bunny & Sylvia etc liked you — (That was sweet of Bunny to give you those sweaters) & he said Newport wasn't the same without you & how he saw you off on the bus or something. I just read your letter over & looked at the picture of the watch — It’s the most beautiful thing I've ever seen Woodley — You're a born artist — I'd rather have that than an engagement ring. You must come back next summer — Do you think the Domingues' will — I know in a few years Bayard will want to settle down — The reason those boys don’t marry now is because they don't want to be tied down before they've had a chance to make a good start in the world — in business — & it's always surer to last if they sow their wild oats first — But you & Bayard are so perfect together — He's just the kind of man I've always thought you would marry — & you have so much fun together & so much in common — I know it would work — so just stay in there pitching & soon I expect to be your bridesmaid — You also have Yusha as an admirer — He told me that he had long talks with you before you left & how interesting you were & that you were the only girl in Newport that he really felt he could trust — & it was such a wonderful thing to find that he always wanted to be with you — I know he wrote you a letter — Do write him back — though he probably wont be able to answer too soon as he's laden with work at Groton — If you come back next summer he'll be waiting with open arms as I think Tanya is but a thing of the moment — He likes to analyze her & see what makes her tick — but he doesn't have much respect for her. Now I'm going to tell you what I've been longing to all thru this letter. At the end of the summer — after you left & I got back from Hot Springs — Buddy started giving me a vague rush — & John Sterling too — Buddy took me home from the Sates dance as I wasn't allowed to go to the beach dance. I couldn't think of much to say to him though — Then a week or so later I went to the movies with him & John — Buddy did most of the talking — but it was fun as he & John were sort of stooges for each others jokes & me in the middle — & we laughed the whole time — Then alot of the girls went away & the last Thursday nite beach dance some people decided to have at the last minute — Buddy & John took me & first we went to Buddy's house for cocktails — The other girls were Betty Corbin, Diana Lanier, Nancy Andrews & scads of Navy I wasn't very scared!!! In the middle Mrs Corbin came flying in & said ‘Jackie you shouldnt be in here with all these old drunks — Come out on the porch with me’ — But Buddy wouldnt let me go & he & John were very attentive & it was fun — Then dinner at the M.K. Betty & Diana's dinner — Then the dance — It was bliss — Buddy danced with me every second & John quite a lot — Buddy & I had a heavenly long talk outside — But just about N.Y. & niteclubs & people there — which I've decided is as serious as he can get — John gave me his Brooks ring — but it was when Buddy & I were sitting outside & he came over & sort of put his arm around me & starting talking quietly & gave it to me — So it wasn't very serious — They drove me home & I think Buddy was a little tipsy for he had his arm around me & leaned awfully close & sort of talked & if I'd turned around to look at him we would have been practically kissing each other — But @X!!*! — whenever something exciting like that happens John is always there — & when it happens with John — Buddy's there — we went to the movies a couple of more times — the 3 of us & sometimes Steven Spencer — whose really awfully sweet came. Once the 3 of us went sailing & it was heavenly — Then 1 nite we went to Marie Hill's picnic which we ate sprawled all over her house & people played the piano & sang old songs & we toasted marshmallows on matches — It was the most fun I've had all summer — John brought Edie Sate bc I'd told Buddy I'd go with him, but she wanted to go home early & John didn't so she left with a Navy guy — They were both sweet — It was really good clean fun for Newport — People vaguely rough-housed & they carried me around on their shoulders & Julie Dirks stood on her head & Nancy Andrews did acrobatics — Oh boy The next day Alison Kelsey came down for the weekend to stay with Buddy @X!!*! Damn! She couldn't be sweeter I don't know how deep she is but she seemed to have a lot of sense & was so nice to me — I couldnt like her more — She & Bev & John & I & Steven went to the movies — Then John & Buddy had to go back to Harvard Sun. but they came back & I went out with them Mon. & Tues. nites — but nothing much happened — Buddy said he'd take me out at Xmas & once John said something about a Harvard dance but I'm sure he's forgotten — I don't think they'll write me but that doesn't keep me from hoping like mad! I don't like Buddy as much as I did — He's pretty shallow but has a lot of sweetness — & I love to talk to John & he's a wonderful person but there's no physical attraction — so I'm in love with no one which is much more comfortable! I must go now — this was all at the expense of U.S. History but to H___ with that — Write back soon Woodley — It's the queerest feeling having you miles away across an ocean & not just at Dana Hall — but I won't let myself be morbid about it as I know & hope & pray that you'll be at Newport next summer — You know what a wonderful friend I think you are & I always will & I'll miss you terribly all winter All my love.” In fine condition, with some scattered mild toning. Jackie penned this letter when she was in her teens and a student at Miss Porter’s School in Farmington, Connecticut. Its likely recipient was Jessica Leigh-Hunt Wood, or Jessie Wood, a friend from Newport, Rhode Island and later classmate at Vassar. Jackie wrote it from her childhood home, Hammersmith Farm in Newport, where the Kennedys would hold their wedding reception. During his presidency, Kennedy spent so much time at Hammersmith Farm that it was called the “Summer White House.” In the letter, Jackie mentions multiple friends and acquaintances, including her stepbrother Yusha (Hugh Auchincloss). Jackie had a number of beaus in her teens, but the flirtation never went beyond a chaste kiss. Speaking of Jackie’s letters to Woodley, Caroline Kennedy said, “In a life that was scrutinized so carefully, she considered her letters to be the one place where she could express herself freely, and in confidence." A chatty and unguarded letter providing a rare glimpse into the formative years of the future first lady.
Thumbnail 78 John F. Kennedy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,500.00 - 3,000.00 Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 19.25 x 15.25, May 12, 1962. Kennedy appoints Dr. Walter Johnson of Illinois “a Member of the United States Advisory Commission on International Education and Cultural Affairs.” Nicely signed at the conclusion in black ink by Kennedy, and countersigned by Secretary of State Dean Rusk. Double matted to an overall size of 24 x 20. In fine condition, with a uniform shade of overall mild toning. The embossed paper seal remains impressively intact at lower left. Johnson was an historian and progressive politician who got his start in national politics making stump speeches for Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1940. As a member of the commission, he authored a study on the progress of difficulties incurred in some countries, which earned him widespread recognition. On the day of this appointment, JFK also ordered US military forces to Thailand in preparation for a possible attack from Laos during the Vietnam War. A scarce modern presidential document. Oversized.
Thumbnail 79 John F. Kennedy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Very early TLS, one page, 8 x 10.25, Congress of the United States letterhead, October 29, 1947. Letter of thanks to a Boston couple. In full: “Thank you very much for your card. I am down at the Cape and getting along fine. I should be back in Boston in a couple of weeks and am looking forward to seeing you at that time.” In fine condition, with several extra horizontal folds, and some scattered light creases. A month before this letter, Kennedy had been diagnosed with Addison’s disease at the London Clinic. Kennedy also suffered from chronic back pain for many years, however details of Kennedy’s medical problems were not disclosed to the public during his lifetime.
Thumbnail 80 John F. Kennedy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 10.25, Congress of the United States letterhead, May 11, 1950. Letter to a constituent regarding his reassignment in the Veterans Administration. In part: “Reference is again made to the appeal you made to the Regional Office…relative to your recent reassignment in the Veterans Administration. I am enclosing, herewith, a copy of the letter I have received from Mr. William A. Foley, Regional Director…which is, I believe, self-explanatory…In the event you decide to appeal the decision further, and will advise me to that effect, I shall be happy to contact the proper authorities again on your behalf.” In very good condition, with paperclip impression to top edge, block of toning over upper portion of text, and a horizontal fold through signature. Accompanied by a carbon of Foley’s letter to Kennedy, as well as the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 81 John F. Kennedy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 DS as president, signed “John Kennedy,” one page, trimmed in size to 15.25 x 11.75 and mounted to a heavy stock board, May 12, 1962. Kennedy appoints a US representative to a meeting in Europe. In part: “Reposing special trust and confidence in the Integrity and Ability of Walter M. Kotschnig, of Maryland, I have nominated, and…do appoint him the Representative of the United States of America to the Seventeenth Plenary Session of the Economic Commission for Europe of the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, and do authorize and empower him to execute and fulfill the duties of this commission, according to law, with all the powers and privileges thereunto of right appertaining, during the pleasure of the President of the United States.” Double-matted and framed, with a color portrait of a pensive image of President Kennedy, with eyes downcast and arms folded, to an overall size of 32 x 20.5. Trimming and mounting as noted, otherwise fine, clean condition. JFK’s signature is bold and pristine. The Economic Commission for Europe met in Geneva from April 24 to May 10, 1962. Interestingly, although Kotschnig’s appointment had been announced in April—and he in fact attended the session as an American representative—the appointment could not be made official until confirmed by the US Senate in May...after the meeting had already concluded. A State Department official for years, Kotschnig served as delegate, adviser, secretary, or head of many US delegations to world meetings from the Truman through Nixon administrations, retiring in 1971 as a Deputy Assistant Secretary of State. This particular appointment was one of many Kotschnig received, having served as the deputy US delegate at the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations from its seventh to its fiftieth session. Appointments from JFK, especially for such an esteemed statesman, are very seldom seen. Oversized.
Thumbnail 82 John F. Kennedy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 9,000.00 - 10,000.00 Notated typed speech, with numerous cross-outs and over 50 words penciled in Kennedy’s hand, as well as a quick sketch of a boat, 13 pages, with 12 pages measuring 8 x 10.5, and page 3 being a sheet of 8.5 x 13.25 manila paper. Speech is titled at the top “Remarks of Senator John F. Kennedy (Dem. –Mass.) Women’s Democratic Club Luncheon – Washington, D.C., Thursday Afternoon, March 13, 1958.” Atop the typed title, Kennedy has handwritten approximately 23 words, his opening remarks, probably humorous, prior to his speech. Some of his words seem to be “as an impromptu…influence…husbands are,” “for him one who knew him well,” “most,” and “Two monkeys” which may refer to Dr. Wernher von Braun’s March 2, 1958, interview which was headlined in some newspapers. Some of Kennedy’s notations are as follows: On page 1, after saying, “But let us not take victory for granted,” JFK crossed out “I do not say that it will be easy. It will come to us only if we deserve it.” Kennedy handwrites in the left margin: “I think the prospects are excellent” On page 5, Kennedy says “When an administration lets fall the reins of leadership, they must be firmly held by Congress—today a Democratic Congress. We must exercise that leadership.” He then adds in pencil: “and we must do it now on a whole variety of fronts—at home and abroad.” Kennedy had crossed out the remaining four lines on this page and the top 13 lines of the next page. Following his handwritten addition to page 5, he’s drawn horizontal lines above and below this next typed paragraph: “And above all, in the words of Justice Holmes, whether we sail with the wind or against the wind, let us set sail—and not drift or lie at anchor.” JFK adds in pencil: “Therein lies our responsibility and our opportunity.” On the verso of page 13, Kennedy has sketched a dory boat and a small doodle around the number “1” listing two numbered names. Kennedy has also crossed out large portions of three of the pages. In very good condition, with rusty paperclip marks to first page, scattered toning, edge chips to manila sheet, and expected handling wear. On Thursday afternoon, March 13, 1958, Senator John F. Kennedy, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, delivered an important economic and foreign policy address at a luncheon of the Women’s Democratic Club in Washington, D.C. Six days earlier, Kennedy spoke at the Jefferson-Jackson Day Dinner in Bristol, Virginia which served as a preview of his March 13 address. As early as 1956, Kennedy had his eye on the presidency, which he had discussed with his father, Joe. After a failed bid for the vice-presidency, he returned to the Senate ready to make a presidential run in 1960. To secure his position, he parlayed his strength in foreign affairs into an appointment to the prestigious and powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee edging out the former vice presidential nominee Estes Kefauver, a more experienced politician, with the support of Senate majority leader Lyndon B. Johnson. By 1958, he had become so popular that no Republican challenged him in his reelection to the Senate. This 1958 speech squarely outlined the need for leadership and need for the Democratic House and Senate to come together to solve the recession at home and neutralize the Soviet threat abroad, showcasing the senator as a potential candidate for 1960 by pointing out the Republicans lack of leadership and ideas. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library has what appears to be the exact 13-page typescript of this speech as this one except that page 3 is on the same paper as the other 12 pages. The Kennedy Library’s copy, however, does not include any corrections or handwritten additions, so the one here offered is a later, possibly final, draft.
Thumbnail 83 John F. Kennedy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 2,500.00 TLS as president, one page, 6.75 x 8.75, White House letterhead, July 27, 1962. Letter to Captain Horace G. Brown. In full: “Thanks so much for sending me Marion’s personal copy of ‘Selections from the Writings and Speeches of William Randolph Hearst,’ along with the yearbook from UCLA’s School of Medicine and the photographs of the nearly completed Children’s Clinic to be dedicated in her honor. I am grateful, too, for your more than kind offer to use either of your two lovely homes on a future visit to California.” In very good condition, with central horizontal fold, and show-through from vertical toning on reverse from once being housed in a magnetic photo album. Actress Marion Davies married former naval officer and stuntman Captain Horace G. Brown, a longtime friend, in Las Vegas on October 31, 1951, eleven weeks after newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst had died. Davies, Hearst's paramour since 1918, inherited 51% of the publisher's fortune, including the 1011 North Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills property, the address to which President Kennedy sent this letter. JFK’s father had rented the former Hearst mansion two years earlier to house his sons’ families during the July 1960 Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles. The property also gained fame in Hollywood history as the estate of the uncooperative Hollywood producer Jack Woltz and his unfortunate prized racehorse in the film classic, The Godfather.
Thumbnail 84 Abraham Lincoln Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 10,000.00 - 12,000.00 Highly desirable Springfield Marine and Fire Insurance Company check, 7 x 2, filled out and signed by Lincoln, “A. Lincoln,” payable to Eli Kreigh for $3.70, February 4, 1860. An unobtrusive cancellation cut above the signature, and slightly affecting a couple letters of the signature, with a couple old spots of adhesive to reverse to prevent any further separation, some scattered light toning, and a punch hole to left side, otherwise fine condition. Eli Kreigh was a store-owner in Springfield, Illinois, from whom the Lincolns—like their neighbors—purchased various wares. A few weeks after writing this specific check for a purchase, Lincoln left the Midwest for New York City, where he would deliver one of the most important addresses of his life—the Cooper Union speech—elaborating his views on slavery. Many historians maintain the presentation was responsible for making him president. This $3.70 acquisition was one of many made by the family, purchases that include a stove with which Mary Todd Lincoln was so enamored she sought to take it with the family to Washington, D.C.—an idea eventually quashed by her husband. A desirable Lincoln check written as he was about to dispel any doubts about his suitability for the presidency.
Thumbnail 85 Abraham Lincoln Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 10,000.00 - 12,000.00 Partly-printed war-dated DS as president, one page, 7.75 x 9.75, September 5, 1863. Lincoln calls out Ohio men for military service. In full, “I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States of America, and Commander-in-chief of the Army and Navy thereof, having taken into consideration the number of volunteers and militia furnished by and from the several States, including the State of Ohio, and the period of service of said volunteers and militia since the commencement of the present rebellion, in order to equalize the numbers among the Districts of said States, and having considered and allowed for the number already furnished as aforesaid, and the time of their service aforesaid, do hereby assign Eight Hundred and Nine as the first proportional part of the quota of troops to be furnished by the First District of the State of Ohio under this, the first call made by me on the State of Ohio, under the act approved March 3, 1863, entitled ‘An Act for Enrolling and calling out the National Forces, and for other purposes,’ and in pursuance of the act aforesaid, I order that a draft be made in the said First District of the State of Ohio, for the number of men herein assigned to said District, and fifty percent in addition.” Some light rubbing to bottom blank area from erased notations, and a mild block of toning from previous display, otherwise fine, clean condition. The concept of conscription was controversial in the war-torn Union, with the Conscription Act requiring states to draft men to serve in the armed forces if individual states did not meet their enlistment quotas through volunteers. In June of 1863, nearly 1000 locals of Holmes County, Ohio, gathered to protest the act. Rallying around a fort consisting of four artillery pieces, the agitators engaged in a brief exchange with officials in an attempt to prevent enforcement of the draft, but after facing a mass of 420 Union troops sent to dismantle the offense, the agitators quickly fizzled away, the result of which earned the rebellion the title of, “Fort Fizzle.” Only one man was actually brought to trial and sentenced, and Lincoln pardoned him before his term was served. An exceptionally desirable and clean draft order, bearing a pristine signature.
Thumbnail 86 Abraham Lincoln Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 5,000.00 - 6,000.00 War-dated handwritten endorsement, signed “A. Lincoln,” dated March 4, 1863, on the reverse of the second page of a letter to Senator John C. Ten Eyck from Joseph Jackson. Jackson writes, in full: “The enclosed communication explains itself. May I ask the favor of your attention to the case. Secretary Stanton has said that he would probably fill the commission as desired by the Maj. General commanding the Corps. Gen Meade has assured me he will apply for no other person, and Hon. Truman Smith, who recently saw Mr. Stanton, told me that there was no doubt but that it would be given to me. I have been at considerable expense keeping my horses and servants in town for a month, and the earlier my appointment is made the more gratifying it would be. Maj. Gen. Meade has already been confirmed by the Senate, and I see no impediment to my appointment as he told me that he would yesterday make the application for his Staff officers. It was my desire to call and pay my respects to you instead of advising you by mail, but I am quite indisposed and leave for home to-day. Any communication addressed to Newark, New Jersey will reach me.” Endorsed on the reverse of the second integral page, “Submitted to the Secretary of War. A. Lincoln.” Nicely cloth matted and framed with the front of the letter, a copy of the reverse of the first page of letter, and a small plaque, to an overall size of 37.5 x 18.5. Several fingerprint brushes to endorsement and signature, complete separation along a horizontal fold to both pages, scattered toning and soiling, and a period replacement to a small area of paper loss to lower left of endorsed page, otherwise very good condition. Accompanied by a photocopy of a conservation treatment report from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library. Jackson, an attorney practicing in New York City, was commissioned a second lieutenant in the 1st New Jersey Volunteer Infantry in 1861. He would serve as Major General Philip Kearny’s aide-de-camp until Kearny was killed at the Battle of Chantilly in 1862. In December of that year, Jackson was promoted to lieutenant colonel, which he declined. He wrote this letter in March 1863 to Senator Ten Eyck regarding his appointment as Commissioner of Navy Credits. Jackson received brevet promotion to brigadier general at the close of the Civil War. The day before this letter was written, Congress passed the Enrollment Act to provide fresh manpower for the Union army, which would spark infamous draft riots. A fine war-dated Lincoln letter mentioning major figures in the conflict.
Thumbnail 87 Abraham Lincoln Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 6,500.00 - 7,000.00 War-dated partly-printed vellum DS as president, one page, 13.75 x 17.5, July 30, 1862. Lincoln appoints Isaac K. Casey an “Additional Aide de Camp with the rank of Captain.” Signed at the conclusion in ink, “Abraham Lincoln,” and countersigned by Secretary of War, Edwin Stanton. In very good to fine condition, with a few small holes along intersecting folds, a horizontal fold through Lincoln’s signature, some light wrinkling and creasing, and handwritten portions of the document light, but mostly legible. The distinctive blue seal remains crisp and intact. Captain Casey was assigned to serve under 78-year-old Major General John E. Wool, who held the distinction of being the oldest general in the Civil War—Union or Confederate. Casey spent more than four years in service, participating in the Second Battle of Bull Run as well as the battles of South Mountain, Antietam, and Fredericksburg. He eventually rose to the rank of colonel before leaving the army in 1866. Casey’s 1867 funeral address was delivered by the Rev. P.D. Gurley—the same minister who delivered Lincoln’s funeral oration in the White House two years earlier.
Thumbnail 88 Abraham Lincoln Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,500.00 - 3,000.00 Crisp ink signature, “A. Lincoln,” on an off-white 1.25 x .5 vertically lined slip. Matted to an overall size of 3.5 x 2.5. Uniform mild toning, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 90 James Madison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 LS, as secretary of state, one page, 7.25 x 9, July 12, 1805. A printed “Circular to the Consuls and Commercial Agents of the United States" instructing them to cease the issuance of old certificates issued to Americans purchasing foreign vessels. In full: “The multiplied abuses of the certificates which the Consuls of the United States were, by the instructions of the 1st August, 1801, authorized to give in the case of foreign vessels, purchased by a citizen of the United States, notwithstanding the precautions taken against them, have led to the conclusion, that a discontinuance of the certificates altogether, is the only effectual remedy. You will therefore forbear to grant any certificate whatever relative to such purchases, except to those who may satisfy you that the purchase was made without knowing this alteration in your instructions. Accordingly you will publicly advertise, that you are restrained from issuing certificates in such cases, with the sole exception just mentioned; and also from allowing the exception itself, after the expiration of two months from the date of the advertisement. To the commercial Agents in France new commissions, accommodated to the existing from of government therein, are enclosed herewith.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 12.25 x 14. In very good condition, with a tear to right edge, as well as three smaller tears along right edge. In 1805, Madison was serving as Jefferson’s secretary of state. In that role, he wrote this letter regarding the issuance of certificates to Americans purchasing foreign vessels with the purpose of distinguishing between American and foreign property. The decision to repudiate the old policy likely related to the naval crisis which erupted between the U.S. and Britain in the summer of 1805. American neutrality had been tested since the resumption of conflict between Great Britain and France in 1803, and came to a head in 1805 when Lord Nelson defeated the French fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar. Great Britain thus ruled the waves, and reinterpreted its Rule of 1756, a policy to restrict trade with neutrals during wartime. A new interpretation was set forth in the Essex Decision to permit capture of neutral American vessels trading with France and her colonies. Madison wrote a 204-page tract railing against the Rule of 1756, arguing that the policy had no legal foundation, but to no avail. Britain began a blockade of French ports and seized American merchant vessels, ignoring their neutrality claims. These hostile acts would hasten the War of 1812, a conflict that would dominate Madison’s presidency. An exceptional document from Madison’s tenure as secretary of state.
Thumbnail 92 William McKinley Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS signed “W. McKinley,” one page, 5.5 x 8.25, personal letterhead, June 29, 1896. In a letter to G. W. Guinn of West Virginia, McKinley writes, in full: “I beg that you extend to the members of your organization, my thanks for their congratulatory message sent through you.” In fine condition, with a horizontal fold passing through a single letter of the signature, a few trivial spots of soiling, and a trimmed bottom edge.
Thumbnail 93 James Monroe Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 15.75 x 9.5, August 26, 1823. President Monroe grants James Dinsmore 80 acres of land in Ohio. Signed at the conclusion by Monroe and countersigned by Commissioner of the General Land Office George Graham. Intersecting folds, scattered toning, heavier along folds and edges, light wrinkling, and some written portions a few shades light, otherwise very good condition. The paper seal is worn and faded, but intact.
Thumbnail 94 James Monroe and John Quincy Adams Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 2,500.00 Partly-printed vellum DS, signed “James Monroe” as president and “John Quincy Adams” as secretary of state, one page, 10 x 15, May 8, 1821. Scalloped-top ship’s pass issued to the “Brig Nancy of New York David Matthews master or commander of the burthen of one hundred Eighty six 50/95 tons or thereabouts mounted with no guns navigated with Nine men To Pass with her Company Passengers Goods and Merchandize without any hinderance seisure or molestation the said Brig appearing by good testimony to belong to one or more of the Citizens of the United States and to him or them only.” Reverse bears two handwritten endorsements signed by Deputy Collector John Kearny: “District & Port of New York Novr 1st 1821. I Certify that the within Vessel mounts Two Guns. Jno Kearny DColl” and “District & Port of New York Decr 21st 1822. I Certify that the within named Brig is navigated with Eleven men & Mounts Four Guns. Jno Kearny DC.” An advertisement from the September 18, 1826, edition of the Connecticut Courant [photocopy present] notes that S. & W. Kellogg are selling “100 Hhds Jamaica Rum” and “1,000 Lb. Old Copper. Landing from Brig Nancy.” This would indicate that the Nancy was doing business in the Caribbean. Intersecting folds, one through a single letter of Monroe’s signature, scattered creases and wrinkles, handwritten portions of document light, but legible, scattered toning and moderate soiling, and rippling to lower portion, otherwise very good condition. The large paper seal is lightly worn and toned, but intact. Following the defeat of the British at the end of the War of 1812, America turned its sights towards protecting its trade from pirates. Serving as both secretary of state and secretary of war under Madison, Monroe was instrumental in shifting this focus and successfully winning the Second Barbary War, ending American exposure to piracy in the Mediterranean. As president, he continued fighting to protect American merchant ships from pirates, this time in the West Indies. Monroe and Adams signed this document authorizing the Brig Nancy to utilize and sail from American ports. Illustrating the danger of piracy during this time and in response to the recent killing of crews and burning of ships by pirates, the addition of two and then four cannons to the ship before it sailed to the Caribbean makes it clear that American merchants were no longer willing to allow themselves to be the victims of pirate attacks. To further protect American shipping interests Monroe passed an 1820 act to allow the Navy to protect its merchant marine and by 1821, six U.S. Navy ships were also assigned to anti-piracy operations in the West Indies followed by the December 22, 1822 bill which sanctioned the construction of additional vessels to eradicate piracy, strengthening the protection of the citizens and commerce of the United States in the Gulf of Mexico' while signaling the demise of piracy in the Caribbean.
Thumbnail 95 William McKinley Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Original 4.25 x 6.5 composite cabinet photo of William and Ida McKinley and their home, by Courtney Studios of Canton, Ohio, signed in black ink, “With cordial regards, W. McKinley.” Some light soiling to borders, skipping to last letter of signature over embossed address at bottom, and a small chip to top edge, otherwise fine condition. A handsome example, and McKinley is not common in signed photographs.
Thumbnail 96 James Monroe Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Ink signature, “Jas. Monroe,” on an off-white 2.25 x .75 slip. In fine condition, with three vertical folds lightly affecting the signature, and an adhesive remnant on the reverse.
Thumbnail 97 Pat Nixon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Scarce ALS, one page, 5.5 x 7.5, personal letterhead, no date. Letter of thanks for an anniversary gift. In full: “How kind of you to send us the beautiful plate as a remembrance for our thirty-fifth anniversary! It is a prized addition for our collection. We highly appreciate your staunch friendship and send all good wishes from our family.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, as well as the original letter sent to the Nixons, dated June 21, 1975, and the return receipt from the Nixon’s California residence. Quite uncommon in holographic material, this is the first Pat Nixon ALS we have ever offered.
Thumbnail 98 Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two items: FDC featuring a printed cachet of President Ford’s Pardon to Richard Nixon, signed in blue felt tip, “Gerald R. Ford”; and a color bookplate featuring an image of The Richard Nixon Library & Birthplace from the Museum Shop, 3.5 x 4.75, signed in black felt tip, “Richard Nixon.” In fine condition. The FDC exhibits a pre-printed signature in addition to the authentic signature. Accompanied by a fantastic unsigned photo of President Nixon and Ford in the Oval Office.
Thumbnail 99 Richard Nixon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Vintage 7.75 x 10 photo of Richard and Pat Nixon, signed and inscribed in black ink “To Reverend Cornelius Greenway, with best wishes from Richard Nixon.” Framed to an overall size of 9.5 x 11.5. A couple light brushes to signature and some scattered creases to corners and edges, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 100 Richard Nixon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS as president signed “RN,” one page, 7 x 10.5, White House letterhead, September 18, 1973. Letter to freshman Republican Congressman Carlos J. Moorhead. In full: “The recent action of the House of Representatives in connection with the Conference Report on the State Department Authorization Bill was a particularly heartening example of a responsible Legislature at work. I am very much aware of the desire of the Congress to play its full Constitutional role in the foreign policy field and to receive from the Executive Branch the information required to do so. I believe that in the months ahead you will find that those legitimate Congressional desires are fully met in such a way as to indicate clearly your wisdom in rejecting what Dave Dennis called the ‘meat-ax’ approach to these concerns. I do not think it is overstating the case to say that the position taken by you and your colleagues was a reflection of the kinds of statesmanlike judgment and prudence which has always been the heart of the effective conduct of our Government with its separation of powers. I am grateful to you.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 101 Richard Nixon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Typed souvenir presidential resignation, one page, 5 x 8, on mock White House letterhead, dated August 9, 1974 (but signed later). Nixon’s famous communication to Secretary of State Henry Kissinger: “Dear Mr. Secretary: I hereby resign the Office of President of the United States.” Signed at the conclusion in black felt tip by Nixon. In fine condition, with a light crease to lower right corner.
Thumbnail 102 Franklin Pierce Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Full hand-addressed free frank, measuring 10 x 8 unfolded, with panel measuring 5 x 3, addressed in Pierce’s hand to the “Honorable Jonathan Harvey, Sutton Vollage, N. Hamp,” and franked in the upper right, “free, F. Pierce, M. C.” Panel bears a postmark stamp to the upper left. In very good condition, with three vertical folds, light creasing, scattered light toning and soiling, a postage stamp mildly affecting the franked portion, and a pencil notation on the reverse.
Thumbnail 103 Jane Pierce Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Scarce and lengthy portion of a longer ALS signed “Jane,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.25 x 7, no date. Pierce writes an emotional letter to her sister, in part: “A blessed day, and one which I trust I pride with gratitude for its quiet…and its privileges—it, more than any day brings my precous [sic] child to my side in memory and fancy—the day he used to love—each hour of past Sabbaths I trace in the present lonely ones—and I look at this dear picture….with an aching heart—to go back to pleasant memories again where I did not dream of the coming devastating storm. We find that dear Rebecca is coming on to Orange about this time. I wish she could come here, but hardly expect it from what she said in her last letter. I think if dear Aunt Mason cannot undertake so much of a journey…to Washington that Mary may be induced to, sometime in March or the first of April. How I wish you could come my beloved sister. I never dare to look forward to those I love—least of all for myself—but earnestly hope we shall meet in some way in the coming season. I see you read about the Nebraska Bill—I do not know much about these great questions and I do not talk about them at all. I earnestly pray…you do that wisdom profitable to direct may be given where it is so much needed. We have morning receptions…and dinners congressional, on Thursday—both great…evening receptions on Friday, at the last one…was said to be the most brilliant….Abby did not appear as she was not quite well. At the last dinner I had Senator Chase as my left hand neighbour (altho I did not go in with him) and found him quite pleasant and genial. But dear sister—I have been writing as long as I have time to now, and must close after giving much love and kind remembrance to all the dear family and inmates of your household.” Pierce adds on the reverse, “I have just asked the messenger about the pamphlet and he thinks he may find it for me.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered toning and wrinkling, and a few mild adhesive remnants over the text from previous display. Despite the First Lady’s denial of having anything to do with the politics surrounding the controversial Kansas-Nebraska Bill, she had much more sway over the president than she would ever let on. Staunchly opposed to the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854, one of the major causes of the Civil War, she anxiously expressed her concerns over the possibility of war if the south did, indeed, secede from the Union. But Pierce did not advertise her opinions or her political power, concealing her policy disagreements with her husband in a deep shroud of privacy. Ohio Senator Salmon P. Chase, who she describes as “quite pleasant and genial,” shared similar sentiments with her, an outspoken anti-slavery advocate himself who rallied his fellow Congressman in an attempt to thwart the spread of slavery to the North. The ensuing war saw a political division between the president and first lady; Franklin sought to preserve his country’s Constitution and with it, the Union, while Jane was more concerned with seeing an end to the barbaric practice of slavery. This letter presents an extremely intriguing glimpse into Pierce’s personal presentation of her own thoughts, or lack there of, as history reveals just how much influence she actually held over the 14th president.
Thumbnail 104 James K. Polk Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Ink signature and inscription, “With my best respects for all Mr. Murray, James K. Polk, July 1st, 1838,” on an off-white 7 x 2.5 slip. Some scattered light toning and spotting, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 105 Ronald Reagan Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Color limited edition glossy 14.5 x 5 photo of the Reagan Presidential Library, #137/250, signed in the lower border in black felt tip. Double matted and framed to an overalll size of 22 x 13. Photographer’s signature and edition number faded but mostly illegible, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from the Reagan Library.
Thumbnail 106 Ronald Reagan Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vintage ink signature on an off-white 5 x 3 card with a small clipped image of Reagan affixed to the bottom right corner. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 107 Ronald Reagan Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 ALS signed “Dutch,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, December 14. A letter to his longtime friend Lydia ‘Hup’ MacArthur. In full: “So much has happened this past year that for the first time since I was a kid it does seem like last Christmas was a long way back. But anyway here it is almost upon us and Nancy & I wish you the merriest of holiday times. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year.” In fine condition. Lydia Hupfer ‘Hup’ MacArthur was the widow of Pete MacArthur, program director of WOC in Davenport, Iowa. In 1932, MacArthur had given a then 21-year-old Reagan his first job as a sports announcer. They would remain friends until her passing at the age of 102 in 1995.
Thumbnail 108 Ronald Reagan Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 White House Christmas card, signed as president, “Ron,” measuring 7.75 x 10.75 open, dated 1988. Lower portion bears a pre-printed Christmas message from the Reagans, with Reagan writing in the upper portion, “Dear Jo & Phil, It was good to see you even if it was for only a few minutes and to meet your family. Nancy & I wish you all a most wonderful Christmas & Happy New Year. Nancy & I are grateful for your very kind letter and generous words. And yes thanks very much for ‘Call to Arms.’ All the Best.” In fine condition, with mounting remnants to reverse. Phil Regan had headed Democrats for Reagan in the 1966 California campaign for Governor.
Thumbnail 109 Eleanor Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 TLS, one page, 6 x 7, Val-Kill Cottage letterhead, October 10, 1946. Letter to an admirer. In part: “After the 17th of this month all of my time will be taken up by my work with the United Nations, therefore…I am sending this letter with my best wishes.” In fine condition, with a bit of scattered light toning. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 110 Eleanor Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 TLS, one page, 6 x 5, Val-Kill Cottage letterhead, June 25, 1946. Brief note to Mr. G. D. Norris. In full: “I do not think a World Government can be achieved for sometime.” Trimmed bottom edge and a bit of scattered light toning, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 111 Eleanor Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Roosevelt’s rare yellow AFTRA union P&W benefits card, one page, both sides, 6 x 4, dated May 23, 1962. Pension and Welfare benefit card is filled out in type including her original full name, New York City address, birthdate and Social Security number. Signed at the bottom “Anna Eleanor Roosevelt.” On the reverse in type is listed her daughter, Anna R. Halsted, as the recipient of her death benefits. Stamped across the front of the card is “Deceased.” Several small office notations and the “Deceased” stamp affecting all of her first name, otherwise fine condition. A rare example of the first lady signing with her given name.
Thumbnail 112 Franklin D. Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 Vintage matte-finish 9.25 x 7.25 Harris and Ewing photo of Roosevelt sitting at his desk in the Oval Office, signed and inscribed in the lower border in fountain pen “For J. J. Fitzpatrick from Franklin D. Roosevelt.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 16 x 14.5. Scattered silvering to edges of image and upper left, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 113 Franklin D. Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Partly-printed, war-dated DS as president, one page, 19.75 x 14.75, March 27, 1943. President Roosevelt appoints Hugh B. Cox to be “Assistant Attorney General.” Signed at the conclusion by Roosevelt and countersigned by Attorney General Francis Biddle. In very good condition, with mild overall rippling and wrinkling from moisture exposure, damp staining along right side, and a bit of scattered light soiling. The gold foil seal is lightly creased, but intact. One month after attending the monumental Casablanca conference in Morocco, FDR appointed Cox as Assistant Attorney General, a position that put Cox in intimate proximity of FBI director, J. Edgar Hoover. Together, Cox and Hoover actively pursued individuals suspected of loyalty to the Axis Powers, battling the possible flow of secret information that could have been responsible for the ever-rising number of merchant ships sinking at the hands of the German U-Boats. This exemplary document, bearing a crisp signature from the only president to be elected to four terms, is a testament to the ongoing mission to purge US soil of any and all individuals serving the enemy.
Thumbnail 114 Franklin D. Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 War-dated TLS as president, one page, 7 x 8.75, White House letterhead, March 23, 1942. Roosevelt writes to Barnet Nover, President of Overseas Writers, in full: “A correspondent at the front plays a most important part. Like anyone in a responsible place he is in the position to perform valuable service or to do much harm. A great correspondent must have the intuitive judgment necessary to guide him in deciding what comment to make and what not to make. There is a question of timing that is important but with all his reports, like those of the staff officer, should contribute to an accurate impression of the overall trend of developments. On the occasion of the twenty-first anniversary of the founding of this organization may I convey to Overseas Writers and to their guests my congratulations and very best wishes.” A uniform block of toning over the text from previous display, and some heavier toning along the edges, otherwise fine condition. During World War II, Roosevelt recognized the necessity of limiting information given to the press, but also believed that reporting the war to the public was critical. To ensure a balance between these objectives, he set two conditions for the media: their reporting must be accurate and could not aid the enemy. His administration set up the Office of Censorship, which issued its first Voluntary Censorship Code a month prior to this letter. Although the office cajoled journalists into complying, the ultimate responsibility for abiding by the censorship rules was with the individual reporter. In his letter to Barnet Nover, a nationally syndicated Washington Post columnist and editorial writer, FDR stresses this self-censorship requirement. Since managing the war coverage of journalists abroad was especially important, Roosevelt addresses the Overseas Writers Club, a group of diplomatic reporters founded following the Versailles Peace Conference in 1921. A striking letter in which FDR articulates the recently enacted censorship policies of his administration.
Thumbnail 115 Franklin D. Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 10.5, State of New York Executive Chamber, Albany gold-embossed letterhead, January 8, 1931. Governor Roosevelt writes to Frank Joyce, in full: “Thank you ever so much for your letter and the clipping which I am indeed glad to have. My best wishes to you for the New Year.” In good condition, with several intersecting folds, light creasing, uniform toning, two half-binder holes to the left edge, a faint pencil notation to the top left corner, and adhesive remnants with a small area of paper loss towards the bottom left corner.
Thumbnail 116 Franklin D. Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 TLS signed “F. D. R.,” one page, 8 x 10.5, State of New York Executive Chamber, Albany letterhead, October 3, 1931. Governor Roosevelt writes a Memorandum for Colonel Greene, in full: “Your letter of September 29th with inclosure of memorandum from Mr. Haugaard has been received. I think your suggestion is all right. I shall be glad to serve as the fourth member of the Board of Award.” In very good condition, with several horizontal folds, a central vertical fold, a light area of soiling, two partial binder holes to the left edge, a blue pencil notation to the top right corner, and a Public Works “received” stamp below, but not affecting, the signature.
Thumbnail 117 Franklin D. Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS as president, one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, June 17, 1935. Roosevelt writes to Mrs. Walter Graeme Eliot, in full: “Thank you for your very kind note of June twelfth. I shall be delighted to be present at the unveiling of the tablet when it is ready. I hope to be at Hyde Park early in September and perhaps that would be a good time.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 118 Franklin D. Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 10.5, State of New York Executive Chamber letterhead, November 29, 1929. Letter, sent from Warm Springs, to R. H. Taylor at Roosevelt and O’Connor. In full: “The two checks for the sale of the lots to Miss Lehand and myself were sent to you from Albany about ten days ago. Will you have another look for them—$500 each. I will send you the statement of the Patient’s Aid Fund up to date within a few days.” A uniform shade of toning, two punch holes to left edge, and an office stamp to top right, otherwise fine condition. In 1923, FDR embarked on an affair with his young secretary, Marguerite A. “Missy” LeHand (1898–1944), which was to last for the remainder of their lives. Though it was scarcely whispered about in the press in the pre-Watergate era, the liaison was an open secret among FDR’s associates and family.
Thumbnail 119 Franklin D. Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 head-and-shoulders photo, signed in the lower border in fountain pen, “Franklin D. Roosevelt.” A few dings to right of image, some light silvering to background, and a couple minor creases and light soiling to bottom border, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 120 Franklin D. Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Vintage engraved portrait, 8 x 11, signed under the image in fountain pen, “Franklin D. Roosevelt.” Framed to an overall size of 9.5 x 12.5. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 121 Franklin D. Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 10.5, State of New York, Executive Chamber letterhead, January 20, 1930. Short letter to New York attorney Frederick J. Stone. In full: “Thank you for your letter. I am very hopeful that we can work out a real plan for the development of the State's water power for the benefit of the consumer.” In very good condition, with scattered light dampstaining and foxing, and horizontal fold through tops of a few letters of signature.
Thumbnail 122 Franklin D. Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 10.5, State of New York Executive Chamber letterhead, August 19, 1930. Short letter to New York attorney Frederick J. Stone thanking him for his letter and reading, in part: "As you probably read, I have taken the whole question of the Ewald case under advisement." In fine condition, with some scattered light toning and a few creases. The case to which Roosevelt referred was a major scandal in which New York magistrate, George F. Ewald was accused of paying $10,000 to Tammany politicians in exchange for his appointment in 1928. When the New York County grand jury failed to indict Ewald, Governor Roosevelt ordered the case to be taken out of the hands of local officials and ordered his Attorney General, Hamilton Ward, to take charge of the investigation. The scandal quickly escalated and a commission, headed by retired judge Samuel Seabury, was convened to investigate widespread corruption. In September 1932, under severe pressure from F.D.R., New York Mayor Jimmy Walker was forced to resign his office.
Thumbnail 123 Theodore Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS as president, one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, June 5, 1908. Roosevelt writes to Rev. Dr. Lyman Abbott, in full: “I thank you for your note of the 4th instant. Perhaps you and your son would like to see copies of two letters I have recently written to Steffens and Baker, which I think express good Outlook sentiments,” adding an exclamation point in ink. In very good condition, with a uniform block of toning from previous display, some light rubbing, and a few trivial stray marks.
Thumbnail 124 Theodore Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS, one page, 8.25 x 9.25, September 19, 1898. Roosevelt writes to Paul Goepel, in full: “Of course that is all right; and I thank you for your consideration in the matter,” adding a brief handwritten note, “I hope I shall see you soon, With great regard, believe me.” In very good condition, with toning, some scattered light spotting, an irregularly trimmed right edge, and a few pieces of reparative tape.
Thumbnail 125 Theodore Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 White House card signed in fountain pen, “Theodore Roosevelt.” In very good condition, with scattered toning and soiling.
Thumbnail 126 Theodore Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 17.5 x 15.5, February 19, 1906. President Roosevelt appoints A. W. Thornsly “Vice Consul of Mexico at Tacoma, Washington, for Tacoma and its dependencies.” Signed at the conclusion by Roosevelt and countersigned by Secretary of State Elihu Root. Framed to an overall size of 21.5 x 19.75. In very good condition, with light previous storage folds, scattered toning, and some dampstaining to edges. The white seal is crisp and intact.
Thumbnail 127 Theodore Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 10.5, State of New York, Executive Mansion letterhead, January 27, 1900. Letter to Colonel William Cary Sanger, Inspector of the National Guard. In full: “It is a truism that the Army of the United States should have an effective reserve and that the relation of the State forces to the army should be definitely settled. New York with its enormous wealth and its large National Guard is peculiarly concerned in seeing these questions settled. Both the civil and military authorities of the State have been striving to find the best solution. Partly in consequence of my recommendations to the Secretary of War the President of the United State has appointed you ‘to make a report to him in regard to the principles upon which other countries, and especially England, have organized their reserve and auxiliary forces and in regard to the practical working of the English system in particular, including such other matters as may relate to the objects to be attained by your report.' In doing this work I trust you will as my official representative secure for the State of New York such information as will aid the State authorities in deciding what changes, if any, should be made in the status of the National Guard, and in what way the State can best co-operate with the Federal authorities in their efforts to secure a reserve or auxiliary force for the army. I shall be pleased to receive from you a report covering the results of your investigations.” In very good condition, with scattered toning and staining, with a moderate area of speckled staining to top left, a few small tape repairs to separations on reverse, a few edge chips, and a small tear to bottom edge. Governor Roosevelt appointed Sanger inspector of the New York National Guard in 1899 and, at the request of McKinley, Sanger traveled to Europe in 1900 to study the reserve and auxiliary forces of Great Britain and the the militia of Switzerland. With his military background, Roosevelt naturally took a special interest in the National Guard. He had been a member, joining in 1882 when he was commissioned a second lieutenant. He resigned from the Guard in 1886 as a captain and later described his experience as “invaluable.” He may have felt it especially important to weigh in on military matters when he wrote this letter, as McKinley was considering appointing him secretary of war. Later, as president, Roosevelt championed legislation that modernized the National Guard, and by the time he left office, the Guard had been incorporated with the Army as part of the nation’s armed forces.
Thumbnail 128 Theodore Roosevelt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 Vintage oversized sepia matte-finish 10 x 13.5 photo of Roosevelt staring intensely through his glasses at the camera, with “Copyright 1910 by Moffett Studio Chicago,” printed in the lower right, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “To George Straube, with all good wishes from Theodore Roosevelt.” Nicely double matted and framed to an overall size of 20 x 24. In fine condition, with a couple of light surface blemishes. This photograph was taken in 1910 by Chicago’s Moffett Studio after Roosevelt returned, via Europe, from his 15-month African safari. A powerful portrait, superlative in both size and subject.
Thumbnail 129 William H. Taft and Frances Cleveland Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Ink signatures, “Wm H. Taft, Duluth, April 25th 1916,” and “Frances Cleveland,” on opposite sides of a beige 5.25 x 1.75 slip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 130 William H. Taft Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 TLS as president signed “Wm. H. Taft,” one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, April 27, 1909. Taft writes to H. V. Jones of The Minneapolis Journal, in full: “I have your kind letter of April 19th, in respect to Senator Washburn. Senator Washburn and I are old friends, and it would gratify me much to make the appointment. But the truth is, I fear that Senator Washburn is not strong enough to meet the exigencies of the place, which, during the next four years, are likely to be more than they have ever been heretofore. Still, I shall take the matter up with Secretary Knox, and give what you say full consideration.” In very good condition, with rippling to the edges, mirroring to the text, and light haloing to the signature. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 131 William H. Taft Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Fantastic ink signature, “Wm. H. Taft,” on an off-white 3.25 x .75 trimmed card. In fine condition, with adhesive remnants on the reverse.
Thumbnail 132 William H. Taft Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS signed “Wm. H. Taft,” one page, 5.25 x 8.25, personal letterhead, November 3, 1908. Taft writes to an admirer, in full: “I have your note of the 31st of October, and thank you for writing me and for your kindly expressions and good wishes.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one passing through the signature, and the signature a shade light, but completely legible.
Thumbnail 133 William H. Taft Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS signed “Wm. H. Taft,” one page, 7 x 9.25, personal letterhead, March 2, 1914. Taft write to Karl Edwin Harriman, Managing Editor of the Ladies Home Journal, in full: “I return herewith, corrected, the proof of my article on ‘The College Slouch.’ I have made some additions and have stricken out some things. I would like, if possible, to have a corrected proof sent to you.” In very good condition, with a horizontal fold passing through the signature, light creasing, stray pencil marks, and some trivial soiling towards the bottom edge.
Thumbnail 134 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 10.25, United States Senate letterhead, September 22, 1938. Letter to John Snyder, manager of the Reconstruction Finance Corporation. In full: “Monday night, the Twenty-sixth, would be the ideal night for that study in probabilities which you referred to in yours of the Twenty-first.” Accompanied by a carbon of Snyder’s letter to Truman, dated September 21, 1938, and reads: “Several of your friends are planning a little dinner party and poker game for one night while you are here next week. Please let me know which night would be most convenient for you, September 26th, 27th or 28th.” Two punch holes to top edge, rusty paperclip mark to top left, and some scattered light toning, otherwise fine condition. Truman was an avid poker player, and in fact was set to attend a game on April 12, 1945, but the game was postponed so Truman could assume the presidency upon the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Thumbnail 135 William H. Taft Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS signed “Wm. H. Taft,” one page, 8 x 10.5, Supreme Court of the United States letterhead, December 25, 1926. Taft writes to Allan Cole, in full: “You may suppose I am familiar with the case of Liberty Oil Company vs. Condon National Bank, and in the consideration of the case in which you are interested, I may say that this citation is quite likely to receive fullest consideration.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one passing through the signature, uniform toning, and a few adhesive remnants towards the bottom. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 136 William H. Taft Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 TLS as president signed “Wm. H. Taft,” one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, April 30, 1909. Letter to Reverend Charles Southgate. In full: “I am very sorry I cannot be with you to celebrate the Centennial of the Massachusetts Bible Society. My early associations in Massachusetts are connected with that Society. My aunt's husband, Dr. Increase Niles Tarbox, was an officer in the Congregational Society, and was associated with Dr. Butler, known as 'Bible Butler,' who, I think, was for a long time connected with your Society. The good which it has done in spreading the reading of the Book, upon the precepts of which the progress of modern Christian civilization has been based, is hardly to be measured. I congratulate the Society upon its prosperous condition in this its centenary, and I wish for it continued usefulness. It is one of the sources of moral uplift of which there are so many in New England, which by their age and long record of successful effort are entitled to our veneration and esteem.” In very good condition, with toning and rippling from moisture exposure, as well as signature a bit light and feathered, also from moisture, and some light mirroring of text at the top. On May 2-3, 1909, the Massachusetts Bible Society celebrated its centennial with commemorative services on Sunday afternoon at Trinity Church and Monday evening at the Old South Church. Charles R. Codman presided and introduced the evening's speakers including officials from other Bible societies, and Taft's letter was read at the celebration in his absence. The letter praised the organization for the ‘good which it has done in spreading the reading of the Book’ and established his personal connection to the Society through his great aunt Adelia Waters, who married theologian and author Dr. Increase Tarbox. Taft's own religious beliefs previously had been questioned when, after refusing the presidency of Yale University, he stated, ‘I do not believe in the divinity of Christ.’ In 1908, just a year prior to this letter, the faithful Unitarian was forced to deny the rumor that he was an atheist.
Thumbnail 137 William H. Taft Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 DS, signed “Wm. H. Taft,” one page, 10.5 x 8.5, no date. Blank “Certificate of Membership to the University Club, of the City of Washington, District of Columbia,” #1022. Light toning, a few trivial edge tears, and some light feathering to the signature, otherwise fine condition. Gold seal is slightly discolored, but crisp and intact. An active club member, Taft was elected as the first President of the University Club on March 11, 1904, just one month after the club’s historic first meeting of 66 university and college alumni, while holding his post as Secretary of War. Taft grew the prestigious club’s membership, leading to physical growth and expansion, and in 1912, as President of the United States, Taft laid the cornerstone for the new facility.
Thumbnail 138 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Clean TLS, one page, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead from Independence, Missouri, February 1, 1965. Truman writes to Samuel Solins, in full: “Thank you a lot for the 1965 World Almanac, which has just been received. These almanacs are certainly useful and I never fail to have one on my desk—the one you send to me each year.” In fine condition, with some light creasing and some trivial brushing to the middle of the signature. Accompanied by original mailing envelope featuring Truman’s printed franking signature.
Thumbnail 139 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Neat ink signature, “Harry Truman, 6-24-68,” on an off-white 4.5 x 1.75 trimmed card below the printed sentiment, “I am pleased to comply with your request for an autograph.” In fine condition, with trimmed edges and adhesive remnants on the reverse.
Thumbnail 140 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS as president, one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, April 5, 1948. Truman writes to the Honorable Ernest M. Tipton, in full: “I am certainly sorry to hear that you are going to find it necessary to have a gall stone operation. My doctor tells me that it is not necessarily a difficult one and that it is not necessarily a difficult one and that you should come out of it all right. I’ll be anxious to know how you come out.” In fine condition, with a few small staple marks and an official Truman stamp, lightly affecting one letter of the signature. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 141 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 FDC featuring a red ink sketch of a bar of music in another hand and bearing postage stamps honoring Chopin and Paderewski, signed in across the top right corner in black ink, “Harry S. Truman.” Light corner creasing, a typed address to the bottom right corner, and light contrast to the signature as it passes over two postage stamps, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 142 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 photo, signed and inscribed in black ink “To Walter Heydebreck, Kind regards, Harry S. Truman 8/25/61.” In fine condition, with a couple light surface creases, and a hint of trivial silvering to background.
Thumbnail 143 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 10, United States Senate letterhead, November 14, 1944. Letter of thanks to a gentleman from Wyoming. In full: “I certainly appreciated your congratulations and good wishes, and I hope I will always continue to have your good opinion. It was a great victory and gave us a solemn responsibility to win the war and the peace as quickly as possible.” A uniform shade of toning and some scattered light creases and wrinkles, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. The vice president-elect wrote this letter shortly after he and FDR won the presidential election with a comfortable margin over Thomas E. Dewey on November 7, 1944. The ongoing war impacted the course of the election, and after victories in Europe and Pacific in 1944, FDR’s presidential victory was assured. While writing this letter, Truman was still representing Missouri in the Senate, where he had risen to national prominence fighting government waste as head of the Truman Committee. Rumors of FDR’s health problems prompted many in the Democratic establishment to oppose nominating Henry A. Wallace again for vice president, as he was considered too left-wing and eccentric. Truman’s name was put forward and FDR reluctantly accepted him as his running mate. In a matter of months following the election, Truman would assume the presidency following FDR’s death only 82 days after being sworn in. A fine letter from an important juncture in Truman's political career.
Thumbnail 144 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Crisp and clean TLS as president, one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, April 18, 1952. Truman writes to Creekmore Fath, Attorney at Law, Austin, Texas, in full: “I appreciated very much yours of the fifteenth regarding the ‘Big’ and ‘Little’ Inch pipe lines. I am certainly glad you called that situation to my attention. I’ll take a look at it.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 145 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Embossed White House mailing envelope, 4.25 x 2.75, bearing an October 17, 1952, Washington, D. C. Postmark, signed in the upper right corner, “Harry S. Truman.” In fine condition, with uniform block of toning to upper portion of envelope.
Thumbnail 146 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Program from Seven Decades and Nine, held on May 8, 1963, in the Colonial Ballroom of the Hotel Muehlebach, 8.5 x 11, two pages, signed and inscribed on the front in fountain pen, “To my good friend and long time associate, Hon. John Snyder with kindest regards and deep appreciation for his support and friendship. Harry S., Truman.” In fine condition, with a paperclip impression to top edge and some light soiling and handling wear.
Thumbnail 147 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 TLS, one page, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, July 22, 1966. Letter to James Webb, NASA Administrator. In full: “Thank you for your good letter of July 15th, and the book ‘An Administrative History of NASA 1958-1963’. I appreciate most highly your thoughtfulness in remembering me with a copy of the book and am most grateful for the kind inscription on the fly-leaf. I hope everything is going well with you and am sure it is.” Staple holes to top left and show-through from office stamps on reverse, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied the original mailing envelope and a carbon of Webb’s letter to Truman presenting the book.
Thumbnail 148 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 300.00 - 500.00 Color vintage 8.25 x 10.5 photo of Truman’s official White House portrait painted by Greta Kempton, and affixed to its original 9.75 x 13 mount, signed and inscribed on the mount in blue ballpoint “Kindest regards to Phil Regan, Harry S. Truman.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 14 x 17.5. Some light rippling and creasing to image, and some mild toning and creasing to mount, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 149 Harry S. Truman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 Lengthy TLS signed “Harry,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, June 6, 1962. Letter to John Snyder. In full: “Enclosed, is a copy of the letter Yerby Holman wrote to me at your suggestion, and copy of my reply to him. It was thoughtful of you to ask him to write to me and I appreciate what he had to say.” Under his signature, Truman adds a lengthy handwritten postscript: “Had a hell of a time at that M. Closkey dinner—and—they returned my money on the theory that my presence caused an addition to the paying customers! If you can beat that I’ll pay you for lying! I told them my style is $5.00 & not 250.00.” A carbon of a June 11, 1962, letter from Truman to Holman is paperclipped to the letter. In fine condition. Truman is rare in any handwritten material, made even more desirable with a great example of Truman’s wit.
Thumbnail 150 Martin Van Buren Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Free franked address panel, 5.25 x 2.75, addressed in another hand to “Moses Dawson, Esqre, Cincinnati, Ohio,” and franked in the upper right, “Free, M. Van Buren. Panel also bears a faded “Free” stamp lightly affecting Buren’s last name, and a light postmark stamp to the bottom left. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, uniform toning, and the top, onionskin layer of the sheet slightly separated from the bottom slip towards the lower right corner. Accompanied by a witty, interactive period caricature of Van Buren enjoying different libations.
Thumbnail 151 Martin Van Buren Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Crisp ink signature and inscription as president, “With my kind regards for Mr. Murray, Washington, June 12th, 1838, M. Van Buren,” on an off-white 7 x 4 sheet, with an additional signature below. In fine condition, with a few light spots of toning and soiling.
Thumbnail 152 Edith Bolling Wilson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 ALS, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 6.5, personal letterhead, July 15, 1933. Nicely penned letter to an old friend, Willoughby Reade. In part: “It would be delightful to renew our old time friendship in the mountains, so near my native hearth—and Randolph and I warmly appreciate your hospitable invitation—Just now however I am held in Washington pending a business matter that will come up in the next few weeks, or sooner, so it is impossible to accept.” In fine condition, with a vertical fold through a single letter of signature. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Also accompanied by a 1974 letter of sale from Walter R. Benjamin Autographs, Inc., also offering other presidential letters for sale.
Thumbnail 153 Woodrow Wilson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 DS, signed “W. Wilson,” one page, 5.5 x 6, no date. Schedule for Academic Special Students for the first term of the 1902–1903 school year at Princeton University for the student Louis W. Wallner. Document features a handwritten list of classes and the corresponding professors, with Wilson signing off on “Pol. 1.” The reverse features a week day grid, with various classes penned into the corresponding days. In very good condition, with a central horizontal fold, uniform toning, and a few ink and pencil notations.
Thumbnail 154 George Washington Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 Three lines written in the hand of George Washington on a 9 x 1 slip clipped from a larger document. Washington writes: “James Keith. At a Court convd & held for Fairfax Cty, 19th day of December 1797. This Deed of Trust from.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 155 Woodrow Wilson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 TLS as president, one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, July 17, 1914. Wilson writes to Maurice Blumenthal of New York City, in full: “May I not tell you of my deep appreciation of the generous expressions of your telegram of the sixteenth of July! I thank you heartily for the friendly interest and good will which you manifest.” In very good condition, with a uniform block of toning from previous display, some light creasing and wrinkling, a pencil notation to the bottom border, and signature a shade or two light, but completely legible.
Thumbnail 156 Woodrow Wilson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 7.25, gold-embossed State of New Jersey, Executive Department letterhead, December 17, 1912. Governor Wilson writes to the Honorable William Sulzer, in full: “The Reverend Henry Colin Minton is one of the most highly esteemed citizens of Trenton. He is Pastor of the oldest Presbyterian Church in the City and a man prominent in all good works.” In very good condition, with a central horizontal and vertical fold, some light creasing, a staple mark below the embossed insignia, and some trivial mirroring of the text over the signature. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 157 Woodrow Wilson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Ink signature on an off-white 5.25 x 8 sheet. Scattered creasing, notes and doodles in another hand lightly affecting the signature, and two adhesive remnants to the bottom corners, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 158 Frank Abagnale Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 More than 35 years ago, Frank Abagnale was one of the world’s most famous con men, cashing $2.5 million in fraudulent checks in every state and 26 foreign countries over a five-year period. Between the ages of 16 and 21, he successfully posed as an airline pilot, an attorney, a college professor, and a pediatrician. Apprehended by the French police when he was just 21 years old, he served time in French, Swedish, and American prisons for his crimes. After five years he was released on the condition that he would help the federal government, without remuneration, by advising and assisting federal law enforcement agencies. Glossy 10 x 8 photo of Abagnale as a game show contestant, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition, with a Frank W. Abagnale pressed seal to upper right.
Thumbnail 159 Salomon August Andrée Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 ALS in French signed “S. A. Andrée,” one lined page, 5.5 x 8.75, August 16, 1895, to the great French balloonist Gaston Tissandier. In full: “Please accept my sincerest thanks for the interesting works you sent me. Your book on the great captive balloon of Giffard has already been ordered by the bookseller to complete my collection.” In fine condition, with some light creasing. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Andrée’s hand. Since Andrée died at 42 and was little known before his doomed flight, his letters are very rare. An interesting letter associating the names of three great balloonists: Andrée, Giffard and Tissandier.
Thumbnail 160 Roy Chapman Andrews Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American explorer and naturalist (1884–1960) whose far-flung adventures on archaeological expeditions in the Far East were said to have served as the inspiration for fictional screen hero Indiana Jones. Vibrant fountain pen signature on an off-white 5 x 3 slip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 161 Walter Annenberg Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Billionaire publisher and philanthropist (1908–2002). TLS, one page, 6 x 9.5, personal letterhead, June 14, 1982. Letter to his estate manager. In part: “I am enclosing herewith Colorado map to Castle Pines Golf Club to facilitate how our driver can reach us…I would appreciate the station wagon reaching Castle Pines around noon of that day.” In very good condition, with paper loss to bottom edge, scattered creases, and some mild toning over text.
Thumbnail 162 Susan B. Anthony Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Pioneering American social activist (1820–1906) who was one of the leading figures in early feminism and whose efforts on behalf of women’s suffrage were instrumental in the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920. Original pamphlet of Anthony’s article titled “The Status of Woman, Past, Present, and Future” (originally printed in The Arena, May 1897), 6 x 9, eight pages, signed in ink at the top of the first page, “With kind regards, Susan B. Anthony, Rochester, N.Y., Dec. 28/97.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 163 Yasser Arafat Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color glossy 5 x 6.5 photo, signed in black felt tip. Photo is housed in its original presentation folder. Light to moderate contrast to signature, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by a 1991 TLS from the president’s office acknowledging the photo.
Thumbnail 164 Yasser Arafat Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Felt tip signature, “Y. Arafat,” on the reverse of an off-white 5.75 x 4 postcard. The address panel of the postcard has been filled in by the collector. In fine condition. Accompanied by a 1979 TLS from Arafat’s PLO office acknowledging the signature, as well as the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 165 Hannah Arendt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 German-American political scientist (1906–1975) who characterized totalitarianism. TLS in German, one page, 5.25 x 8.25, May 15, 1971. Letter to Mr. Reif. In part (translated): “This is to inform you that I now have a German bank account after all, so that you can transfer any outstanding amounts directly.” Two punch holes to left edge, a few wrinkles, and a small pencil notation to top left, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 166 John Jacob Astor Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Patriarch of the fabled Astor family (1763–1848) of American businessmen, who, through lucrative dealings in fur, real estate, and opium, became the first millionaire in the United States. Partly-printed partial DS, one page, 10 x 4, no date. Astor bears witness “whereof said parties have hereunto…set their hands and seals” in regards to a financial matter. In very good condition, with uniform toning, creasing, paper loss to the top right corner and edge, some light tears along the left and bottom edge, and pencil notations in another hand.
Thumbnail 167 David Ayers Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 4,000.00 - 6,000.00 A Texas merchant, Ayers was the recipient of the last letter written by William Barret Travis, sent before the fall of the Alamo on the morning of March 6, 1836. Travis’ brief letter began “Take care of my little boy. If the country should be saved, I may make for him a splendid fortune.” Ink docketing signature, “D. Ayers,” on the reverse of a one-page manuscript land survey, 8 x 12.5, dated November 10, 1837. The survey reads, in part: “Surveyed for Loveic P. More one Eighth of a league of land containing 3125000 lg.” Signed at the bottom by surveyor J. E. Scott, and also signed by L. P. More, S. Connell, and James Connell. In the upper left corner, the surveyor has drawn a map of the area indicating “Scale 2000 lg per inch.” Signed on the reverse, “D. Ayers,” with “Center Hill,” written in another hand under Ayers’s signature. Intersecting folds, a couple light pencil notations to either side, scattered toning and foxing, small mounting remnants to top edge of reverse, and scattered edge wear, otherwise very good condition. Although deafness prevented his participation in active service, Sam Houston assigned Ayers to protect the families fleeing in the Runaway Scrape. Returning home after the victory at the Battle of San Jacinto, he found his property in ruins and moved to Washington-on-the-Brazos. By the following year, he had sufficiently recovered financially to purchase land at Center Hill, near Bellville, in Austin County. A rare offering from one of Travis’s most trusted friends.
Thumbnail 168 Robert Baden-Powell Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 British military officer and founder of the world scouting movement (1857–1941). Ink signature, “R Baden-Powell ISC,” on an off-white 3.25 x .5 slip affixed to a slightly larger off-white slip. In very good condition, with uneven edges, scattered toning, and two small holes above signature. Accompanied by an unsigned 8 x 10 color portrait.
Thumbnail 169 Alexander Graham Bell Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 15,000.00 - 17,000.00 ALS signed “Your loving Alec,” four pages, 8 x 10.5, Beinn Bhreagh letterhead, April 17, 1917. Letter to his wife Mabel, “My sweet little wife.” In full: “Home here at last after a whole week of travel. I have telegraphed you every day and now, before doing anything else, will give you some written account of my movements since leaving Washington. Left Washington Sunday afternoon (April 8) for Boston. Reached Boston Monday (Apl 9) two hours late and was unable to make connection with St. John [New Brunswick, across the Bay of Fundy from Nova Scotia] train. Stayed at Parker House, and left for St John N.B. by the evening train (April 9). Reached Truro [Nova Scotia] late at night on Tuesday (April 10). Went to Stewiacke [N.S.] Wed morning April 22 and drove to Davidson's over awful roads full of holes and deep in mud. Spent Wed. April 22 at Davidson's examining sheep returning to Truro at night (Apl 11). Left Truro Thursday morning (Apl 12) and reached Orangedale the same evening too tired even to think of a forty mile drive to Beinn Bhreagh over perfectly fearful roads. Navigation had not yet opened although the ice was beginning to break up—and there seemed to be no way of reaching Beinn Bhreagh excepting by driving to Whycocomagh—thence to Baddeck and Beinn Bhreagh. I found Casey and John McDermid [Bell's coachman] at Orangedale with your open Carriage perfectly plastered with mud and with horses practically upon their last legs. John said the roads were fearful and that it would take us at least two days to drive home. There was a nice clean looking hotel at Orangedale so we decided to remain there overnight and start next day (Friday Apl 13). On Friday (Apl 13) after lunch we were just about starting for Whycocomagh when a telephone message reached us that the steamboat had left Baddeck for Iona. So Casey and I decided to take the train and let John find his way home alone. The morning train was reported as seven hours late on account of a freight train off the track. Just before starting for the station Kathleen [Casey's wife] telephoned that the steamer had met with heavy ice on her way to Iona and had turned back to Baddeck. It was too late however to re-call John McDermid as he was well out of reach of telephonic communication so Casey and I went on by train to the Grand Narrows and put up at the Grand Narrows Hotel to await developments. Reached there Friday evening (Apl 13). The town side of the straights was filled thick with ice, although there was nothing on the Grand Narrows side to prevent the steamer from going through the draw. We could see however heavy fields of ice floating in the middle of the Lake far away and the tug-boat that is taking the place of SS Blue-hill did not dare to tackle it. Saturday (Apl 14) was a rainy day and, although there was considerable ice on the Lake, there seemed to be nothing to prevent the tug-boat from reaching the Grand Narrows safely—Iona side still blocked. The Telephone line was kept busy both from Grand Narrows and from Beinn Bhreagh, with appeals to the steam boat people to make the passage—but nothing would induce them to move. The next day was Sunday so there did not seem much chance of relief reaching us before Monday or Tuesday. Sunday (Apl 15) opened bright and fair, and no reason existed why the steamboat should not come excepting that it was 'the sabbath day.’ The railroad people were not so particular—Freight trains were eventually passing—at least one every hour. At last Casey evolved a brilliant idea. Here we had a beautiful spring day and the ice was fast disappearing. We were informed that there was very little ice beyond Christmas Island. Why not then go down to Shen Acadie on a freight train and take a boat with us and row over to Beinn Bhreagh from there. The Hotel and Train people were obliging. Mr. McNeil lent us a rowboat and the train hands took the boat on board a freight car and put it in the water for us at Shen Acadie—and we opened navigation on the Bras d'Or Lahrs. We were well provided with warm wraps and rugs and Miss McNeil provided us with a thermos bottle full of hot tea, and an ample lunch. A twelve mile pull was no joke, but I thought that Casey and I could take turns at the oars and thus relieve one another. The wind sprang up against us and there was quite a rough sea. Casey would not allow me to change my seat as he feared an upset. I have considerable difficulty in moving from one part of a boat to another and altogether find that I am not as young as I used to be [Bell was 70, Casey was 35]. An upset was an uncomfortable thing to contemplate; and even a drift on a rough sea towards the Grand Narrows would be frought [sic] with danger, at a time when no help could reach us. We passed several large fields of ice—When the wind and the tide were opposed, the ice seemed to be stateouary [sic] so we took refuge in the quiet water of a sort of boat harbor in an ice-floe and ate our lunch and smoked our pipes…The rowing was specially hard as the wind was blowing on our starboard bow thus throwing the strain of rowing practically upon one arm. He struggled manfully for four and a quarter hours before we reached Beinn Bhreagh Point. Here, under the shelter of the Point he allowed me to change places with him; and I rowed the boat to the Central Wharf which we reached about 8:30 p.m. (Sunday Apl 15). Half frozen we took refuge in the farm house while a team was prepared to take us to the Bungalow. From the farmhouse Casey telephoned to Kathleen to find out when she thought we could get to Beinn Bhreagh. She, thinking that the voice came from the Grand Narrows Hotel replied that she thought we might have to wait a day or two more before being rescued. Kathleen would hardly believe me when I told her by telephone that we were already on Beinn Bhreagh, and would be at the Bungalo in a few minutes. We soon reached there and found brandy and a hot supper awaiting us.” A one-page letter handwritten by Bell to his "darling little wife" on April 21, 1917, four days after this one, is in the Bell Papers [photocopy included]. It begins, "Just a word to say I am alive and well…" Also present is a photocopy of a May 3, 1917 letter (in the Bell papers) penned to Alec by Mabel requesting he "sign enclosed cheque." Intersecting folds, aforementioned pencil notations, scattered toning and soiling, mainly to first page, staple hole to top left corner, and a few brushes to text, otherwise fine condition. This 1917 letter details Bell's rather amazing trek from Washington back to Nova Scotia, including a dangerous rowboat trip across an icy channel with an assistant in an attempt to circumvent a closed passage to his estate. Making frequent use of the telephone during an emergency, Bell and his lab assistant, pioneer aviator Casey Baldwin, rowed across icy Baddeck Bay to his Beinn Bhreagh estate after Casey's wife "Kathleen telephoned that the steamer had met with heavy ice on her way to Iona and had turned back to Baddeck…too late however to re-call John McDermid as he was well out of reach of telephonic communication…The Telephone line was kept busy." This letter was not known to exist until it was found in the stamp collection of scientist Arthur Westphall Clime, one of Bell's employees, and features Bell's own use of his invention, "I told her by telephone" of a safe arrival home. Letters by the inventor which mention the telephone are always sought after and this one is highly desirable for its several such references.
Thumbnail 170 Stanley Baldwin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 British politician who served as Prime Minister three times. Vintage 3.5 x 5.5 postcard photo, signed in fountain pen. Photo also bears a pre-printed signature in the lower border. Scattered light surface marks and rubbing, and light contrast to signature, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 171 Frederick Banting Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Canadian physician and researcher (1891–1941) who shared the 1923 Nobel Prize in Medicine for his role in the discovery of insulin. Rare and bold ink signature, “Frederick G. Banting, University of Toronto, Canada,” on an off-white, marbled 7 x 9 sheet. In very good condition, with show-through from several areas of mounting remnants on the reverse.
Thumbnail 172 Edward Bates Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Attorney general during the Civil War (1793–1869). ALS signed “Edw. Bates,” one page, lightly-lined both sides, 5.25 x 9, March 14, 1864. Letter to a woman offering his assistance. In part: “You are quite right Madam, in supposing that John Hampden Pleasants was my ancient friend, and it is more than justice to me, to infer from the facts that I am more than willing to do any act of kindness, in my powers to one of his children. You are aware, no doubt, that my official position gives me no direct authority over the subject to which you refer—I can only use such influence as any private person might exercise.” Some scattered mild toning, small separation to one fold edge, and some light creasing and wrinkling, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by the original free franked mailing envelope, franked in the upper right, “Edw. Bates.” The letters recipient, John Hampden Pleasants practiced law briefly before turning to journalism. In 1824 he moved to Richmond where he founded the Whig, which he edited for over twenty years. Bates would resign later in 1864 on account of his failing health, and also after Lincoln nominated Salmon P. Chase to Chief Justice, a position Bates had aspirations of filling.
Thumbnail 173 Dan Beard Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American illustrator and cofounder of the American Boy Scouts (1850–1941). Two-page catalog booklet, 3.25 x 6, entitled ‘Books that go on forever, The Books of Dan Beard,’ signed on the front in fountain pen. In very good condition, with a horizontal fold passing through the facial area, some light rubbing, a small strip of paper loss passing through the end of the signature, and the signature a bit thick due to excessive ink flow. Accompanied by a letter of provenance from the National Scout Commissioner, and the original mailing envelope containing the letter and booklet.
Thumbnail 174 Henry Ward Beecher Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Prominent and sometimes controversial American clergyman, orator, and abolitionist (1813–1887) who was the brother of Uncle Tom’s Cabin author Harriet Beecher Stowe. Ink signature, “Henry Ward Beecher, Brooklyn, N. Y., Dec. 11, 1877,” on an off-white 6.5 x 4 sheet. In very good condition, with a central vertical fold, passing through a single letter of the signature, scattered light toning, and two small tears to the right edge.
Thumbnail 175 Jeremy Bentham Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Renowned English advocate for the utilitarianism movement (1748–1832). Uncommon LS, one page both sides, 4 x 6.5. Bentham writes from Queen Square Place, penning the date, “Sunday, 20 Sept. 1823, 10 P. M.,” and communicates a message to Matthew Davenport Hill concerning Colonel Stanhope’s upcoming journey to the Continent, in part: “Unfortunately Col. Stanhope’s departure is fixed for Thursday. I have just dispatched to him a messenger with a letter asking him for his proposed…route with places & days to the end that if per adventure anything can be got up in time it may overtake him as early as possible by the post, at any rate before he has left the last last place of his intended visits in German: item, some idea of the quantity of matter it would be agreeable to him to see the prospectus contain. I suppose you know that he paid t’other day a visit to Hazelwood. Mr. Buckingham was to leave Town with his boy for that place yesterday even so he said to be on Friday,” with Bentham adding the post script, “Have the goodness to return me the Colonel’s letter when done with, for I shall have need to refer to it.” Show-through from writing on the reverse, some light brushing to the text, mirroring of ink on the blank second integral page, and a block of rubbing on the reverse of the same page, otherwise fine condition. Matthews ran the ‘Hill Top’ school established by his father, Thomas Wright Hill, at Hazelwood. He was implementing a new sort of discipline within the school, which entailed turning over operating responsibilities to the students. Colonel Leicester Stanhope, a friend of Bentham, was also interested in this new structure of higher education, and at the time of this letter, was traveling to Greece in search of students to send to the school. A fantastic letter concerning true educational revolutionaries, and the only Bentham we’ve ever offered!.
Thumbnail 176 Henri Bergson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 French philosopher (1859–1941) most influential during the first half of the 20th century, who regarded life not as something static but a matter of time and change. Untranslated ALS in French, signed “H. Bergson,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.5 x 6.25, 60 Morningside Drive letterhead, February 13, 1913. Bergson pens a neat letter in his elegant hand to “Mr. Bernstein.” In fine condition, with a few trivial spots of soiling, and a couple of pencil notations along the top edge of the first page.
Thumbnail 177 Henri Bergson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 French philosopher awarded the 1927 Nobel Prize for literature. ALS in French, signed “H. Bergson,” six pages on two sets of adjoining sheets, 5 x 6.5, July 29, 1914. Letter to Bergson scholar and Professor of Political Science at Columbia University. In part (translated): “I'm writing you immediately because I fear I may be prevented from doing so later: circumstances are really very grave; rumors of war are circulating; I may have to leave Switzerland abruptly at any moment and return precipitously to Paris. But I want to thank you right now for having devoted such a complete, in-depth study to me. It seems to me that you know by heart everything I've written since you quote from me so naturally and you make such ingenious connections between the different passages of my works. And it seems to me that you are thoroughly immersed in the spirit of the doctrine! This means that you constantly remain faithful to my thought, notwithstanding your very personal style of expression. Your exposition is excellent. I would approve, for the very most part, the conclusions you draw from my thought relative to Ethics. You clearly perceive the direction to which I will commit myself when the time comes for me to treat these questions in an explicit manner. Although my conclusions are of the same nature as yours, they will probably be more complicated. As I've already indicated in l'Evolution Creatrice [Creative Evolution] I see humanity torn between two conflicting tendencies—one tending toward the development of individuality, the other toward social cohesion. All the difficulties of theoretical and practical morality proceed from that; and that is why I won't be able to formulate definite conclusions until I've finished a certain number of historical, economic, and social studies that I started several years ago. But, once again, even though my conclusions will undoubtedly be more complex that yours, they will not contradict them and their inspiration will be analogous to yours.” In fine condition, with a bit of scattered light soiling. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 178 Francis Bernard Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Scarce endorsement signed “Fra. Bernard,” on the reverse of a 12.25 x 7.5 manuscript document bearing two lengthy columns of calculations of the account of Lincoln County, stating “In the House of Representatives, Febry. 17, 1766, Resolved that the above account…be allowed.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one passing through the signature, light toning with heavier areas along the top edge, and pieces of reparative tape to the folds on the reverse.
Thumbnail 179 Joe Biden Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Official Rawlings Major League baseball signed in black felt tip on the sweet spot. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 180 Joe Biden Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Three items: color satin-finish 8 x 10 hearing Biden during a conference, signed and inscribed in blue felt tip, “Stephen, Thanks for asking, Joe Biden, 1–29–02”; glossy 8 x 10 half-length portrait, signed in blue felt tip, “Welcome to DC, Joe Biden, 1997”; and a campaign bumper sticker with the logo ‘Biden, President ‘08,’ signed and inscribed across the top in black felt tip, “Stephen—Thanks, Joe Biden, 3/28/07.” In fine condition, with light toning to the portrait and irregular ink adhesion to the signature on the bumper sticker.
Thumbnail 181 Niels Bohr Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Danish physicist (1885–1962) who was awarded the 1922 Nobel Prize in Physics for his theory of atomic structure. Vintage 3.75 x 5.25 paperstock head-and-shoulders photo, signed in fountain pen. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 182 Michael Bloomberg Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Official Rawlings replica Major League baseball signed in blue ballpoint on the sweet spot, “Michael R. Bloomberg.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 183 Napoleon Eugene Bonaparte (Prince Imperial) Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 Prince Imperial of the French Bonaparte dynasty (1856–1879), and the only child of Napoleon III. His early death in Africa, at the hands of Zulu warriors, sent shock waves throughout Europe. ALS in French, signed “Napoleon,” one page both sides, 5 x 8, Camden Place letterhead, November 2, 1877. Letter to an unidentified gentleman. In part (translated): “In September I read your profession of faith made to the voters in Libourne…in your circular you thank those who voted for you. In it you affirm the principle of National Sovereignty. I am pleased by that and I rejoice in seeing a man of your distinction associate himself with a doctrine, the only one, which will permit the establishment of a truly national government in France in which all men of order will find their place due to their merits, a government which they can serve without losing anything of their dignity because such a government will be founded by the entire nation.” A bit of scattered light toning and a couple thin areas of paper to top edges, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by an unsigned carte-de-visite.
Thumbnail 184 Marie Bonaparte Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 French author and psychoanalyst (1882–1962) closely linked to Freud. ALS in French, signed “Marie,” one page, 8.25 x 10.5, June 21, 1949. In full: “Dear Sir, Thank you for what you sent. I will mention your proposal for the sick when I am in Athens.” Marie Bonaparte was also Princess of Greece by her marriage and her power was instrumental in Freud’s escape from Vienna to England. Central horizontal and vertical fold, a few creases and wrinkles, and a pencil notation under signature, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 185 Thomas Boone Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Seventh Royal Governor of New Jersey and the 28th Royal Governor of South Carolina (1730–1812). Manuscript DS, signed “Tho. Boone,” one page, 7.75 x 12, July 7, 1761. As Governor of New Jersey, Boone orders payment to Samuel Smith, Esq. “one of the Treasurers of this Colony or his order, the sum of one hundred & sixty two pounds sixteen shillings and four pence,” and an additional sum to “the Justices and Freeholders of Burlington,” signed at the conclusion by Boone and one other. Three horizontal mailing folds, scattered toning, scattered light edge tears, a pencil notation to the bottom left corner, and tape repairs to the reverse, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 186 John C. Breckenridge Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 American lawyer and politician (1821-1875). He served as a U. S. Representative and Senator from Kentucky and was the 14th Vice President of the United States, to date the youngest vice president in U.S. history. Following the outbreak of the American Civil War, he served in the Confederate States Army as a general. Ink signature on an off-white 2.75 x 1.5 lightly-lined clipped slip, with an additional signature below. In very good condition, with scattered toning, a few faded pencil notations, and adhesive remnants on the reverse.
Thumbnail 187 Blanche Bruce Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 African-American politician (1841–1898) who represented Mississippi as a Republican in the US Senate. Crisp ink signature, “B. K. Bruce, Register U. S. Treasury,” on an off-white 3.5 x 2 card. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 188 Martin Buber Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 German Jewish philosopher and writer (1878–1965) who evolved a philosophy inspired by study of Hasidism and based on the encounter of man with nature, man, and God. TLS in German, signed “Your Buber,” one page, 5 x 8, July 20, 1961. Letter to Mr. Rang. In part (translated): “I am sending you the entire manuscript material as certified printed matter, and by surface mail, which will arrive much later than airmail. The letters would have to be surveyed and photocopied, considering the unstable mail situation (I have lost manuscripts twice in the course of the last few years), I do not wish to let the originals out of my hands. I myself have not yet seen Melzer’s new edition, of which you write. I only know of it because Dr. Robert Weltsch who wrote the epilogue (Not Schoeps, as you write in your letter) had asked me for the material at the time.” In fine condition, with potion of one word crossed out by Buber.
Thumbnail 189 Richard E. Byrd Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Five Farmers & Merchants National Bank & Trust Co. checks, each measuring 6.25 x 2.75, all filled out in another hand and signed by Byrd, “R. E. Byrd,” and all dated between 1932 and 1933. In very good condition, with light creasing, toning, and soiling, and the expected cancellation holes and stamps, the latter mildly affecting each signature except one.
Thumbnail 190 John C. Calhoun Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Prominent American politician (1782–1850) who served as vice president under John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson and later wielded great power and influence in the Senate as a champion of Southern causes, including slavery. Partly-printed DS, signed “J. C. Calhoun,” one page, 8 x 10, July 1, 1872, War Department letterhead. As Secretary of War, Calhoun informs David H. Vinton “that on the first instant the President of the United States appointed you a Brevet Second Lieutenant in the First regiment of artillery in the service of the United States: should the Senate, at their next session, advise and consent thereto, you will be commissioned accordingly.” In very good condition, with two horizontal folds, light creasing, uniform toning, some scattered light foxing, and mild areas of separation at each end of the folds.
Thumbnail 191 Albert Calmette Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Distinguished French physician and researcher (1863–1933) who made a number of important discoveries in bacteriology and who developed the first antidote for snake venom. ALS in French, signed “A. Calmette,” one page both sides, 4.25 x 7, Institut Pasteur letterhead, July 3, 1908. Letter to a colleague. In part (translated): “With all my heart I hope that you will be Hoselle's successor in Alexandria. It's a position far more suitable for you that for Hoselle who is not a doctor (even though everyone calls him Dr., even professor). He's just a Canadian agronomist. I wonder how he can get a chair at Yale University since he has no title other than that of bacteriophage or rather of transmissible microbial decomposition. He fooled those English suckers with his cholera treatment about which we remain more than sceptical.Perhaps you're coming to the Hygiene Congress in Cairo in December. Some of our comrades will attend.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 192 Empress Carlota of Mexico Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 Belgian-born Empress of Mexico (1840–1927) and consort of Austrian Archduke, later Emporer Maximilian of Mexico. ALS in French, signed “Charlotte,” one page both sides, 5 x 8, gilt floral-bordered letterhead, no date. Letter from young Charlotte to her maternal grandfather, the French king, Louis-Philippe. In full (translated): “I would be so happy if I could give you a kiss while wishing you a happy name-day. But once again it will be dear Mother giving you a kiss for me. I pray God for you and hope that I will soon be able to see you. I am sorry to see dear Mother leave, but I am happy that you will have the pleasure of seeing her. Farewell, my dear Grandfather, I am sending warm kisses to you, and also to dear Grandmother; to the Uncles and Aunts, to all the cousins. I remain forever your respectful and loving granddaughter.” In fine condition, with a small spot of toning to lower portion and a pencil notation to blank second integral page. Accompanied by an unsigned carte-de-visite.
Thumbnail 193 Andrew Carnegie Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 Scottish-born industrialist and philanthropist (1835–1919) who earned his fortune in the burgeoning American steel industry. Very rare vintage matte-finish 6 x 8 formal portrait of Carnegie, affixed to its original 8 x 10.75 mount, signed on the mount in fountain pen, and also signed on the mount by the photographer. In fine condition, with some mild toning to edges of mount, which could easily be matted out. Just the second signed photo we have offered, Carnegie is quite scarce in photos of this size.
Thumbnail 194 Andrew Carnegie Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 10, Skibo Castle letterhead, August 4, 1909. Letter to Edward Bok at the Ladies Home Journal. In full: “I appreciate the honor implied by being asked to contribute to your Journal, but I have so much to do these days that it must wait until the spirit moves me. The tempting bait of Five Hundred Dollars that you hold out to me in these dull times may land the fish—some day,—who knows? With kind regards.” Central horizontal and vertical fold, some mild toning and wrinkling, and a small tear to left edge, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 195 Chiang Kai-Shek Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Chinese military officer and politician (1887–1975), one of the most durable leaders of the 20th century, who led the government of Republic of China from 1928 until his death. Vintage matte-finish 3.75 x 5.75 photo by Omea, and so stamped in the lower right, signed in the lower border in black ink in Chinese. A couple light surface marks and ripples from mounting remnants on reverse, slight brush to beginning of signature, and a couple spots of light silvering, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 196 Fidel Castro Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 12,000.00 - 14,000.00 Manuscript DS, in Spanish, written in the hand of fellow Moncada prisoner Agustin Cartaya, one lined page, both sides, dated December 6, 1953, written while on the Isla de la Juventud. The manuscript reads, in full: “Kind and distinguished lady: Together with these sincere lines are attached the affection and respect from all my partners. I was motivated with the idea of writing you because of your admiration towards myself that made the fibers of my heart vibrate with an accelerated rate that was motivated by your eloquent lines. We read your poem and it left us all inspired by the kindness of your phrases, my partners and I, are very lovers of the poetry, that is why I take the opportunity to tell you that you are an excellent poetry writer. In those difficult moments that I used to have with frequency I will remember your beautiful thoughts and incomparable ideals, this has been the formula that with effectiveness have changed during these days my sadness towards happiness. You know that our tasks are firm to serve the ideals, our formula of action demands continuity of our efforts that is why from here we will fight continually for our improving starting with the education and now lady I only have to say good bye wishing you together with all your family all…in this year and in the next.” Signed at the conclusion, “Alcalde, Redondo, R. Castro, E. Camara, Juan Almeida, Andres Garcia, Mario Chanes, Francisco Gonzalez, Rosendo Menendes, Orlando Cortes, Gabriel Gil, Jose Ponce, Fidel Castro, Pedro Miret, Eduardo Rodriguez, Fidel Labrador, Ernest Tizol, Jesus Montane, Jose Suarez, Armando Mestro Martinez, Israel Tapanes, Julio Diaz, Benitez, Rene Bedia, Ramiro Valdes, Eduardo Montano and who subscribes Agustin D. Cartaya.” Paper loss to top and bottom edge, affecting several words of text at bottom, scattered foxing and irregular toning, intersecting storage folds, and rusty paperclip marks to top edge, otherwise very good condition. On July 26, 1953, Castro and his brother, Raul, led a rebel attack on the Moncada Barracks, the second largest military garrison in Cuba, and one commanded by President Fulgencio Batista. The assault was a disaster, with 61 rebels killed in the fighting, and another one-third captured. A handful of men, including Castro, escaped into the countryside but were soon apprehended. In October, he was sentenced to 15 years in the Presidio Modelo on the Isla de la Juventud for orchestrating the attack. He used his incarceration—from which this correspondence was penned—as an opportunity to further his cause. He meticulously sought to portray the injustices of the Batista regime—building a common ground for like-minded Cubans—and arranged his strategy for the next phase of his revolution, which he would successfully launch in 1959.
Thumbnail 197 Winston Churchill Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 TLS signed “W.,” one page, 7.5 x 9.5, personal letterhead, December 4, 1964. Letter to Lord Norman Brook. In full: “Thank you so much for sending me the BBC programme. I greatly enjoyed looking at it. And thank you both very much for the most interesting and well chosen book. Do come and see me soon.” In fine condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold and a few light creases. Brook served as a Deputy Secretary to the War Committee during World War II, and later as Cabinet Secretary.
Thumbnail 198 Winston Churchill Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 Crisp TLS signed “W.,” one page, 7.5 x 9.5, Chartwell, Westerham, Kent letterhead, August 1961. Churchill writes to his friend Max, in full: “I was so grieved to hear that you are still suffering from the effects of your illness and the anti-biotics you had to take. I do trust that La Capponcina will re-establish you rapidly and completely. I am much looking forward to seeing you when I come down to the Hotel de Paris on Monday the 21st.” A central horizontal and vertical fold, a small staple mark to the top left corner, and two punch holes to the left edge, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 199 Winston Churchill Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 Vintage glossy 3.5 x 5 J. Beagles’ postcard photo of a young Churchill outside in a hat and overcoat, circa 1910, signed along the bottom in fountain pen, “Winston S. Churchill.” In very good condition, with trimmed top edge, paperclip impression along top edge, some light vertical creases, and a bit of light contrast to portion of signature. A particularly early photo of the vibrant man who helped direct and shape the course of history.
Thumbnail 200 Winston Churchill Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 ALS signed “Winston S. Churchill,” one page, 5 x 8, Home Office letterhead bearing a small embossed seal, May 17, 1911. Letter to “my dear Aunt Mary.” In full: “Thank you very much for your letter. I should have liked to dine with you to meet the delegates but I am afraid it is impossible as I shall be out with my Yeomanry on June 1st. I am sorry about Nellie.” In very good condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold, scattered light toning and soiling, and pencil notation along top edge. Churchill was serving as Home Secretary at the time he wrote this letter to Mary Hozier, the aunt of his wife Clementine. By “Yeomanry,” he refers to his service in the Queen’s Own Oxfordshire Hussars, in which he held the rank of major. Churchill possibly alludes to the delegates of the 1911 Imperial Conference, a meeting of government leaders from the self-governing colonies and dominions of the British Empire. An intriguing letter from the great British statesman.
Thumbnail 201 Winston Churchill Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 4,000.00 - 5,000.00 ALS signed “Winston S. Churchill,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, embossed South Africa letterhead, April 13, 1900. Letter to Mr. [Ramsay] Collins, marked at the top, “Private.” In full: “Thank you for your letter and for its frankness which is refreshing. Perhaps I was scarcely diplomatic in my advocacy. Perhaps this is not the time to write of mercy and forgiveness. But you know perfectly well the spirit that I protested against. It disgusts me. Looking on South African matters with an eye which if it be not trained by long experience is nevertheless undimmed by prejudice, I find much to admire in the Dutch. I regard them as an essential to the development and prosperity of South Africa: and I do not want to associate myself with any—natural if you like—ebullition of racial animosity on the part of their British fellow colonists. After all I am for fines and disfranchisement, and who in his senses is for more? Why this should seem an odious conclusion simply because it is premised by an appeal for a merciful and tolerant mood, I cannot tell. I am sorry if I have hurt the feelings of people who do not agree with the vindictive views I condemn. Surely they are unreasonable. I am not angry when I hear the crime of theft denounced, but I can quite understand their being annoyed. I have read your letter twice very carefully and will think over what you say. I honour and admire Natal and the Natalians, but I could scarcely expect them to return these feelings if I were only to try to pander to the popular desire. It is moreover my instinct to wish to swim up stream.” In very good condition, with top left corner of first page professionally replaced, central horizontal and vertical fold, one through a single letter of signature, mild toning, and light show-through from writing on opposing sides. In this 1900 letter to the editor of the daily Durban, South Africa, newspaper The Natal Mercury, Churchill thanks Collins for a critique of his advocacy of a policy of clemency towards the Boers, the descendants of Dutch settlers in southern Africa. After the first Boer War (1880-1881), British Prime Minister Gladstone granted the Boers self-government in the Transvaal, but after the second Boer War (1899-1902) in which the British defeated them, the Transvaal became part of the British Empire and, in 1910, became a province of the newly created Union of South Africa, a British dominion. The 24-year-old Churchill had been assigned to cover the war in 1899 for the London Morning Post when on November 15, just a month after hostilities began, he was seized with other British passengers when the Boers attacked their train. Brought to a prisoner of war camp, he resourcefully escaped in December. His adventures, which he described in his dispatches to the Morning Post, made Churchill a hero on his return to England in 1900 and, at the age of 25, he was elected to Parliament, beginning his illustrious political career.
Thumbnail 202 Winston Churchill Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 Unsigned partial wartime draft typed manuscript, one page, 7.5 x 9.5, G.R. Embossed letterhead, no date, but circa June 1943, the second page of a longer manuscript, heavily edited by Churchill. Manuscript is presented as originally typed, followed by Churchill’s revisions. Beginning, “so little risk, and have such a quick turn round, that a very large traffic can be supported by a very small annual output.+ ” This partial line has been crossed out in pencil; all other edits are in red ink. The footnote “+” is typed at the conclusion. Each typed paragraph is numbered in ink 4, 5, and 6. Paragraph 4, as originally typed: “Our two earliest excursions into civil aviation during this war have recommended complete internationalisation. It is unnecessary however now to consider the arguments for and against this proposal since it is clearly unacceptable to the United States, the Dominions and probably Russia. We must therefore agree upon some less radical line of approach to guide us in the forthcoming international discussions.” Paragraph 4, corrected in red ink by Churchill: “Our two earliest Studies of post war civil aviation have recommended complete internationalisation. If by this is meant a kind of Volapuk Esperanto cosmopolitan organization managed & staffed by committees of all peoples great & small with pilots of every country from Peru to China (especially China) flying every kind of machine in every direction many people will feel that this is at present an unattainable idea. It is unnecessary however now to consider the arguments for and against this & kindred proposals, since it is clearly unacceptable to the United States, the Dominions and probably Russia. We must therefore agree upon some less high spirited line of approach to guide us in the forthcoming international discussions.” Referring to “the forthcoming international discussions” Churchill mentions in this manuscript, Brewin notes that “The discussions which Churchill had in mind were to secure the Dominions’ agreement on certain basic principles and then hold preliminary discussions with the USA. In June 1943, it was decided to invite the Americans to a conference in Ottawa to be preceded by Commonwealth conversations. Lord Beaverbrook [British Minister of War Production in 1942 and a close confidante of Churchill], himself a Canadian with strong imperial loyalties and American sympathies, was charged with preparing these negotiations although the conference never took place. A new committee of officials was appointed to advise on the issues. This disproportionate emphasis on the Anglo-Saxon states led to correspondingly unequal treatment of the Russia and other Europeans…Between the spring of 1943 and the Chicago Conference in November 1944, there were four separate strands in British thinking: continued internationalization; Beaverbrook’s ‘gang-up’ with the United States and Canada; an exclusive imperial policy; and Churchill’s policy of ‘a fair field and no favour’ [as suggested in Paragraph 5].” Paragraph 5, as originally typed: “After the war some world organisation, or some grouping of Continental Councils, will be set up for maintain peace. Air power resulting from civil aviation will necessarily be subject to the control of this body or bodies. Our policy should be based upon the principle of ‘a fair field and no favour’ and any disputes that arise should be referred for adjustment to the Sub-Committee or Sub-Committees of these organisations.” Paragraph 5, corrected in red ink by Churchill: “After the war some world organisation, or some grouping of Continental Councils, will be set up for maintain peace. Air power resulting from civil aviation will necessarily be subject to the control of this body or bodies. We must be careful not to stereotype development; & there is much to be said for the principle of ‘a fair field and no favour’. Any disputes that arise should be referred for adjustment to the bodies set up under the world organization.” Paragraph 6, as originally typed, nine words which continued onto page 3, “Within this framework the three main facets of our,” is unchanged by Churchill. The footnote to “+” at the end of the beginning phrase above, is typed under a solid line across the page: + Footnote , as originally typed: “By sea and air less than a million and a half passengers went to Europe in a good pre-war year. These could all be carried in about 150 aircraft. The number going to other continents was under 150,000. Having regard to the longer turn-round, these could be carried in as many aircraft again. Hence even if all passengers leaving these shores went by air, a fleet of less than 1,000 civil aircraft could carry them. To maintain this fleet, considerably less than 40 aircraft a month would be required as compared with the 400 heavy bombers we shall soon be making. It will probably be many years before the development of mail and freight traffic will falsify this general picture.” + Footnote, corrected in red ink by Churchill: “The number going to other continents was under 150,000. Having regard to the longer turn-round, these could be carried in as many aircraft again. Hence even if all passengers leaving these shores went by air, a fleet of less than 1,000 civil aircraft could carry them. To maintain this fleet, considerably less than 40 aircraft would be required to be built monthly as compared with the 400 heavy bombers monthly we shall soon be making. It will probably be many years before the development of mail and freight traffic will falsify this general picture.” Page is affixed to a slightly larger off-white sheet. In very good to fine condition, with all ink of Churchill’s notations lightly faded, but still legible, punch hole to top left, and a uniform shade of mild toning. In June 1943, Churchill was planning to counter a monopoly of American air power in civil aviation. Already outdistanced in technology and capacity, Britain wanted to protect its market share while the US pushed to break the British stranglehold on free trade with its empire and Commonwealth. To this end, Churchill ruled out "complete internationalisation" as unattainable and unacceptable; instead, he advocated a world organization or 'Continental Councils' to regulate "air power resulting from civil aviation.” While Churchill intended to invite the Americans to preliminary discussions in Ottawa, they were never held. At the 1944 Chicago conference, the United States proposed the "five freedoms", a multilateral exchange which promoted a competitive "open-skies" policy for access to previously closed avenues of trade, but the prime minister, by advocating "a fair field and no favor" approach, successfully blocked the United States' free trade ambitions. This draft sold at Sotheby’s London on July 17, 2008 for $5,122.
Thumbnail 203 Andre Citroen Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 French industrialist (1878–1935) best remembered for the make of car bearing his name. AQS in French, signed “Andre Citroen,” April 3, 1926, on an off-white 5.5 x 8 sheet.Citroen writes, in full (translated): “It is by specialization and standardization that production is increased. It is by intensifying production and consequently increasing exports that one will get a country back on its feet.” Mounting remnant along left edge and mild toning, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 204 Civil Rights Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Glossy 10 x 8 photo of Martin Luther King, Jr. boarding a bus with some fellow Freedom Riders, signed in blue felt tip by seven of the original Civil Rights protesters. Signers are: Dave Myers, Kredelle Petway, Jim Zwerg, Catherine Burks, Winonah Myers, David Fonkhauser, and Bernard LaFayette Jr. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 205 Civil Rights: A. Philip Randolph Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Leader in the civil-rights and American labor movements (1889–1979). Randolph was responsible for organizing the March on Washington in 1963, the event at which Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his ‘I Have a Dream’ speech. Vintage glossy 7.75 x 9.75 head-and-shoulders photo, signed in blue ballpoint, “May 22, 1969, Sincerely, A. Phillip Randolph.” In very good condition, with scattered light creasing and surface marks, two surface impressions passing through the facial area, light toning, and lightly irregular ink adhesion to the signature.
Thumbnail 206 William F. ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Vintage matte-finish 4.5 x 3.5 photo of Cody, clad in buckskin, leather chaps and gloves, atop his horse, with a stagecoach and tent visible in the background, signed in black ink, “W. F. Cody, ‘Buffalo Bill.’” In very good condition, with a light horizontal crease along top edge lightly affecting portion of signature, a few other mild creases, and light silvering to darker areas of image.
Thumbnail 207 Jacques Cousteau Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Photocopy of the title page to Cousteau’s book, Three Adventures, 7.25 x 10.25, signed in blue felt tip, “J. Y. Cousteau.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 208 Samuel Clarke Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 English philosopher (1675-1729) and contemporary of Isaac Newton. ALS signed “Sam: Clarke,” two pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.5 x 12.25, June 13, 1706. Letter to author Henry Dodwell strongly disagreeing with his most recent book. In part: “The occasion of my publishing an answer to your discourse concerning the natural Mortality of the Soul, was not (I assure you) out of any disrespect to your person, whose great learning is well known to the world, & your piety not doubted by any that know you: But this last book of yours was judged by all serious men, of all parties, & particularly by those whose judgment your opinions in some other matters should make you value most, to be of very dangerous consequence; & in the event it appeared notoriously, that the loose & profane people about the Town & elsewhere, embraced your notion with greediness, & boasted of it with great pleasure in all companies. You say indeed, you know no Atheist in England that can take advantage of the Doctrine of natural Mortality, if I had assured him that you allow none such the benefit of actual Mortality. I never supposed, Sir, that you did allow them the benefit of actual Mortality. But they have & will allow themselves more than you allow them; & when once you have granted them natural Mortality, you can never persuade them that they shall not have the benefit of actual. Immortality to punishment has always been made use of by unbelievers, as an objection against religion; & you have greatly strengthened that objection, because it is plainly more incredible that a good god should immortalize to punishment a mortal creature, than that he should condemn an immortal one to immortal punishment. The first part of your hypothesis, all profane men embrace eagerly; & after you have given them encouragement to believe that they will never be convinced of the truth of the second. This is the Evil consequence of your Doctrine: What good effect your publishing it could be expected to have, I profess seriously I cannot imagine: since it can affect only those, who never heard of the gospel; & the world is generally disposed to think favourably concerning them, without advancing such a dangerous hypothesis.” In very good condition, with tape reinforcement to horizontal folds on reverse of the second page, a few small pinholes of paper loss at intersecting fold junctions, some scattered light toning and soiling, a rough edge, and a couple of repairs to paper loss, affecting a few words of text.
Thumbnail 209 Anthony Comstock Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 300.00 - 500.00 Politician dedicated to ideas of Victorian morality (1844–1915). LS, two pages, 7.75 x 10, illustrated New York Society for the Suppression of Vice letterhead depicting an arrest and book burning, November 22, 1884. Letter to Edward Bok, the editor of the Brooklyn Magazine. In full: “Your kind favor of the 20th inst, informing me of the preparation to celebrate the Fifty third Anniversary of the Rev Dr T. DeWitt Talmadge [sic], in your city on the 7th of January next, is to hand, and I hasten to avail myself of the opportunity to express my most cordial congratulations to Dr Talmadge who in the good providence of God is spared to reach this anniversary surrounded by so many marked tokens of the Divine favor. That the world is better that he has lived in it no one familiar with his grand and heroic work, can question. Like any other earnest worker, he has found the pen of the enemy dipped in the gall of ridicule and misrepresentation but this seems to have been an incentive to him, to quicken his zeal for the Master and to deepen and sweeten his sympathies for those like afflicted; while the fact that hundreds of young men have been helped to a higher, nobler and purer life, through his efforts and teachings, indicate to every fair mind, that Almighty God has recognized his service and owned and blest the same. I congratulate his church on having such a Pastor, and Dr Talmadge on having such a church; and may he long be spared to minister in the name of our Lord and Master. Very sincerely and truly Yours.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, and some scattered mild toning.
Thumbnail 210 Oliver Cromwell Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 6,000.00 - 7,000.00 English soldier and statesman (1599–1658) who led Parliamentary forces in the English Civil War, waged war against Scotland and Ireland and, in 1653, following the execution of Charles I, became Lord Protector of Great Britain, a position he held until his death in 1658. After a yearlong reign by his son, Richard, the British throne was restored (to Charles II) and Cromwell’s body was exhumed and posthumously ‘executed.’ ALS in Old English, signed “O Cromwell,” one page, 7.25 x 11.5, March 8, 1648. Letter to his son Richard’s future father-in-law. In full: “Yours I have received; and have given farther instructions to this Bearer, Mr. Stapylton, to treat with you about the business in agitation between your Daughter and my Son. I am engaged to you for all your civilities and respects already manifested. I trust there will be a right understanding between us, and a good conclusion; and though I cannot particularly remember the things spoken of at Farnham, to which your Letter seems to refer me, yet I doubt not but I have sent the offer of such things now as will give mutual satisfaction to us both. My attendance upon public affairs will not give me leave to come down unto you myself; I have sent unto you this Gentleman with my mind. I salute Mrs. Mayor, though unknown, with the rest of your Family. I commit you with the progress of the Business, to the Lord; and rest.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, scattered light toning and foxing, and two wax remnants to left edge. Cromwell was understandably occupied with “public affairs” in March of 1648: Royalist sentiment was spreading and the Second Civil War was soon to begin. Contrary to his letter, in March he did visit the letter’s recipient, Richard Mayor, at the Great Lodge of Merdon in Winchester to discuss the marriage of Mayor’s daughter Dorothy and Cromwell’s twenty-one-year-old son Richard. Marrying off his children into godly matrimony was a priority for the Puritan father, and he took his responsibility to arrange a match seriously. Although his son had another more sophisticated prospect, Cromwell preferred the more modest Dorothy “because although the other be very greater yet I see difficulties, and not that assurance of godliness... If God please to bring it about, the consideration of piety in the [Mayor] parents, and such hopes of the gentlewoman in that respect, make the business to me a great mercy.” After protracted financial negotiations accompanying the marital arrangements, Richard married Dorothy in 1649 and they had nine children together. Richard would later briefly succeed his father as Lord Protector, but after he was deposed he left England for Europe, never to see his wife again. An exceedingly rare letter.
Thumbnail 213 Dalai Lama Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS, two pages, the first measuring 8.25 x 11.5, the second, signed page measuring 8.5 x 11, June 8, 1993, personal embossed letterhead. The Dalai Lama writes to Senator Patrick Moynihan, in full: “I have been informed through my Special Envoy, Lodi Gyari, of the Executive Order issued by President Clinton conditioning the 1994 renewal of Most-Favored-Nation trading status to China. I also received your correspondence on the date of the President’s pronouncement and am grateful to you for your insightful comments. I would like to express my deep appreciation on behalf of the Tibetan people to you and your colleagues in the Congress who were instrumental in ensuring that Tibet was included in the conditions. The United States Congress has always offered tremendous support for the Tibetan people and because of the insistence of you and your colleagues, the new Administration has chosen to re-evaluate its policy with regards to Tibet. I am hopeful that the United States will now increase its monitoring capabilities in Tibet and will insist that real progress be made before June 1994. The broad condition in the Executive Order relating to the protection of Tibet’s religious and cultural heritage gives the United States unprecedented leverage in pressuring China to improve conditions inside Tibet and its treatment of the Tibetan people. I am also pleased that the issue of population transfer was raised in the accompanying Report. As we had the opportunity to discuss on my recent visit, the increasing influx of Chinese into Tibet is an immense threat to the survival of the Tibetan culture and people. I was very pleased that the Report discusses the influx of Chinese not just in the Tibet Autonomous Region, but in other areas traditionally inhabited by Tibetans. I am also very happy that there is no reference to ‘China, including Tibet’ in the Executive Order or the Report. Although I recognize that this does not necessarily indicate a change of policy, it at least illustrates their willingness to refrain from using this offensive terminology. Lodi Gyari has also informed me of the tireless work of your staff, Mr. Stephen Rickard. Senator, again I thank you and your office for all your efforts and for your commitment to the people of Tibet.” Light creasing to the top corners, small staple marks to the top left corners, and filing notations at the top edges, otherwise fine condition. Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan was a staunch advocate for the Tibetan people. During the Dalai Lama’s April 1991 visit to the Capitol, Moynihan declared that “The Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1949 was a conquest every bit as clear as the conquest of the Baltic States during World War II or Iraq’s invasion and temporary conquest of Kuwait. It does not become less criminal because it has remained in place over a long period of time." Referencing President Clinton’s decision to renew China’s trade privileges in the coming year, a decision Clinton felt would inspire China to take more progressive strides towards improving human rights, the Dalai Lama also saw an opening for progress, reflecting that “The United States Congress has always offered tremendous support for the Tibetan people...I am hopeful that the United States will now increase its monitoring capabilities in Tibet and will insist that real progress be made before June 1994.” He goes on to recount one of the greatest threats to the Tibetan people as “the increasing influx of Chinese into Tibet,” counting this surge as “an immense threat to the survival of the Tibetan culture and people.” Lastly, he expresses immense gratitude for a simple omission of verbiage: “I am also very happy that there is no reference to ‘China, including Tibet’...Although I recognize that this does not necessarily indicate a change of policy, it at least illustrates their willingness to refrain from using this offensive terminology.” Brimming with the Dalai Lama’s high hopes for the resolution of over 50 years of oppression Tibet, this desirable letter serves as a stunning reminder of a nation still under attack, and the legendary leader who uses words, rather than violence, to combat the harrowing onslaught.
Thumbnail 214 Jonathan Dayton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 American statesman (1760–1824) who was the youngest signer of the US Constitution and who later served as the fourth Speaker of the House of Representatives and as a member of the Senate. Arrested in 1807 in connection with the Aaron Burr conspiracy case, he was never tried, but the scandal effectively ended his political career. ALS signed “Jona. Dayton,” one page, 8 x 9.5, February 27, 1799. Dayton writes to George Simpson, in full: “You are requested to subscribe One hundred & sixty shares in the name of Jonathan Dayton, James Cochran, Joseph Wheaton & William Lambert, to the Eight per Cent loan of five millions of Dollars to the United States—the first payment of which you have herewith.” Intersecting folds, a few small fold separations, scattered toning and soiling, show-through from mounting remnants on the reverse, a few tears to the left edge, and a couple of pieces of reparative tape to the edges, along with a full strip across one of the horizontal folds on the reverse, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 215 Lee de Forest Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Prolific American inventor (1873–1961) often referred to as ‘the father of radio’ for his pioneering work in wireless telegraphy. TLS, one page, 8.5 x 7, General Talking Pictures Corporation, De Forest Phonofilm and Phonodisc Equipment, New York City letterhead, April 16, 1930. De Forest writes to John W. Hughes of Chicago, in full: “Answering yours of the 7th—I do not believe that it would be a wise use of time to go into the subject you mention in your letter by correspondence. Possibly at some later time when I am writing an article for publication I may express my views on the subject of true character and greatness.” Intersecting folds, a few small edge tears, and a couple of adhesive remnants along the edges, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 216 Charles de Gaulle Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Esteemed French military leader and politician (1890–1970) who headed that country’s government during much of World War II and served again as prime minister in 1958–59. DS, in French, signed “C. De Gaulle,” one page both sides, 8 x 12, March 7, 1960. Official letter of state to Bolivia’s Hernan Siles Zuazo, announcing the designation of Michel Leroy-Beaulieu as France’s minister to Bolivia. In fine condition, with punch holes to left edge and a central horizontal fold.
Thumbnail 217 Charles de Gaulle Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 Vintage glossy 8 x 10 photo of de Gaulle in uniform, his arms crossed against his chest, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “A M. Agosti, 20/2/41, C. de Gaulle.” In very good condition, with moderate silvering to image and background, visible mostly only at an angle, a few scattered creases and surface marks, and an impression to left edge. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. A superb pose of the resilient French leader, quite scarce in this size.
Thumbnail 218 Charles de Gaulle Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 Vintage glossy 6.5 x 4.75 photo of de Gaulle and General Montgomery at a ceremony at Les Invalides, the site of Napoleon’s tomb, signed in fountain pen, “C. de Gaulle.” Matted to an overall size of 8.5 x 7.25. Some scattered light surface marks and fingerprints, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 219 Jerome de Lalande Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 French astronomer and writer (1732–1807). ALS in French, signed “De la Lande,” one page, 4 x 6.5, March 30, 1787. Crisply penned untranslated letter In very good condition, with scattered toning and foxing, several horizontal folds, and an office stamp to left side.
Thumbnail 220 Declaration of Independence: Josiah Bartlett Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 ADS, signed in the text “Josiah Bartlett”, one page, 6.5 x 3.5, October 25, 1790. Pay document reads, “I promise to pay to Josiah Bartlett or order four pounds thirteen shillings and six pence lawful money on demand with interest till paid for value received.” Also signed as witnesses by Bartlett’s sons Levi and Ezra Bartlett. Intersecting folds, a uniform shade of mild toning, and light mirroring of ink from folding, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 221 Declaration of Independence: Josiah Bartlett Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Manuscript DS, one page, 8 x 9.75, March 21, 1765. An indenture stating, in part, that “Enoch Little of Newbury Gent. and Edmund his son agreeth that a Deed of Sale signed by said Enoch, to Sd. Edmund, baring date with this, shall be delivered unto Sd. Edmunds hands at the Decease of Sd. Enoch, and not before.” Signed at the conclusion by Bartlett, Ezekiel Hale, Enoch Little, and Edmund Little. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered creasing and toning, and some light foxing.
Thumbnail 222 Declaration of Independence: Charles Carroll of Carrollton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Office of Discount & Deposit check, 6.5 x 2.5, filled out and signed by Carroll, ”Ch. Carroll of Carrollton,” payable to The Reverend Mr. Pise for $50.00, November 19, 1826. In very good condition, with a central vertical fold, light toning, two sets of unobtrusive cuts, a pencil notation to the bottom right corner, and light toning from a few pieces of reparative tape to the reverse.
Thumbnail 223 Declaration of Independence: George Clymer Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 DS, signed “G. Clymer,” one page, 8 x 4, no date. Certification No. 17948 from the Supervisor’s Office, District of Pennsylvania, “that the duties on one case of Geneva, containing three and one half gallons of the first proof, and marked and numbered as in the margin, have been secured according to law.” In very good condition, with scattered creasing, uniform toning, some light foxing, and rough edges.
Thumbnail 224 Declaration of Independence: William Ellery Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Partial self-contained ADS signed “W. Ellery,” on a 6.5 x 3.5 slip clipped from a larger document. Notes from the October Session of 1784, naming loan officers, the settlements of accounts, and “the liquidation of debts of the United States, contracted within this State agreeable to the resolve of Congress of the twenty eighth of April last.” In very good condition, with a horizontal fold across the top edge, light creasing and toning, and an area of paper loss to the bottom left corner.
Thumbnail 225 Declaration of Independence: Benjamin Harrison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 Revolutionary War-dated LS signed “Benj. Harrison,” one page, 7.75 x 10, inlaid to a slightly larger sheet, November 16, 1782. Harrison sends a request, in full: “Mr. George Nicolson, a Partner of Mr. Ross’s our late State Agent who from the Capitulation of York, was on the Public account much engaged with Mr. John Siftly, who I understand is on board the Romulus. I request the favor of you to give this gentleman (who I also recommend to your civility) the liberty of going on board the ship to see him & settle his accounts.” Intersecting folds, some light creasing, uniform toning, heavy area of adhesive residue, a small tear to the top edge, a few small areas of surface loss, pieces of reparative tape to the front areas of surface loss and folds on the reverse, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 226 Declaration of Independence: Francis Hopkinson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Partly-printed DS, signed “F. Hopkinson,” one page, 8.25 x 3.5, March 1, 1779. Continental Sight Draft #701, payable to Guardus Clarkson for “Twenty-four Dollars…for interest due on Money borrowed by the United States.” Endorsed on reverse by Bank of America founder, William Bingham. In very good condition, with light toning, show-through from writing on the reverse, and trimmed edges.
Thumbnail 227 Declaration of Independence: Robert Treat Paine Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Manuscript DS, signed “Paine,” one page, 4 x 6.25, no date. A request for payment for Amos Washburn and Thomas Chase, signed floridly at the conclusion by Paine, adding a paraph below his signature. In very good condition, with a central vertical fold, light toning, some mild ink erosion, and light show-through from a mounting remnant on the reverse.
Thumbnail 228 Declaration of Independence: William Williams Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Manuscript DS, one page, 8 x 4.5, May 5, 1783. Revolutionary War-dated order of payment of an individual’s “services and expenses in, and relative to, the affairs of a Genl. Courtmartial, held at New London & Groton in the year 1782,” signed at the conclusion by Williams and several others. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, uniform toning, a chip to the top edge, a few tears to the bottom edge, show-through from writing on the reverse, and a signature covering the last half of Williams.’
Thumbnail 229 Declaration of Independence: Wilson and Paine Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Two DSs: partly-printed DS boldly signed “Wilson,” 6 x 6.75, July of 1776. Wilson endorses on the reverse of an order to pay debt, below a few lines of accounting notations; and partly-printed DS signed “Paine Atty,” 4 x 6.25, February 3, 1769. Paine endorses at the conclusion of a Common Pleas document, featuring a few lines of accounting and other signatures. In very good condition, with toning and light show-through from the printed document to the first item, and a central vertical fold and scattered light toning to the second.
Thumbnail 230 Declaration of Independence: Oliver Wolcott Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Endorsement, signed “Teste Oliver Wolcott Sheriff,” one inlaid page, 6 x 4, March 20, 1755. Penned on the reverse of a court summons, the names of the defendant and plaintiffs are listed, followed by a few calculations below Wolcott’s notation, “Litchfield, March 28th Day 1755—Then I served the within Writ to me directly by Reading of same in the hearing of within named Defent.,” signing at the conclusion. The printed summons in requiring John Patterson of Litchfield “to Answer unto Abel Beach & Abijah Beach, both of Strafford, in Fairfield County…in an Action or Plea that to the Plaintiffs he the Defendant Render the Sum of 112 pounds money.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, partial separations along the central horizontal fold, a portion of which is secured with reparative tape, a light adhesive remnant, a small area of paper loss towards the bottom of the document, and show-through from writing on the reverse.
Thumbnail 231 Diana Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 2,000.00 Christmas card from 1995, 8 x 6 folded, opens to 16 x 6, with a gold crest on the front. Inside the card bears a charming informal satin-finish 5.5 x 4 portrait of Diana with William and Harry. Printed opposite the photo is a Christmas sentiment which reads, “Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and New Year 1995,” and signed at the bottom “from Diana,” who also inscribes the top of the card “Peter.” In very good condition, with scattered foxing to inside along hinge and photo’s border, with a few light spots on background of photo, and some light soiling and foxing to both outside covers. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 232 Diana and Charles Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Christmas card from 1983, 5.25 x 7.25 folded, opens to 10.5 x 7.25, embossed in gold on the outside with Prince of Wales’ feathers and Garter motto, as well as the Spencer family arms. Inside, the card bears an affixed charming satin-finish 4 x 5.5 color casual family photograph of Charles, Diana and baby William, with the William sitting on Diana’s lap on a swing as Charles looks on. Printed opposite the photograph is the sentiment “With all good wishes for Christmas and the New Year.” Charles has inscribed the card, “Harold and Mrs, Haywood,” and signed at the bottom “Charles and,” with Diana adding, “Diana.” A few vertical creases through inscription, small crease to lower right corner, and some toning to covers from magnetic album, otherwise fine condition. Haywood was close to Charles and served as his personal advisor on youth affairs from 1977–1988, and helped create the Prince’s Trust Charity.
Thumbnail 233 Diana and Charles Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 Gift tag, 4.75 x 3.75, embossed at the top with the Prince of Wales feathers, filled out by Charles, “A very happy Christmas from Charles and,” with Diana adding “Diana” at the end. Tag also bears a pencil date of 1986 in an unknown hand. In fine condition, with mounting remnants on reverse. Tag accompanied a gift presented to Harold Haywood, an advisor to Charles.
Thumbnail 234 DNA: James D. Watson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: The Double Helix. First edition. NY: Atheneum, 1968. Hardcover with dustjacket, 5.75 x 8.75, 226 pages. Signed on the half-title page in black ballpoint, “James D. Watson.” In very good condition, with moderate surface marks and rubbing, a linear tear to the top of the spine, and a loose hinge.
Thumbnail 235 DNA: James D. Watson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Four hardcover copies of Genes, Girls, and Gamow, each First American Editions and signed on the title page in black ballpoint by Watson. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 236 Anatoly Dobrynin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Official Rawlings replica National League baseball signed in blue ballpoint on the sweet spot, “A. Dobrynin.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 237 Frederick Douglass Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 DS, signed “Fredk. Douglass,” one page, 3.5 x 8.5, measuring 14 x 8.5 unfolded, October 3, 1885. A release of real estate from Albert Fox and Louis Shoemaker to Mary Bonnell, signed by Douglass. Light toning, a pencil notation at the bottom, and some trivial spotting on the docketing panel, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 238 Frederick Douglass Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 6,000.00 - 7,000.00 Fine ALS, one lightly lined (vertically) page, 6 x 8, June 28, 1888. Douglass writes to war journalist, lawyer, and politician Private [J. M.] Dalzell (1838–1924). In full: “I enclose herewith a post office order in your favor six doll[ar]s in payment for eleven copies of your book[.] I am just home from the National Republican Convention at Chicago and have not had time to read your Autobiography. One week in this Chicago business has damaged my health more than six months work would have done at home.” Also included: a first-edition copy of the book to which Douglass refers in the letter, Private Dalzell: his Autobiography, Poems, and Comic War Papers, Sketch of John Gray, Washington’s Last Soldier, Etc. (Cincinnati: Robert Clarke & Co., 1888). On page 197 of the book, Dalzell includes Douglass among a list of those he consulted in writing his biographical sketch of John Gray, then believed to be the last surviving American veteran of the Revolutionary War (though priority to this claim is still a matter of some dispute). Plus: a souvenir manuscript, comprising a fair copy of Dalzell’s 1867 poem “The Blue and Gray” on two lightly lined 8.5 x 14 conjoined sheets, signed on both pages “J. M. Dalzell, Private Dalzell” and dated May 30, 1916. The Douglass letter is encapsulated in Mylar and is bright and fine, with light intersecting folds; the book is clean and fine, with mild soiling and toning, handling wear, and ex-library markings; the souvenir manuscript is clean and fine, with mild handling wear, wrinkling, and small tears. Less than two weeks earlier, on June 19, Douglass was introduced as one of the featured speakers at the Republican National Convention at Chicago and delivered a stirring address to the delegation: “I believe that the Republican Party will prove itself equally faithful to its friends, and those friends during the war were men with black faces. They were legs to your maimed; they were eyes to your blind; they were shelter to your shelterless sons when they escaped from the lines of the rebels; they are faithful to-day….Lincoln called upon the negro to reach out his iron arm and clutch with his steeled fingers your faltering banner; and they came—they came 200,000 strong. Let us remember these black men now stripped of their constitutional right to vote for the grand standard-bearer whom you will present to the country.” Convention rules called for a simple majority of votes (415 of 828) for the presidential nomination. Although it took eight ballots for a victor, Benjamin Harrison, to finally be declared on June 25, Douglass was afforded an historic honor on the fourth ballot when one of Kentucky’s 26 delegates cast a vote for him—the first time an African-American had ever received such a vote at a major party convention. While praising the Republicans, the party’s convention clearly taxed Douglass’ fortitude, based on his comment of how the stress of Chicago politics had damaged him more than six months in Washington, D.C. A most historic association with the great civil rights pioneer.
Thumbnail 239 Alfred Dreyfus Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 2,000.00 French military officer (1859–1935) whose central role in the Dreyfus Affair, which tore French society apart and shook their faith in the military, thrust him into the international spotlight. Author Emile Zola wrote his famous open letter, ‘J’Accuse!’ laying bare the entire affair. Vintage 3.5 x 5.25 postcard photo of Dreyfus in his dress uniform, signed in the lower border in black ink, “A. Dreyfuss.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 240 Countess Marie du Barry Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Infamous French courtesan (1743–1793) who was the last mistress of Louis XV. Accused of aiding emigres from the Revolution, she was imprisoned, tried, and executed during the Reign of Terror. LS in French, signed “Le Comtesse du Barry,” one page, 6 x 8, February 2, 1783. Untranslated letter signed at the conclusion by du Barry. Uniform block of toning over text and signature, two ink lines through signature, scattered toning and soiling, and mounting remnants to reverse, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 241 Guillaume Baron de Dupuytren Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Surgeon (1777–1835) who treated Napoleon’s hemorroids. DS, in French, signed “Dupuytren,” one page both sides, 7 x 9.25, no date. A medical diagnosis for an unknown patient. In full (translated): “I was mistaken in believing that a fracture of the olecranon [part of elbow bone] existed. It is a mistake to believe that there was a lateral dislocation of the bone in the forearm. There existed only a fracture of the lower extremity and principally of the external condyl of the humerus. I am certain that showers with a watering can will reestablish the movements, if not to the fullest extent of their normal capacity then at least to such an extent that one will scarcely be able to detect deficiencies in those movements.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, and scattered light toning and soiling.
Thumbnail 242 Anthony Eden Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 10, personal letterhead, May 31, 1939. Letter of thanks to a woman. In full: “I have to thank you for your letter of the 13th May with enclosure, which I was interested to read. I much appreciated the kind thought which prompted you to write as you did.” In fine condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold. With one fold passing through a single letter of signature, and a uniform shade of mild toning.
Thumbnail 243 Thomas Edison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Edison Botanic Research Corporation check, 8.25 x 3, filled out in another hand and signed by Edison with his ‘umbrella’ signature, “Thos A. Edison,” payable to Peter Henderson & Co. for $4.00, February 18, 1929. In very good condition, with a central vertical fold, a few pencil notations to the top edge, light show-through from stamps on the reverse, and the expected cancellation holes affecting the first half of the signature.
Thumbnail 244 Thomas Edison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 Handwritten draft questionnaire, in pencil, signed with his ‘umbrella’ signature, “Thos. A. Edison,” on the reverse of a printed 5 x 7.25 dinner menu from the Yama Farms Inn, an exclusive Catskill resort. Edison writes: “What are some good questions for a General Information Question[n]aire. Who wrote Don Quixote / What is distance from NY to Buffalo / What is a German Mind / Where is Antwerp / What Cerial [sic] is used the most by Man. / What is the Taj Mahal / What part of the US is below the sea level / Where in USA is best cotton raised." A central vertical fold, lightly affecting a few letters, and expected light soiling, otherwise fine condition. By the early 1920s, Edison, frustrated by the lack of knowledge of college graduates seeking employment at his company, made up questionnaires to test job applicants, usually a series of 150 questions tailored to the position for which they were applying. Some were industry specific, some general knowledge, while others were rather obscure. About 35% of the job seekers passed with his satisfactory score of at least 90%. When several rejected applicants complained to the press, Edison refused to release his questionnaires but magazines started running “Edison pop quizzes,” and rival employers conducted their own employment quizzes. Frank Seaman, a New York advertising executive transformed his Napanoch, New York summer home into an inn in 1913, which earned a reputation as a well-regarded, exclusive Catskill resort catering to industrialists who were the greatest thinkers of their age. Yama Farms was so exclusive guests could only visit on Seamen's personal invitation and among his regular visitors were Thomas Edison, J.P. Morgan, Henry Ford, John Burroughs, George Eastman, and Harvey Firestone. The Inn remained in operation until Frank Seaman died in 1939 but leaves a legacy as a place where the leading inventors took time to recharge their batteries. For Edison, it represented one of the few times where he relaxed with his few friends in a lifetime of creating a record 1093 patents that changed the world.
Thumbnail 245 Albert Einstein Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 TLS in German, signed “A. Einstein,” 8.5 x 11, embossed personal letterhead, January 31, 1938. Einstein writes to Erna Silber-Keller of Brooklyn, New York, translated in full: “It would be best for you to send me your telephone address. From time to time I come to New York anyway; then I will definitely get in touch with you.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one passing through the end of the signature, uniform toning, a few scattered areas of staining, and a few trivial areas of separation along the folds.
Thumbnail 246 Albert Einstein Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 TLS signed “A. Einstein,” one page, 8.5 x 11, August 2, 1938. Einstein (who, given some minor typos, evidently took the time to type this letter himself!) gives the nod to a trigonometry solution submitted to him by a curious student. In full: “the solution is good. It is only to add that the roots must be taken positiv [sic].” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, one passing through the middle of the signature, and light toning. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope and ‘The Problem,’ drawn out in pencil, to which Einstein was responding. A unique example, for any Einstein enthusiast!
Thumbnail 247 Oliver Ellsworth Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 DS signed “O. Ellsworth,” one page, 8.25 x 5, April 10, 1776. Ellsworth orders payment to “Doct. Aaron Roberts” in the “sum of three pounds eleven shillings & four pence for Doctering a sick Solider of the Connecticut Troops.” In very good condition, with two horizontal folds, uniform toning, light show-through from writing on the reverse, a mild separation to one of the folds, and rough edges.
Thumbnail 248 Oliver Ellsworth Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Endorsement signature, “Oliver Ellsworth,” on the reverse of a 8.25 x 6.5 pay order for Ellsworth for 20 pounds, dated September 16, 1780. Two horizontal folds, some scattered light toning, another endorsement through written text on front, as well as some light show-through from writing on reverse, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 249 Eugenie Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Last Empress consort of the French from 1853 to 1871 as the wife of Napoleon III, Emperor of the French. Untranslated ALS in French, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 9.5 x 7.75, no date. Eugenie pens a beautifully florid letter to a friend. Matted and framed, so that both sides can be viewed, to an overall size of 13.75 x 12.25. A few stray marks, a pencil notation, and some light brushing to the signature, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 250 William Eustis Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Secretary of War under Madison during the War of 1812, and a Massachusetts governor. ALS signed “W. Eustis,” one page, 8 x 10, October 20, 1810. Eustis writes to William Linnard, Esqr, in part: “Your Letter of the 13th instant is received. It is represented by Mr. Rodney that Captn. Caleb Bennett of New Castle and David Kirkpatrick of Wilmington are gentlemen of character to whom the keys of the arsenals at the respective places may be safely confided.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered creasing, uniform toning, a few mild areas of soiling, and adhesive remnants to the bottom left.
Thumbnail 251 Alexander Fleming Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 Scottish bacteriologist (1881–1955) who shared the 1945 Nobel Prize in Medicine for his role in the discovery and isolation of penicillin. ALS, one page, 4.5 x 7, 20A, Danvers Street, Cheyne Walk, SW3 letterhead, December 25, 1951. Fleming writes, in part: “I have not sent any Christmas cards but now on Christmas day I wish you good cheer and good fortune in 1952. I have just eaten and drunk well and I feel at peace with the world. Thank you very much for ‘Life.’ I seem to have let myself in for something for I understand that when the Recks of Edinburgh Unit is installed they have the same…proceedings.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 252 Albert Gallatin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Politician and financial genius responsible for the formation of what is now known as the Ways and Means Committee. ALS, one page, 8 x 6.5, August 15, 1807. “I have received the wine, oatmeal & flax seed. The master of the Packett told the President’s Stewart that there was in Alexandria a box for me sent from Norfolk. What it is I know not. Will you be good enough to see & if mine to pay charges & forward it by Packet.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered creasing, light toning, trimmed edges, and a moderate adhesive stain and pencil notations to the top right corner.
Thumbnail 253 Pat Garrett Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 New Mexico lawman (1850–1908) who killed his former gambling partner, the fabled outlaw Billy the Kid, in 1881. In 1901 he was appointed customs collector in El Paso, Texas, where he served for five years before retiring. Garrett was fatally ambushed near Las Cruces; his suspected murderer, Jim ‘Deacon’ Miller, was never brought to justice. Scarce ALS, in pencil, signed “P. F. Garrett,” one page, 8.25 x 11, Buchoz, Schuster & Kinne letterhead, July 24, 1907. A letter to “Dear Wife.” In full: “I am going to Santa Fe to the governor's inauguration and want you to send me by bearer my dress suit and Prince Albert coat. I saw Gov. Curry yesterday and he is alright. He will do anything he can for me. He wants me to go to Washington just after he is sworn in. I am going to try hard to do something and feel very much encouraged.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, a diagonal crease through another letter of signature, some light wrinkling, and all writing a bit light but entirely readable. George Curry, a longtime friend of Garrett, was appointed governor of New Mexico Territory in 1907 by Theodore Roosevelt. Garrett was also a Roosevelt political appointee and once a personal friend of the president. Roosevelt had appointed him customs collector in El Paso, but political missteps cost Garrett his reappointment at the end of his term in 1906. When he wrote this letter, he hoped Curry would appoint him superintendent of the territorial prison in Santa Fe, but this would not occur as Garrett had lost his political backing. He soon retired to his ranch in New Mexico, and was shot dead less than a year later; Governor Curry would serve as one of his pallbearers.
Thumbnail 254 Cass Gilbert Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Architect (1859–1934) and designer of the Woolworth Building. TLS, one page, 8.25 x 11, personal letterhead, January 14, 1929. Letter to the president of the Society of Arts and Sciences in New York. In part: “There is no monument or memorial more lasting, more useful, or more honored than a good road. The authors of the Bronx River Parkway deserve the highest praise for having rescued the beautiful Bronx River from the deplorable condition into which it had fallen and having created a beautiful park and roadway out of a dreary waste. To have changed a public nuisance into a public benefit, a muck hole into a vale of beauty, and created a highway that relieves congestion in the whole northern end of the city is a great achievement.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds.
Thumbnail 255 Mikhail Gorbachev Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Signed book: The State of the World: Revising Global Priorities. First edition, limited edition. San Francisco: Harper San Francisco, 1995. Hardcover, 5.25 x 7.5, 85 pages. Signed and inscribed on the second free-end page in Russian in blue ballpoint, “Dear Mr. Anderson, I was glad to have received your letter with an account of your civic effort. I wholeheartedly support your endeavor and wish you all the best. Mikhail Gorbachev, November 3, 1996.” In fine condition, with a loose front hinge, bearing a few separations. Fully translated, this crisp inscription was penned during the last year Gorbachev would run for president.
Thumbnail 257 Thomas Graham Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Scottish chemist (1805–1869) who formulated Graham’s Law, discovered and named the process of dialysis and the concept of polybasic acids, introduced the ‘Graham tube,’ and published the Elements of Chemistry. Invitation, signed “Tho. Graham,” one page, 4.25 x 3.5, March 24, 1852. Clipped invitation card to a College Soiree, signed by Graham as Dean. A central horizontal fold and some light toning, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 258 John Hancock Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Bold ink signature, “John Hancock,” on an off-white 3 x 6.75 slip clipped from a larger document, with a worn, but intact paper seal affixed above signature. A central horizontal fold above signature and some scattered light toning and soiling, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 259 John Hancock Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Partly-printed DS, filled out in Hancock’s hand and signed in the body “John Hancock,” one page, 9 x 4.5, November 8, 1766. A bill of lading for a brig in Boston Harbor. In part: “Shipped by the Grace of God, in good Order and well Condition’d, by John Hancock, and in and upon the good Brig called the Draft whereof is Master, under God, for this present Voyage, Jona Freeman and now riding at Anchor in the Harbour of Boston and by God’s Grace bound for London to say, Forty one casks of Pott Ash…& Risque of the Skipper being mark’d and number’d as in the Margin, and are to be deliver’d in the like good Order.” In very good to fine condition, with scattered light toning and soiling, rough left edge, and some mild rippling.
Thumbnail 260 William Randolph Hearst Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 TLS signed “W. R. Hearst,” 8.5 x 7, Los Angeles Examiner letterhead, April 29, 1935. Hearst writes to Lord Joseph Duveen of New York City, in full: “I was very happy to receive your kind telegram on my birthday. Many thanks for your thoughtfulness.” Intersecting folds, light toning at the right edge, two pencil notations, and two punch holes at the left edge, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 261 Stephen Higginson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American merchant and shipmaster from Boston (1743–1828). After serving as a delegate to the Continental Congress and as a privateer during the Revolutionary War, he became one of the most notorious members of the Essex Junto. ALS, one page, 6.5 x 8.25, June 29, 1791. Higginson writes to a fisherman, in part, of the “fish & mackerel tax you ordered…each article is very good & bought at the lowest rate.” He instructs that “you will get them inspected in Yorke to recover the drawback of the duty on salt, and will direct certifications to be returned of the landing abroad.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, light creasing, a tear to the left edge, a few areas of paper loss to the top edge, tape on the reverse, and a pencil notation to the bottom left corner.
Thumbnail 262 Edmund Hillary Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 New Zealand five dollar bill, 5.25 x 2.5, featuring a portrait of Hillary on one side, and a penguin on reverse, signed on the portrait side in black ink. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 263 Edmund Hillary Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Original signed ink sketch of a climber atop the peak of Mount Everest raising his ice axe, with another climber descending the summit with other peaks in the background, on an off-white 8.5 x 11 sheet of Himalayan Trust stationery. Several horizontal mailing folds, and some light creasing to top edge, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Hillary would create sketches for charitable causes only on rare occasions.
Thumbnail 264 Harley-Davidson: William Harley Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 4,000.00 - 6,000.00 In-depth collection of 13 signed letters from William S. Harley, chief-engineer and co-founder of Harley-Davidson, and his sister, Katherine H. Daily, and various individuals involved with the case, all concerning the honorable discharge and welfare of their brother, Joseph W. Harley, from the U. S. Coast Artillery Coast, dated from January of 1933 through November of 1935. Featuring two TLSs signed by Daily, the first, dated January 8, 1933, containing the most detailed account of the Harley’s plea for an honorable discharge, in part: “Application is hereby made for the correction of records and for an honorable discharge of my brother Joseph W. Harley, of 69th Co. U. S. Coast Artillery Corps. He enlisted in said organization June 5, 1902 and left the service November 10, 1903…During this service he was stationed at the Philippine Islands, Negros Island, for a period of about two years and six months, during this period he was with an engineering detachment and they were lost for about ten months. The hardships endured during this period made him a nervous wreck. He seffered [sic] with mountain fever and amoebic dysentery. He was also wounded in the right leg and was hospitalized at Escalante P. I.” The letter goes on to describe his honorable discharge, only to return “a nervous wreck,” talking “continually about his experience in the Islands.” Joseph disappeared shortly after, reenlisting in the military. His condition worsened, leading him to desert the U. S. Coast Artillery. The Harley siblings would receive a letter from their brother, who was being treated at a hospital in Virginia for typhoid fever, asking for money to come home. Under the attention of various doctors, it was concluded that “his breakdown was caused by the strain and hardships endured while he served in the Philippine Islands.” Daily concludes the letter by requesting the honorable discharge, citing that Joseph “was not the type of man that would voluntarily desert from any contract or service, if his mental condition had not been impaired.” This comprehensive collection contains seven TLSs from Harley himself, each signed in his varying signature, addressed to varying parties involved with his brother’s case, and the crown jewel of the collection, a bold ALS signed, “Bill Harley,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, dated Milwaukee, 11/35. Harley writes to Miss N. Newkirk (Nellie) of Washington D. C., whom had informed him of Bill HR-1119 had passed through the House of Representatives and was on its way for approval in the Senate of Military Affairs Committee in February of 1935, in full: “I presume that the Bill I am interested in will follow some established routine and will reach its destination in due course of time. If however it needs a push to get it through remember, I am depending on you. I expect you will be able to show Crystal all the things to do and the places to go. Remember, she really is a country girl now, and Washington—well its a big city.” The ongoing case involved many individuals and several pieces of correspondence, including one TLS from the Honorable Thomas J. O’Malley, House of Representatives, from whom the Harley’s looked to for help in passing Bill HR-1119 for Joseph’s relief; one TLS from the Honorable Chester Thompson to O’Malley; one TLS from George Brown, Director of the Veteran’s Claim Service; one TLS from Morris Sheppard, Chairman of the Senate of Military Affairs Committee; and various carbon copies of letters pertaining to the case. The expected lightly intersecting folds, toning, and creasing, otherwise overall fine condition. In addition to rare Harley autographed letters on his letterhead, this collection includes signatures from lawmakers who aided the Harley family in the case, including John Morris Sheppard, the Democratic senator from Texas who authored the 18th Amendment (Prohibition) and Thomas O’Malley, a Democratic congressman from Wisconsin. HR-1119 “For the Relief of Joseph W. Harley” won congressional approval, but FDR vetoed it in July 1935. At the time of these letters, William S. Harley was the chief engineer in the engineering department of Harley-Davidson, the motorcycle company he founded with Arthur Davidson in 1903. In late 1935, Harley unveiled arguably the finest achievement of his career, the 1936 Model EL or 61 OHV, more commonly known today as the “Knucklehead.” A fantastic interrelated collection of Harley personal letters with seldom-seen autographs from the motorcycle legend.
Thumbnail 265 Conrad Hilton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Founder and president of the Hilton Hotels Corporation (1887–1979). Vintage pearl-finish 7.5 x 9.5 photo, signed in blue ballpoint, “Conrad N. Hilton, Los Angeles May 20, 1958.” In fine condition, with a few minor corner creases. Accompanied by a 1958 TLS from Hilton’s executive secretary acknowledging the photo.
Thumbnail 266 J. Edgar Hoover Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Three items: two TLSs signed “J. E. Hoover” and “J. Edgar Hoover,” Federal Bureau of Investigation letterhead, dated November 22, 1938 and August 31, 1949, each addressed to an admirer. Upon hearing of her trip to Washington to visit the FBI headquarters, Hoover suggests “that you come to my office in the Department of Justice Building, Ninth Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, Northwest…”; and a fountain pen signature on an off-white 5.25 x 2.5 clipped ‘autograph’ slip. In very good condition, with scattered toning, soiling, rippling, and spotting to one of the letters and the signature. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 267 J. Edgar Hoover Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Stately vintage matte-finish 9 x 11.5 head-and-shoulders photo, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Mr. & Mrs. George Edward Harding, With cordial regards, J. Edgar Hoover, 11.17.48.” In very good condition, with rippling to the edges, a small tear and two holes to the top edge, and light silvering to some of the darker areas of the image.
Thumbnail 268 Johns Hopkins Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,500.00 - 3,000.00 Wealthy entrepreneur, philanthropist, and abolitionist of 19th century Baltimore (1795–1873), now most noted for his philanthropic creation of the institutions that bear his name, namely the Johns Hopkins University, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. Rare LS, one page, lightly-lined, 7.75 x 9.75, no date, but circa late 1868. Letter sent from Hopkins and six other prominent Baltimore business men to Maryland governor Thomas Swann. In full: “We cheerfully unite with the Trade in recommending to you Mr. James L. Dorsey for appointment to the position of Inspector General of Flour. The long experience of Mr. Dorsey with the reputation he has acquired for sound judgment, impartiality, and the uniform satisfaction, he has given to the trade during Eight years as an Inspector justifies in our opinion his appointment to the position of Chief, and would we think give such a guarantee to the stability of Inspection as would largely increase the interest already established in the important article of Flour, by inspiring confidence in those whose knowledge is limited and who depend upon the ability and integrity of the Inspector General.” Signed at the conclusion by Hopkins and also signed “Wm J. Albert,” “Wm Kennedy,” “William E. Hooper,” “Horace Abbott,” “B. Deford,” and “Columbus O’Donnell.” Small tape repair to reverse of one of the horizontal folds, a few creases, some mild edge toning, and a couple light brushes to other signatures, otherwise fine condition. A rare and desirable autograph, with records indicating just one other letter signed by Hopkins having been sold at a major public auction in the last 40 years.
Thumbnail 269 Collis P. Huntington Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 One among scores of gold-seeking “forty-niners,” Huntington eventually became a member of the “Big Four” who organized the Central Pacific Railroad in 1861. Newport News and Mississippi Valley Company stock certificate, No. B413, 11.5 x 15.25, granting 100 shares to Huntington at $50,000,000 capital, signed at the conclusion as president, “C. P. Huntington.” Bottom half of the certificate bears a complete sheet of 20, 100 shares. In fine condition, with a few punch holes to the bottom right corner of the certificate, and some trivial bleeding to the middle initial of the signature.
Thumbnail 270 Robert G. Ingersoll Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American statesman and orator (1833–1899) known for his controversial positions on religion, slavery, suffrage, and other hot-button issues of the day. AQS one a 7.5 x 4.5 off-white album page. Ingersoll writes: “The school house is my cathedral, R. G. Ingersoll, Mch 16th 84.” In fine condition, with some trivial toning and foxing.
Thumbnail 271 John Jay Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 300.00 - 500.00 American statesman (1745–1829) who served variously as President of the Continental Congress, diplomat, and, from 1789 to 1795, first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Ink signature, “John Jay,” on an off-white 3.5 x 1 clipped slip. In fine condition, with a small spot below signature and a couple stray ink marks to top edge.
Thumbnail 272 Steve Jobs Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 Very rare in-person ink signature, “Steve Jobs,” on the reverse of an off-white 3.5 x 2 card business card of a Motorola Software Resources employee. In fine condition. Original recipient states signature was acquired in August of 1989 at the Motorola Software Engineering Symposium in Schaumsburg, Illinois, where Jobs was a keynote speaker. Signature was acquired at a quick meeting at the stage door, where Jobs explained he had no pen or cards to sign, with the recipient providing a pen and one of his personal business cards, which he says Jobs “reluctantly” signed. Boasting superb provenance, this is the first Jobs signature we have ever offered and, given his reputation for rarely signing anything, may be the last we will ever see.
Thumbnail 274 Helen Keller Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Large vintage pencil signature, “Cordially Yours, Helen Keller,” on an off-white 7.25 x 5.25 sheet. In fine condition, with a central vertical fold, passing between two letters of the last name, and light toning. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, postmarked October 24, 1940.
Thumbnail 275 Helen Keller Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Vintage glossy 4.75 x 7 photo of Keller holding a large Braille book, signed along the bottom in pencil. Double matted and framed to an overall size of 9.75 x 11. Moderate contrast to upper portion of signature against dark portion of image and a few scattered light creases, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 276 Kennedy Assassination: James Leavelle Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Historic satin-finish 8 x 10 photo of Leavelle escorting Lee Harvey Oswald through the basement of the Dallas Police headquarters as they are approached by Jack Ruby, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 277 Joseph P. Kennedy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 Patriarch of the fabled family of American politicians (1888–1969) who served as American ambassador to Great Britain from 1938 to 1940. TLS signed “Joe,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, May 20, 1954. Letter to Marion Davies, Mrs. Horace G. Brown, Jr. In part: “Sorry to have missed you in New York. Actually I had nothing special to say to you except that I wanted to tell you again that if you ever have any business problems that you think I can help you with, all you have to do is command me. I am back at the Cape now and I expect to be here for quite some time, but if by any chance you wanted me to come to New York, you know it would give me great pleasure to do so. I can get there in two or three hours, so if you have a problem and you think I can help, just send me word at Hyannis Port.” Some mild curling from having once been rolled, and light vertical toning from magnetic album, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 278 Robert F. Kennedy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS signed “Bob,” one page, 6 x 9, United States Senate letterhead, July 11, 1967. Senator Kennedy writes to Harry M. Thayer, President of WCC Radio, in full: “My thanks for your letter enclosing a copy of your letter to Congressman Dowdy concerning H. R. 509. I appreciate knowing of your support for his bill. There has been no action taken on it as yet in the House, but should it reach the Senate floor, l will give it my sympathetic consideration.” In fine condition, with one of the two horizontal folds passing through the signature.
Thumbnail 279 Robert F. Kennedy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 TLS signed “Bob Kennedy,” one page, 7 x 9, Attorney General letterhead, June 14, 1963. Letter to actress Marion Davies’ widower, Captain Horace Brown. In full: “Many thanks for your letter of last month. I appreciate your writing and particularly, your support of what we are trying to accomplish in the field of civil rights.” In fine condition, with a trivial stain to top left.
Thumbnail 280 John Kerry Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Red, white, and blue Kerry presidential campaign poster, 22 x 14, signed in silver ink. In fine condition, with a few light creases and light handling wear.
Thumbnail 281 King George III Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Partly-printed vellum DS, signed “George R.,” one page, 15.25 x 12, September 27, 1795. The King appoints James Alexander Channdy Esq. to Captain of the Thirty Seventh Regiment of the Foot commanded by Lieutenant General Sir John Dalling. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered toning and soiling, and a strip of reparative tape along the central vertical fold on the reverse. A small remnant from the wax seal remains, and the blue revenue stamp remains crisp and intact.
Thumbnail 282 King Edward VIII Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 ALS signed “Edward,” one thin page, 7.25 x 10.25, Moulin de la Tuilerie letterhead, December 31, 1958. Edwards writes to Rosie Chisholm, in full: “Thank you and Hugh a lot for my lovely Christmas present—You just couldn’t have given me anything nicer or more practical as now you and our friends will be spared the unattractive sight of the appearance of that sticky little package of peppermints at the end of dinner parties!! Your thought of me is more than appreciated as was the prompt payment of F. Frs. 3,000.00 which I somewhat slyly won from you at Canasta I’m afraid by subtly talking you into a new deal for the last hand! The Duchess & I hope you are enjoying Mittersill and that the weather is good for all that there is to do there at Kitzbuhel. Viel Gluck im Neuen Yahr.”Scattered creasing, otherwise fine condition. A scarce example, this crisp letter bears mention of his controversial wife, the Duchess, and concludes with a German sentiment, drawing on the Duke’s even more controversial ties to Nazi Germany. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in his hand, and an unsigned photo of Edward as King.
Thumbnail 283 King George II Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 King of Great Britain and Ireland (1683–1760) from 1727 to his death. He was the last British monarch to be born outside Great Britain. Partial manuscript DS, signed “George R,” one page, 8.5 x 5, June 26, 1727. Beginning of a document pertaining to payments to Samuel Robinson, Chamberlain of the City of London. Several vertical folds, one through a single letter of signature, a bit of light soiling, and a uniform shade of mild toning, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 284 King George III Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 King of Great Britain and Ireland from 1760 until his death in 1820. His reign was marked most notably by the loss of British control over the American colonies. Advancing mental illness rendered George unable to fulfill his official duties during the last decade of his life, during which time the Prince Regent, William IV, ruled in his stead. Ink signature, “George R,” on an off-white 3.5 x 1.5 slip, affixed to a 5.5 x 5.25 light blue slip, along with an affixed embossed seal. In very good condition, with scattered toning and soiling, show-through from adhesive on reverse, some light curling, and a couple letters of beginning of document to lower right.
Thumbnail 285 King Henry IV Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 King of France (born 1553), the first of the Bourbon line, who ruled from 1589 until he was assassinated in 1610. Manuscript vellum DS, in French, signed “Henry,” one page, 12 x 6.5, 1593. Untranslated order from the King. Intersecting folds, Henry’s signature light, but legible, scattered toning and soiling, a couple pencil notations, and a couple small holes to lower left, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 286 King John II of Castile Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 3,500.00 King of Castile from 1406 to 1454. LS in Old Spanish, signed “Yo el Rey” (I the King), one page, 8.5 x 5.75, July 31, 1449. The King writes to Juan Perez Ponce de Leon, 2nd Count of Arcos, a member of his Council, that he is sending him news by his trusted envoy, Gonzalo de Saavedra, “who on my behalf will speak with you about some pressing things that he will tell you about which you will read in a draft document I ordered him to send you…I beg and order you, if service and pleasure you wish to render me, that you get this work underway in accordance with all the confidence I have in you.” Intersecting folds, a few small pinholes, light show-through from docketing on reverse, and scattered light toning and foxing, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 287 King Henry IV of Castile Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 King of Castile, nicknamed “The Impotent” (ruled 1454–1474), was the last of the weak late medieval kings of Castile. During Henry's reign the nobles increased in power and the nation became less centralised. LS in Old Spanish, signed “Yo el Rey (I the King),” one page, 8.5 x 5.5, May 13, 1465. Untranslated letter in which Henry sends thanks to Juan Perez Ponce de Leon, 2nd Count of Arcos, for his latest letter and expresses pleasure with the reply the Count has given to the Infanta and his followers. The King tells the Count that he has always acted on his behalf as he himself would have done, and gives him leave to continue acting on his behalf. The King promises to “soon give remedy to all things as will please you.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, a couple lightly affecting signature. Henry IV married Joan, sister of King Alfonso V of Portugal in 1455 as his second wife and in 1462 she gave birth to Joanna, "the Infanta," mentioned in this letter. At the time of Joanna's birth, Henry was rumored to be impotent and most of his subjects believed that "the Infanta" was not Henry's heir, but the daughter of a Castilian noble with whom his queen was having an affair. When civil war broke out over the question of a legitimate succession, Henry sought assistance from his loyal nobles, including the Count of Arcos, an Andulusian nobleman who had been a member of his father's council. This letter, signed by Henry as "I the King," [the ancient customary formal signature of Spanish monarchs], was written as the king sought support within his kingdom and gave the count "leave to continue acting in his behalf." Less than a month later Henry IV was deposed in favor of the king's 11-year-old half brother, King Alfonso XII and when Alfonso died in 1468 his sister, Isabella, became the recognized heir but refused the throne while Henry was still alive, thus ending the civil war. When Henry finally died in 1474, Joanna's claim to the throne was dismissed because of her questionable parentage and Isabella, her aunt, became queen. However, Joanna always believed she was the rightful Queen of Spain. that she should have succeeded Henry IV, and took to signing her letters “Yo la Reyna” (“I the Queen”).
Thumbnail 288 King Louis XIV Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 King of France (born 1638) from 1643 until his death in 1715, known as the ‘Sun King’ for the glittering splendor of his court at Versailles and the unparalleled glory of France during his 72-year reign. Manuscript DS, in French, signed “Louis,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 9.5 x 14, March 6, 1697. Ship's papers for Francois Constant Commander of the Flemish vessel "The Sire Francois of Nieuport" granting it safe passage and support, and authorizing it to carry goods and provisions "from our city of Dunkirk to Rotterdam on condition that said vessel's cargo consist of merchandise and provisions that have been grown or manufactured in Our Kingdom.” Signed at the conclusion by Louis, and also bearing signed endorsements from Louis Alexandre, signed: "L. A. de Bourbon,” dated March 24, 1697 and also signed by Minister Phelypeaux and the Dauphin: "Louis de France.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, uniform toning, scattered edge wear and dings, as well as some light soiling. The paper seal is intact, as well as the red wax seal showing the details of the crown.
Thumbnail 289 King Louis XIV Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 6,000.00 - 6,500.00 King of France (born 1638) from 1643 until his death in 1715, known as the ‘Sun King’ for the glittering splendor of his court at Versailles and the unparalleled glory of France during his 72-year reign. ALS in French, signed “Louis,” seven pages on four sheets, 8.25 x 12.5, October 13, 1693. Letter to Nicolas de Catinat, Marshal of France. In part (translated): “I have received…the letter you wrote me from the battlefield of La Marsaille (French victory in Italy won by Catinat, Oct. 4, 1693)…and the account included in it of the officers taken prisoner from the enemy army. I am convinced of the pleasure you take in knowing how much joy I take in so great a victory as the one you have just gained…I felt this joy as keenly as you can imagine, especially in circumstances like the present ones. The secret that you kept concerning the premeditated entry into Piedmont and the march on the enemies that you undertook have been of great utility and in part the cause of the good fortune that has befallen us. This makes it easy to see the difference between people who know how to conduct themselves contrary to those who act without thinking. It seems very likely that the information you send on the Count of Caprara and the Marquis de Legarre is true. They are believed to be wiser and more capable than the Duke of Savoy. As far as the Prince of Orange is concerned, it's by no means surprising that he wants us to take risks…It very much seems that the Duke of Savoy wanted to outsmart us, but his ruses were too crude to deceive us. Your march's few days delay isn't significant and I am highly pleased to see from your letter that your feelings are in accord with what I think. . the Sieur de Chamlay is leaving at this very moment with orders for putting gunpowder in place in Pignerol and for the resumption of the siege of Pignerol…I approve of your receiving into the army the Count and Chevalier de Tesse to replace the general officers who were killed or wounded. I am grieved by the death of Mr. Delahoguede whose worth and capacities I knew… replace the commander in Savoy…I am very pleased with the report you've had concerning the weakness of the enemies' troops and of their difficulties in regrouping…I approve of what you've done in favor of the enemy prisoners in order to try to get them to join my troops, which is all the more important because in reducing the enemy's forces I increase my own. You did well to release enemy officers at their word and it is necessary to deal honorably with them…Be aware of my satisfaction at how the general officers conducted themselves. I have again asked the Sieur de Chamlay to communicate to you all I think and feel.” In a postscript Louis writes: "I have just learned that Charleroi surrendered the 11th of this month." In very good condition, with scattered toning and foxing, some light creases and wrinkles, a couple small pencil notations, and a small hole to last page. The pages are still held together with a small green fabric ribbon. Louis penned this letter to Catinat during the Nine Years’ War, fought between France and the Grand Alliance from 1688 to 1697. The Battle of Marsaglia (or La Marsaille) had occurred just over a week before between the French army of Marshal Catinat and the Allied army of Duke Victor Amadeus II of Savoy. Catinat’s victory over the Duke was one of the Marshal’s greatest achievements, with Allied losses of 10,000 compared to French casualties of only 1,800. Weakened by the defeat, the Duke entered into secret peace negotiations with René de Froulay de Tessé, French Marshal and diplomat, following the battle. As the King describes, armies avoided taking prisoners during the Nine Years’ War, quickly exchanging them or releasing them with promises that they would not bear arms for a period of time or until a formal exchange was organized. A remarkable letter detailing the military strategy of the Sun King.
Thumbnail 290 King Louis XV Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 Ineffectual King of France from 1715 to 1774 who was dominated by his strong-willed and unscrupulous mistress, Madame de Pompadour. Handwritten endorsement, in French, “Pay Louis,” in the lower right corner of a one page partly-printed DS, 9.5 x 14.25, dated July 1, 1772. An order for the Royal Treasurer financier Charles Pierre Savalete de Magnanville to pay 75 livres to Antoinette Bardou under terms of the yearly "pension which I have granted her." Document bears a secretarial “Louis” signature at the conclusion, with the King’s endorsement and signature at lower left. In very good condition, with a horizontal fold through signature, some scattered light toning, creasing, and soiling, and a couple of pencil marks.
Thumbnail 291 King Louis XVIII Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 King of France and Navarre (born 1755) from 1814 (save a brief interruption in 1815 while fleeing Napoleon during the Hundred Days) until his death in 1824. Louis himself claimed that his reign dated from the death of his nephew, the Dauphin Louis XVII, in 1795. Partly-printed DS, in French, signed “Louis,” one page, 17.25 x 14, December 31, 1819. Document names Jean Pierre Macquie to the Legion of Honor. Signed at the conclusion by Louis and countersigned by Jacques MacDonald, Marshal of France and Grand Chancellor of the Legion of Honor. In very good condition, with three heavy vertical folds, a couple horizontal folds, and some scattered light wrinkling and toning.
Thumbnail 292 King Vittorio Emanuele III Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 DS, in Italian, signed “Vittorio Emanuele,” one page, 8.75 x 13.25, December 11, 1930. A wedding announcement stating the daughter of King Vittorio Emanuele III, married Tsar Boris III first in Assisi on October 25, 1930. Signed in the lower right corner by the king. In fine condition, with a few creases and marginal binding holes to left edge.
Thumbnail 293 King William IV Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 King of Great Britain and Ireland (1765–1837) who served from 1830 to 1837, he earned the sobriquet ‘Sailor King’ for his youthful service in the Royal Navy. His reign, though short, was marked by much social progress, including laws restricting child labor, the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire, and the reformation of the British electoral system. Leaving no direct heir upon his death in 1837, he was succeeded by his niece, Victoria, who reigned for the remainder of the century. Large ink signature, “William R,” on an off-white 9.25 x 3.25 slip clipped from a larger document. A central vertical fold through a single letter of signature, a couple creases, and some light show-through from writing on reverse, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 294 Alfred Kinsey Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Biologist (1894–1956) who in 1947 founded the Institute for Sex Research at Indiana University, and whose research on human sexuality created the modern field of sexology. Scarce vintage glossy 4.5 x 6.5 head-and-shoulders photo, signed vertically in blue ink, “Alfred C. Kinsey 6.10.54.” Reverse bears a “Copyright 1953 Institute For Sex Research” stamp. In fine condition, with a few scattered light creases. The first photo of Kinsey we have ever offered.
Thumbnail 295 Henry Kissinger Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: Crisis. Collector’s edition. Norwalk, Connecticut: Easton Press, 2003. Leather-bound hardcover with slipcase, 6.5 x 10, 564 pages. Signed on the limitations page in blue felt tip. In very fine condition. An exquisite, gold-trimmed, never-read offering.
Thumbnail 296 Samuel Kirkland Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Presbyterian minister and missionary who served the Oneida and Tuscarora peoples of western New York state (1741–1808). Kirkland was also involved with the Iroquois tribes, and played an instrumental role in negotiating New York’s land purchase from the Iroquois after the Revolutionary War. ALS signed “Saml. Kirkland,” one page, 7.5 x 4.5, June 7, 1797. Kirkland writes to John Butler, in part, to “Please to pay Lieut: Rd. Aylmer the sum of thirteen pound N. York,” and to charge the amount to an undetermined account. In very good condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold, light toning, and show-through from docketing on the reverse. This elegantly-penned letter is the first we’ve offered from Kirkland.
Thumbnail 297 Peter Kropotkin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Russian geographer, zoologist, and political theorist (1842–1921) best known for his advocacy of anarchist communism. AQS in German on a beige 6 x 9.5 sheet of Hull House, Chicago letterhead. Kropotkin quotes Goethe, translated, in full: “Only he deserves freedom and life who must battle for them daily,” signed at the conclusion, “P. Kropotkin, April 18, 1901.” Letterhead is affixed to a larger sheet beside various vintage clippings and an inked translation of the quote, all housed in an original Prince Kropotkin presentation folder, to an overall size of 10.5 x 13. In very good condition, with various blocks of toning and a thin, lighter rectangular area framing the quote. Kropotkin was staying at Hull House as a guest of Jane Addams, the social reformer and first American woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Most of the accompanying vintage newspaper clippings refer to that visit.
Thumbnail 298 Simon Lake Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American engineer (1866–1945) who developed the first submarine to operate successfully on the open seas. Eight Milford Trust Company checks, each measuring approximately 6.25 x 2.75, all dated from 1926 through 1938, and each filled out and signed by Lake, “Simon Lake,” or “Simon Lake Ex.” Some light creasing, and the expected cancellation stamps and holes, affecting only two of the signatures, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 299 John Langdon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 New Hampshire politician (1741–1819) and signer of the Constitution. Florid ALS, one page, 8 x 6.5, June 11, 1806. “Gentlemen of the Senate and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives, I lay before you several letters from our Senators and Representatives in Congress.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, some light soiling, a partial separation to the fold at the right edge, a small tear at the left, and a few spots of adhesive remnants.
Thumbnail 300 John Lawrence Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Connecticut state treasurer from 1769 to 1789. Manuscript check, 8 x 3, filled out and signed by Lawrence, “John Lawrence, Esq., Treasurer,” payable to Ralph Pomeroy “in bills of this State and charge the State” for £4, June 1, 1781. In very good condition, with horizontal and vertical fold, a light crease to the bottom left corner passing through the first letter of the signature, the expected toning, and a rough bottom edge.
Thumbnail 301 Urbain Le Verrier Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 French mathematician who specialized in celestial mechanics (1811–1877) best known for his part in the discovery of Neptune. ALS in French, signed “Ub Le Verrier,” one page, 5.25 x 7.25, Observatoire Imperial letterhead, June 18, 1851. Untranslated letter to an unidentified gentleman. In very good condition, with scattered toning.
Thumbnail 302 Ferdinand de Lesseps and Louis Pasteur Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 ALS in French, signed “Ferd. deLesseps,” one page, 5.25 x 8, no date, but 1884. Letter to Louis Pasteur, whom he addresses as “My dear friend and colleague.” In full (translated): "I'm writing you at the request of Madame de Lesseps concerning an accident which doesn't distress me at all. One of our children, four years old, was playing with a little dog two days ago. The puppy, three weeks old, is perfectly healthy. It is suckled by its hunting dog mother, my dog, who is also healthy. He suffered a small bite on the cheek. A scratch with a small amount of blood. Ever since then the dog has been locked up, has been drinking, and has acted normally. As for the child, he continues to sleep well, has a good appetite and moves around quite a lot. I therefore ask you, if you think as I do, that there is no possible danger please write and let me know.” After his signature, deLesseps adds “I'd like to add that I applied phenol to the scratch immediately after the accident which caused no pain at all." In the upper left corner, Pasteur adds a brief handwritten endorsement, in French, “Received at Arbois Sept. 14, 1884. Immediate reply. L. P.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, slight mounting remnants to reverse, and a mild shade of toning. Pasteur first tested his rabies vaccine in July of 1885 on a nine-year old boy. It proved successful and Pasteur was hailed as a hero. The first of the Pasteur Institutes was also built on the basis of this achievement.
Thumbnail 306 Madame de Maintenon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 2,200.00 ALS in French, signed “Maintenon,” one page both sides, 6.5 x 9, August 6, 1712. Madame de Vertrieux, Mother Superior of the Dames de la Maison Royale Saint Louis at Saint Cyr, the famous school founded by Madame de Maintenon. After the revolution it became a military school. In part (translated): “I am delighted, my dear Mother (Superior), at your readiness to render thanks and gratitude. Keep this spirit well in mind among us for it seems to me that most people after asking devoutly for favors, soon forget them once they've received them. The lifting of the siege of Landrecy is a greater favor than one can believe. I ask you for a 1/4 of an hour of extraordinary prayers for the capture of Douay. Wouldn't it be a good idea to have the prayers replace the catechism, which could be omitted…I am not at all opposed to the distancing between recreation periods and I believe as you do that they will thus be more appreciated. Mademoiselle d'Aumale replied to you concerning Mad. De Penchrech who will see by what I have done how much friendship I have for her because I don’t like to bother the King. I implore you to make Sister de Glapion obey. I've heard reports from many sources that she's been coughing and that she wants to abstain from eating meat. She must follow the doctor's orders… I can't intervene in the matter of the latest Catholic news from Lyons and I must be extremely circumspect about making solicitations because it has sometimes happened that complaints have been made to the King, but if it's really important to you and you make a request through Mr. Mauduyt asking one of the judges to protect the good Catholic, I don't think there is any problem with that. I'm quite vexed at not being able to celebrate with you and for bringing only my sorrows to you. I embrace our dear girls and you my dear Mother with all the distinction you deserve.” Mild toning, a bit heavier along edges and over signature, a bit of light foxing, and mild show-through from writing on reverse, otherwise fine condition. An outstanding letter concerning politics, religion, and education. Although she declares herself reluctant to pester the King, she frequently used her powerful influence, and there were complaints, as her letter indicates.
Thumbnail 307 Guglielmo Marconi Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 2,000.00 ADS in Italian on three sides of two 4.25 x 5.5 cards. Marconi provides a brief synopsis of his development of the radio telegraph, in full: “1901 1902 Carlo Alberto 1904 Company [?] Contributed to the set-up of Coltano Station 1905 - 1910 Dedicated to the development of the R. T. (radio telegraph) services in Italy and especially of the Radio Maritime services in other countries also. From 1927 the Radio Maritime services have been managed by an Italian enterprise, the IT RAD Maritime Society. From 1928 I did not take active part in the administration of the Marconi Company, to be able to apply myself to my technical work and to other tasks that have been entrusted to me by the Italian (deleted) Fascist government. Italian R. T. personnel have more benefits than the English personnel, especially regarding sicknesses and in case they are fired.” In fine condition. In this pristine presentation, Marconi provides a unique biography of his greatest invention and his dedication to “the development of the R. T. (radio telegraph) services in Italy and especially of the Radio Maritime services in other countries also,” enabling him to transmit messages across the Atlantic. The “Carlo Alberto” referenced was the Italian Navy battleship from where, in 1902, Marconi conducted wireless experiments, successfully transmitting radio communications across the mountain chains of Europe. From his first wireless station at Coltano, located in Italy, he exchanged communications between Clifden, Ireland, and Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, introducing the world to a new era of radio telegraph technology between “1905–1910,” which marked the “set-up” of the station. Years later, Marconi would align himself with Italian dictator, Benito Mussolini, becoming fully immersed in the Italian Fascist party in 1923. In 1928, Marconi would take a step back from his namesake company “to be able to apply myself to my technical work and to other tasks that have been entrusted to me by the…Fascist government.” In 1930, Mussolini appointed Marconi president of the Royal Academy of Italy, making the inventor a member of the Fascist Grand Council. An exceptionally rare, firsthand account from the acclaimed inventor who devised a way for words to walk on water.
Thumbnail 308 Guglielmo Marconi Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Nobel Prize–winning, Italian-born engineer (1874–1937) who developed ‘wireless telegraphy,’ better known to the world at large as radio. Original Player Cigarettes Straight Line Caricature tobacco card, #41 of 50, 1.25 x 2.5, signed on the front in fountain pen, “G. Marconi.” In fine condition, with a bit of scattered trivial soiling.
Thumbnail 309 Hudson Maxim Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Nine items: five TLSs, each measuring approximately 8.5 x 11, all dated from 1909 through 1918, and all on personal Maxim Park, New Jersey letterhead. Addressed to Henry S. Chapman of the Youth’s Companion, Boston, Mass, and Mr. Rideing, also of Boston, Maxim writes regarding article topics he is interested in pursuing, including, “Curiosities of Law,” “The Infinitely Great and the Infinitely Little,” “A Return Trip Through the Geologic Periods,” “The Vineyard of the Memory,” “Freaks of Invention,” “Curiosities of Explosions,” and “Why We Like Music,” amongst others. Maxim references his books, Defenseless America and Leading Opinions Both For and Against National Defense, and goes on to argue his point that, despite the criticism of an editor, “I am strongly of the opinion that I am right about the cause of the great Ice Age.” Finally, in his last letter, Maxim agrees to “write the article Curiosities in Guns,” a work he states “will be one which will be equally as timely when the war is over as it is now; but I hope you will print it before the war is over, as I would like to see it while I am still alive, and I am now sixty-five”; and four typed proofs, each measuring 8.5 x 11, featuring several incomplete snippets from articles that Maxim has signed off on as approved, with one particular proof featuring the lines, “A watcher of the skies, looking through his telescope from a planet circling some far-off sun, will see a new star burst into view, and he will be amazed, and wonder what inconceivable energy can cause the new star to expand a hundred thousand miles a second, half the speed of light, until it becomes a far-flung, nebulous fog.” The individual items range from very good to fine, with intersecting folds, light handling wear, pencil smudges and soiling to article pages, and three of the “article” signatures struck out in pencil. A fantastic working literary collection, providing a physical map of Maxim’s editorial expertise.
Thumbnail 310 John Loudon McAdam Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Scottish engineer and road builder (1756–1836). Rare ALS signed “Jn Loudon McAdam,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4 x 6.25, December 30, 1819. Letter to Davis Gilbert. In part: “I learned yesterday at the Treasury that the reference of my memorial to the Post Office had been answered in a most satisfactory manner and that it was to be taken into immediate consideration. I have however requested that the consideration might be delayed for a week to give me an opportunity of presenting a recommendation which has been signed by a number of the first people in the houses of Parliament and which will still receive several valuable signatures.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, uniform mild toning, and light show-through from docketing on reverse of second page.
Thumbnail 312 Robert McNamara Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two items: glossy 8 x 10 half-length photo, signed in blue ballpoint, “Robert S. McNamara”; and a TQS signed “Rob S. McNamara,” one page, 8.5 x 11. Quote from the Statement on Cuban Missile Crisis reads, in full: “There was a lot of discussion about what particular course of action to take but there was never any real disagreement. We considered everything from a diplomatic note to a full-scale invasion of Cuba. No one was in favor of a note, and no one was in favor of an immediate invasion…” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 314 Golda Meir Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Prime Minister of Israel (1898–1978) from 1969 to 1974. Matte-finish 7 x 9.25 photo, signed and inscribed in the lower border in blue ballpoint “To Leon Marity, With my very best wishes, Golda Meir,” and dated in another hand December 13, 1977. In fine condition, with light creases to corner tips and signature and inscription a shade or two light, but completely legible.
Thumbnail 315 John Stuart Mill Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 British philosopher and civil servant (1806–1873) who was an influential contributor to social theory, political theory, and political economy. Original 2.25 x 4 carte-de-visite photo by John and Charles Watkins of London, and so backstamped on the reverse, signed in black ink, “J. S. Mill.” In fine condition, with a few spots to image, small pencil notations to top and bottom border, and light adhesive remnants to reverse.
Thumbnail 316 John Stuart Mill Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 British philosopher and civil servant (1806–1873) who was an influential contributor to social theory, political theory, and political economy. ALS signed “J. S. Mill,” one page both sides, 4.5 x 7, personal letterhead, July 1, 1860. Letter to an unidentified gentleman. In part: “Allow me to thank you for your kind invitation to dinner…but my occupations compel me at present to decline all evening engagements, and on that particular evening I am obliged to be at the House on account of Mr. Fawcett’s motion to open Dublin University.” In fine condition, with a lightly trimmed left edge. Henry Fawcett, a blind member of Parliament, was a close friend of Mill’s and disputed the educational monopoly in Ireland of the University of Dublin.
Thumbnail 317 Maria Montessori Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Italian physician and education theorist who devised the innovative approach to early childhood learning that bears her name. Fountain pen signature on an off-white 4 x 2.25 card. In fine condition, with a typed notation to the lower edge.
Thumbnail 318 Benito Mussolini and Vittorio Emanuele III Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 DS, in Italian, one page, 9 x 14, September 9, 1937. An untranslated military appointment, signed at the conclusion, “Vittorio Emanuele” and “Mussolini.” Expected stamps and official notations, some light wrinkling and toning, and marginal binding holes to left edge, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 319 Samuel F. B. Morse Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 American artist and inventor (1791–1872) whose development of the telegraph revolutionized communication—and indeed, society as a whole—and represented a crucial step toward such later innovations as the telephone. Original 2.5 x 4 gold-bordered carte-de-visite photo of the elderly and heavily-whiskered Morse, backstamped on the reverse “Geo, G. Rockwood, Photographer, New York,” signed at the bottom in black ink, “Saml. F. B. Morse.” A few dings to corner tips, and some scattered light toning and soiling to image and background, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 320 Fridtjof Nansen Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Norwegian explorer, scientist, diplomat, humanitarian, and Nobel laureate (1861–1930) who led the first crossing of the Greenland interior in 1888. Vintage pearl-finish 10 x 7.75 photo of Nansen at his desk, affixed to its 14 x 11.5 mount, signed on the mount in fountain pen, “Fridtjof Nansen, 31 Mars 1897.” Creasing to corners of mount, as well as some light toning, soiling, and foxing, otherwise fine condition. A beautiful, large image by Dornac.
Thumbnail 321 Napoleon III Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 President of the French Second Republic and as Napoleon III, the ruler of the Second French Empire (1808–1873). Handwritten draft telegram, signed “L’Empereur,” in the heading, one page, 8.25 x 10.5. Telegram reads, “The Emperor to the Empress at Toulon Bazaine took command on Oct. 1. He has annuled the decree concerning the confiscations. Saligny persists in his desire to remain in Mexico. How is Fave doing?" Napoleon has crossed out two lines of the text as well. Telegram is noted at the bottom in an unknown hand, “Telegram sent Oct. 29, 1863 at 12:45. Handed to Her Majesty at 1:26.” In fine condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold and some scattered light toning. Achille Francois Bazaine commanded French forces in Mexico. One month earlier Napoleon made him a Marshal of France. Alphonse Dubois de Saligny, French Ambassador to Mexico, former French Ambassador to the Republic of Texas, urged the French intervention in Mexico that ended in disaster.
Thumbnail 322 Napoleon III Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 President of the French Second Republic and as Napoleon III, the ruler of the Second French Empire (1808–1873). ANS, in French, signed “Napoleon,” 4.25 x 3, January 20, 1872. In full (translated): “I send you, Sir, the autograph you requested of me.” Note is affixed to a slightly larger card; an original 4.25 x 6.5 cabinet photo of Napoleon, by R. Dichton, signed in fountain pen, “Louis Napoleon, Beighmore 21 Oct 1881.” Also included are four unsigned carte-de-visites, two of Napoleon III alone, two with Empress Eugenie and Louis Napoleon, the Prince Imperial; and an unsigned cabinet photo of Napoleon III by Ad. Braun and Cie. In very good condition, with creasing to note and scattered foxing to signed photo.
Thumbnail 323 Napoleon III Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 President of the French Second Republic and as Napoleon III, the ruler of the Second French Empire (1808–1873). Untranslated ALS in French, one page, 4.5 x 7.25, March 8, 1871. Letter written during his imprisonment at Wilhemshohe castle after being captured at the Battle of Sedan during the Franco-Prussian War. He was deposed as Emperor by the National Assembly at Bordeaux one week prior to writing this letter. Matted and framed to an overall size of 9.25 x 12.25. A central vertical and horizontal fold, toning from adhesive remnants to each of the top corners and the text and signature a shade or two light, but completely legible, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 324 Louis Marie de Narbonne Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 French nobleman, diplomat, soldier, and the probable illegitimate son of Louis X (1755–1813). LS in French, signed as Minister of War, “L. de Narbonne,” one page both sides, 8 x 12.5, January 22, 1792. Untranslated letter requesting information and clarification concerning three naval and Coast Guard Officers who have applied for pensions. Intersecting folds, a bit of light toning and soiling, and ink notations to left edge, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 325 Ransom E. Olds Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Inventor and automotive magnate (1864–1950) who founded the Oldsmobile and Reo Motor Car Companies. Vintage glossy 4.75 x 7 head-and-shoulders photo, signed in black ink, “R. E. Olds.” Light contrast and irregular adhesion to signature and some light discoloration along top edge, otherwise fine condition. The first signed photo of Olds we have offered.
Thumbnail 326 Robert Oppenheimer Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Physicist who directed the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton and who spearheaded the Manhattan Project, which led to the successful development of the first atomic bomb. As a result of his outspoken political views in the wake of World War II, he was placed under FBI surveillance and his security clearance was stripped. Magazine cover from the November 8, 1948 issue of Time, featuring an image of Oppenheimer on the cover, signed below his image in black ink, “J. R. Oppenheimer.” Two horizontal mailing folds, scattered creasing to edges, and staple holes to left edge, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 327 Nicholas II Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 The last Tsar of Russia (born 1868) who reigned from 1894 until his abdication in 1917. In the wake of the Russian Revolution, Nicholas, Empress Alexandra, and their children were imprisoned and finally executed on July 17, 1918. Though the ultimate fate of the Romanovs—and the putative survival of Princess Anastasia in particular—became the stuff of legend, recent research has confirmed that the executions were indeed carried out, and that the remains were soaked in acid and burned. DS, in Russian, one page, 8.75 x 14, February 19, 1905. Imperial Decree to the Chapter of Russian Imperial and Royal Orders, reading “In accordance with the testimony of the religious leadership concerning the over 50 years’ excellency spirited service of the archpriest of The Holy Trinity cathedral church in the city of Novomoskovsk [Iohannikiy Vakhnin] and of the more than 25-years’ labor in public education of deacons of the church: of the [Nikolaevsk] (church) of the village of Borisovka in the Yekaterinoslav district, Yakov Liadskiy, and of the Cossack village Staroshcherbatovskaya in the Kuban region, Gavril Vasiliev, We Most Graciously have enrolled them, in concordance with the approval of the Holy Synod, into Our Imperial Orders: Of Sainted Apostolic Prince Vladimir third class—archpriest Vakhin and Of Saint Anna third class—deacons Liadskiy and Vasiliev; in consequence of which We Command the Chapter to issue these enrolled persons the medal of the orders and documents for the above.” In fine condition, with some light toning and creasing. When all was said and done, 92 protesters were shot while peacefully making their way to the Tsar’s Winter Palace.
Thumbnail 328 Lee Harvey Oswald Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Air mail envelope, 6.5x 4.25, hand-addressed by Oswald to his mother, “USA, Box 982, Vernon, Texas, Mrs. M. Oswald,” with Oswald adding his return address, in Russian, to the lower left, “Minsk, 4/ Kalnina St. Apt. 24, Oswald L. H.” Reverse bears a November 18, 1961, Vernon, Texas postmark. Envelope has been sealed in protective plastic. In very good condition, with torn top edge and scattered creasing and wrinkling. After defecting to the Soviet Union in 1959, Oswald was sent to work as a lathe operator in Minsk. There he met Marina Nikolayevna Pruskova, whom he married in 1961. When he wrote this letter to his mother Marguerite Oswald in November 1961, Oswald had tired of Soviet working-class life. Earlier that year, he wrote in his diary: “The work is drab, the money I get has nowhere to be spent. No nightclubs or bowling alleys, no places of recreation except the trade union dances. I have had enough." Oswald would return to the United States with his wife and infant daughter in the spring of 1962. A scarce envelope sent nearly two years to the day before the JFK assassination.
Thumbnail 329 Lee Harvey Oswald Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 6,000.00 - 7,000.00 ALS signed “Lee,” two pages, lightly-lined on two adjoining sheets, 5.5 x 8, August 19, 1961. Letter to his mother. In full (with spelling and grammar retained): “I reviewed your package several days ago Thank you very much I was very glad to get those things. I only would like something to read if they allow it to be sent here. Things are about the same ere, I expect that the Russians will give me an exit visa soon, and later one for Marina. The weather is already turning cold here and its been raining for the last few days. Last weekend we went up into the forest about 50 miles from Minsk to look for mushrooms. Everybody does this in the fall. We only found a few but we had a good time, Marina collected flowers at the time also. Did you get my last letter where I told you how we went to Moscow to the American Embassy there? Marina says ‘hello’ dear mother, and thank you for the nice towels and scarf, also she sends a big ‘thank you’ for the pictures which we really enjoyed. Write soon xxx. Love, Lee.” Letter is preserved in light flexible acetate but was never exhibited before the Warren Commission and bears no government markings of any sort. In fine condition. This letter was originally offered in the Charles Hamilton Auction #25, held on March 7, 1968, and is accompanied by a photocopy of the original catalog entry which states the letter is being “offered for sale because of her urgent need for funds to continue her independent investigation into her son’s guilt or innocence, in the process of which she has exhausted all her funds.” In this letter to his mother Marguerite, Oswald was preparing to return to the United States. He had become disenfranchised with Russian life in January 1961 and toyed with the idea of returning to the United States after rejecting Russian citizenship. By February, he notified the American Embassy in Moscow that he wanted to return home, reopened communications with family members, and later informed the embassy of his marriage and that his wife intended to accompany him to America. In July the American Embassy returned his passport, but Russia had not issued the exit visas, leaving little hope for a speedy exit. Oswald worried that his passport had jeopardized his request to leave Russia, but his biggest fear remained his possible arrest upon reentry to the United States for his "defection." In December he wrote Texas Senator Tower for assistance and finally the Oswalds’ exit visas were granted. Further complications arose in early 1962, delaying Marina's exit visa until March, but Oswald calmly informed his brother he was in no hurry to leave now that the Russian winter was over. On June 13, the Oswalds arrived in the Hoboken, New Jersey with only $63, returning to Texas only after Oswald's brother gave him $200 to pay their way home.
Thumbnail 330 James Otis Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 American statesman and lawyer (1725–1783) generally known as the originator of the phrase “No taxation without representation.” Manuscript DS, signed “J. Otis,” one page, 7.5 x 9.5, 1754, the top of which is affixed to a larger sheet. Lengthy document, headed “George the Second, by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ireland King, Defender of the Faith…To any Coroner of our County of York or his Deputy,” commanding the summons of “the inhabitants of First Parish in Kittery in our Sd. County of York.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one passing through a single letter of the signature, uniform toning with some scattered heavier spots, some partial separations to the folds, and a rough left edge.
Thumbnail 331 Sarah Palin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 McCain/Palin presidential campaign poster, 22 x 14, signed in black felt tip by Palin. In very good condition, with creasing to horizontal edges and light contrast to most of signature.
Thumbnail 332 Rosa Parks Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Iconic glossy 10 x 8 photo of Parks having her fingerprints taken by a police officer, signed vertically in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 333 Rosa Parks Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Beautiful color limited edition 24 x 19.75 composite lithograph of some of the most groundbreaking moments in Parks’ life, entitled ‘The Mentor,’ including standing beside Martin Luther King, Jr., numbered #280/500, signed in black ink. Also signed in pencil by the artist, Anthony Douglas. Rolled and in fine condition, with a crease to the bottom left corner. Accompanied by a photo taken at the time of signing. Embossed with a seal of the Parks Legacy and The Rosa Raymond Institute, this piece of art boasts a wonderful rendition of Parks’ and the achievements that changed a nation.
Thumbnail 334 Linus Pauling Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Glossy 4 x 5 photo of Pauling sporting a beret, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 335 Robert E. Peary Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American explorer (1856–1920) best known for his claim as the first man to reach the North Pole; whether his expedition actually reached the target destination remains a long-argued point of history. TLS signed “Peary,” one page, 6.5 x 7, Eagle Island letterhead, June 13, 1912. Letter to Operti. In part: “I…note what you say in regard to the material for the late Travel Exhibition coming on to me eventually. In regard to the other proposition, I must ask you to try and give me some kind of an impromptu estimate. I do not expect anything but an approximation, but I do want to know whether the preparation of a display such as I indicated to you, would cost one thousand or five thousand or twenty five thousand or fifty thousand, and I am sure you can give me that offhand.” Peary has also crossed out one word in the following paragraph, writing “immediate” in the left edge. Double matted, with a portrait of Peary, to an overall size of 14 x 11. Intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, a few wrinkles, and a bit of trivial spreading to beginning of signature, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 336 John Penn Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Last governor of colonial Pennsylvania (1729–1795). Partly-printed DS, one page, 14 x 10, September 6, 1776. Land grant issued to Luke Morris for a tract of land called “Deerfield,” signed at the bottom by Penn as governor of Pennsylvania. Matted and framed to an overall size of 17.5 x 13.5. Intersecting folds, scattered toning and wrinkling, with a bit of toning over signature, some light paper loss to top corner tips, and some mild rippling, otherwise very good condition. Document retains most of its original ribbon.
Thumbnail 337 John Penn Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Descendant of the Penn family who served as Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania from 1762–1776. Partly-printed DS, one page, 12 x 8, October 28, 1768. Lieutenant Governor Penn grants Alexander Blaine a “License to trade with the Nations or Tribes of Indians, with whom his Majesty is connected, and who live under his protection.” The license stipulated that Blaine was "not to trade or traffick with; or vend, sell, or dispose, of any Goods, Wares or Merchandizes of any Kind whatever, to any Indian or Indians within the Country of any the Indian Nations aforesaid, beyond the Settlements of the Inhabitants, except at Fort Pitt & the Forts or Posts which are already, or shall hereafter by established by his Majesty, and garrisoned by his Troops.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, rough top edge, a few partial fold separations, and some scattered toning.
Thumbnail 338 J. C. Penney Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Vintage glossy 8 x 10 Underwood and Underwood portrait, signed in white ink, “J. C. Penney 7-28-36.” In fine condition, with a couple light creases, mild toning to borders, and some mild rubbing to signature.
Thumbnail 339 Samuel Pepys Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 2,200.00 British civil servant (1633–1703) who was promoted to Secretary to the Admiralty in 1673. Pepys is best remembered as the author of a nine-year, multi-volume diary, one of the essential documents of 17th century British history and literature. Manuscript DS, signed “S. Pepys,” one page, 7.5 x 12, June 27, 1667. Authorization for payment reads, in part: “There is owed unto Thomas Pitt the sum of five hundred and four pounds seven shillings four pence for price of eleven tunns nine hundred one quarter and one pound weight of non cordage by him delivered into his Mats Stores at Portsmouth.” Signed at the conclusion by Pepys, Neill Batten, and W. Penn. In good condition, with fully separated lower blank section, scattered toning and foxing, pencil notation under signature, a few edge chips, and small separations to other horizontal folds.
Thumbnail 340 Timothy Pickering Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Postmaster general, secretary of war, and secretary of state under Washington (1745–1829). Manuscript check, 7.25 x 3.25 affixed to a slightly larger sheet, filled out and signed by Pickering, payable to Laurence Keene or Bearer for $172.12, May 16, 1786. In very good condition, with light intersecting folds, light toning, and unobtrusive cancellation cuts, one of which affects the first few letters of the last name.
Thumbnail 341 Philippe Pinel Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 French physician (1745–1826) who helped develop a more humane approach to the treatment and care of psychiatric patients. Rare ALS in French, signed “Pinel,” one page, 4.25 x 6.5, August 24. Affectionate letter to his son regarding the postponement of a trip and his wife’s health improvement, counseling him “to continue to deserve by your behavior all your father’s tenderness.” Letter is also docketed on the reverse. In very good condition, with scattered foxing and toning, intersecting folds, and a small tear to top edge.
Thumbnail 342 Politicians Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Six items consisting of signatures and short letters from six former politicians on individual off-white cards and slips, various sizes. Signers are: Alf Landon, Thomas Dewey, Clement Anderson, Fred Vinson, Alan Acheson (ins), and Tom C. Clark (ins). In very good overall condition.
Thumbnail 343 Queen Noor Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Early color satin-finish 7.25 x 9.5 photo, signed in the lower border in blue felt tip. In very good condition, with several horizontal creases through facial area.
Thumbnail 344 Queen Victoria Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Ink signature, “Victoria R,” on an off-white 4 x 1.75 slip affixed to a 7 x 3.25 off-white slip. In very good condition, with two light vertical folds passing through signature, a uniform shade of toning, and a bit of light soiling, and scattered toning and foxing to larger slip, which could be matted out.
Thumbnail 345 Queen Victoria Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Partly-printed DS, signed “Victoria R.,” one page, 14 x 9.5, February 15, 1855. The Queen appoints William Coutts Keppel as Lieutenant “in Our Forty Third Regiment of Foot from the 21st of October 1853.” Three vertical folds, scattered light toning and rubbing, otherwise fine condition. The white paper seal is crisp and intact, as is the affixed revenue stamp.
Thumbnail 346 Manuel Quezon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 First President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines (1878–1944). LS, one page, 5.5 x 8.5, The Johns Hopkins Hospital letterhead, October 24, 1934. Quezon writes from Johns Hopkins Hospital, where he would undergo gallstone surgery two days later, in full: “I am sorry that I have no photograph of mine at hand, otherwise it would have been my pleasure to send one as you requested. As soon as I am out of the Hospital I will do so, but if for some reason you don’t receive it in three weeks write me again c/o Bureau of Insular Affairs, War Department, Washington, D. C.” In very good condition, with light creasing, two rusty paperclip impressions to the top edge, and some paper loss to the bottom right corner. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 347 Condoleezza Rice Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two items: Official Rawlings Major League baseball, signed on the sweet spot on blue ballpoint; and Newsweek magazine featuring Rice on the cover, October 31, 2011, 7.75 x 10.5, signed on the cover in black felt tip. In fine condition. Accompanied by a program from the 99th Anniversary Dinner at the Alfalfa Club, dated January 28, 2012.
Thumbnail 348 Washington A. Roebling Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Engineer who built the Brooklyn Bridge (1837–1926). Harlo Manufacturing Company, Inc. stock capital certificate, comprised of $150,000 of Preferred Stock and $100,000 of Common Stock, 11 x 8.25, granting John A. Roebling 920 of 1000 shares on February 1, 1925, signed on the reverse in ink, “W. A. Roebling” as president, stamp dated May 11, 1923. Two vertical folds, light toning, and a partial separation to one of the folds at the bottom edge, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 349 Mitt Romney Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Time magazine, dated May 21, 2007, featuring Romney on the cover, signed on the front cover in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 350 Mitt Romney Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ. Later printing. Salt Lake City, Utah: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1981. Softcover, 5 x 7, 779 pages. Signed on a bookplate affixed to the first free-end page in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 351 Mitt and Ann Romney Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Strategy for a Stronger America campaign magazine, 8.5 x 11, 66 pages, signed on the front cover in silver ink by Mitt Romney and in black felt tip by Ann Romney. In fine condition, with some light rubbing to covers.
Thumbnail 352 Julius Rosenwald Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Clothier, manufacturer, and philanthropist (1862–1932) best known as a part-owner of Sears, Roebuck and Company. Incredibly rare vintage book photo, trimmed to a size of 3.75 x 5.25, signed in fountain pen. Photo is affixed to two larger cards for an overall size of 4 x 7. In very good condition, with scattered surface marks and moderate to heavy contrast to portions of signature.
Thumbnail 354 Donald Rumsfeld Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Four items: color glossy 12 x 8 photo of Rumsfeld and President Bush leaving the Department of Defense, signed in black felt tip by Rumsfeld; a color semi-glossy 12 x 8.5 photo of various former presidents and notables at Ronald Reagan’s funeral, featuring President Bush helping Nancy Reagan to her seat, signed in silver ink by Rumsfeld; Time magazine featuring an artist’s rendition of Rumsfeld on the cover, dated January 27, 2003, 8 x 10.5, signed in black felt tip; and an engraved portrait of the White House, 8 x 6, by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 355 Yves Saint-Laurent Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 One of the greatest names in fashion history (1936–2008). Rare vintage glossy 7 x 7.5 photo of Saint-Laurent working with a model, signed in fountain pen. Trimmed edges, scattered light surface marks, and a few chips to edges, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 356 Jonas Salk Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Signed book: The Survival of the Wisest. Later printing. NY: Harper & Row, Publishers, 1973. Hardcover with dustjacket, 5.75 x 8.5, 124 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free-end page in black ink, “To Armand Hammer, A great benefactor of science and the Arts, for Humanity. In friendship, Jonas Salk, 19 January 1978.” Some light staining to the front board, a few pencil notations to the first two pages, and a price clip to the dustjacket, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 357 Albert Schweitzer Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 ALS in French, one page, 8.25 x 5.25, stamped personal letterhead, January 18, 1957. Headed “Certificate,” Schweitzer, “doctor of medicine,” certifies “by the present [document] that in case taxes to be paid may be levied against Mademoiselle van der Kreek, a volunteer doctor assistant at my hospital in Lambarene, during the period of her leave of absence from F[rench] E[quatorial] A[frica], my hospital will vouch for their payment.” In very good condition, with three vertical folds, one passing through a single letter of the signature, scattered creasing, and a rough left edge.
Thumbnail 358 Albert Schweitzer Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Untranslated ALS in French, one page, 7.5 x 3, October 17, 1949. Schweitzer writes a brief ALS from Africa to Mrs. Margaret Craig of Beaver, Pennsylvania. In fine condition, with a central vertical crease, a light crease to the bottom right edge, and trimmed edges.
Thumbnail 359 Albert Schweitzer Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Vintage matte-finish 5.75 x 4 photo of Schweitzer looking across a picturesque river, signed and inscribed in fountain pen in the lower border in German, adding a notation to the top right. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 360 Albert Schweitzer Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 ALS in French, one page, 8.25 x 6, October 30, 1957. Short untranslated letter written at the conclusion of a longer letter, in French, by Emmy Marlin. Rusty paperclip mark to top edge of both pages, with some resulting staining and paper erosion and a central vertical fold, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 362 Isaac Sears Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Merchant, sailor, and political figure of the American Revolution (1730–1786). Handwritten endorsement on an off-white 7.25 x 4.5 slip, most likely clipped from a larger document, dated July 22, 1774. Sears writes: “Received…of Mr. Paschal Smith forty six pound on acct of the late Company of Mssrs. Aspinwall & Smith.” In very good condition, with several pencil notations and remnants, scattered light toning and soiling, and a rough right edge.
Thumbnail 363 Glenn Seaborg Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Nobel Prize–winning chemist (1912–1999) who was instrumental in the discovery of several elements. Element 106, Seaborgium, was named in his honor in 1994, the first such distinction ever bestowed upon a living person. Glossy 8.5 x 11 head-and-shoulders photo, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition, with a light horizontal bend through a portion of facial area.
Thumbnail 364 Ernest Shackleton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 5,000.00 - 6,000.00 Shackleton (1874–1922), a junior officer in Scott’s National Antarctic Expedition of 1901–02, nearly reached the South Pole during an expedition of his own in 1909, in the process becoming a national hero. In 1915, during another expedition, his ship, Endurance, was crushed in the polar ice, and he and five others made a perilous journey of 1300 miles to bring relief for the crew. Knighted in 1909, Shackleton died at South Georgia during a fourth expedition in 1922. Vintage matte-finish 4 x 6 Eneret photo of Shackleton in a three-piece suit, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “To Professor Gunnar Andersson, in remembrance from E. H. Shackleton Oct. 13th 1909.” Photo is fixed to an identical size mount. In fine condition, with a bit of scattered trivial soiling. Earlier in 1909, Shackleton returned from the Nimrod Expedition, the first led by Shackleton.
Thumbnail 365 Yitzhak Shamir Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color glossy 8 x 10 head-and-shoulders photo, signed in the lower border in blue felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 366 John Sherman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American politician, longtime United States Senator and author of the Sherman Anti-Trust Act. (1823–1900). Sherman also served as Secretary of the Treasury to President Hayes and Secretary of State to President McKinley. Signed book: John Sherman’s Recollections. First edition. Chicago: Werner Company, 1895. Hardcover, 7.25 x 10.5, 602 pages. Signed on the limitations page in fountain pen. Scattered light soiling to signed page, partially separated front joint, mild overall toning to inside pages, dampstaining to final pages, scattered wear and surface loss to covers and spine, wear to head and tail, and some mild rippling to back board from moisture exposure, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 367 Ernest Solvay Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Belgian chemist, industrialist, and philanthropist (1838–1922). Rare ALS in French, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7.25, Chateau de La Hulpe letterhead, September 10, 1909. Untranslated letter to an unidentified gentleman. In fine condition, with a blue pencil notation to first page. Solvay, who made a fortune with chemicals, created the famous ‘Solvay conferences’ where Einstein, Marie Curie, Bohr, Heisenberg, Born, Paule, Broglie and other physics luminaries would meet and exchange discoveries.
Thumbnail 368 Edwin M. Stanton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Very early ALS signed “Edw Stanton,” one page, 7.75 x 12.25, June 8, 1839. Letter to Arnold H. Dohrman. In full: "I reached here last night & found Dewey away from home and the office locked up. I have not been able to get into it even to get my court papers, & shall have to go away tomorrow without them leaving orders to have them sent to me at Carrollton. I am therefore unable to get at your papers. I must therefore be back here as soon as I can & will take them all to Steubenville. Clarke who I expected to be in the office is not here." Address panel on the reverse in also in Stanton’s hand. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, several partial fold separations, a couple area of paper loss, one from wax seal, uniform toning from previous display, and some scattered light soiling.
Thumbnail 369 Vilhjalmur Stefansson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Canadian explorer and ethnologist (1879–1962) best known for his expeditions to the Arctic and for his studies of the native peoples there. Two items: TLS signed “V. Stefansson,” one page, 8.5 x 11, personal letterhead, April 1, 1935. Stefansson writes to Zoe A. Thralls, Assistant Professor of Geography at the University of Pennsylvania, in full: “The reply to your letter of March 22 is that I am not forgetting my engagement with the Geography Club of Western Pennsylvania and that I am looking forward to it”; and a program from the Joint Meeting of the Pennsylvania Historical Association and the Annual History Conference of the University of Pittsburgh, April 19–20, 1935, signed on the third page in ink. In very good condition, with intersecting folds and light creasing to the letter, light toning, a few trivial spots of soiling and a pencil notation to the program.
Thumbnail 370 George Stephenson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Civil and mechanical engineer (1781–1848) who built the first public rail line using steam locomotives. ALS signed “Geo Stephenson,” three pages, 4.5 x 7, April 19, 1841. Letter to a gentleman regarding the quality of the coals he produced, essential for the locomotives. In part: “Your letter of the 15th I have received respecting my supplying you with coals from my Derbyshire Collieries. If your manufactory can be carried on with the inferior Staffordshire coals, I think that they are too low a price for me to compete with them. I consider my coal very superior to the best Staffordshire. It is with the best coals that I mean to compete at Chellenham and not with the inferior.” In very good condition, with scattered toning and foxing, intersecting folds, and some brushing to closing of letter.
Thumbnail 371 Billy Sunday Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Evangelist, and former baseball player, who preached a fundamentalist theology in a highly flamboyant style. Vintage fountain pen signature, “W. A. Sunday, Psalm 34, April 2, 1932,” on an off-white 5.25 x 3.5 sheet. In fine condition, with a thin strip of mild toning along top edge.
Thumbnail 372 Supreme Court Justices Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Five FDC with various cachets, signed in ink by Clarence Thomas, Sandra Day O’Connor, David Souter, Stephen Breyer, and Elena Kagan. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 373 Supreme Court: Harry A. Blackmun Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Intriguing TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, embossed Supreme Court of the United States letterhead, November 24, 1992. Blackmun writes to Catharine Coolidge of Pompano Beach, Florida, in full: “I have your letter of November 19 and am returning unsigned the photographic card you asked us to pass on to the other Justices. The reason I am giving you this negative response is that our files disclose a series of similar requests from your Pompano Beach, Florida address, more or less in identical handwriting, but with different names attached. I already responded affirmatively to some of those requests. Do you have any explanation for all this?” In fine condition, with two horizontal mailing folds and light creasing.
Thumbnail 374 Supreme Court: Harold H. Burton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Glossy 8 x 10 Harris and Ewing photo of Burton robed, signed in the bottom border in fountain pen, “Harold H. Burton, Associate Justice of the United States, Nov. 2, 1954.” In fine condition, with scattered creasing and some irregular ink adhesion to the signature.
Thumbnail 375 Supreme Court: Louis D. Brandeis Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 ALS, one page, 6 x 7, personal letterhead, September 29, 1939, Mrs. Louis D. Brandeis’s letterhead. Brandeis writes, in full: “Re yours of 26th, my thanks for your thoughtful letter. Kindly write me of the ‘simple’ ‘measures which would have a beneficial effect.’ Except from your letter, I know nothing of the occurrences or the persons to which it refers. Obviously, no one has more authority to speak ‘for all Jews’ than you would have to speak for all Protestants or for all Catholics.” In fine condition, with a paint paperclip impression and staple mark to the top left corner.
Thumbnail 376 Supreme Court: Louis D. Brandeis Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 10.5, Brandeis, Dunbar & Nutter, 220 Devonshire Street, Boston, Mass. letterhead, October 28, 1902. Brandeis writes to Charles H. Tyler, Esq., in full: “I have today from Mr. Parsons a letter saying that the trustees’ plans are not fully made up. As I have met you from time to time during the last four weeks, you have said each time that in a few days you would be ready to talk with me in regard to the plans of the trustees, and I have from time to time reported this to my client. I trust that you will be able, before November 1st, to give me some definite statement as to what the trustees propose to do. It seems to my client that there is considerable property which can be readily converted into cash and which, under the agreement, should have been converted into cash before this.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one affecting a single letter of the signature, scattered creasing, toning, some light rubbing to the left edge, a pencil notation, and two punch holes to the top edge.
Thumbnail 377 Supreme Court: Benjamin Cardozo Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 ALS signed “Benjamin N. Cardozo,” one page, 5 x 8, Supreme Court of the United States letterhead, May 24, 1934. In a letter to Howard A. Content, Esq., Cardozo writes, in full: “It is good to hear from you. Many thanks. I hope to see you during the summer.” In fine condition, with some trivial toning near the signature.
Thumbnail 378 Supreme Court: Gabriel Duvall Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1811 to 1835. Free franked address panel, 7 x 3, addressed in an unknown hand to “Thomas Perkins, Esquire, Comm. Of Loans, Boston, Massachusetts,” and franked in the upper right, “G. Duvall,” signing on top of a “Free” stamp. In very good condition, with two vertical folds, and scattered blocks of light toning.
Thumbnail 379 Supreme Court: John Marshall Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 2,500.00 Influential American statesman and jurist (1755–1835) who served as the fourth Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Among the notable cases over which Marshall presided were the judicial review landmark Marbury v. Madison (1803) and the 1807 trial of Aaron Burr for treason. ADS, signed “J. Marshall,” one page, 7.25 x 5.5, May 22, 1790. Financial document reads, in full: “Recd from Mr. Isaac Hite fifty shillings the moity of a fee due to me from the commissioners appointed to ascertain the rents & profits of the lands recovered by the Hites & others from the representatives of the late Lord Fairfax & others which moity it was agreed Mr. Hite should pay to me & deduct it from the sum to be paid to the said commissioners by him.” A few small separations and repairs to intersecting folds, repair to a small area of paper loss and two missing words near left edge, chips to edges, scattered light toning and soiling, and a few brushes to text and end of signature, otherwise very good condition. In 1730, Virginia governor Gooch granted 40,000 acres of Shenandoah valley land to John Van Meter, who, in turn, granted the acreage to Jost Hite and his partners. Lord Thomas Fairfax owned the Northern Neck of Virginia, including the Shenandoah, and in 1748, 16-year-old George Washington helped survey the property. The surveys were recorded without patents and while Lord Fairfax issued agreements, he refused to sign land grants, accusing Hite of dispersing his claim to prevent further real estate development in the Shenandoah valley which initiated the Fairfax vs. Hite lawsuit. When Hite died in 1761, his son Isaac (1723-1795) continued the case where the General Court sided with the Hites in 1769 and 1771, triggering a Fairfax appeal. By 1780, Marshall had been admitted to the bar but Lord Fairfax died the following year before trial, triggering a debate regarding Fairfax's right of ownership to the land. Hite hired the young lawyer to represent him as Fairfax's proxy in order to validate the lord's original 1749 agreements and the Court of Appeals of Virginia upheld the decision in 1786, ending the 37-year-old case! Four years later, by the document here offered, Marshall acknowledged receipt of 50 shillings from Isaac Hite for fees due him. Marshall's landmark victory kicked off his career as a formidable Supreme Court lawyer which eventually led to his 1801 appointment as Chief Justice where he played a significant role in the development of the American legal system.
Thumbnail 380 Supreme Court: Thurgood Marshall Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Crisp ballpoint signature on an off-white 6 x 4.5 Supreme Court card. In fine condition, with some trivial toning at the top edge.
Thumbnail 381 Supreme Court: Fred M. Vinson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Seven checks: six business checks for Fred M. Vinson, Attorney at Law, each measuring approximately 9 x 3, all dated between 1922 through 1923, with five filled out in Vinson’s hand and one filled out in type, and all signed in ink; and one personal check, 8.25 x 3, December 13, 1949, filled out in type and signed by Vinson. Vertical creases, some lightly affecting the signatures, light surface creasing and toning, and the expected cancellation holes and stamps, the latter only lightly affecting one signature, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 382 Supreme Court: Roger B. Taney Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court; he handed down the Dred Scott Decision and upheld federal supremacy over state authorities. ADS, signed “R. B. Taney, Petitioner,” one page, 7.5 x 12.5, no date. A petition for appeal regarding the case of George Davidson vs. John Marks. In very good condition, with uniform toning, light creasing, and the text and signature a few shades light, but still legible.
Thumbnail 383 Supreme Court: Warren and Brennan Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Ballpoint signature, “Wm. J. Brennan, Jr.,” on an off-white 5 x 3.5 Supreme Court card; and an ink signature, “Earl Warren,” on a 5.25 x 4 State of California lightweight card. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 384 Charles Maurice de Talleyrand Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Highly skilled and influential diplomat (1754–1838) who served the French government from the reign of Louis XVI through that of Louis-Philippe, the last King of France. In the month-long period between the fall of Napoleon and the return of Louis XVIII in early 1814, Talleyrand headed the provisional government of France, making him, if only briefly, the most powerful man in the nation. Printed LS in French, signed “Ch. Mau. Talleyrand,” one page, 7 x 9, Revolutionary letterhead, April 5, 1799. Printed letter to Citizeness Marie Buscailhon. In part (translated): “I inform you, Citizeness, that your Certificate of Noninscription on the lists of the Emigres has reached me, stamped with the visa of the Ministry of Police and that you will definitely be put on the list of Citizens who remained faithful to our Country provided that you've justified your residency, which I will verify…if you haven't sent me the certificates, send them to me…to confirm your residency.” Intersecting folds, and some scattered light toning and soiling, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 385 Edward Teller Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Satin-finish 5 x 7 half-length photo of Teller, signed in the bottom border in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 386 Titanic: Millvina Dean Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Glossy 14 x 11 photo of a newsboy holding a placard proclaiming the Titanic disaster, signed in black felt tip, “Millvina Dean, youngest Titanic survivor.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 387 Titanic: Millvina Dean Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 The youngest passenger on board the Titanic, she was its last remaining survivor until she passed away in May 2009. Color glossy 18 x 12 photo of the Titanic in port, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 388 Titanic: Edwina MacKenzie Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Second-oldest survivor of the Titanic (1884–1984). ANS on an off-white 5 x 3 card. MacKenzie writes in green felt tip, “For Dim Ryan, May 2nd, 77, Edwina Celia Troutt, second class passenger, ‘Titanic,’ saved in Lifeboat 13, April 15th, 1912, Born in England, 1884, Mrs. J. MacKenzie, Herman Beach City.” In fine condition, with some light toning.
Thumbnail 389 Donald Trump Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two items: formidable color glossy 8 x 10 of Trump leaning over a table, signed vertically in blue felt tip; and a ballpoint signature on a 6.25 x 9.25 sheet of mock White House letterhead. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 390 Leon Trotsky Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Russian Communist leader (1879–1940) who, with Lenin, organized the Bolshevik seizure of power during the October Revolution of 1917. In 1929, five years after Lenin’s death, Stalin defeated Trotsky for control of the Communist Party and banished him from Russia. Trotsky spent most of the remainder of his life in Mexico, where he was assassinated with a pickaxe by a Stalinist agent. TLS in French, signed “Your L. Trotsky,” one page, 7.25 x 11, September 22, 1938. Letter to Gerard. In full (translated): “It appears the simplest solution concerning Sieva is to appoint myself guardian and give you full power necessary as my lawyer. My dear friend, your mission is not going to be easy nor pleasant. But unfortunately there is no other way. You and Rosmer could consult with Henri and suggest to him to do all it takes to prevent repercussions for everyone, above all to the group ‘The Commune.’ In any case, I am determined to see this matter through. I don’t quite understand why Leon’s apartment remains sealed. Is it because of Jeanne’s attitude? At any rate, I insist that nothing be done in this matter as long as the question of the archives and Sieva is not resolved.” A single vertical and horizontal fold, a uniform shade of toning, and some light spotting to lower right edge, otherwise fine condition. Trotsky writes to his lawyer Gerard Rosenthal regarding his grandson, Sieva, the son of Trotsky’s daughter Zinaida. After after being stripped of her Soviet citizenship, Zinaida committed suicide in 1933, and the boy then lived with Trotsky’s son, Leon Sedov, who would die mysteriously in February of 1938. Many believed he was assassinated by the NKVD, especially since his death was preceded by the murder of several prominent European Trots asskyist . The boy was then taken in by Jeanne Molinier, wife of a French Trots asskyist leader, who refused to give up the child. In this letter, Trotsky assigns Rosenthal the power of attorney to retrieve his grandson. He also mentions the French Communist leader Alfred Rosmer, who had broken politically with Trotsky years before but remained his personal friend. Fulfilling a longtime dream of Trotsky, Rosmer had agreed to host the founding congress of the Fourth International at his home in September 1938. After a custody battle with Molinier, Rosmer and his wife Marguerite would bring Trotsky’s grandson to Mexico in 1939, a year before the revolutionary’s assassination. A fascinating letter documenting Trotsky’s fight for his grandson.
Thumbnail 391 Richard Varick Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American soldier and statesman (1753–1831) who was aide-de-camp to Benedict Arnold prior to the latter’s defection to the British. Varick later served as Washington’s private secretary, mayor of New York, and a New York state legislator. Revolutionary War–dated ALS signed “Richd. Varick,” one page, 8.25 x 13, August 3, 1776. Letter to Colonel Robert Livingston. In full: “By General Schuyler’s orders I do myself the honor to inclose you a list of anchors & graplines as also of cannon and grape shott imediately wanted for the publick service which the General requests you'll order to be made and cast at your forge and furnace with the utmost dispatch. You'll be pleased to inform me by the return of this express whithor [sic] you have any & which of the above articles now ready made, & in what time the whole of the anchors & graplines will be finished and also how soon the general may expect to have the cannon and grape shott ready. As soon as any of these articles are finished you'll be pleased to order them to be rid down to your landing & inform the general thereof by express. It will be most expedient to have the several different kinds of shott cast at the same time, as it is uncertain which sort will be soonest wanted tho: the whole are much & immediately wanted.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, scattered toning, heavier along folds, paper loss and chipping to right edge, show-through from docketing on reverse, and a bit of light damp staining along bottom edge. Originally offered by Sotheby’s and accompanied by the original Sotheby’s folder.
Thumbnail 392 Gianni Versace Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Italian fashion designer (1946–1997) who was murdered by spree killer Andrew Cunanan. Color satin-finish 4 x 6 photo of Versace in a black vest and white shirt, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 393 Desmond Tutu Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color glossy 8 x 10 photo of Tutu enthusiastically illustrating a point at the pulpit, signed in blue ballpoint, “God bless you, Desmond, March ‘10.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 394 Vice Presidents Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Three ink signatures: “Rh. M. Johnson of Kentucky, August 3, 1844,” on an off-white 4.5 x 3 embossed sheet; “June 4, 1873, Yours truly, John Breckinridge,” on a beige 4.5 x 2.5 cardstock sheet clipped from a larger document; and “Yr. friend & Sev., G. M. Dallas,” on an off-white 7.5 x 2 slip affixed to a slightly larger sheet. In very good condition, with scattered light toning, pencil notations to the first two signatures, and show-through from adhesive on the third signature.
Thumbnail 395 Robert Wadlow Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 The tallest documented human being of modern times, Wadlow (1918–1940), who reached a height of 8´11?, made his living as a touring novelty attraction and shoe company spokesman before dying at the age of 22. Vintage glossy 3.5 x 5.5 postcard photo of Wadlow standing next to his normal-sized father, signed on the reverse in pencil. A small newspaper clipping is affixed next to the signature. Scattered toning and foxing to reverse, tape extending into portion of signature, and some light silvering and surface marks to image, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 396 George Wallace Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Stately vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 head-and-shoulders portrait, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Gen. & Mrs. William Hesketh, Best wishes, George Wallace, Gov. Ala.” In fine condition, with light contrast to the signature and inscription against the darker background. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, postmarked December 15, 1965. General Hesketh held the position of military mayor of Berlin, Germany during the post-war period.
Thumbnail 397 Sam Walton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Entrepreneur and the founder of Wal-Mart (1918–1992). Glossy 5 x 7 photo, signed and inscribed in black ink “Sally, Best wishes, Sam Walton.” In fine condition, with some irregular ink adhesion to inscription.
Thumbnail 398 Watergate Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Four one-page TLSs, all on White House letterhead, ranging in date from 1969 to April 3, 1974, all written to Richard Nixon’s friend and biographer, Earl Mazo, each signed by a different staff member involved in the Watergate scandal. Letters are from H. R. Haldeman, signed “Bob”; John Erlichman, signed “John”; Charles W. Colson, signed “Chuck”; and Rose Mary Woods, signed “Rose.” In very good to fine overall condition.
Thumbnail 399 Watergate: Richardson and Ruckelshaus Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two souvenir TLSs, each detailing the resignation of Acting Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, William D. Ruckelshaus, and Attorney General, Elliot Richardson, during the Watergate scandal, each signed in ink at the conclusion by the respective official. In fine condition. Richardson and Ruckelshaus resigned after refusing to fire special prosecutor Archibald Cox as ordered by Nixon. This became known as the Saturday Night Massacre and was a turning point in shifting public opinion strongly against Nixon.
Thumbnail 400 Simon Wiesenthal Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Concentration camp survivor (1908–2005) who dedicated his life to tracking down and prosecuting former Nazis who had persecuted Jews during World War II. He made worldwide headlines in 1961 for the capture of notorious Nazi fugitive Adolf Eichmann. Pensive 4.25 x 5.75 cardstock head-and-shoulders publicity photo, signed in the bottom border in black felt tip. In fine condition, with mild brushing to the finish, lightly affecting the bold signature.
Thumbnail 401 Simon Wiesenthal Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Concentration camp survivor (1908–2005) who dedicated his life to tracking down and prosecuting former Nazis who had persecuted Jews during World War II. He made worldwide headlines in 1961 for the capture of notorious Nazi fugitive Adolf Eichmann. FDC with a cachet honoring World Peace through Law, signed on the front in blue ballpoint. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 402 Duke and Duchess of Windsor Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Bold felt tip signatures, “Edward, Duke of Windsor,” and “Wallis, Duchess of Windsor,” on an off-white lightly-lined 5 x 1.25 clipped card. In fine condition, with some trivial toning.
Thumbnail 403 Henry Wilson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vice president who died in office during the Grant administration. Free franked envelope, 5.5 x 3, addressed in his hand to “Andrew J. Smith Eqr., Trenton, N. J.,” and franked in the upper right corner, “H. Wilson, U. S. S.” Envelope also bears and August 25 postmark. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, creasing along the edges, a faded postmark stamp to the top left corner, and some trivial soiling which lightly affects the first letter of the signature.
Thumbnail 404 Oliver Wolcott Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Manuscript DS, signed “Oliv. Wolcott, Jr.,” one page, 8.25 x 6.5, June 5, 1783. Wolcott signs off on payment to “Mr. Finn Wadsworth twelve pounds fifteen shippings of three pence out of the avails of confiscated Estate—and charge the state,” also signed at the conclusion by William Mosely and Connecticut State Treasurer, John Lawrence. In very good condition, with light creasing and toning, light show-through from mounting remnants on the reverse, and the end of the signature affected by an overlapping endorsement.
Thumbnail 405 Rudolph H. Wurlitzer Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 ALS signed “Rudolph,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, July 16, 1945. Wurlitzer writes from Harbor Beach, Michigan to his friend Charlie, in part: “We had the pleasure of again contacting Mr. & Mrs. Henry Ford at Dearborn—They are both in the best health—He is now nearly 82, but as vigorous as he was ten years ago. You and I, will, I hope be as healthy as Henry when we are 82.” In fine condition, with some light creasing.
Thumbnail 406 509th Composite Group Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Satin-finish 10 x 8 photo of the aftermath of Hiroshima, signed in blue felt tip by Paul Tibbets, adding “Pilot ‘Enola Gay’;” Charles Sweeney, adding “Pilot, ‘The Great Artiste’”; and George Marquardt, adding “Pilot, #91, ‘Necessary Evil’.” In fine condition, with a few trivial flaws inherent in the original photo.
Thumbnail 407 509th Composite Group Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Glossy 8 x 10 photo of the mushroom cloud over Hiroshima, signed in blue felt tip by Paul Tibbets and Charles Sweeney, and signed in black felt tip by George Marquardt. In fine condition, with some mild brushing to Tibbets’ signature.
Thumbnail 408 Aces and Medal of Honor Recipients Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Ten cardstock photos, 10 x 8 and 8 x 10, each signed in ink or felt tip by the respective ace or Medal of Honor recipient pictured. Signers are: Bob Scott, Neville Duke, Charlie Boyd, John ‘Bud’ Hawk, Alex Vraciu, Ken Jernstedt, Ray Davis, Bob Scott, Jim Swett, ‘Tex’ Hill, and Sergai Karmarenko. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 409 Joseph Anderson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Confederate general (1813–1892) who was wounded at Seven Days and who later put his background as a civil engineer and industrialist to use in the Ordnance Department. LS signed “Jos. Anderson,” one page, 8 x 9.75, August 1, 1820. Anderson writes to US Attorney, Charles J. Ingersall, Esq., from the Comptroller’s Office of the Treasury Department, in full: “I transmit herewith an authenticated copy of the account of Jacob A. Listler, late an Ensign 16 Regt. U. S. Mfy. which exhibits a balance of $873.24. One from him to the U. States: for the recovery of the same, with interest, I have requested that first may be instituted without delay. It is stated that the debt resides at Churchtown, Lancaster County, Penna.” In very good condition, with scattered creasing and toning, two small areas of paper loss to the left edge, and old tape repairs to folds on the reverse.
Thumbnail 410 P. G. T. Beauregard Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 War-dated ALS signed “G. T. Beauregard, Brig. Genl Comdg,” one page, lightly-lined, 5.25 x 6.5, April 30, 1861. Letter to Colonel R. W. Habersham. In full: “I beg to thank you & the Hon. Trescott for your kind offer which I will be happy to accept as soon as I will be able to leave on my Tour of Inspection of the Coast. I think the suggestions contained in your letter, [are] of such importance, that I have enclosed the letter to the Gov’r for his information.” In very good condition, with uniform toning, edge tears and wear to bottom edge, and a few creases.
Thumbnail 411 P. G. T. Beauregard Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Florid ink signature, “G. T. Beauregard, 1884,” on an off-white 4.5 x 2.5 card. In fine condition, with light toning.
Thumbnail 412 Omar Bradley Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vintage matte-finish 5 x 6.5 photo of Bradley as a four-star general, signed in black ink, “Omar N. Bradley.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 9.25 x 11. In fine condition, with a light brush to end of signature.
Thumbnail 413 Lloyd M. Bucher Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Navy officer (1927–2004) and Captain of the USS Pueblo. Time magazine featuring an artist’s rendition of Bucher on the cover, 8.25 x 11, dated February 2, 1968, signed and inscribed on the front in black felt tip, “For Steve & Alice Keyser, Wishing you following winds all your days!,” adding his signature and printing, “L. M. Bucher, CDR, USN, CO USS Pueblo.” In fine condition, with light creasing and the expected light wear.
Thumbnail 414 Charles L. Brown and Franz Stigler Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 On December 20, 1943, Charles L. Brown, B-17 Pilot 379th BG, had received extensive damage to his aircraft, Ye Olde Pub. Franz Stigler, BF-109 Pilot, 6./JG-27, flew by the damaged craft and did not attack, claiming “I cannot kill these half-dead people. It would be like shooting a parachute,” but rather guided them to safety. Limited edition 17 x 11 print entitled ‘Brothers of Chivalry,’ numbered #13/400, signed in pencil, “Charles L. Brown” and “Franz Stigler.” Also signed in pencil by the artist, Kelli Spiller; a glossy 4 x 6 photo of Brown, signed in black felt tip and a satin-finish 4 x 7 photo of Stigler, also signed in black felt tip. All three are attached by their corner tips to a foam core backing to an overall size of 18 x 19.5. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 415 D-Day: Bill Millin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 William “Bill” Millin (1922–2010) served as the Piper of the 1st Special Service Commando Brigade. As he landed on the Normandy Beaches, he upheld his role, playing the Brigade shore with his bagpipes under attack from enemy fire, and continued to provide the hymns to his comrades throughout the fight. Fantastic satin-finish 10 x 8 photo of Millin and the troops as they landed at Sword Beach in Normandy, signed in blue felt tip, “Piper Bill Millin.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 416 Henry Dearborn Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 General (1751–1829) during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 who served as secretary of war under Thomas Jefferson. LS signed “H. Dearborn,” one page, 8 x 9.75, March 7, 1804. Letter to James McHenry. In part: “I have recently been informed that a quantity of Gunpowder, belonging to the United States, was, several years since, received by sundry gentlement [sic] from the magazine in Baltimore…I take the liberty of requesting you to be so obliging as to take such measures as may be proper for having the business adjusted.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, two passing through signature, scattered toning, several areas of paper loss to edges, and a few pencil remnants.
Thumbnail 417 Stephen Decatur Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 American naval officer (1779–1820) who cemented a reputation as a hero for his peerless leadership during the Barbary Wars and the War of 1812. Following a raid on a US frigate that had been seized during the First Barbary War, which England’s Lord Nelson deemed ‘the most bold and daring act of the age, Decatur was promoted to the rank of captain at the age of 25, a record that remains unmatched in the history of the American Navy. Full hand-addressed free frank, measuring 9.75 x 5 unfolded, with panel measuring 5.25 x 3.25, addressed in Decatur’s hand to “Daniel Smith Esq., South Third St., Philadelphia,” and franked in the upper left, “Stephen Decatur.” Panel nears a postmark stamped over the signature, “Wash. City Oct. 8,” and a “Free” stamp appears in the upper right corner. In very good condition, with uniform toning with a few trivial heavier spots, a small repaired tear to the bottom edge, and reparative tape on the reverse.
Thumbnail 418 James H. Doolittle Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Matte-finish 8 x 10 head-and-shoulders photo of Doolittle in uniform, signed and inscribed in black felt tip, “To Steve Juscik: With every good wish, J. H. Doolittle.” In fine condition, with two small tack holes to the top edge.
Thumbnail 419 Enola Gay: Tom Ferebee Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Chilling 8 x 10 cardstock photo of the Hiroshima mushroom cloud, signed in blue felt tip, “Tom Ferebee, Bombardier.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 420 Enola Gay: Paul Tibbets Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Chilling 8 x 10 cardstock photo of the Hiroshima mushroom cloud, signed in blue felt tip, “Paul Tibbets, Pilot.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 421 Enola Gay: Paul Tibbets Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: Return of the Enola Gay. Pennsylvania: Enola Gay Remembered Inc., 1998. Hardcover with dustjacket, 6.25 x 9.25, 339 pages. Signed on the second free end page under an image of Tibbets with Theodore Van Kirk and Tom Ferebee. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 422 Horatio Gates Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 ALS, one page, 7.25 x 9, August 9, 1799. Letter to an unknown gentleman. In part: “Being for a considerable time in daily expectation for receiving answers to letters I wrote to my correspondent in Washington County, I delayed until this moment to acknowledge the receipt of your kind letter of the 16th of May. To my astonishment I have as yet no answer to the letters I have wrote Mr. O’Neal! The reason for which I cannot comprehend, as he was always punctual in his answers until now; perhaps he may be sick…I therefore inclose you these letters, which I wish to have separately, and particularly delivered, to the persons they are address’d to; & for that purpose, request you will get your correspondent in Frederick Town to send a messenger Express to Delaware Mills, & thence to Hagars Town, with Directions to wait two hours at each place for answers.” In fine condition, with intersecting mailing folds, one through a single letter of signature, small hole to top left, and a mild shade of overall toning. A scarce offering from one of the American Revolution’s most contentious military figures.
Thumbnail 423 Wade Hampton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Confederate military officer and politician (1818–1902) who replaced J. E. B. Stuart as Lee’s Chief of Cavalry following Stuart’s death on the battlefield. Hampton later served as governor and senator from South Carolina. Bold ink signature on an off-white 3.25 x 2 card. In very good condition, with scattered light toning and rubbing, the top left corner clipped, an adhesive remnant along the right edge, and ink and pencil notations in another hand.
Thumbnail 424 Winfield S. Hancock Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Exquisite ink signature on an off-white 3 x 1.5 card. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 425 Iwo Jima: Hershel Williams Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Historic satin-finish 25 x 20 photo of the Iwo Jima flag raising, signed in blue felt tip, “Hershel Williams, Medal of Honor, Iwo Jima, February 23, 1945.” Rolled and in fine condition.
Thumbnail 426 George Keith Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 British admiral in the Napoleonic Wars (1746–1823). ALS signed “Keith,” two pages both sides, 4.5 x 7.25, May 29, 1818. Keith writes, in part: “I shall be glad to know if you have had any communication with Mr. Baker since I saw you last, as I am about to move my family to…and from there…to Scotland upon business…” Address panel on reverse penned in Keith’s hand. In very good condition, with light toning and creasing, a notation to the top left corner, a mild area of paper loss and remnants from a wax seal to the second integral page,and mounting remnants on the reverse of the second integral page.
Thumbnail 427 Joseph E. Johnston Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 ALS signed “J. E. Johnston,” two pages, 5.5 x 9, January 7, 1885. Letter to Major Robert Stiles. In full: “Yours of the 3d came yesterday. In regard to Mr Howard—I can not see from your opinions that the gentleman has any claim upon me. He says Mr Kelley appointed him my Counsel. That is preposterous. He claims to have proved my account. If he did it was useless. For I knew it before he did. Informed by Mr. Kelley in 1880 or 1881. So I see no reason for waiting upon him. Therefore, unless you think differently, I am for ending the Matter leaving Mr H. to the legal remedies within his reach. As to the report of the battle of 7 Pines by Longstreet—R. Jones and I had an earnest conversation on the subject, I claiming that the book purporting to be Genl L.’s order book was not authority against the report received by me and urging him to accept the latter as the official one, as I offered it. He refused—but consented to let the report made to me, be deposited near or by the order book. This was after 1878. As this paper was not accepted as official, I now claim it for use. It is of interest to me—because the copy in the order book has an interpolation which contradicts my report of the battle, in all items taken from Longstreet’s report to me—The only official one.” On the reverse, Stiles has docketed the letter, as well as penning a one-page ALS to a Mr. Jones, which reads, “You see how strong Genl Johnston’s impression is that he had left with you this ‘official’ Report. Please write to me a letter responding to this point, that I may forward it to him. I understand your memory is distinct to the contrary of this. If possible give details which may tend to refresh Genl Johnston’s memory, if it be his which is in default & oblige.” In fine condition, with a complete separation to hinge, and mild toning to edges. Serving under General Joseph E. Johnston, Longstreet exhibited one of the worst battle performances of his military career at 1862’s Battle of Seven Pines. He became lost during the fight and shouted indecisive and imprecise orders to his subordinates—and disregarded verbal orders from Johnston regarding the campaign. In his report, Longstreet implied that the fault lay with Confederate General Benjamin Huger—a version of the truth Johnston accepted, in part because he believed his own verbal orders may have contributed to the confusion. “As to the report of the battle of 7 Pines by Longstreet… the book purporting to be Genl L.’s order book was not authority against the report received by me and urging him to accept the latter as the official one, as I offered it. He refused,” Johnston writes here. Unique reflection on the relationship between Longstreet and Johnston, two of the Confederacy’s greatest generals.
Thumbnail 430 Marquis de Lafayette Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 LS in French, signed “Lafayette,” one page, 4.75 x 5, no date. Untranslated document headed “No. 1,” at the top. Matted with a book portrait to an overall size of 13.5 x 9.5. In fine condition, with intersecting folds and a block of mild toning.
Thumbnail 431 Marquis de Lafayette Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 ALS in French, signed “Lafayette,” one page, 6 x 4.5, April 7, 1833. The Marquis writes to a close friend and colleague, loosely translated, in part: “You have luck, my dear colleague, in asking me about the medal…I waited [for you] to stop by the Grange to give it to you. But I had just received it and I still want to give it to you with all the [memories] which this request inspires me to, for all the [amity] which I have vowed unto you,” adding the post script, “Would you be so kind as to present Madame de Dumilly my respects and my regrets [for missing] her most agreeable soirees.” In fine condition, with an intersecting horizontal and vertical fold, an ink notation to the top left, and trimmed edges.
Thumbnail 432 Marquis de Lafayette Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 ALS in French, signed “Lafayette,” one page, 8 x 10, September 17, 1830. Letter to Etienne-Maurice Gerard, Minister of War and Marshall of France. In full (translated): “The Duke de Mahon, honorary Lieutenant General, has asked me to tell you about my oId connections with him and his family: I was intimately associated with his two brothers, colleagues of mine in the Constituent Assembly. His youngest brother served under my orders; I also knew his father, the victor of Mahon; and his niece married my nephew Grammont. All that has enabled me to be aware of the services and sacrifices of the Duke de Mahon, constantly attached to the French cause in Spain - which was the ruin of his fortune. I don't know in what capacities he might serve and what you might be able to do for him: but his abundant capabilities await the good will of the government.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, a couple of ink notations to top, small stamp below text, uniform toning, and light pencil remnants to bottom.
Thumbnail 433 Robert E. Lee Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 Original 2.5 x 4 carte-de-visite photo by Boude and Miley of Lexington, Virginia, signed in black ink, “R. E. Lee.” In good to very good condition, with moderate fading to image, a few creases and edge tears, scattered light soiling, clipped top corner tips, and mounting remnants to reverse.
Thumbnail 434 Robert E. Lee Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Scarce and extremely desirable handwritten check, 7.75 x 2.75, filled out, “West Point, N. Y., Cash—Bank of the Old Dominion at Alexandria,” and signed by Lee, “R. E. Lee,” payable to “Cash—B—Farmers Bank of Virginia” for $32.50, July 5, 1854. Several vertical folds, uniform toning, some light areas of soiling (a heavier area showing through from a stain on the reverse), wrinkling to the paper over which the signature is placed, a small area of glue residue, and the expected cancellation cut and red pencil notation, otherwise very good condition. In 1854, Brevet Colonel Lee was serving as the superintendent of the Military Academy at West Point. He had been appointed to the position in 1852 and during his three years as superintendent spent time with cadets including later confederate general J.E.B. Stuart. His oldest son, George Washington Custis Lee, attended West Point during his tenure and graduated in June 1854, first in his class. Lee’s wife remained in Virginia and he managed his affairs from afar, banking in his boyhood home of Alexandria with the Bank of the Old Dominion and Farmers Bank of Virginia, both of which would close during the Civil War. Lee checks are both scarce and desirable.
Thumbnail 435 James Longstreet Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Confederate general (1821–1904) who distinguished himself at Bull Run, Fredericksburg, and Chickamauga. A 1902 Chicago and Northwestern railroad pass, 3.75 x 2.5, issued to Longstreet, signed in fountain pen on the reverse “James Longstreet” as the US Commissioner of Railroads. In fine condition, with a few areas of very light soiling.
Thumbnail 436 Douglas MacArthur Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Riveting color 13.75 x 17 print of an oil painting depicting a battle reenactment from McArthur’s early military career in the Philippines, affixed by its top edge to a cardstock mount of the same size, signed in the bottom border in ink. In very good condition, with scattered light toning, surface marks, and dings, and a few trivial tears to the right edge. Accompanied by a January 1964 copy of Life magazine, featuring a copy of the print and an article.
Thumbnail 437 Douglas MacArthur Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 3,500.00 Incredible vintage matte-finish 7.25 x 8.75 photo of General J. Lawton Collins, Chief of Staff of the US Army, presenting the United Nations flag to MacArthur to fly over his Tokyo headquarters, signed in fountain pen, “My command will do all in its power to uphold this noble ideal. This flag is the symbol of one of the greatest efforts man has made to free himself. Douglas MacArthur, Tokyo–1950.” Matted to an overall size of 10.25 x 12.25. A vertical crease to the right side passes through a few letters, minor contrast issues to a few letters of signature, and corrections to two words by MacArthur resulting in a couple small smudges, otherwise fine condition. On July 14, 1950, the Associated Press reported that "Gen. MacArthur today accepted the flag of the United Nations and said his command would 'do all in its power to uphold this noble idea.' The flag - a white globe surrounded by olive branches on a blue field - is, the general continued, the 'symbol of one of the greatest efforts man has made to free himself.'" During the ceremony held at Command Headquarters in Tokyo, General Collins presented the flag to MacArthur one week after Truman appointed him Commander-in-Chief of the United Nations forces in the Korean War, in compliance with a United Nations Security Council request that the United States name the commander general of the combined land, air and naval units battling North Korean forces. MacArthur became the first military leader fighting under a United Nations' sanction against 'an act of aggression.' Truman also authorized the general to fly the United Nations' flag with the flags of the nations participating in the Korean campaign, a move authorized by the Security Council resolution. According to American Book Prices Current and the Americana Exchange, no other AQS by MacArthur has ever been offered for sale at a major public auction. The one here offered, penned on an historic photograph taken during the ceremony with MacArthur's quote written in his own hand, is especially desirable and exceedingly rare!
Thumbnail 438 William Mahone Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Confederate major general (1826–1895) who distinguished himself during the Siege of Petersburg. DS, signed “Wm. Mahone,” one page, 11.5 x 7.5, January 1, 1867. An interest bond in the amount of $100 for the Norfolk & Petersburg Railroad Company, signed at the conclusion by Mahone as the company’s president. In very good condition, with vertical folds, scattered light wrinkling, a small edge tear, residue from missing revenue stamps, and a trimmed bottom edge.
Thumbnail 439 Anthony McAuliffe Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 United States Army general (1898–1975) who commanded the force defending Bastogne, Belgium, during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. He was famous for his brief reply to a German surrender ultimatum: ‘Nuts!’ At the 60th anniversary of the battle, a veteran claimed that McAuliffe never uttered that exact word, but reporters found his actual phrasing too strong and toned it down for their dispatches home. Vintage matte-finish 7 x 9 photo of McAuliffe as a four-star general, signed in white ink, “A. C. McAuliffe.” Framed to an overall size of 8.5 x 10.5. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 440 David McCampbell Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Large pencil signature, “David McCampbell,” on an off-white card. Card is matted to an original Raymond Waddey acrylic painting of McCampbell shooting down a Japanese fighter, canvas stretched over a wooden frame, 24 x 18, and signed by Waddey. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 441 Montgomery of Alamein Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Commanding vintage matte-finish 6.5 x 4.5 group photo of Alamein with his regiment, signed in ink, “B. H. Montgomery, Field–Marshal.” Some light rippling across the top edge, trivial silvering to some of the darker areas of the image, and mounting remnants on the reverse, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 442 Montgomery of Alamein Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 British field marshal who successfully commanded Allied forces at the Battle of El Alamein, a major turning point in the Western Desert Campaign during World War II. After the war, Montgomery was created 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein in 1946. Vintage matte-finish 8.5 x 6.5 photo of Montgomery looking at a map with two other officers, signed in blue ink, “Montgomery of Alamein.” In fine condition, with a paperclip impression to left edge and a bit of trivial silvering.
Thumbnail 443 John T. Morgan Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 General in the Confederate Army during the Civil War (1824–1907) and Senator from Alabama. Ink signature on an off-white 3.5 x 2.25 card. Affixed to a 10 x 12 cardstock mount, with a vintage clipping of Morgan. In very good condition, with adhesive remnants to each corner, and mild brushing and feathering to the signature.
Thumbnail 444 John S. Mosby Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,200.00 ALS signed “Jno. S. Mosby,” one page, 8 x 10.5, Department of Justice, Washington letterhead, February 12, 1910. Mosby writes to “Chinn,” in full: “I suppose you have seen Fount since his talk with Col. Henderson. Henderson is an old friend of Mr. Taft’s—practiced before him when he was on the Bench & voted for him. Burroughs wrote me a letter about the attempt 4 years ago to blackmail him—he told me about it at the time & I commended him for refusing to submit to the demand. So I put a strong endorsement on Burroughs letter—said the party applying was the same in whose interest they tried to levy blackmail & that no such person should be appointed. Henderson read to Mr. Taft my endorsement—he agreed with me & said we wd. have to make a strong case to remove Burroughs. I enclosed also a letter from Burnett, Post Commander, G. A. R.—one from Blackford (High School) & one from the Bishop. Henderson thinks there is no doubt of Burroughs appointment while I have never mentioned the subject of his assistant to Burroughs (I thought it wd. be bad taste). Fount tells me that he will certainly appoint you. Henderson also carried a strong letter I gave him from L. L. Lewis in favor of Sam Chapman’s appointment of Coving on wh. I put a strong endorsement. My best way to approach Mr. Taft was through Col. Henderson. Tell Fount I want to see him & tell him Mrs. Chinn & Alice that I am working for them. I sent you my answer to Talcott. Shall take no notice of McKim.” Light creasing, a paperclip impression to the top edge, a couple of pencil remnants to the top right, and a red ink notation, otherwise fine condition. After the war, Mosby controversially became a Republican and served in several Republican administrations, including those of Roosevelt and Taft, and as an assistant attorney general in the Department of Justice between 1904 and 1910. The ‘Gray Ghost’ kept his Confederate friends close, and here writes to Benton Chinn, a former ranger who fought with Mosby and was both his friend and assistant. Mosby mentions another Confederate veteran, Sam Chapman, the ‘Fighting Parson,’ who also fought beside him. An uncommon letter showing that the Confederate commander remained loyal to his men many years after the conflict.
Thumbnail 445 Napoleon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 LS in French, signed “Np,” one page both sides, 7.25 x 9, May 1, 1811. Letter to a Major General. In part (translated): “I received both your statements about 2,000 men and 3,800 men on foot who have arrived from the Army of Portugal and the Army of Spain. It seems to me that the 2nd includes the 1st. You don't give me sufficient explanation. You don't send me a report on those who assembled a Salamanca for departure, and those who are to arrive. Give orders to Gen. Monthiou to hold back all the foot soldiers from the Cavalry and the Baggage Trains that will arrive from Spain or Portugal. Ask him to send you a report on the small depots in Pau, Auch and others so that I can see which ones I have at my disposal. You yourself are to send me a statement…about those who are to leave, either from the Army of Portugal, the Army of the South, of the Center, of Aragon, of the North.” A couple of central vertical folds, a few other creases, missing top right corner, and a bit of scattered light toning and soiling, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 446 George S. Patton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 2,000.00 War-dated TLS signed “G. S. Patton, Jr.,” one page, 8 x 10.5, June 27, 1945. Patton writes from Green Meadows, Hamilton, Massachusetts, in full: “I regret that I have not any picture available, and deeply appreciate your desiring one. My signature to this letter provides the autograph you request.” In fine condition, with scattered light creasing. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Patton sent this letter just weeks after his victorious reception in Los Angeles, during which time he addressed a crowd swelling to 100,000 in one of his few public appearances. At this time, he donated an original copy of the 1935 Nuremberg Laws, an item he had illegally smuggled out of German, to the Huntington Library.
Thumbnail 447 Bob Neale Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Number 1 flying Tiger ace with 16 victories. Ballpoint signature, “Bob Neale, Sqd. Leader 1st Sqd.,” on an off-white 2.5 x 1 slip. Slip is affixed to an original Raymond Waddey acrylic painting of Neale shooting down an enemy, canvas stretched over a wooden frame, 24 x 18, signed by Waddey. In fine condition, with a bit of scattered light soiling to slip.
Thumbnail 448 Chester Nimitz Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 ALS signed “C. W. Nimitz,” one page both sides, 8 x 10.5, personal letterhead, November 29, 1952. Letter to Dwight Eisenhower’s secretary Helen Weaver. In full: “I thank you very much for your lovely Christmas greeting card with its Holiday greeting and good wishes—and I assure you that your kind and happy thoughts of me are fully reciprocated. I wish for you a most Happy and Cheerful Holiday Season—and I hope to hear that before long you will be among those in the Executive Office of the White House who are serving the new President in his Enormous task. I hope also you are enjoying your duty in Europe—and that you are keeping in the best of health.” In fine condition, with two punch holes to top edge.
Thumbnail 449 Aimable Pelissier Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Marshal of France (1794–1864). ALS in French, signed “Msl. Pelissier Duke of Malakoff,” one page both sides, 5.25 x 8.25, August 1, 1861. Letter written as Governor General of Algeria, reads, in part (translated): “My dear poet, but a poet become unfruitful…In Gran where your flutist makes the forest resound with beautiful music…his lazy colonel is savoring the sweetness of the shady woods…instead of doing like those old Normans, my ancestors, who hastened to conquer the Angles stella monstrante cometa [the comet showing the way]…I often think of that beautiful Queen of Niniveh…who gets me to come down from the throne like that illustrious loser of Novara who was in fact, the first King of Italy.” Central horizontal and vertical fold, a uniform shade of mild toning, and light show-through from writing on reverse, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 450 Horatio Nelson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 Ink signature, “Nelson & Bronte” on an off white 6.5 x 1.5 slip clipped from a larger document. Inscribed and initialed by Thomas Masterman Hardy in the bottom right hand corner, “T. M. H.” Written above the signature in another hand is the line, “Given on board the Victory of Cadix. 10th October 1805,” and below Nelson’s signature, in Hardy’s hand, reads the line, “Taken from the Pendant sheet issued to the Mediterranean Fleet.” In very good condition, with a few vertical creases, two affecting Nelson’s signature, uniform toning, and a stray ink mark. An extraordinary relic given by Nelson’s most loyal companion and taken from one of the admiral’s last signed documents—a chart of flag pennants (pendants) to be used in the forthcoming battle of Trafalgar. Hardy is best remembered as second principal actor in one of the most famous scenes in English history—at Trafalgar when Nelson gave him his last messages, with the celebrated request ‘Kiss me, Hardy.’
Thumbnail 451 George S. Patton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 ALS signed “Geo S. Patton, Cadet It and Adjutant,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 6.75, West Point letterhead, no date. Letter to his father. In full: “I am it [“it” is doubly underlined]. And writing at a desk in the room to which four years ago I looked with a sort of religious reverence but really now that I have gained it, I do not feel particularly grand or elevated, hang it I never do, I get a thing and then it seems ridiculous that I could ever have been in doubt, still I will probably loose ten pounds by worry for fear of loosing it between now and June. I hated to see 1908 go for there were a lot of nice people in it and I felt pretty bad when I saw them dance army blue. The hop was the most crowded affair I have ever been to here in past there was little fun to be had at it though the little one last night was fine. Do you remember Mr [Edward A.] Stockton a large fat fellow when he went up to get his dip. [diploma] from Mr Taft [President-elect William H. Taft in 1908] the steps brake down and he fell and great was the fall thereof. This room is fine it has three radiators and being double you can close up the small room and have it fine and warm. also it is right at the head of the stairs going to the shower baths so it is quite a luxurious place. We had a rehearsal of the ride yesterday with the band and it went off well the ride is Saturday. The whole Simonds Marshall outfit were just behind me and when I got through reading the maps they all congratulated me very warmly it was quite nice of them. My voice is not as good as it should be but I hope it will improve. I am very well with lots of love your devoted son.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 452 James E. Porter Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,500.00 - 3,000.00 One of General Custer's officers (1847–1876) killed at the Battle of Little Bighorn. Rare albumen bust oval portrait vignette, with image measuring approximately 4.5 x 6, of Porter in his West Point uniform, evidently removed from a book as the portrait is centered on a 10 x 13 heavy stock page. Signed under the image in black ink, “James E. Porter, Strong, Maine.” In fine condition, with some mild rippling to page, mild toning to edges, and thin mounting remnant along left edge. At the time of his death he was acting captain of Company I, 7th Cavalry, his headless body identified amongst his company. Extremely rare in any form, as this is the first signed image of Porter we have seen.
Thumbnail 454 John J. Pershing Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 ALS vertically signed “J. J. Pershing,” one page, 5.5 x 8.5, personal letterhead, September 29, 1930. Pershing pens a flowing letter, in part: “Thank you very much for sending me your Flag Speech, which I am returning to you herewith. I hope to see you before sailing on the 12th.” In fine condition, with a block of toning to the middle of the text and a pencil notation.
Thumbnail 455 Eddie Rickenbacker Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 America’s top World War I ace (1890–1973), with 26 victories. Vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 photo, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “With best wishes to ‘Cy’ Halpern, Capt. Eddie Rickenbacker.” In very good condition, with a mounting remnant affixed to lower right of image, scattered surface marks, a bit of light spotting, and moderate silvering to image and background.
Thumbnail 456 Daniel Ruggles Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Confederate brigadier general (1810-1897) who commanded the 1st Division, 2nd Corps Army of the Mississippi and fought at Shiloh. War-dated ALS signed “Daniel Ruggles, Brig. General,” one page, lightly-lined, 5 x 8, June 16, 1862. Letter to General P. G. T. Beauregard. In full: “General Villepigue reported here on the 9th. On the 12th I reported it by Telegraph. On the 8th I telegraphed that he was at Collinsville. This morning I telegraphed that he is here. I communicated his arrival also by Colonel Augustin.” Intersecting folds, mild toning to each corner, pencil notation to top edge, and light show-through from docketing on reverse, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 457 Norman Schwarzkopf Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color glossy 8 x 10 close-up photo of Schwarzkopf pointing emphatically, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 458 Daniel E. Sickles Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Controversial and colorful American politician and military officer (1819–1914). After discovering his wife was having an affair, Sickles shot the man, the son of Francis Scott Key, and secured an acquittal with the a temporary insanity defense. During the Civil War, Sickles served as a general and lost his leg at the Battle of Gettysburg. Two certificates for five shares in the New York Electric Railway Car Association, 7.5 x 3.75, each signed in ink by trustee, “D. Sickles.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, light toning, and a small tear to the top edge of one certificate. Accompanied by an ALS, signed by “L. A. Gaff,” informing “Messrs. Stays & Greenbaum” that they have been “authorized to deduct from the interest to be collected by you of Genl. Sickles the sum of one hundred dollars.”
Thumbnail 459 John Singlaub Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Dignified satin-finish 8 x 10 head-and-shoulders portrait of the general in uniform, signed in silver ink. In fine condition, with a bit of a grainy appearance.
Thumbnail 460 Henry W. Slocum Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Union general who fought at Gettysburg and accompanied Sherman on his March to the Sea. Ink signature, “H. W. Slocum,” on an off-white 5 x 2.5 clipped slip. In fine condition, with some trivial toning and light adhesive remnants on the reverse.
Thumbnail 461 Carl Spaatz Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Air Force general (1891–1974) who commanded American bombing forces in Europe and the Pacific during World War II. Glossy 8 x 10 photo of Spaatz in full dress uniform, signed in blue ballpoint, “Carl Spaatz, USAF (Ret).” In fine condition, with a couple small creases to background.
Thumbnail 462 Joseph Stilwell Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Four-star general (1883–1946), aka ‘Vinegar Joe’ and ‘Old Joe,’ best known for his service in China. Relieved from command in 1944 as part of FDR’s geopolitical maneuvering in Asia, Stilwell was reassigned to command the American ground forces during the final battle for Okinawa in 1945. Vintage 7.25 x 9.25 semi-glossy photo of Stilwell in uniform and an overcoat, signed in fountain pen. Several scattered creases and a vertical bend through facial area, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 463 Hideki Tojo Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Prime Minister of Japan during most of World War II who was directly responsible for the attack on Pearl Harbor. He was later tried for war crimes, convicted, and hanged on December 23, 1948. Scarce vintage glossy 9.5 x 7.5 photo of Tojo in custody under the watchful eye of a military policeman and an unidentified civilian, signed in fountain pen. Signature fairly light, but mostly legible, scattered creases and surface marks, and lightly trimmed edges, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 465 Felix von Luckner Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Flown postal cover honoring the 20th Anniversary of the First Air Mail Flight in North Carolina at Wilmington, postmarked January 1, 1912, signed on the front in ink by von Luckner and two others. In very good condition, with light toning, some mild soiling, and a faint pencil notation.
Thumbnail 466 Jonathan M. Wainwright Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vintage matte-finish 7 x 9 photo, signed and inscribed in black ink “To John Dempsey, Sincerely, J. M. Wainright, General USA (Ret).” Framed to an overall size of 8.5 x 10.5. In very good condition, with several creases to left side.
Thumbnail 467 D. P. Woodbury and J. G. Totten Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Woodbury was a Civil War officer and engineer who served at First Bull Run and Antietam. Totten was a career officer and was regent of the Smithsonian Institution and cofounder of the National Academy of Sciences. LS signed “D. P Woodbury, Lt. Engrs,” one page, 7.5 x 9.5, July 21, 1852. Letter to Frank Begelow. In part: “Your letter with the certificate of the President and Professor of Harvard College…will be brought to the attention of the President of the U. States when the last selections form the list ‘At Large’ shall be made.” Reverse of second integral page bears an address panel in an unknown hand, and is free franked in the upper right by Joseph G. Totten. Intersecting folds, a couple light brushes to text, and some light toning, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 468 World War II: Marcel Bigeard Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Satin-finish 8 x 10 photo of the French general, signed in blue felt tip and adding a French sentiment. In fine condition, with a bit of a grainy appearance.
Thumbnail 469 Anthony Wayne Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 Boldly-penned ALS signed “Anty. Wayne,” one page, 7.75 x 7.25, March 1, 1793. Wayne writes from Head Quarters in Legionville, in full: “You will please to order an Infantry Detachment Court martial to hear & try the Merits of the enclosed complaint, agreeably to the 11th Section & 2nd Article of the rules & articles of War—for redressing wrongs.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, light creasing, scattered toning and damp staining affecting appearance, a chip to the bottom edge, and two strips of reparative tape and mounting remnants to the reverse. Washington appointed Wayne to command the newly-formed Legion of the United States in the campaign against the Northwest Indians between 1793 and 1794. Wayne established the training camp at Legionville, near present-day Baden, Pennsylvania, in 1792. Among those who served under him at Legionville were future president William Henry Harrison and transcontinental expedition-leader William Clark. The month after he wrote this letter, Wayne departed the camp with his men to begin the campaign against the Indians, which culminated in his victory at the Battle of Fallen Timbers the following year. A fine, rare letter from a Revolutionary War hero.
Thumbnail 470 Duke of Wellington Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Third person ALS, one page, 4.5 x 7, March 29, 1830. “The Duke of Wellington presents his compliments to Mr. Gibson and has received his letter of the 26th Inst.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered light toning and areas of soiling, and reparative tape along one of the folds on the reverse.
Thumbnail 471 World War II Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Four photos: satin-finish 10 x 8 of a few members of the USS Mason crew, the only crew of African-American sailors to take a warship during WWII, standing in the snow beside the ship, signed in blue felt tip by Lorenzo DuFau; color satin-finish 6 x 4 photo of British Tank Gunner, Joe Ekins, signed in blue felt tip; color glossy 8 x 10 photo of Pearl Harbor Medal of Honor recipient, John Finn, signed in blue felt tip; and a color glossy 4 x 6 photo of Soviet Army Sniper, Colonel Marie Ljalkova, signed in the bottom border in black felt tip. In fine condition, with a bit of a grainy appearance to most of the images. Accompanied by a photo of a young Colonel Marie Ljalkova, poised with her sniper rifle.
Thumbnail 473 Clement Ader Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 French engineer (1841–1925) best known for his pioneering work in aviation. Very rare ALS in French, signed “Ct Ader,” one page, 5.25 x 8, Chateau de Ribonnet letterhead, December 9, 1920. Letter to Jacques Mortane an early champion of aviation, who wrote about Ader. In part: “I hope you have recovered your health and can resume your activity at ‘La vie au Grand Air.’” In very good condition, with paper loss to top left, scattered soiling, small mounting remnant to lower right, adhesive to right edge, and a musty odor. Ader had reportedly flown 50 meters as early as 1890, more than a decade earlier then the Wright brothers.
Thumbnail 474 Buzz Aldrin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: Reaching for the Moon. First edition, later printing. NY: Harper Collins, 2005. Hardcover with dustjacket, 9 x 11.25. Signed in blue felt tip on the title page. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 475 Buzz Aldrin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: Encounter with Tiber. First edition, first printing. NY: Warner Books, 1996. Hardcover with dustjacket, 6.5 x 9.25, 559 pages. Signed and inscribed on the title page, “To Ervin, Buzz Aldrin” In fine condition, with some light creasing to top edge of dustjacket.
Thumbnail 476 Buzz Aldrin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color 8 x 10 NASA photo of Aldrin in his white spacesuit before a lunar backdrop, signed and inscribed in black felt tip “To John Morrison, Stick with the good life, with my best wishes, Buzz Aldrin.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 477 Apollo-Soyuz Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color 10 x 8 NASA composite photo of the crews of the Apollo-Soyuz mission, signed in black ink by Deke Slayton, Vance Brand, Tom Stafford, Alexei Leonov, and Valeri Kubasov. In fine condition. Photo originates from the Deke Slayton Family collection.
Thumbnail 478 Apollo-Soyuz Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 FDC with a cachet honoring the Apollo-Soyuz mission, signed in black ink by Deke Slayton, Alexei Leonov, and Valeri Kubasov. In very good condition, with mild rippling, a few blots to Slayton’s signature and some light toning.
Thumbnail 479 Neil Armstrong Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 4,000.00 - 5,000.00 Uninscribed color 8 x 10 NASA photo of Armstrong posing in his white space suit, his helmet by his side, signed in blue felt tip. Double matted and framed to an overall size of 12 x 14. In fine condition, with signature lightly faded, but still completely legible. Uninscribed photos of Armstrong represent one of the most coveted prizes in the entire field of space collecting.
Thumbnail 480 Neil Armstrong Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,200.00 Color 8 x 10 NASA photo of Armstrong posing in his white space suit, his helmet by his side, signed and inscribed in blue felt tip “To John Buchanan, Best wishes, Neil Armstrong.” In fine condition, with a few scattered light bends and creases and photocopied biographical information affixed to reverse.
Thumbnail 481 Neil Armstrong Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 2,000.00 Color 8.5 x 11 Kodak paperstock photo of Buzz Aldrin on the lunar surface, Armstrong’s reflection visible in his visor, signed and inscribed in black ballpoint “To Jim—Neil Armstrong.” In very good condition, with moderate contrast to signature and inscription, scattered creases, and some light soiling to borders.
Thumbnail 482 Louis Bleriot Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 300.00 - 500.00 French engineer and aviator (1872–1936) who made the first crossing of a large body of water in a heavier-than-air craft when he flew across the English Channel in 1909. Commanding vintage matte-finish 3.5 x 5.5 French postcard half-length photo of Bleriot posing with one of his planes, beautifully signed in fountain pen. In fine condition. A handsome image of the original ‘puddle jumper.’
Thumbnail 483 Michael Collins Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color 8 x 10 NASA photo of Collins posing in his flight suit against a lunar background, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 484 Amelia Earhart Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Original vintage glossy 2.25 x 4 photo of Earhart, clad in an overcoat and hat, talking to two mechanics in a hangar, signed in fountain pen. Light overall surface marks, mounting remnants to reverse, and a few light creases, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 487 Amelia Earhart Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 TLS, one page, 7 x 10.5, personal letterhead, April 10, 1933. Letter to a Massachusetts woman seeking advice to give a friend regarding flying. In full: “I am at a loss to know what advice to give you about your friend, Mrs. Fay. Perhaps if I ask a few questions I may be better able to hit upon something intelligent. First, what kind of business experience has she had? Could she get on the 'fringes' of aviation and use spare time for flying? Does she wish to fly exclusively, i.e., earn her living as a pilot? In this connection, can she pass the Transport physical examination as given by the Department of Commerce physicians? You say she could come to New York for an interview,—where does she live? How much instruction has she had already and can she give the names of her instructors as a check? So many people are seeking work that perhaps getting into aviation is difficult for that reason, not because it is aviation. If you wish to answer my questions as above, I’ll try to do better in another letter.” In fine condition, with a strip of light toning along one horizontal fold and edges and a few wrinkles. An excellent example as Earhart does her best to help a burgeoning aviatrix.
Thumbnail 489 Ron Evans Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color 8 x 10 NASA photo of Evans posing in his spacesuit, signed in blue felt tip, “Best wishes, Ron Evans.” In fine condition, with a couple light corner creases.
Thumbnail 490 Jim Irwin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color 10 x 8 NASA photo of Irwin saluting the American flag on the lunar surface, signed in black felt tip beneath a pre-printed sentiment. A crease to lower right corner, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 491 John Glenn Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color glossy 10 x 8 photo of Glenn leaving an airplane with President Kennedy and Vice President Johnson, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition, with a PSA/DNA authentication label affixed to lower corner. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
Thumbnail 492 Robert McCall Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Ten original signed pastel and/or ink sketches on individual FDCs, each featuring different commemorative cachets, ranging in size from 6.5 x 3.5 to 7.5 x 4.25, each signed in black ink, “Robert T. McCall.” Scenes include shuttle launches, orbiting satellites, and astronauts on the lunar surface and in orbit. In fine condition. Accompanied by an unsigned personal business card.
Thumbnail 493 Robert McCall Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Three items: original color pastel 9 x 12 sketch of a shuttle blasting off the earth’s surface, heading right into the center of a giant eye in the sky, signed in black ink, “Robert T. McCall”; and two original ink sketches on individual FDCs, one featuring a cachet honoring Solar Comprehension, and the other, Planetary Probes, each signed in black ink. In fine condition. Accompanied by an unsigned personal business card.
Thumbnail 495 Wally Schirra Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 AQS on an off-white 6.25 x 4.5 card. Schirra writes: “To accomplish what you set out to do three times as I have, Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo, gave me great joy!” Signed at the conclusion, “Wally Schirra, 5 April 83.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 496 Igor Sikorsky Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Pioneer aviation engineer (1889–1972) who developed the first four-engine airplane and the first modern helicopter to be put into widespread use. Vintage matte-finish 5.25 x 4 photo of one of Sikorsky’s amphibious planes, signed in fountain pen, “I. Sikorsky.” Several blocks of toning over image and signature, and mounting remnants to reverse, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 497 Wernher von Braun Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Typed biography, one page, 8.5 x 11, April 1974. von Braun signs at the conclusion of his bio which reads, in full: “(born 1912), American engineer and rocket expert, born Wirsitz, German (now Wyrzysk, n. w. Poland); to U. S. 1945, became citizen 1955; head of team of scientists, U. S. space programs, 1950–, director of Space Flight Center (NASA), at Huntsville, Alabama, 1960–; designer of Jupiter C rocket which lifted first U. S. artificial earth satellite into orbit; author of ‘Mars Project’, coauthor of ‘Across the Space Frontier’, ‘Conquest of the Moon.’ In fine condition, with light toning and creasing.
Thumbnail 498 Orville Wright Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Vibrant vintage fountain pen signature on an off-white 3.5 x 2 card. In fine condition, with a few trivial spots of soiling above and below the signature. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, postmarked October 26, 1937.
Thumbnail 499 Orville Wright Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Two identical red two cent International Civil Aeronautics Conference postage stamps, 1.5 x 1, each signed in fountain pen, “Orville Wright.” Stamps are affixed to an off-white 5 x 3 card. In very good condition, with light toning and two rusty staples to the card, and light contrast to the signatures against the red background. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, postmarked February 14, 1946.
Thumbnail 502 Ansel Adams Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 TLS on a postcard featuring Adams’ photo, ‘Cape Cod Barn, Massachusetts,’ 6 x 4. Ansel writes a brief letter to an admirer, in full: “I am honored to be asked to send you this autograph,” beautifully signed at the conclusion in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 503 Ansel Adams Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two items: TNS on a pink 5 x 3 card, October 13, 1983. In full: “I can’t sign currency—Its not legal—But I enclose my autograph.”; and a felt tip signature, “Ansel Adams, Carmel, 10-13-83,” on an off-white 5 x 3 card. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 504 Charles Addams Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Signed book: The Groaning Board. First edition. NY: Simon & Schuster, 1964. Hardcover with dustjacket, 9 x 11, 88 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page, “To Richard with all best Chas Addams,” surrounding his writing with a large sketch of Uncle Fester pulling his jacket open to reveal his belly button and boxers. Some light wear and toning to boards and spine, some creasing to the clipped dustjacket, as well as some paper loss along top edge, otherwise fine condition. An uncommon and very large colored-in image of one of Addams’s most recognizable and beloved characters.
Thumbnail 505 Hans Christian Andersen Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 Beloved Danish author (1805–1875) best known for such classic fairy tales as The Ugly Duckling, The Red Shoes, and The Emperor’s New Clothes. AQS, in Dutch, signed “H. C. Andersen,” on an off-white 6.5 x 4.75 sheet, dated September 17, 1847 from Leipzig. Andersen writes (translated): “Don’t fear the powerful winds, the strong streams—Before Socrates went to heaven, he had to swallow the poison!” Affixed to a slightly larger off-white card and in fine condition, with a couple trivial pin holes, a bit of scattered light soiling, and light wrinkling from mounting. Andersen references the death of Socrates, who drank a cup of poison hemlock after being convicted of impiety and sentenced to death. The author had recently returned from a trip to Britain, where he enjoyed literary acclaim and popularity among high society, and he wrote these encouraging lines in his post-trip exaltation. Words of wisdom from a sparkling literary light of the nineteenth century.
Thumbnail 506 Alexander Archipenko Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Ukrainian abstract sculpture (1887–1964). Archipenko veered away from the traditional form of neo-classical sculpture to implement the use of negative space to depict the human form, allowing for multiple, simultaneous views of his work. ALS in French signed “A. Archipenko,” one page, 8.5 x 11, personal letterhead, February 22, 1963. Archipenko writes to a gallery owner agreeing to meet him. Intersecting folds, one passing through a single letter of the signature, light creasing, some trivial toning, and a pencil notation to the top right corner, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 507 Authors Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 FDC with a cachet honoring William Faulkner, signed in ink by Dr. Seuss, Peter Benchley, John Grisham, James Michener, Arthur C. Clarke, Mario Puzo, and one other. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 508 Authors Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 FDC with a cachet honoring Ernest Hemingway, signed in black and blue ink by Peter Benchley, adding a sketch of Jaws, John Grisham, Tom Clancy, Arthur C. Clarke, and William Manchester. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 509 Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Eminent French sculptor (1834–1904) best known for designing the Statue of Liberty. Vintage sepia matte-finish 5.5 x 4 photo of one of his works, by Sauvanaud of Paris, inscribed in fountain pen in French, and signed “Bartholdi.” In fine condition, with a bit of light silvering to background, visible only at an angle and mounting remnants on reverse. This signed photograph depicts a watercolor rendering of Bartholdi’s Monument to Leon Gambetta (1838-1882) in Sèvres, France. Bartholdi completed the monument in 1891 to memorialize Gambetta, a French statesman prominent during the Franco-Prussian War. Surmounted by a statue of Gambetta, the statues pictured represent Alsace and Lorraine taking refuge at the altar of France, below which is inscribed “Pro Patria.” A rare signed image of one of Bartholdi’s sculptures.
Thumbnail 510 Aubrey Beardsley Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 Renowned British artist (1872–1898) who helped define the Art Nouveau style with his elegant, distinctively sensuous, often erotically charged drawings and illustrations. ALS, one page, 4 x 6, no date. Rare letter to Mrs. Patrick Campbell, written from the Spread Eagle Hotel. In full: “It was so sweet of you to rob your carriage of such a pretty cushion for me. I am quite delighted with it. It is so useful too, for I find a pillowless sofa in my sitting room here.” In fine condition, with a staple hole to top left.
Thumbnail 511 Samuel Beckett Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Irish avant-garde writer, dramatist, and poet (1906–1989). Satin-finish 3.5 x 6 photo, signed in the large lower border in black ink. In fine condition, with a few slight bends and creases to lower border.
Thumbnail 512 Cecil Beaton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 ALS, four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.5 x 7, Reddish letterhead, July 7. Beaton writes to James Laver, in part: “I don’t know whether its poor etiquette to write a critic about a review of one’s book, but I want, if it is, to transgress enough to thank you for writing such an [sic] Eulogy about the Glam of Fashion—You are such an expert on the whole subject that your tribute meant much more to me than from others. You were the one to say just the things which I hoped might be said, & until now have not appear [sic] in print.” A light paperclip impression to the top edge, light toning, and mild residue from heat exposure to the top left corner, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 513 Cecil Beaton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Academy Award–winning British photographer and costume and production designer (1904–1980). TLS, one page, 5.5 x 7, 8 Pelham Place, SW7, Kensington letterhead, August 27, 1947. The acclaimed designer writes to James Laver, in part: “I am preparing a production of The School for Scandal for Laurence Olivier and would like very much to have your help. Could I come in some time next week and look at any documents that might be of the period? I expect your life is made a misery with people worrying you in this way, but I would be most grateful.” In very good condition, with toning to the top corners from previous display, a punch hole towards the left edge, and a few ink and pencil notations.
Thumbnail 514 Thomas Hart Benton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Renowned American artist (1889–1975) whose distinctive ‘regionalist’ style made him one of the most influential figures in American art during the 1930s and 1940s. His large-scale murals, often peopled by lanky, exaggerated human figures, became classic visual emblems of both idyllic rural culture and bustling urbanism in Depression-era America. ALS signed “Tom, Thos. H. Benton,” one page, 8.5 x 11, May 2, 1965. Letter to John reads, in full: “I arrived down here without thinking that it was Sunday. I pestered Steve as the clock turned toward five o'clock, until he opened your house. The reason—Steve said—you had Bourbon Whiskey stored away there. I did not open a new bottle but, sort of finished off what was already opened. If you want it back the whiskey come around to my house in K.C. about 5' oclock [sic]—(call beforehand) and I'll give it to you, your wife, children, and friends with interest.” In fine condition, with a central horizontal fold and some scattered light toning.
Thumbnail 515 Albert Bierstadt Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 German-American painter (1830–1902) best known for his large landscapes of the American West during the 19th century. Ink signature, “Boston, Sept. 28th 1869, Albert Bierstadt,” on an off-white 4.75 x 2.75 lightly-lined slip. In very good condition, with a central vertical fold, light creasing and toning, mounting remnants on the reverse lightly affecting the signature, and the signature a few shades light, but completely legible.
Thumbnail 516 Enid Blyton Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 English children's writer also known as Mary Pollock (1897–1968). Vintage matte-finish 5.5 x 7.75 photo of Blyton sitting on her porch with her dog, signed in the lower border in fountain pen, “Love from Enid Blyton.” In fine condition, with a trivial corner tip ding and some light curling to horizontal edges.
Thumbnail 517 Gutzon Borglum Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Distinguished American sculptor (1867–1941) best known for his monumental depiction of four presidents on Mount Rushmore. Vintage 2.25 x 3.5 magazine photo of Borglum outdoors, affixed to a 2.75 x 5.5 off-white slip, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “To Seymore Thalpen, Sincerely yours, Gutzon Borglum, Nov. 11—1930.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 518 Elizabeth Bowen Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Irish author (1899–1973). ALS, two thin pages, 8 x 9.75, Carbery letterhead, November 15, 1965. Letter to Dr. William Quillian, president of Randolph Macon Woman’s College. In part: “I am indeed glad that you feel my visit went well; and in return I do want to tell you how very much I enjoyed my days at Randolph Macon—the warm welcome, the great friendliness extended to me, and the stimulating atmosphere. As I hope you know, a visitor to a college of your kind receives not only as much but probably more that he or she may be able—hopes to be able—to give.” Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Bowen’s hand and signed on the reverse of the envelope in the return address area. In fine condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold and a few wrinkles.
Thumbnail 519 Ray Bradbury Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Signed book: The Martian Chronicles. Limited edition of 2000 copies (This being No. 902). Connecticut: Limited Editions Club, 1974. Hardcover with slipcase, 7.75 x 10.75, 309 pages. Signed on the colophon page in red felt tip by Bradbury and also signed in blue i\nk by illustrator Joseph Mugnaini. In fine condition, with one separated edge to slipcase, as well as some other scattered edge wear.
Thumbnail 520 Georges Braque Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Important French painter (1882–1963) who, along with Picasso, was one of the seminal figures in the development of Cubism. Vintage fountain pen signature, “G. Braque,” on an off-white 5 x 3 card with a clipped photo affixed to left side. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 521 Georges Braque Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: Cahier de George Braque. Paris: Maeght, 1948. Hardcover with dustjacket, 9 x 12.5, 93 pages. Signed and insribed on the title page, “Pour Madame A. L. Bishop, un souvenir de St. Paul de Vence G. Braque.” In very good condition, with a bit of trivial soiling to signed page, some light toning and foxing to pastedowns and opening pages. Dustjacket shows scattered toning and soiling as well as several tears.
Thumbnail 522 Edward Burne-Jones Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 British artist and designer (1833–1898) closely associated with the later phase of the Pre-Raphaelite movement. ALS signed “E. Burne Jones,” one page, 3.5 x 4.5, no date. Brief letter to Mr. Clifford. In part: “The model I spoke to you about—is called Miss Kingdon.” Rough bottom edge, a few creases, a bit of light soiling, and a couple light pencil remnants, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 523 Robert Browning Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 English poet and playwright (1812–1889) who perfected the dramatic monologue in such works as My Last Duchess and Soliloquy of the Spanish Cloister. Original sepia 4 x 6 cabinet photo of the poet in a suit and tie, signed along the bottom in black ink, “Robert Browning Aug. 4 ‘85.” Moderate crease to top left corner, scattered silvering to image, as well as some light spotting and soiling, a chip to right edge, and mounting remnants to reverse, resulting in some slight surface loss, otherwise very good condition. Just the second signed portrait of Browning we have ever offered, signed shortly after the publication of one of his final works, Ferishtah's Fancies.
Thumbnail 524 Edgar Rice Burroughs Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Inc. letterhead, April 6, 1937. Letter to the managing editor of the Galveston News-Tribune. In full: “I am having an article prepared for a national magazine in which I should like to show the number of newspapers that wrap their editions with the Tarzan Color Page on the outside. I know that some sixty or seventy papers do. If you are one of them, will you kindly send me a copy of your Tarzan Color Page for photographic reproduction with others. May I tell you how happy I have been to have Tarzan appear in the Galveston News-Tribune.” Intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, and several pencil notations to bottom, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 525 Edgar Rice Burroughs Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 TLS signed “Papa, Edgar Rice Burroughs,” one page both sides, 8 x 10.5, USS Cahaba letterhead, May 27, 1945. Letter to his daughter Joan, from “somewhere in the Pacific.” In part: “It meets task forces and gives them gas and oil at sea. I am looking forward to seeing this operation which must be thrilling. Am living and eating much better than I do at the Niumalu. The Captain installed me in his quarters—two big rooms, a swell bath, a steward and a mess attendant. I have been eating with the Captain, but shall go to some of the other messes occasionally. As usual, everybody is swell to me. Unlike the merchant tankers, this is an all-Navy ship. It has a complement of about 21 officers and 250 men, and, thank the Lord, a slew of guns…Yesterday we had a fire drill and also fired at balloons released from the bridge…The night is beautiful—a calm sea, a full moon, the Southern Cross quite high above the horizon, a soft and balmy wind. Our white wake stretched out for miles behind us, plainly marking our zig-zagging course…This is a big ship…it is kept scrupulously clean. There is no formality, but the discipline is fine. The men are in dungarees, and the officers discarded their neckties and opened their shirts as soon as they came aboard. So did I. I already hate to think of leaving her, but as she may be out for a year I shall probably have to. My travel orders permit me to return at any time on any Navy ship or plane that can take me.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature.
Thumbnail 526 William S. Burroughs Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: The Place of Dead Roads. Limited edition first edition of 300 copies (this being No. 48). NY: Holt, Rinehart, and Winston, 1983. Hardcover with slipcase, 6.25 x 9.25, 306 pages. Signed on the limitations page in brown ink. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 527 William S. Burroughs Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: The Book of Breeething. Limited edition. Berkeley: Blue Wind Press, 1980. Hardcover, 8.25 x 5.25. Signed on the second free end page, “William S. Burroughs 66/175.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 528 James M. Cain Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American novelist (1892–1977) best known as the author of such crime/noir classics as The Postman Always Rings Twice and Double Indemnity. Two TLSs signed “Jim,” one page each, 8.5 x 11, both on personal letterhead addressed to Mrs. Connor of Who’s Who in America. In the first letter dated May 6, 1968, Cain writes on behalf of a bashful friend who had neglected to fill out his Who’s Who questionnaire, in part: “…in spite of his whopping success as a physician…and prominence in state affairs, he suffers a bit from a case of the shys—his thumb gets caught in his mouth, and he sucks it, not sensibly, but too well.” The second letter, dated May 25th of the same year, expresses gratitude, in part, for “your courteous compliance with my request…So we have enough Big Shots, haven’t we? I confess I rather like it. Minoqua, I love you—you can’t imagine how I yen to be there. At least one can dream, No?” In very good condition, with intersecting folds which lightly affect both signatures, light creasing, and a few areas of soiling to the first letter.
Thumbnail 529 Erskine Caldwell Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American author (1903–1987) best known for the popular novels God’s Little Acre and Tobacco Road. Five items: penetrating glossy 8 x 10 half-length photo of the author, signed in blue felt tip; TLS signed “Skinny,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, October 2, 1945, personal letterhead. Caldwell writes to Cap, in part: “I think the Authors’ League is right. My idea is to do nothing until the matter comes to a head, which it should do within the next few weeks”; TLS, one page, 7.25 x 10.5, January 23, 1942, personal letterhead. Caldwell writes, in part, to David Lord regarding his book on the “longleaf region,” and extends his apologies for his inability to include it in the Folkways series. “The trouble is that we cannot undertake to publish another book from the southeastern region at this time…in order to have the Series represent the entire nation”; TQS, one page, 8.5 x 11. Caldwell signs at the conclusion of a quote from one of his works, in part: “Well, take my advice and find somebody else to get your advice from after this…or else tell Clarise that she’s not going to have any more whims from now on”; and a brief TLS, one side of a green 5 x 3 card, February 17, 1984. Caldwell writes to an admirer, in full: “I have never been able to bring myself to sign my name to quotations from my works.” In fine condition, with a few light paperclip impressions, a small staple mark, and a pencil notation to the first letter, and a mild area of soiling to the second letter.
Thumbnail 530 Albert Camus Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 ALS in French, one page, 8.25 x 10.5, February 4, Elin—Aussedat—Annecy letterhead. In full (translated): “I am unfortunately in the South of France and will stay here until mid-March at least. If, however, when I come back, you would still be in the same state of mind, I would gladly see you. I am really upset about what you tell me. But aren’t you unnecessarily alarmed? Of course it is difficult for me to judge.” In very good condition, with a central horizontal and vertical fold, scattered light toning, and a small area of paper loss to the top edge.
Thumbnail 531 Etienne Carjat Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 French journalist, caricaturist, and photographer (1828–1906). The rival of Nadar in French photography, he is best known for his numerous portraits and caricatures of political, literary, and artistic Parisian figures. ALS in French, one page, 4.5 x 7, no date. Crisply penned untranslated letter to a friend. In fine condition, with a central horizontal fold and a uniform shade of light toning.
Thumbnail 532 Celebrity Authors Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Collection of 34 hardcover books, each signed inside on an opening page in ink or felt tip by the respective celebrity author, with some adding inscriptions. Signers are: Jean Anouilh (Time Remembered); Lauren Bacall (By Myself); Anne Baxter (Intermission); Ralph Bellamy (When the Smoke Hit the Fan); Donald Bevan and Edmund Trzcinski (Stalag 17); Charles Bickford (Bulls, Balls, Bicycles, and Actors); Dirk Bogarde (A Gentle Occupation); Lloyd Bridges (Mask and Flippers); Joan Collins (Past Imperfect); Olivia de Havilland (Every Frenchman Has One); Maurice Evans (G. I. Production of Hamlet); Sterling Hayden (Wanderer); Dorothy Lamour (My Side of the Road); Mervyn Leroy (Mervyn Leroy: Take One); Tony Martin and Cyd Charisse (The Two of Us); Victor McLaglen (Express to Hollywood); Ethel Merman and George Eells (Merman: An Autobiography); Colleen Moore (Silent Star); Robert Morley (Robert Morley: A Reluctant Autobiography); Joe Pasternak (Easy the Hard Way); Anthony Quinn (The Original Sin); Lynn Riggs (Green Grow the Lilacs); Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein (Oklahoma!); Harold Russell (Victory in My Hands); Jane Seymour (Guide to Romantic Living); Kate Smith (Upon My Lips a Song); Susan Strasberg (Bittersweet); Gene Tierney (Self-Portrait); Lana Turner (The Lady, the Legend, the Truth); Jerome Weidman and George Abbot (Tenderloin); Sandy Wilson (The Boy Friend); Meredith Willson (The Music Man); Shelley Winters (Shelley: Also Known as Shirley); and Herman Wouk (The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial). In very good overall condition. Oversized.
Thumbnail 533 Paul Cezanne, fils Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,500.00 - 3,000.00 Son of legendary Impressionist, Paul Cezanne. Original oil on panel entitled ‘Pastoral Landscape,’ 13.5 x 9.75, signed in oil paint in the lower corner, “P. Cezanne.” Ornately framed to an overall size of 17 x 13, this painting comes from the Estate of Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 534 Coco Chanel Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 Exceptionally rare original ink sketch of a woman modeling a full-length fur coat, and another modeling a shoulder-less, 1920s-style dress with a butterfly at the shoulder, on an off-white 8 x 13.25 sheet, signed below in ink, “Coco.” Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 14 x 19.25. In fine condition, with some light creasing and soiling. This sketch represents the first item we’ve ever offered from Chanel!
Thumbnail 535 Agatha Christie Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Immensely popular writer of mysteries (1890–1976) whose aggregate sales have exceeded four billion books, making her, along with Shakespeare, one of the best selling authors of all time. Semi-glossy 6.5 x 8.5 head-and-shoulders Walter Bird photo, signed in blue ballpoint. In fine condition, with a few scattered creases and surface marks.
Thumbnail 536 Agatha Christie Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS signed “Agatha Mallowan,” one page, 5.5 x 7, Winterbrok House letterhead, October 14, 1969. Letter to an admirer. In full: “Thank you very much for your letter. I think everyone has to collect books in paperback editions nowadays, as the hard cover ones do get out of print quite soon. I am so glad you like my books. With best wishes to you.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 537 Tom Clancy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: The Sum of All Fears. Later printing. NY: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1991. Hardcover with dustjacket, 6.25 x 9.25, 796 pages. Signed and inscribed on the half-title page, “To Priscilla, Merry Christmas, Tom Clancy.” In fine condition, with some light toning to fore-edges and some scattered light wear and creasing to dustjacket.
Thumbnail 538 Samuel L. Clemens Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 ALS, in pencil, signed “Mark,” two pages, 5 x 7.75, June 28. Letter, written from Heidelberg, Germany, to author William Seaver. In full: “There be humorists in Germany. With infinite difficulty I have translated the following from a Mannheim paper: A thirsty man called for beer. Just as the foaming mug was placed before him, some one sent in for him. The place was crowded.—Could he trust his beer there? A bright idea flashes through his brain. He writes on a card, ‘I have expectorated in this beer’—fastens the card to the mug & retires with triumph in his eye to see what is wanted. He returns presently & finds his card reversed & this written on it: ‘Ich auch,’ (’I also!’) Be good to yourself, old Seaver.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered creasing and soiling, some dampstaining to second page, small tape remants to bottom of each page, and an ink notation to top of first page. Twain and his family were in Heidelberg in 1878, where he was collecting material that would be published in A Tramp Abroad in 1880. William Seaver was a friend of Clemens' and a writer for Harper's Bazaar and Harper's Weekly during the 1870s.
Thumbnail 539 Samuel L. Clemens Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 ALS signed “Saml,” two pages both sides, 3.25 x 5.5, August 26, [1878]. Letter to his wife Livy. In full: “We came through a-whooping to-day, 6 hours tramp up steep hills and down steep hills in mud & water shoe-deep & in a steadily pouring rain which never moderated a moment. I was as chipper & fresh as a lark all the way & arrived without the slightest sense of fatigue. But we were soaked & my shoes full of water, so we at once stripped & went to bed for 2 1/2 hours while our traps were thoroughly dried & our boots greased in addition. Then we put our clothes on…& went to table d’hote. Made some nice English friends and shall see them…tomorrow. Gathered a small bouquet of new flowers but they got spoiled. I sent you a safety match box full of flowers last night from Leinchenbad. I have just telegraphed you to wire the family news to me at Riffle tomorrow. I do hope you are all well & having as jolly a time as we are, for I love you sweetheart, & also in a measure, the Bays. Give my love to Clara & also to the cubs.” Across the third page of the letter, Clemens has added a sketch he labels as “The great mountain profile.” In very good condition, with a horizontal mailing fold, rough left edges, uniform toning to pages, and portions of the text light but still almost completely legible. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. This well-documented trip to Switzerland provided the exotic inspirational for Clemens’ 1880 travel book, A Tramp Abroad. He and his closest friend, writer and pastor Reverend Joseph Hopkins Twichell, journeyed from Interlaken to Kandersteg, a small town just south of the Swiss capital of Bern. Clemens’ description here could very possibly be derived from his journey: “We came through a-whooping to-day, 6 hours tramp up steep hills and down steep hills in mud & water shoe-deep & in a steadily pouring rain which never moderated a moment.” However, he didn’t let the weather beat his adventurous spirit and beloved companionship, and his spirits remained “chipper & fresh as a lark all the way.” He incorporated this experience in his literary work, as well as his traveling companion, after whom he crafted the character ‘Harris.’ A marvelous firsthand account of a trip…as a story began to take form.
Thumbnail 540 Samuel L. Clemens Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 ALS signed “Aufwiedersehen, S. L. Clemens,” two pages on two adjoining sheets, 3.75 x 6, Villa Viviani letterhead, March 20, 1893. Letter to Mrs. Ross. In full: “It was my purpose to run in & indulge my pleasure in the society of Sir William & my Lady a little more, & I count it a loss that I failed of the chance; but my time has been all taken up in clearing the decks for America. This seems unprompt; but I have a trained conscience, & I quiet it by telling it I am on my road to pay it now, merely by going by the way of New York and Chicago for the sake of variety, & because it is much more creditable to go 8,000 miles to pay a dinner-call than it is to go a mere matter of 600 yards.” Suede matted and framed to an overall size of 13.5 x 11.5; there are two hooks along the top edge of this frame for hanging on its larger display of a double suede matted and framed portrait and biographical plaque, which measures 29 x 23. In fine condition, with a bit of scattered light toning and soiling. “Mrs. Ross” was Janet Ross, the daughter of translator and writer Lucie Duff Gordon and the wife of banker Henry Ross. Henry and Janet Ross visited with Clemens when he and his family would visit Italy, with those encounters—and this very letter—printed in Ross’ 1912 book, The Fourth Generation (1912). Ross wrote, in part: “In February 1893 my cousins, Sir William Markby and Lady Markby, came to stay with us and liked Mr. Clemens as much as we did. Mr. Clemens came to dine several times and we had planned some excursions together, when I received the following letter,” one in which he regretfully passes on another dinner invitation. “Because it is much more creditable to go 8,000 miles to pay a dinner-call than it is to go a mere matter of 600 yards,” he skillfully notes. Two days after sending this correspondence, Clemens set sail for New York aboard the Kaiser Wilhelm II to work on a business deal. While preparation for that journey led to Clemens’ “clearing the decks for America,” the venture itself—and its subsequent failure—led to his 1894 bankruptcy.
Thumbnail 541 Samuel L. Clemens Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 Vintage 3.5 x 5.25 postcard photo, signed in fountain pen, “Mark Twain.” In very good condition, with a few light creases and surface marks, and moderate to heavy overall silvering to image, not detracting from the bold signature.
Thumbnail 542 Samuel L. Clemens Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Marvelous ink signature, “Mark Twain,” on an off-white 3 x 1.5 card. In fine condition, with some trivial soiling lightly affecting the signature. Accompanied by a commanding, unsigned photo of Clemens.
Thumbnail 543 James Fenimore Cooper Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Bank check, 6 x 2.5, filled out and signed by Cooper, “J. Fenimore Cooper,” payable to Peter Becker for $46.00, December 15, 1848. In very good condition, with trimmed edges, an ink spot over end of signature, bank stamp to body lightly affecting signature and scattered light toning.
Thumbnail 544 Noel Coward Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vintage 4.75 x 6.5 head-and-shoulders photo, signed vertically in fountain pen, “Noel Coward 1945.” Scattered silvering to darker areas of image, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 545 Noel Coward Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Three vintage programs: Waiting in the Wings, Free as Air, and A Song at Twilight, each signed in blue ink by Coward, the first singed on the cover, the second, on the cast page, and the third on Coward’s personal page. Light toning and creasing, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 546 Countee Cullen Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 African-American poet (1903–1946) who came to prominence during the Harlem Renaissance. Handwritten poem on a beige 8.5 x 11 sheet. Cullen writes a poem, “To Walter White,” in full: "Is there, indeed, no greater love, Than that a man lay down his life? How easily we all were heroes then. Or benefactors to our fellowmen! For such small things—the scantest, least thereof, Can end the dissonance, the fret, and strife? Yet if we live, and hold the odds at bay? Oh, surely yours has been the harder way!" In fine condition, with light toning and mounting remnants to the reverse of the top right corner, and marginal binding holes to the left edge.
Thumbnail 547 Salvador Dali Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Immaculate color postcard featuring Dali’s 1934 painting, ‘The Ghost of Vermeer van Delft, which can be used as a table,’ 4 x 6, beautifully signed on the front in black felt tip, “Dali.” In fine condition, with a pencil notation on the reverse.
Thumbnail 548 Giorgio de Chirico Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Italian painter (1888–1978). Very nice 4.25 x 5.75 postcard of de Chirico’s ‘Piazza d’Italia,’ signed in the bottom border in blue ballpoint. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 549 Willem de Kooning Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Dutch-born American painter (1904–1997) who was one of the seminal figures of the Abstract Expressionist movement. Ballpoint signature, “de Kooning,” on an off-white 7 x 2.25 slip, with a pencil notation along bottom edge. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 550 Willem de Kooning Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Semi-glossy postcard of De Kooning’s 1948 ‘Painting,’ 6 x 4, signed on the reverse in black ballpoint, “de Kooning, With love,” adding two hearts. In fine condition, with some trivial creasing and toning.
Thumbnail 551 Edgar Degas Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 ALS in French, signed “Degas,” one page, 4.25 x 7, no date. Degas writes to the Italian painter Guiseppe de Nittis, translated in full: “I would of course lie if I shouted ‘Long live the Legion’ but I would also lie if I did not congratulate and old and dear friend like you with all my heart.” In fine condition, with some light rubbing, and a pencil notation to the bottom right corner. Congratulations to his close friend (that he addresses in the familiar form “tu”) for having been awarded the legion of honour, the highest French decoration, that Degas despised and refused for himself.
Thumbnail 552 Charles Dickens Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,200.00 Desirable embossed Messrs. Coutts & Company check, 7.5 x 3.25, filled out and signed by Dickens, payable to Henry Colyer for £8.60, November 3, 1865. In very good condition, with three vertical folds, one passing through a single letter of the signature, scattered light toning and some trivial areas of foxing, a small hole, and the expected cancellation stamp notations, none of which affect the signature.
Thumbnail 553 Otto Dix Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 German artist (1891–1969) best known for his Expressionist depictions of Weimar society and the brutality of war. ALS in German, one page, 8.25 x 11.5, October 31, 1962. Letter to an unidentified recipient. In part (translated): “Enclosed is a photo. For 2,000 DM you can acquire from me a watercolor (one of my more recent works) or two hand-drawn drawings.” Intersecting folds, block of toning over signature, tape remnants to bottom, scattered creasing and toning, and Dix’s signature a couple shades lighter than text, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 554 Arthur Conan Doyle Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 Scottish author (1859–1930) whose stories featuring fictional detective Sherlock Holmes revolutionized the genre of crime fiction. Holmes himself would eventually earn a place among the most familiar and durable characters in the annals of English literature, and his exploits would inspire countless incarnations on stage and screen. Vintage 3.5 x 5.5 postcard photo of the author with his large handlebar moustache and wearing a three-piece suit, signed in the lower border in fountain pen, “Arthur Conan Doyle.” In very good condition, with moderate silvering to edges, some light silvering to darker parts of image, and some scattered edge wear.
Thumbnail 556 Gustave Eiffel Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 French engineer (1832–1923) best remembered for designing the tower that bears his name. Rare original 4.25 x 6.5 cabinet photo of Eiffel in profile, by Touranchet Photography of Paris, signed and inscribed in black ink “To the eleventh Street Grammar School offered by G. Eiffel.” Missing top left corner tip, a single tack hole to remaining corner tips, scattered light tacky residue to image and reverse, a few trivial areas of slight surface loss and a slight brush to signature, otherwise very good condition. Scarce in any form, this is just the second Eiffel photo we have offered.
Thumbnail 560 Edna Ferber Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Pulitzer Prize–winning American author (1885–1968) of such classics as Show Boat, So Big, and Cimarron. Vintage glossy 8 x 10 full-length photo, signed in fountain pen. Scattered creases, some light silvering to darker portions of image and background, and irregular ink adhesion to first letter of signature, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 561 T. S. Eliot Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Uncommon vintage glossy 4 x 5.75 head-and-shoulders photo, boldly signed in fountain pen. In fine condition, with a paperclip impression to top edge and a few scattered light creases and surface marks.
Thumbnail 562 James Montgomery Flagg Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Original ink sketch of a man in a top hat smoking a cigar on an off-white 4 x 5.5 sheet, signed below in Flagg’s distinctive lettering. In fine condition, with a central horizontal fold and light toning.
Thumbnail 563 E. M. Forster Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 British writer (1879–1970) best known for such novels as A Room with a View, Howards End, and A Passage to India. Two ALSs, one page and one page both sides on individual 4.5 x 7 sheets of Station Comshall letterhead, dated September 1 and September 6 of 1936. Forster writes to Mrs. Winifred Fontana, wife of Ralph Fontana, of the British Consul in Aleppo, Syria, sending thanks for her letters and seeking to arrange a get-together with her and her daughter, adding some concern that “You don't say how you are feeling….If it wasn't troubling you too much, I'd like to bring down some of the letters which are puzzling me, particularly Hogarth's, and ask you one or two questions. I can't make out the date of the first Carchemish visit but believe with you that is was Autumn 1910,” continuing in the second letter, six months later, thanking her for sending her son-in-law to meet him when he arrives at “T. [Tunbridge] Wells tomorrow at 3:30,” adding “I will bring a few letters with me - to Hogarth and others - and mark my difficulties. I wish I knew what Carchemish looked like!” In fine condition. These letters probably related to the English archeologist and scholar David George, who was associated with T. E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), and conducted archeological excavations in Syria in the early 20th century. Mrs. Fontana, having undoubted contextual knowledge of Syria, may have been able to provide Forster with certain background information about those letters insofar as they related to T. E. Lawrence's correspondence with Hogarth and their respective dealings in Carchemish, a frontier between Turkey and Syria that was the site of an important battle between the Babylonians and Egyptians mentioned in the Bible.
Thumbnail 564 Anatole France Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 French author (1844–1924) who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1921. ALS in French, two pages, 6.25 x 8.25, La Bechellerie, St.-Cyr-Sur-Loire, Indre & Loire letterhead, May 27, 1915. France writes to her “dear minister, my dear Albert Thomas,” translated, in part: “Allow me to forward to you (together with my warm regards and congratulations for your ‘Victory of the Projectiles’) the request of a good soldier, Louis Raux, who since the beginning of the war has been fighting in the trenches, and who was evacuated to a hospital because of a liver ailment, and placed on sick leave until the 12th of June. Although his is still very ill, he requests mobilization into a factory...I am presenting his request to you with the hope that you will look upon it favorably.” In very good condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold, one extending over the end of the signature, scattered creasing, light toning, a staple mark to the top left, a received stamp to the first page, and a few pieces of reparative tape to each page.
Thumbnail 565 Zona Gale Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American author and playwright (1874–1938). Gale became the first female to win the Pulitzer Prize for drama in 1921. Two items: a souvenir handwritten manuscript from Gale’s first story, ‘The Three Travelers,’ one beige page, 8.5 x 11, signed in ink, “Zona Gale, (about 1883).” Gale writes, in part: “The sun was rising behind the western hills, when three travelers appeared, walking very fast for it was getting dark, and they were all alone”; and a TLS, one beige page, 8.5 x 11, Portage, Washington, March 25, 1927. Gale writes to Mr. Mayfield, in full: “You are good to be interested in that little first story. It is here somewhere, done in printing and I distinctly remember sitting on the floor and asking my mother how to spell ‘N—yes.’ I am enclosing the copy which you asked for, and thanks for the little book of Mr. Woodbury’s poem.” Scattered light creasing and light paperclip impressions to both, and a few mild tears to the letter, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 566 John Galsworthy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Nobel Prize–winning British author (1867–1933) best known for the Forsyte Saga. AMS, 7 x 10.25, entitled ‘England to Free Men,’ signed at the conclusion. Galsworthy writes, in full: “ Men of my blood, you English men! From misty hill and misty fen, From cot, and town, and plough, and moor, Come in—before I shut the door! Into my courtyard paved with stones, That keep the names, that keep the bones, Of none but English men who came, Free of their lives, to guard my fame. I am your native land who bred, No driven heart, no driven head; I fly a flag in every sea, Round the old Earth, of Liberty! I am the Land that boasts a crown; The sun comes up, the sun goes down—And never men may say of me, Mine is a breed that is not free. I have a wreath! My forehead wears, A hundred leaves—a hundred years, I never knew the words: ‘You must!’ And shall my wreath return to dust? Freemen! The door is yet ajar; From northern star to southern star, O ye who count and ye who delve, Come in—before my clock strikes twelve!” In very good condition, with lightly intersecting folds, a crease to the bottom left corner, a uniform block of toning over the text, a light spot of staining above, but not affecting, the signature, and mild to moderate haloing to the text and signature. Considered one of the great First World War poems, Galsworthy gives voice to his beloved country, forming a patriotic call to arms of all free men to defend their nation in the face of a threat from the Germans. An exceptionally desirable example.
Thumbnail 567 Giuseppe Giacosa Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Italian poet, playwright and librettist (1847–1906). Vintage 3.5 x 5.5 postcard photo, signed in the lower border in fountain pen. Reverse is addressed in another hand and bears a 1903 postmark. In fine condition, with some scattered light toning and soiling to borders and a small pencil notation at top.
Thumbnail 568 Nathalia Gontcharova Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Russian artist and writer (1881–1962). Together with her husband, Mikhail Larionov, Gontcharova ushered forth the free-form Rayonism movement, which sought to move beyond the boundaries of all art before it, using “rays” of contrasting color to emulate lines of reflected light. Rare, untranslated ALS in French on the correspondence side of a 5.5 x 3.5 postcard of Cote Vermeille. Writing from Paris, Gontcharova writes to “Chere Amie.” In fine condition, with some trivial rubbing.
Thumbnail 569 Graham Greene Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Renowned English author (1904–1991) who seamlessly blended themes of morality, politics, and espionage. TLS signed “Graham,” one page, 6.25 x 8, La Residence des Fleurs letterhead, November 8, 1978. Letter to Marshall Best. In part: “To be frank I don’t think Viking will have lost much by the departure of Tom. I am glad to have good news of the other personalities. Of course I’d like to meet Alan Williams, but don’t let him make a special journey on my account.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 570 John Grisham Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: The Testament. Limited edition first edition, first printing of 500 copies (This being No. 268). NY: Doubleday, 1999. Hardcover with slipcase, 6.25 x 9.5, 435 pages. Signed on the limitations page in black ink. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 571 William Golding Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 ALS, one page, 8.25 x 11.5, Ebble Thatch, Bowerchalke, Salisbury, Wiltshire, Board Chalke 275 letterhead, November 1. Golding responds to a letter from Professor Udelsen of Nashville, Tennesee who had written to congratulate him on winning the 1983 Nobel Prize for Literature, in full: “Thank you for your kind and affectionate letter. I remember Nashville well - in particular a mysterious clock in the restaurant across the street from the campus, which went backwards! I have never solved this mystery and can only think that Einstein was once in those parts. I'm sure you'll understand that the Nobel Prize has snowed me under with work and this brief note is all I can manage.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, postmarked November 3, 1983, and addressed in Golding’s hand. Golding once lectured at Vanderbilt in 1961, not long after becoming a literary superstar for Lord of the Flies.
Thumbnail 572 H. Rider Haggard Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Prolific British novelist (1856–1925) best known for such adventure fare as King Solomon’s Mines and Allan Quatermain. Six items: three literary receipts Received of the Perry Mason Company, Publishers of ‘The Youth’s Companion’ for serial rights for the noted works, each measuring approximately 5.5 x 8.5, each signed in ink by Haggard; two receipts, each measuring approximately 7 x 4.5, one for the serial rights to ‘The Real King Solomon’s Mines,’ dated February 3, 1906, each signed in ink; and an ANS on the reverse of a C. B. C., Society for Constructive Birth Control & Racial Progress invitation addressed to Haggard, 7 x 4.5. Haggard writes, “Please apply for 500 pounds worth of Czechoslavaki [sic] loan and charge my investment account, Rider Haggard,” adding “Barclays.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, light toning, pencil notations, and a few of the signatures signed over penny revenue stamps.
Thumbnail 573 Edward Everett Hale Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 AQS, signed “Edward E. Hale,” on a 5 x 7 off-white sheet of South Congregational Church stationery, dated June 3, 1888. Hale pens a quote from ‘Ten Times One Is Ten.’ In full: “Look up and not down, look forward and not back, look out and not in: lend a hand.” Sheet is affixed to an identical size sheet. In very good condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold, scattered toning and soiling, and mounting remnants to reverse.
Thumbnail 574 Alex Haley Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Original ink sketch on a lightly-lined blue 5.5 x 1.75 irregularly clipped sheet. Below Haley’s drawing of a broken length of chain, Haley writes to Mrs. McDermott, in full: “An artist I am not, but at least I tried for you and your grandchildren—Love!” In fine condition, with the signature lightly affected by the sketch.
Thumbnail 575 Keith Haring Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Color postcard of one of Haring’s vibrant, untitled illustrations, 4 x 6, boldly signed in the bottom border in black felt tip, “K. Haring.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 576 Hugh Hefner Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Signed book: The Bedside Playboy. Chicago: Playboy Press, 1963. Hardcover with dustjacket, 6.5 x 9.25, 511 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free-end page in blue ballpoint, “To Tony Curtis, Whose talent as an actor is second only to his talent for being a quite special human being, Sincerely, Hugh Hefner—Playboy.” Some light toning, a few trivial smudges to the signature page, scattered staining to the front cover, and some mild to moderate paper loss to the spine and bottom right corner of the dustjacket, otherwise fine condition. Curtis, a regular at the Playboy mansion and a dear friend of Hefner’s, was well-known for his multiple relationships and marriages, including those with Janet Leigh, Marilyn Monroe, and Christine Kaufmann.
Thumbnail 577 Al Hirschfeld Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: Art and Recollections from Eight Decades. First edition. NY: Macmillan Publishing Company, 1991. Hardcover with dustjacket, 12.25 x 10.25, 306 pages. Signed on the half-title page in black felt tip, “Hirschfeld, 11/9/91.” In very good condition, with light toning to the pages, a central vertical fold to the dustjacket, along with mild to moderate toning, creasing, and some scattered surface marks and soiling.
Thumbnail 578 Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 ALS signed “Oliver Wendell Holmes,” one page both sides, 6.75 x 8.25, July 17, 1851. Holmes pens a sarcastic letter to an admirer, in part: “I received your note requesting my autograph, and enclosing a little poem of your own, in which you have paid me the compliment of attempting an [sic] mutation of a style I have sometimes adopted. You must not expect me to see the likeness, which may be striking to others, but which the person mutated is the last to perceive. But, on the other hand, I do not doubt that I should recognize your imitation of Mr. Longfellow or Mr. Bryant or Mr. Whittier—who again might see a resemblance in the times referred to to [sic] my own…Hoping that you will get more money and glory for your counterfeit presentments than some of the originals ever did.” Intersecting folds, one of which lightly affects one letter of the signature, and light creasing and toning, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 579 Julia Ward Howe Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Ink signature, “Julia Ward Howe, July 3rd, 1886,” on an off-white 3 x 1.5 slip inlaid into a 5.5 x 8.5 book page featuring an engraved vignette of Howe. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 580 Elbert Hubbard Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American writer, printer, and philosopher (1856–1915), closely associated with the Arts and Crafts movement, who perished in the Lusitania disaster. Two items: ALS, one page, 4.25 x 7.25, The Roycrofters, Makers of De Luxe Books and Things, East Aurora, New York letterhead, April 20, 1904. Hubbard writes to Mr. Peterson, in full: “About all the really good men in American are ‘Immortals’ but you. Is it an oversight?”; and a 6.5 x 10.25 book page photo of Hubbard in a hat and flamboyant tie, signed and inscribed in the bottom border in ink, “To Nora C. Howe, with all kind wishes from her friend, Elbert Hubbard.” In fine condition, with light toning and creasing to the photo. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Hubbard’s hand, and a copy of a pamphlet outlining a “Life Membership in Philistia, otherwise called the American Academy of Immortals.”
Thumbnail 581 Langston Hughes Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Notarized DS, one page, 8.5 x 11, January 24, 1956. Hughes, “in consideration of the sum of One Dollar,” sells all the copyright “of the following dramatic composition: ‘The Story of Esther,’” to Associated Music Publishers, Inc. In fine condition, with two punch holes to top and a mild shade of toning.
Thumbnail 582 Victor Hugo Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 Important French writer, artist, and statesman (1802–1885) best known for such canonical novels as Les Misérables and Notre-Dame de Paris (aka The Hunchback of Notre Dame). Much of his literary output was devoted to political and social issues, and in the 1840s he became actively involved in the French government as a legislator and staunch activist on behalf of the Republican cause. In 1851 the controversy surrounding his inflammatory writings denouncing Louis-Napoléon forced him into a two-decade exile, during which his productive creative pace barely slackened. ALS in French, one page, 5.25 x 6.75, January 15, 1841. Hugo pens a brief letter to Alfred Michiels, translated, in full: “I will certainly have great pleasure, Sir, to know the Unknown. M. E. Pellerba (?) as a man of nice talent and of a great future. Please, bring him to me, and give me the pleasure, as soon as possible, to shake both your hands.”3259717 Reverse of second integral page bears an address panel penned in another hand. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one passing through the last letter of the signature, and scattered toning and light creasing.
Thumbnail 583 Victor Hugo Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 Important French writer, artist, and statesman (1802–1885) best known for such canonical novels as Les Misérables and Notre-Dame de Paris (aka The Hunchback of Notre Dame). Much of his literary output was devoted to political and social issues, and in the 1840s he became actively involved in the French government as a legislator and staunch activist on behalf of the Republican cause. In 1851 the controversy surrounding his inflammatory writings denouncing Louis-Napoléon forced him into a two-decade exile, during which his productive creative pace barely slackened. Rare original 2.5 x 4 carte-de-visite photo of Hugo seated in a chair, signed in the lower border in black ink. A bit of trivial peeling to corner tips, trivial crease to bottom of first letter of signature, and mild toning to borders, otherwise fine condition. Hugo is uncommon in any signed photos, particularly of such quality and condition.
Thumbnail 584 Victor Hugo Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 ALS in French, one page, 4.5 x 6.75, January 18, 1871. Letter to an unidentified recipient. In full (translated): “It goes without saying that the Authors' Society, by paying 3,000 francs, the remainder from the reading of Les Chatiments, to the fund of the Society for assistance to victims of the war, will never surpass that sum in the requests that could be made of that fund and it is even certain that it will remain inferior to that figure.” In very good condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold, some scattered spotting and soiling, a few stray marks, and a small hole to top left. Les Chatiments is a collection of poems fiercely attacking Napoleon Ill's Second Empire. On Jan. 19, one day after this letter, Hugo was elected a deputy to the National Assembly.
Thumbnail 585 Joris Karl Huysmans Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 French novelist most famous for the novel À rebours (Against the Grain or Against Nature). ALS in French, one page both sides, 4.5 x 3.5, April 14, 1895. Letter to Francois Copee praising his work. In full (translated): “I thank you for your ‘straight talk’ which I've just read, or rather reread since I saw isolated fragments in le Journal. Seen as a group they provide an interesting note on what goes on inside one's head, depending on what day it is, truly very elevated and right in the masterful pages concerning Leconte de L’Isle and also really gay and amusing in the interview of the young American. Personally, the one that I find even more seductive is la Place Saint Sulpice. In it you bring to life again the past that I knew, as a faithful inhabitant of the Left Bank, like you.” In fine condition, with small pencil notation to bottom edge.
Thumbnail 586 Henrik Ibsen Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 Revered Norwegian playwright and poet (1828–1906) whose works, including A Doll’s House and Hedda Gabler, made him one of the seminal figures in the forefront of modern drama. Exceptional original 4.5 x 6.75 three-quarter length cabinet photo by Joseph Albert of Munich, signed in the lower border in black ink, “Henrik Ibsen 1893.” In fine condition, with a bit of scattered light spotting to image and two mounting remnants to reverse. All autograph material of Ibsen is avidly sought, and signed images are particularly scarce.
Thumbnail 587 Illustrators and Artists Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Collection of seven items consisting of two signatures, one signed photo, and four original sketches, all on various size slips and cards. Signatures are of Norman Rockwell and Maynard Dixon; a 3 x 5.5 postcard photo of the Gloucester Fisherman’s Memorial, signed and inscribed by Leman Craske; and sketches by Everett Gee Jackson, Dale Nichols, Lester Hornby, and John J. Zils. In fine condition, with tape remnants to a few of the edges.
Thumbnail 588 Christopher Isherwood Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Souvenir typescript, 8.5 x 11, featuring an excerpt from Isherwood’s book, The Berlin Stories, in part: “The tiny flame of the lighter flickered between us, as perishable as the atmosphere which our exaggerated politeness had created. The merest breath would have extinguished the one, the least incautious gesture or word would have destroyed the other. The cigarettes were both lighted now.” Signed and inscribed at the conclusion in black ballpoint, “For Earl, from Chris Isherwood, October 8, 1980.” In fine condition, with light creasing and a trivial spot of toning.
Thumbnail 589 Henry James Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 ALS, two pages both sides, 4.5 x 7, 21, black-bordered East Eleventh Street letterhead, March 31, 1911. James writes to his “dear Louisa,” of Stamford, Connecticut, in part: “I have been very sorry to hear through fliar [sic] of Olivia’s illness…& I scrawl you this word to tell you both…in spite of being unwell myself & shut up in my room…and now I am sorry to say, I can’t do much to add to it as I am still in rather a poor way, or unless I am better in a day or two shall make the best of my way back to Cambridge. (I have been much better or this is an unexplained relapse—only one of so many!) I have taken passage back to England for June 14th & may be able to be in New York for another try before that. I know well how to participate in her burden of affliction,” adding the post script, “I was able to see a few days ago…Walsh’s wife & children—especially the very pretty & charming daughter—engaged to our Boman, whom I also saw. They all seem very happy & very rich!” James then adds a sentiment, vertically along the left edge of the first page, “I see that the 2d half of my letter has repeated some of the first but pardon a sick man!” In fine condition, with a bit of trivial smudging to some of the text. Accompanied by the original envelope, addressed in James’ hand.
Thumbnail 590 Henry James Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Celebrated American-born writer (1843–1916) who spent much of his literary career in England and who remains best known for his novels exploring Victorian manners and morals, including such classics as Washington Square, The Wings of the Dove, and The Golden Bowl. Endorsed W.C & F.P. Church business check, 7.75 x 2.75, filled out and signed in another hand, payable to Henry James, Jr. for $100.00, October 21, 1867. Endorsed on the reverse, “H. James, Jr.” Several vertical folds, cancellation cut to center, some light feathering to signature, expected stamps, and some light soiling, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 591 Ken Kesey Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Souvenir typescript, one page, 8.5 x 11, boldly signed across the text in blue felt tip decorated with carefully placed red dots, “Ken Kesey,” an excerpt from One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest beginning: “They’re out there. Black boys in white suits up before me to commit sex acts in the hall and get it mopped up before I can catch them.” In fine condition, with light creasing and a few stray ink marks.
Thumbnail 592 Stephen King Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Signed book: The Best American Short Stories. First edition. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 2007. Paperback, 5.5 x 8.25, 428 pages. Signed on the title page in blue felt tip. In fine condition, with a PSA authentication label affixed to the bottom right corner of the title page, and some scattered light surface marks to the cover. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
Thumbnail 593 Stephen King Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Glossy 8 x 10 DEG promotional photo for Maximum Overdrive, showing King behind the camera as the writer/director, signed and inscribed in blue ink “For Fred, All best, Stephen King, 2/9/87.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 594 Frida Kahlo Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 5,000.00 - 6,000.00 Extremely rare DS, one page, 8 x 10.5, December 19, 1941. Declaration in Connection with Paintings, etc., and Sculptures, penned entirely in her hand, certifying that Kahlo is the “painter and producer of…one oil painting ‘Still Life,’” which is being sold for $300 and transported by actress Paulette Goddard “by plane, Port of entry: Brownsville, Texas,” signed at the beginning and conclusion by Kahlo. Intersecting folds, one of which runs through one letter of the first signature, creasing to the left corners, an overlapping paper clip impression and staple hole towards the left corner, several official stamps, a foreign service stamp at the bottom, and two binder holes to the top, otherwise fine condition. Kahlo painted ‘Still Life,’ which later became known as ‘Basket of Flowers,’ while steeped in a deep depression in the wake of her father’s death in 1941. According to Kahlo's diary, the hummingbird in the painting represented herself and the butterfly, Paulette Goddard, who was believed to have been lover to both Kahlo and her on-again, off-again husband, artist Diego Rivera. That year Goddard returned to Mexico for a film and flew the painting to Brownsville, TX. Today, ‘The Flower Basket’ remains in a private American collection.
Thumbnail 595 Rudyard Kipling Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Nobel Prize–winning British author (1865–1936) best known for such colorful classics as Just So Stories, Captains Courageous, and The Jungle Book. ALS, one page, 5 x 8, December 28, 1892. Letter to [Edward James] Glave. In full: “I don't know how it is with you, but Christmas in these remote regions blocks and demoralizes the mail. Here however really do come your ballads - may you enjoy 'em The fool of a postmaster has just managed to lose all my razors in the mail and I'm not enjoying myself in consequence. Here's a good adventurous New Year to you - one full of everything stirring and profitable. Can you get that boat song written out I'm your debtor for long if you can.” In very good condition, with several horizontal folds, some reinforced on the reverse, uniform toning, small tear to top edge, and a bit of scattered light soiling. Kipling and his American-born wife, nee Caroline Balestier, were then in the first months of a four-year stay in Vermont at the estate of his wife's family. It was during this period that he wrote some of his best-known works, including Captains Courageous and the two Jungle Books.
Thumbnail 596 Rudyard Kipling Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Crisp vintage fountain pen signature, “Rudyard Kipling, Isle of Hope, July 29, 1930,” on an off-white 5 x 3.75 album page. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 597 Dean Koontz Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: Frankenstein: Original Screenplay. Limited edition of 750 copies (This being No. 341). NY: Charnell House, 2005. Hardcover with slipcase, 9 x 11.25, 87 pages. Signed on the colophon page in black ink. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 598 Oskar Kokoschka Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color postcard featuring Kokoschka’s 1909 painting, ‘Portrait of Dr. Tietze and His Wife,’ 6 x 4, signed on the front in the bottom border in black felt tip. In fine condition, with some trivial toning.
Thumbnail 599 Walt Kuhn Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American painter (1877–1949) and organizer of the modern art Armory Show of 1913, which was the first of its genre in America. Printed, hand-colored holiday card, measuring 6 x 7.25 unfolded, featuring Kuhn’s printed initials below the image of four cowboys sipping coffee around a fire. Kuhn adds the note below, “Dear Friends, Here you have an ‘antique’ I made in 1929. Good luck for the coming year, Faithfully, Walt Kuhn.” In fine condition, with a central horizontal fold, and separations at each end of the fold.
Thumbnail 600 D. H. Lawrence Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 ALS, four pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, December 18, 1913. Lawrence writes to “Davies,” from Lerici per Frascherino, Golfo della Spezia, Italy, in full: “After that last letter of mine, I wanted to kick myself. What right have I to talk to you from the top of a stool. Don’t bear me a grudge, will you. I do wish things could go well with you. We shall be here till the end of May, I think, and shall be frightfully glad when you come. You would travel, by the ordinary route, over Paris, Milan, Parma, Spezia—and it costs about 4 pounds. But you could come by ship to Genoa or to Leghorn—they are both fairly near. You must think about it, whether you would like to come on sea or on land. We should like to come to England in June, I think, by ship from Genova—I should like the voyage. You might go back with us, unless you want to walk in the Appenines. We have’nt got anybody coming for Christmas, but we shan’t be lonely. The Italians are very jolly—they come and play with us, and sing to the guitar at evening. You must learn some Italian when you come. And here in the harbour there is Italy’s biggest naval arsenal—war-ships with search lights and cannon at night, and submariner nosing up and down. It is really jolly. The country is quite wild behind, really wilder than Wales, but not so gloomy. You didn’t tell me how the work was going. I hope you’ll have a good time in Wales.” A few trivial spots of toning, some faint paperclip impressions to the top edges, and some light smudge marks towards the top right corner of the first page, otherwise fine condition. Lawrence wrote this letter to W. H. Davies, the Welsh tramp poet, whom Lawrence met on a visit in to England in 1913. He was captivated by Davies and admired his nature-inspired work, but soon lost his enthusiasm for Davies’ poetry, and a few months prior to this letter wrote that Davies’ “work is getting like Birmingham tinware.” In late 1913, Lawrence was staying in a cottage in Fiascherino with his wife Frieda Weekely. There he began to write two of his better-known novels, The Rainbow and Women in Love. This letter was published in The Letters of D. H. Lawrence.
Thumbnail 601 D. H. Lawrence Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Signed book: Pansies. Limited edition of 500 copies (This being No. 389). London: P. R. Stephenson, 1929. Softcover, 6 x 9, 125 pages. Signed on the limitations page in blue ink, “D. H. Lawrence.” Pencil notations to first free end page, small separation to front joint, and a bit of trivial toning and soiling to covers, otherwise fine condition. In the wake of his controversial 1928 masterpiece, Lady Chatterley's Lover, Lawrence responded to those critics who flouted the work by writing a series of satirical poems—some of which published under the title ‘Pansies.’ Once again, British censors sought to silence his prose, viewing it as obscene. When authorities temporarily seized his manuscript, Lawrence proclaimed, ‘How sickening this dirty hypocrisy!’ Eventually published in 1929, it became Lawrence's best known collection of poems. The title does not refer to flowers, but is derived from the French ‘pensees’ meaning ‘thoughts’—thoughts that, according to Lawrence in his introduction, come ‘as much from the heart and the genitals as from the head.’
Thumbnail 602 Roy Lichtenstein Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vibrant color postcard featuring Lichtenstein’s 1961 painting, ‘The Engagement Ring,’ 5.75 x 5, signed on the front in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 603 Roy Lichtenstein Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color postcard featuring ‘Still Life with Red Wine,’ 4 x 6, signed on the front in blue ballpoint. In fine condition, with slight signature contrast.
Thumbnail 604 Roy Lichtenstein Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color 8.5 x 11 magazine photo of Lichtenstein at work, signed in the lower border in blue ballpoint. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 605 Jack London Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Bank check, 6.5 x 2.75, filled out and signed by London, payable to Oakland Cream Depot for $4.65, stamp-dated February 7, 1907. In very good condition, with small cancellation cut to center and several bank stamps top body, with a couple over portions of signature.
Thumbnail 606 James Russell Lowell Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 ALS signed “J. R. Lowell,” one page, 5.25 x 7.5 affixed to a slightly larger sheet, embossed personal letterhead, December 21, 1854. Lowell writes, in part: “If it be not giving too much trouble, will you change the advertisement to ‘English poetry,’ simply? I find I shall not get outside of that, unless possibly, I say something about Dante.” In very good condition, with a central vertical and horizontal fold, a few light areas of toning, and scattered light creasing from mounting adhesive on the reverse.
Thumbnail 607 Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 ALS signed “Henry W. Longfellow,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, February 4, 1879. Letter to an unidentified gentleman. In part: “I have so many things to thank you for. First of all, for the graceful, and beautiful verses you have been kind enough to dedicate to me, and in which you so generously express your regard and consideration. And second, for the photograph, which is like a living presence, and seems to have just uttered the words you have written. And then for your printed poem ‘Le Poete,’ which I have read with the greatest sympathy for its noble sentiments and beauty of expression. In return, I send you by today’s post, a copy of ‘Keramos’ my last published volume, and the latest photograph taken of me.” In fine condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold, a couple trivial wrinkles, and docketing on reverse of second page.
Thumbnail 608 Rene Magritte Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Belgian artist (1898–1967) best known for his paintings in a surrealist, humor-tinged style, often incorporating such trademark elements as bowler hat–wearing men, windows, eyes, and female torsos. Glossy 6.25 x 4.5 photo of Magritte’s impression of the Fountain of Youth, signed in the lower border in blue ballpoint, “Rene Magritte, La Fontaine du Jouvence [The fountain of youth].” In fine condition, with a few scattered light surface marks.
Thumbnail 609 Man Ray Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Influential American-born artist (1890–1976) who carved out an important niche in the history of modern art with his pioneering Dadaist works and his distinctive photographs and solarized photographic images dubbed “rayographs.” Postcard featuring one of Man Ray’s distinctive “rayographs,” 6 x 4, postmarked 1973, and signed on the reverse in black ballpoint, “With thanks from Man Ray.” In very good condition, with some dings and impressions to the image, multiple notations in another hand, an address label, and a postmark stamp, which lightly affects the beginning of the sentiment.
Thumbnail 610 Thomas Mann Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Highly influential, Nobel Prize–winning German novelist and social critic (1875–1955). Vintage matte-finish 3.25 x 5.5 postcard photo, signed in the lower border in blue ink. In fine condition, with a couple light creases and surface marks to upper right and a collector’s label affixed to reverse.
Thumbnail 611 Thomas Mann Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vintage ink signature and inscription, in German, (translated): “To H. M. Brehm With best wishes for the betterment of your collection, Thomas Mann, Pacif. Palisade, Calf, May 1948.” on a light blue 5.25 x 2.5 slip affixed to a slightly larger card. In fine condition, with pencil notation under signature.
Thumbnail 612 Ngaio Marsh Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 New Zealand crime writer and theater director (1895–1982). Glossy 4.5 x 6.25 photo, signed in blue ballpoint. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 613 Ross and Norris McWhirter Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Twin brothers who founded the Guinness Book of World Records. Ross was assassinated by the IRA in 1975. Vintage 6.5 x 8.25 semi-glossy photo of the brothers, signed in blue ballpoint, “With very best wishes, Norm McWhirter &,” and “Ross McWhirter.” In fine condition, with some scattered light spotting to left side of image and some light contrast to end of one signature.
Thumbnail 614 H. L. Mencken Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Popular and influential American author and journalist (1880–1956) best known for his satirical pieces that took aim at contemporary American society. Scarce vintage 7.75 x 9.5 paperstock photo, signed and inscribed in fountain pen to noted collector Lionel Aucoin, “For Lionel A. Aucoin, H. L. Mencken 1937.” In fine condition, with a light paperclip impression to top edge and a few light wrinkles and creases. Quite uncommon in signed photos, this is just the second one we have offered.
Thumbnail 615 Arthur Miller Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: I Don’t Need You Anymore. Later printing. NY: Viking Press, 1967. Hardcover with dustjacket, 6 x 8.5, 240 pages. Boldly signed on the title page in blue felt tip. In very good condition, with light toning throughout, a couple of trivial spots of soiling, and mild wear and some paper loss to the edges of the dustjacket.
Thumbnail 616 Joan Miro Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Distinguished Spanish artist (1893–1983) best known for his colorful surrealist imagery. Glossy 10 x 7.5 photo, signed and inscribed vertically in black felt tip “Pour Barry A. Malvyln, Miro! VI/67.” Some scattered light creases and surface marks and a trivial brush to signature and date, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 617 Piet Mondrian Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 ALS in French, signed “P. Mondrian,” one page both sides, 5.5 x 7, April 2, 1926. Letter written at a pivotal point on his career to fellow artist Felix del Marle, director of the art journal Vouloir, translated in full: “Dear friend, I should have already thanked you for the numbers of ‘Vouloir’ but I was very busy and then hesitated to tell you how upset I was. One of the photos is in the wrong position and I dislike the title of my article: Purity is for Purists and Abstraction is not Abstract Art as I believe I made clear in the article. (In fact we forgot to discuss the title). Let’s talk about it when I have the pleasure to see you. I was also quite surprised that my article was to be next to Van Doesburg’s with whom I do not collaborate at ‘De Stijl’ anymore. D’Eck has left but when he comes back I will tell him what you said. I am willing to write articles for Vouloir from time to time with your help.” In fine condition, with a central horizontal fold passing through the signature, and a few faint red pencil notations to the top right corner. An important letter with a strong quote on Abstraction from the first great Abstract artist, Mondrian also mentions the famous De Stijl and his estranged friend Van Doesburg.
Thumbnail 618 Claude Monet Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 ALS in French, two pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, March 7, 1887. Letter to art critic G. Geffroy. In full (translated): “You know that I am expecting a word from you tomorrow morning or a telegram later (but not too late). I wish you success, for after all you’ve told me, my only thought is that of Mont St. Michel where I could possibly return if I see that there is a beautiful thing to paint for our exposition. In any case, let me know by telegram the hour and station at which you will arrive.” In fine condition, with light pencil notation to top and a bit of trivial soiling. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Mont Saint Michel is a small rocky island off the north coast of France at the mouth of the Couesnon River in Normandy, and is best known for the medieval Benedictine Abbey and steepled church that occupies most of the clump of rocks jutting out of the waters of the English Channel.
Thumbnail 619 Claude Monet Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 ALS in French, one page, 4.5 x 6.5, personal letterhead, September 19, 1908. Letter to M. Grauvirais[?] writing that he encloses "the sum of 144 — a note of a hundred francs and a money order of 44 for the balance due to date" and requests a receipt. Matted and framed, with a portrait of the artist, to an overall size of 16.5 x 12. Central horizontal and vertical fold, and several lines of text and signature light, but legible, due to decreased ink flow, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 620 Grandma Moses Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Magazine cover from the December 28, 1953, issue of Time magazine, signed in black ink, “Grandma Moses.” In very good condition, with two horizontal mailing folds, some scattered light creases, and staple holes to left edge.
Thumbnail 621 Alphonse Mucha Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Influential Czech artist (1860–1939) best remembered for his stylized Art Nouveau depictions of beautiful women. Vintage 5 x 7.25 textured photo by J. F. Langhans of Prague, and affixed to its original 8 x 10 photographer’s mount, inscribed in fountain pen in another hand, in French, and signed “Mucha,” and dated “N.Y. 17/1 1906.” Some scattered light surface marks to photo, some scattered light toning and foxing to mount, small tear to bottom edge, and date light, but mostly legible, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 622 Felix Nadar Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Pseudonym of Gaspard-Félix Tournachon (1820–1910), a French photographer, caricaturist, journalist, novelist, and balloonist. ALS in French, signed “Nadar,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 8.25, Photographie Nadar letterhead, November 1, 1871. Letter to M. de la Vieuville, a descendant of the Duke de la Vieuville. In part (translated): “During the Siege, i.e. in November 1870…you asked us to do full length portraits of you in so-called CDV's and in premiere grandeur size…the price was set at 100 francs. Nevertheless at that time you were short of funds, like many others, we too, alas! If you will recall, this is what we agreed to: ‘I want to have my portrait done now,’ you said to us. ‘That would be prudent, but I can't pay for it at present; we could make the following arrangement. If I'm lucky enough not to be killed I'll come and take possession in person; if on the contrary I have the misfortune to die on the battlefield…send it to my family who would certainly be happy to receive my portrait and would pay for it without question.’ These conditions were very acceptable to us…we waited until July 29 believing ourselves then authorized to send it COD…the portrait, matting, frame, and the shipping box…before reclaiming the shipment we would like to know if you really refused delivery…we can't believe this without hearing from you directly.” Central horizontal and vertical fold, some scattered light toning to second and third pages, and a few light creases, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 623 Felix Nadar Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Pseudonym of Gaspard-Félix Tournachon (1820–1910), a French photographer, caricaturist, journalist, novelist, and balloonist. ALS in French, signed “Nadar,” one page, 5.25 x 8.25, black-bordered letterhead, May 10, 1860. An early, untranslated, letter from his most creative period to a gentleman. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, mounting remnants to corners, and scattered light toning and foxing.
Thumbnail 624 Ogden Nash Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Nash’s rare yellow AFTRA union P&W benefits card, one page, both sides, 6 x 4, dated November 7, 1963. Pension and Welfare benefit card is filled out in Nash’s hand in blue ink including his New York address, birthdate, and Social Security number. Signed at the bottom “Ogden Nash.” On the reverse, Nash lists his wife, Frances L. Nash, as the recipient of his death benefits. A stamp across the front of the card reads “Deceased.” Several office notations including the original address being crossed out an written anew in another hand, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 625 LeRoy Neiman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Limited edition color serigraph entitled ‘Bobick in the Ring,’ 16.75 x 13, #223/250, signed in pencil by Neiman. Double matted and framed to an overall size of 25.5 x 22. In fine condition, with some light toning to edges, and a bit of mild rippling along top edge. Oversized.
Thumbnail 626 LeRoy Neiman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Limited edition color serigraph entitled ‘September 5th, 5 P.M.,’ 16.75 x 13, #221/250, signed in pencil by Neiman. Double matted and framed to an overall size of 25.5 x 22. In fine condition, with a uniform shade of mild overall toning, and a bit of light rippling to top edge. Oversized.
Thumbnail 627 LeRoy Neiman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Glossy 8 x 10 photo of Neiman holding a cigar, signed and inscribed in the lower border in black felt tip “To William W. Stanhope, LeRoy Neiman 84,” adding a couple of smoke tendrils to his cigar. Very fine condition.
Thumbnail 628 Clifford Odets Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 American playwright (1906–1963) known for his powerful works of the Depression era, including Waiting for Lefty and Golden Boy. Vintage matte-finish 4 x 5.75 proof photo, signed in red fountain pen, “Sincerely, Clifford Odets, 10/20/36.” Photo is stamped on reverse, “Proof Property of Alfredo Valente.” Moderate contrast to signature and sentiment and a bit of light discoloration to background, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 629 George Orwell Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 ANS signed “Geo. Orwell,” one page, 5 x 8, no date. Brief note to David George. In full: “How about Friday (13th—I suppose you meant this week) at Antoine’s at 1:15 pm?” Small cigarette burn to right edge, lightly affecting a single word of text, scattered light creasing, and some mild toning to top edge, otherwise fine condition. Orwell is quite scarce in any form, particularly handwritten letters.
Thumbnail 630 James R. Randall Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Scarce AQS on an off-white 7 x 8.75 lightly-lined sheet, signed at the conclusion, “James R. Randall.” Randall pens the second stanza of his nine-stanza poem, “Maryland! My Maryland!” In full, “Hark to an exiled son’s appeal, Maryland! My Mother-State, to thee I kneel, Maryland! For life and death, for woe and weal, Thy peerless chivalry reveal, And gird thy beauteous limbs with steel, Maryland! My Maryland!” Intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, a light diagonal crease, and a mild shade of toning, otherwise fine condition. An uncommon and desirable quote.
Thumbnail 631 Charles Willson Peale Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 4,500.00 - 5,000.00 American painter and naturalist (1741–1827), known for his portraits of George Washington. He collaborated with Jefferson on the polygraph, and his keen interest in natural history led him to found the Philadelphia Museum, later renamed the Peale Museum. Revolutionary War–dated manuscript DS, signed “Chas. W. Peale,” as one of three members of the Committee of Assembly, one page, 7 x 3.25, January 29, 1780. In full, “Please to pay unto Mr. Jacob Greiner the Sum of Four Hundred and Seventy eight pound, Seven Shillings & Six pence, for Nails Used on the Stadt House and public Stables.” Signed at the conclusion by Peale, and also signed by committee members William Hollinshead and Jacob Schreiner. In very good condition, with intersecting folds (horizontal fold affecting tops of a few letters of signature), rough vertical edges, scattered toning (a vertical strip passing through the signature), and reinforcement along top edge on reverse. In 1730, the Pennsylvania General Assembly appointed a committee to direct the expenditure of £2,000 on a new “Stadt house.” During the Revolutionary War, the State House, which became known as Independence Hall, shared space with the Continental Congress and required renovations to accommodate both congressional members and members of State Assembly; to make the necessary alterations the assembly ordered supplies, including nails. Peale was just establishing himself as a major portrait painter in 1776 when he relocated from Maryland to Pennsylvania. A staunch patriot, he was elected to the State Assembly in 1779. The nails for which Peale requested £428 from Pennsylvania Treasurer Rittenhouse to pay Greiner were doubtlessly used during the renovation and repair of the State House. Peale's autograph is the rarest of the major American artists, particularly made desirable here with its association to Independence Hall and the Revolutionary War.
Thumbnail 632 Rembrandt Peale Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 2,500.00 Renowned American painter (1778–1860) regarded as one of the finest portrait artists of his day. One of several artist brothers named by their father after Old Masters, he is best known for his multiple portraits of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Manuscript DS, signed “Rem: Peale,” one page, 26.5 x 16.5, April 22, 1808. Indenture agreement for the sale of a house reads, in part: “his Indenture…Between Rembrandt Peale of the City of Philadelphia Portrait Painter and Eleanora M. his Wife, Of the one Part, and Rubens Peale of the said City Naturalist, Of the other Part…in consideration of the Sum of [$1,932] Mortgage Monies which he the said Rubens Peale hath undertaken and agreed to pay, as of the further sum of [$1,498] lawful money of the United States to them paid by the said Rubens Peale at the time of the Execution hereof the Receipt whereof is hereby Acknowledged have granted bargained and sold released and confined a two Story Brick house and the lot or piece of Ground thereto belonging Situate on the North Side of Walnut Street between Delaware Sixth and Seventh Streets…bounded on the East by…Swanwick’s Alley, on the South by the said Walnut Street, on the West by Ground of the Philadelphia Society for the establishment and Support of Charity Schools and on the North by a six feet wide alley.” Signed at the conclusion by Peale and his wife Eleanora, and signed again on the reverse, “Rem: Peale,” beneath a receipt for $1,498. Storage folds, marginal binding holes to right edge, and scattered light toning and soiling, otherwise fine condition. In 1801, Peale painted a portrait of his brother entitled ‘Rubens Peale with a Geranium.’
Thumbnail 633 Beatrix Potter Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 British author and illustrator (1866–1943) whose Edwardian-era tales of naughty rabbits, ‘bad’ mice, and other amusingly mischievous animals take a place among the most enduring and beloved works in the annals of children’s literature. Her first and best-known book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, has sold more than 40 million copies since it was first published in 1902. ALS signed with her married name, “Beatrix Heelis,” two pages both sides, 4.25 x 7, December 15, 1935. Lengthy letter to Mrs. Mahoney Mills. In part: “I am a bad correspondent;…a long letter; then silence! Although it might not so appear I was most interested in the Whitney Catalogue, which lies before me. It is beautiful furniture and looks as though it was splendidly made. I am interested in the stuffed furniture…The fills on some of the armchairs are amusing; why not?! I’ve seen enough human female legs, it’s a refreshing change to meet with flowers on a chair…I have been embroidering a valance for an old 4 post bed. I use some old green…and worked on it with old gold colored silks. I got wall paper for the room from Morris & Co. The firm still prints William Morris’s hand block printed wall paper designs. They are not suitable as a background for pictures in watercolors or prints being a decoration in themselves but for a background to my 4 poster nothing could be better; except tapestry…The summer very fine, the autumn very wet, and now snow. The sheep and the cattle are down hill for the winter. It seems strange there are so few sheep in the U.S.A. but its hardly worth while starting sheep farming till people commence to wear clothes— and fills? The news abroad is very disquieting. That wretched League. When it has dragged England into foreign wars—USA and the colonies will have to rescue what is left of us.” Potter has underlined several passages throughout the letter. In fine condition, with a small spot of staining to each top right corner tip, and a bit of scattered light soiling. Potter married William Heelis in 1913 at the age of 47, and lived at Castle Cottage in the tiny village of Near Sawrey in the English Lakes District, where, delighting in country life, she found inspiration for her books. In this letter she fulminates against the League of Nations, alluding the worsening political situation in Europe. She also describes her beloved farm—she was a prize-winning breeder of Herdwick sheep and a prosperous farmer, buying up neighboring farms to conserve the countryside. On her death in 1943, Potter would leave 4,000 acres, multiple cottages and farms, and herds of sheep and cattle to the National Trust, preserving the character of the land she loved. A lively letter from the cherished children’s author.
Thumbnail 634 Pierre-Auguste Renoir Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 Vintage 7 x 10.25 photo of a reproduction of a Renoir, featuring a young woman holding flowers. The photograph is an authentication of one of his most attractive paintings. Signed in the bottom border in ink, “Renoir.” Also written in the bottom border by the Mayor of Cagnes, “Pierre-Auguste Renoir, artiste paintre, 9 Janrie, 1910,” signing below and adding the official stamp of city hall to authenticate Renoir’s signature. Image is affixed to a slightly larger cardstock mount. In very good condition, with some trivial rubbing, light ink borders around the image, adhesive remnants from previous mounting, and a few purple government stamps, one lightly affecting the signature. A rare opportunity to own an authentically signed Renoir at a fraction of what the painting would cost.
Thumbnail 635 Ayn Rand Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 10,000.00 - 12,000.00 Remarkable TLS signed “Ayn,” two pages, 7.25 x 10.5, October 14, 1937. Letter to David O. Selznick’s executive assistant, Marcella Bannett Rabwin. In full: “I was delighted to hear from you and to know that you haven’t forgotten me. You say that you have been in the midst of furnishing a house, and I am precisely in the same position right now. I have spent the summer in Connecticut and have just moved back to New York. We have taken an unfurnished apartment and are now driven mad with problems of furniture, of which we have two beds and a table at the present moment. But the rest is coming, and, so far, we are very pleased with our new place. It seems much nicer than the furnished apartments one can get in New York. It looks as if we’ll stay here for some time to come. There are no immediate prospects for our return to Hollywood, and I have two plays on my hands, which, if all goes well, may be produced this season. One is a new play I finished this summer. The other—my adaptation of ‘WE THE LIVING’. You ask me about its production. Well, Jerome Mayer, who had it, has dropped his option on it recently, and for a very sad reason: he is afraid of producing an anti-Soviet play. When taking the option, he had assured me that he was not afraid of it, but he has a great many Red friends and they got the best of him. I am somewhat indignant about it, because it appears as if the Reds have established a nice little unofficial censorship of their own, and it is very hard to get ahead with anything anti-Communistic. But we shall see what we shall see. Right now, I have a very big producer [George Abbott] interested in the play and expect to hear from him definitely within the week. If the politics do not stop him, he would be much better for the play than Jerome Mayer could have been. This, then, is an account of my activities. But how about you? You mention in your letter that you are working in the daytime, but you do not say where and how etc. I notice by the letter head that you must be back with Selznick International. What are you doing now? How do you like it? I would to know, for I am rather glad to hear that you are back at work. I have always felt that you were too good an executive to retire from the picture business. Frank joins me in sending our best regards to your husband and Mrs. Eppes [Marcella’s mother, Elena Epps]. Our love to you always.” Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, with Rand’s return address typed on the reverse, “A. O’Connor, 173 East 74th Street, New York, N.Y.” Rand was married to Frank O’Connor for 50 years, from 1929 until his death in 1979.They had met in 1926 when they were both extras during the filming of Cecil B. DeMille’s King of Kings. In fine condition, with a horizontal mailing fold passing through the top of first letter of signature and a few light creases. Mrs. Marcella Bannett Rabwin met Ayn Rand about 1930 in New York where they were neighbors in a Gower Street apartment house. Rabwin worked as Selznick's secretary and her mother pushed her to help Rand, who she thought was 'brilliant.’ She gave some of Rand’s stories to her friend Nick Carter, an agent for Hollywood agent Myron Selznick. He sold two stories to Universal in 1932 for $3,000, including "Red Pawn," which was eventually dropped by Universal, but the money she received allowed Rand to quit her RKO job to write her novel, We the Living, published by Macmillan in 1936. She later described We the Living as the most autobiographical of her novels, its theme being the brutality of life under communist rule in Russia. On July 10, 1936, an article in the New York Mirror announced “Mayer Buys Play From Girl Who Fled Soviet.” Rand immediately adapted her anti-Communist novel as a play for Jerome Mayer's production. In January 1937, Publisher’s Weekly reported that she had completed the drama. When Russian actress Eugenie Leontovich, who had appeared on Broadway in Grand Hotel, learned that a theatrical adaptation of We the Living existed she requested a script, sending the play to George Abbott, a personal friend and a major Broadway producer. He agreed to produce it with Leontovich in the title role. By fall 1939 Abbott finished casting and was preparing the play’s out-of-town tryout in Baltimore as Rand revised the script under Abbott’s supervision. About that time, she realized the project was doomed. Abbot was the wrong producer; Leontovich the wrong actress. When the play opened on Broadway with Helen Craig February 13, 1940, it was panned. Renamed “The Unconquered,” the show closed after six performances.
Thumbnail 636 Anne Rice Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: Interview with the Vampire. Later printing. NY: Alfred A. Knopf, 1994. Hardcover with dustjacket, 6.5 x 10, 274 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page, “For Ronnie, Anne Rice 1995.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 637 Diego Rivera Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 Highly regarded and influential Mexican artist (1886–1957) who earned international acclaim—and stirred controversy—for his powerful, politically charged murals. Vintage 7.5 x 9.5 photo of Rivera with his arms folded, signed and inscribed in black ink to noted collector Lionel Aucoin, “T Mr. Lionel Aucoin, Diego Rivera 1956.” A light diagonal crease through portion of facial area, and a few other surface marks, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by a 1956 TLS from Rivera’s secretary acknowledging the photo, adding “The Maestro signed the blank space of the picture and wrote some words for you.”
Thumbnail 638 Norman Rockwell Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 TLS, one page, 5.75 x 7.75, personal letterhead, November 7, 1972. Letter to an admirer. In part; “I quite agree with your criticism as to over-exposure, and I am really trying to limit this. Of course you must realize that I do not have control of all the copyrights.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 639 Norman Rockwell Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 photo, signed and inscribed in blue ink “My best wishes to Larry Diefenbach, Cordially, Norman Rockwell.” Rippling to upper portion and a light vertical crease to bottom edge, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 640 Auguste Rodin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,200.00 ANS in French, signed “A. Rodin,” one page, 4.5 x 7, no date. Brief note to an unidentified gentleman. In full (translated): “I authorize Monsieur A. to photograph the grisaille sketch for the monument of Victor Hugo at the Pantheon.” In very good condition, with a central horizontal fold through upper portion of signature, some mirroring of ink from folding, a couple edge and corner creases, and light pencil remnants to upper left. In 1889, Rodin was commissioned to create a monument honoring Hugo for the Pantheon. He had created a bust of the great author in 1883 in spite of Hugo’s refusal to sit for him. The Parthenon monument was Rodin’s second commission by the state. Rodin first designed a seated Hugo surrounded by three muses on a rock symbolizing the Island of Guernsey, where the writer had been exiled. This version was deemed unacceptable as it would not fit with the other Parthenon monuments, and Rodin was told to develop a standing statue instead. He completed “The Apotheosis of Victor Hugo” in 1891, but it was never installed in the Parthenon. Rodin also reworked the seated concept for an outdoor installation, but the plaster version he presented appeared incomplete and was rejected. The monument to Hugo would not be cast in bronze until after Rodin’s death. A note from the legendary sculptor involving one of his most trying projects.
Thumbnail 641 Romain Rolland Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 French writer who won the 1916 Nobel Prize for literature. ALS in French, six pages on two sets of adjoining sheets, 5.5 x 8.75, Schloss-Hotel Schonegg letterhead, September 8, 1902. Letter to composer Vincent d’Indy. In part (translated): “At present our winter program includes courses by Aubry, Th. Reinach, Expert (I'm counting on the quantity of new musical documents he will bring), lectures by Malherbe, Lichtenberger, Hendard…I will also give some lectures…the program isn't definite… we defer to you and can make room for you. It's not merely a very great honor but also a great service which you can do for us and for our undertaking: there are plenty of historians; but an artist such as you, who is both example and model for the scholarly and passionate study of the past, that's more than rare, - almost unique -this can exert a truly fertile influence on history and music…Aside from Aubry, Expert and a handful of others, you will be surrounded, alas!, by ignoramuses. Most scholarly historians don't know very much and they know nothing about music. Everything remains to be done. (But don't you think that's the way it is in all types of work? Folk wisdom has it that "There's nothing new under the sun." But it seems to me, on the contrary, that everything is new. One either ignores of forgets that…As subjects…I recommend Beethoven or Gluck...The creative artist alone understands the totality of the works he is creating.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered light soiling, pencil notation to first page, and a few wrinkles. After time at the Sorbonne, Rolland was a professor of art history at the École Normale in Paris.
Thumbnail 642 Georges Rouault Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 French Fauvist and Expressionist painter, and printmaker in lithography and etching (1871–1958). Rare vintage matte-finish 6.75 x 4.5 head-and-shoulders photo by Yvonne Chevalier, signed along the bottom edge in fountain pen, “G. Rouault.” In fine condition, with scattered light silvering to edges.
Thumbnail 643 J. K. Rowling Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,200.00 Signed book: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. First edition. London: Bloomsbury, 2003. Hardcover with dustjacket, 5.25 x 8, 766 pages. Signed on the dedication page in black felt tip. In fine condition. Consignor indicates signature was acquired as Rowling arrived for her honorary degree at Edinburgh University in July 2004.
Thumbnail 644 Carl Sandburg Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Sandburg’s rare yellow AFTRA union P&W benefits card, one page, both sides, 6 x 4, dated March 3, 1960. Pension and Welfare benefit card is filled out in Sandburg’s hand in red ballpoint including his North Carolina address, birthdate, Social Security number, and noting his wife as beneficiary “Mrs. Lillian Paula Sandburg.” Signed at the bottom in red ballpoint “Carl Sandburg.” A stamp across the front of the card reads “Deceased.” A few small office notations and stamp obscuring several parts of Sandburg’s writing (though signature remains unaffected), and a tiny bit of paper loss to top edge, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 645 Budd Schulberg and Elia Kazan Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: On the Waterfront: The Final Shooting Script. Limited edition of 300 copies (this copy No. 101). Hollywood: Samuel French, 1980. Hardcover, 5.75 x 9, 153 pages. Signed in black ink on the colophon page by Elia Kazan and Budd Schulberg. In very fine condition.
Thumbnail 646 John Singer Sargent Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 ALS in French, signed “John S. Sargent,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, 13 Tite Street letterhead, May 21. Letter to an unidentified woman. In part (translated): “I was so much beside myself with 1,000 things to do and the arrival of Monet, Mirbeau, and other Parisians that I find myself owing you two letters and my apologies! I'm delighted to see that the French are making a habit of coming to London. I may go to Paris by June 1 above all to see the International Exposition.” In fine condition. Sargent painted his friend Monet twice, and when Monet visited London he often stayed with Sargent. An excellent letter mentioning some of the greatest artists of the age.
Thumbnail 647 Sir Walter Scott Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 ALS signed “Walter Scott,” one page, 5 x 8, May 1. Scott responds after receiving grim news, in full: “I am obliged by your attention in communicating to me the death of my late excellent & esteemed friend Mr. Barber and beg you to accept my condolence on this mournful occasion. I have not the least doubt that all connected with him will experience the same satisfaction as formerly in the business which he conducted.” Light creasing, a trivial spot of toning affecting the end of the signature, and mounting remnants to the top edge, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 648 Sir Walter Scott Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Scottish novelist and poet (1771–1832) best known for such classics as Ivanhoe, Rob Roy, and Waverley. ALS signed “Walter Scott,” one page, 8 x 9.75, no date. Letter to a gentleman, in Scott’s difficult to decipher hand. In part: “I have just heard from Mr. Scott…expressing a wish for a working lunch at one o’clock Tuesday I hope to get several of the gentlemen together and that you will remain through Monday with me and a bed here.” In good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, multiple old tape repairs to folds on reverse, several partial fold separations and tears, toning and soiling, scattered light edge wear, and several ink and pencil notations.
Thumbnail 649 Maurice Sendak Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Original signed pencil sketch of a prairie dog, a fox, and two bear cubs on an off-white 12 x 9 sheet of tracing paper, signed at the bottom by Sendak, who also labels two of the images. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 650 Dr. Seuss Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Printed color illustration of the Cat in the Hat on an off-white 5.5 x 8.5 sheet, signed and inscribed, “One cat for Ervin Straubhaar with best wishes from Dr. Seuss.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 651 Dr. Seuss Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Original signed felt tip sketch of The Cat in the Hat on an off-white First Day Cover bearing a cachet of the Guggenheim Museum honoring fine arts in America. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 652 George Bernard Shaw Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 ALS signed “G. Bernard Shaw,” one page, 7 x 4.5, personal letterhead, March 20, 1917. Letter to artist Phelan Gibb. In full: “Thank you for your letter, but it does not alter the situation. I still think that designs should be reproduced and thus made available for a large number of purchasers. This would make it possible to spend more time on them than on each pictures, though in my opinion a man who takes as long to make a design as to paint an easel picture of equal rank has mistaken his profession. It is not possible for me to allow my private letters to be quoted as advertisements—for that is what your naive proposal comes to. Every gallery in London has had a try; and the dealers suggest to innocent young artists that they should come to me for catalogue prefaces and the like; but I am not to be lauded. I refuse everybody and so offend nobody. Besides, it would hardly help you to quote my opinion that your prices are ridiculous; and it would not be honest to detach a complimentary expression from its context and give that as my whole opinion.” In fine condition, with a central vertical fold and a bit of mild soiling. Accompanied by the original transmittal envelope. An exemplary example of Shaw fervently protecting his literary reputation…in his own inimitable style.
Thumbnail 653 George Bernard Shaw Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Color vintage 4 x 7 magazine photo of an artist’s portrait of Shaw by Augustus John, signed in fountain pen. Photo is affixed to an identical size board. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 654 George Bernard Shaw Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 ALS signed “G. Bernard Shaw,” on a 3.5 x 5.5 personal postcard, August 16, 1929. Letter to Isaac Don Levine of The Book League of America in New York. In full: “There is no immediate question of publishing The Apple Cart. I now intend to hold it back until I am able to follow my usual course of publishing two or three plays in a single volume with prefaces. My rule is not to serialize. I am much obliged to you for your offer, and regret that the confusion into which my correspondence inevitably falls by its own magnitude should have put you to so much trouble." Shaw has addressed the reverse of the postcard as well. Light toning working in from edges and light vertical postal cancellations through left side of text, not affecting legibility, otherwise fine condition. Shaw went back on his word to his American correspondent and separately published the play with Constable and Company of London in 1930.
Thumbnail 655 Ernest Shepard Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 5,000.00 - 6,000.00 English artist and book illustrator (1879–1976) known especially for his human-like animals in illustrations for Winnie-the-Pooh by A. A. Milne. Original oversized vintage ink drawing on an off-white 10.5 x 14 sheet, affixed to a same size cardstock mount. Photo shows Vulcan and Venus hammering molten metal on an anvil, with a blueprint of a tank hanging in the background, and faint images of tanks and airplanes in the distance, signed at the bottom of the image, “E. H. Shepard.” Work was titled at the bottom in pencil, “Total Production,” but crossed out and replaced with “Vulcan and Venus or The Forging of Victory.” Light pencil border around image and some scattered light soiling, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by a photocopy of the image as it appeared in Punch in 1941. A most decidedly different subject matter than usually found in Shepard drawings when they are available.
Thumbnail 656 Georges Simenon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Belgian author (1903–1989) best known for his Inspector Maigret detective novels. Vintage 4 x 5.75 postcard photo, signed and inscribed in black ink “To my American young friends, Sincerely, Geo Simenon 1969.” In fine condition, with a couple trivial brushes to signature and date.
Thumbnail 657 Neil Simon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 TLS, one page, 7 x 9, personal letterhead, October 22, 1987. Simon writes to George Burns, in part: “I want to thank you so much for your generous assistance in helping to get me into Hillcrest. A reccommendation [sic] from you is something I’ll always be proud of. I’m not so certain about my character but I sure have good friends…I wanted to get back to golf again, which is why I applied for membership to Hillcrest. I tried playing three rounds of golf since. Each time my back went out so badly, I had to write my plays standing over a refrigerator like Thomas Wolfe. Alas, golf and I are no longer compatible and I thought…I’d relinquish my spot…and return to writing my plays sitting in a chair again. I’m sorry if I put you to any trouble but I’m not so sure I’d be a good member anyway. I don’t play cards and I stopped eating bagels, cream cheese and Nova Scotia. I do, however, intend to remain a good Jew…unless, of course, it hurts my back.” In fine condition, with some light creasing.
Thumbnail 659 Edward Steichen Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Important photographer (1879–1973) who was one of the pioneering figures in the field of ‘art’ photography. Semi-glossy 6.75 x 9 close-up photo, signed in black ballpoint. In fine condition, with a couple of light creases.
Thumbnail 660 Arthur Szyk Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Polish-born American artist (1894–1951) best known for his works on Jewish subjects and his anti-Axis illustrations and caricatures during World War II. ANS, on a 5.5 x 3.5 card, February 2, 1942. Brief letter to Mr. Carroll. In full: “I received your letter of January 29, and I am sending you my sincerest regards.” In fine condition, with a bit of scattered light soiling, and a few areas of paper loss.
Thumbnail 661 Arthur Szyk Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,200.00 - 1,400.00 Polish-born American artist (1894–1951) best known for his works on Jewish subjects and his anti-Axis illustrations and caricatures during World War II. Illuminating collection of ten first edition lithographs comprising Szyk’s Visual History of Nations series and the Visual History of Flight, each measuring 10 x 11.5, and each beautifully signed in the bottom border in ink. In fine condition, with some light toning to the edges. Images are housed in their original presentation folder. The Visual History of Nations set, which represents the founding member countries of the United Nations, including vibrant images representing the United States of America, Canada, Poland, Great Britain, France, USSR, China, Switzerland, and Israel. This series was commissioned in 1945 by Canadian philatelist and entrepreneur, Kasimir Bileski, with the intent on being used as frontispieces and title pages for a unique international stamp album. Szyk completed only nine of the 60 countries, plus the Visual History of Flight, before his sudden death in 1951. Signed, complete sets are very rare to the marketplace.
Thumbnail 662 John Steinbeck Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 ALS in pencil, one lightly-lined yellow legal sheet, both sides, 8 x 12.5, May 18, 1962. Letter written from Athens [Greece] to Ruth Bishop. In full: “I do hope my recent rather raddled and savage letter did not trouble you—just ill tempered old age I guess. Now I am sweet tempered and reasonable again and I have a number of things to report. 1st We leave for Crete and the Ceyclades [sic] next Thursday [May 17th], returning just in time to catch the old Saturnia [Italian Line, built in 1935] for home. We arrive in New York June 14 but between now and then we will be more or less out of touch. Your suggestion about Glenn Grant at the American School drew a very pleasant response. We had lunch with him. He was unable to find the placement tests here but probably did better. He called Dr. Charles Rice of Athens College, formerly admissions at Choate for many years. Dr. Rice has developed his own means of testing which seems to be very highly regarded. Yesterday he went over both boys for several hours. Of course he found things we know but he found them officially. He says categorically that tutoring should stop this summer and both boys should go to summer sessions, first to resume academic discipline and to hone up hard on math and spelling. He suggests Choate and Taft and will write both places giving them his findings. He knows all the people involved of course. The other place Eagle brook is interested in is Hebron Academy in Maine. They think this for John both summer and on through his high school. Gunnery is suggested for Tom, if they will take him after the summer. On Tuesday [May 15th] Glen Grant is giving both boys aptitude tests. He also will send his results to the schools involved. Then Terrence McNally is writing a kind of précis of his year of study with the boys to go to each place. Finally I am writing to Summer Choate and Taft plus Hebron asking for applications and adding my two bits. I am going to ask both Rice and Grant to send you copies of their reports if they will. You see, we will be out of touch and we shall want to get to it immediately when we return. I hope you do not mind my asking the schools to communicate with your office. You see our house is closed and will be until we return. The schools then are (summer) Choate, Taft and Hebron and for the autumn Hebron and Gunnery. Does this make sense to you? The boys will be available for interviews immediately [when] they return. And I shall have to ask your advice as to whether I should go with them. Sometime it is far better for them to go alone, particularly since they will be preceded by quite a bit of documentation. Now as for the boys—they were pretty scared of Dr. Rice as well they might be. He told me that both boys are quite capable of being A students if they wish. And I must say the boys have changed. Far from being reluctant, they are eager to get back to the school for the summer. I think Terrence has done a lot of this. Incidently [sic] I will send you a copy of his report when he finishes it. Now all of this has disappeared very quickly and I am having to get out a goodly number of letters and there is a royal wedding going on in the street below—[future King Juan Carlos I of Spain married Princess Sophia, daughter of King Paul of Greece and sister of future Greek King Constantine II] And excited boys running back and forth. It is rather distracting and I must get letters off to all of these schools today. It is all very formal. And I do hope these headmasters will not require me to go to all of them. I will, of course, but except for exchanging of courtesies, it won’t be of much value. I guess that about covers it. I shall call you as soon as we get in on the 14th or 15th. Could you find time to telephone Elizabeth Otis to let her know what has been done? It is all happening so fast now. And I wish I didn’t have the feeling that I am writing begging letters to teachers. But I guess that is exactly what I am doing. I am enclosing a new copy of the short list of the boys activities for the year. The longer report will go out to you direct from Terrence.” Intersecting folds, some scattered light creases, and a rusty paperclip mark to center of both sides, otherwise fine condition. Early in 1961, John Steinbeck’s sons, Tom and John IV, moved in with their father and stepmother because of difficulties with their mother Gwyn who had divorced their father in 1948 “on grounds of extreme mental cruelty.” Future four-time Tony Award-winning playwright Terrence McNally was a student at the Actors Studio when he was hired as a tutor for Steinbeck’s sons, 16 and 14, in 1961. The 21-year-old was the main disciplinarian at Sag Harbor and traveled with the Steinbecks on their planned world tour, sailing for England in early September. While abroad the boys expected a vacation from schooling, but McNally pushed their studies until they rebelled. In Milan, a confrontation between tutor and charges ended when Steinbeck suffered a heart attack or a stoke. Though he recovered quickly, the author was ordered to rest and McNally packed the boys off to Florence, Venice, Tuscany and Umbria. Reuniting in Rome a month later for the Christmas holidays, the Steinbecks decided to cut their world tour short, but continued touring Italy, Greece and the Grecian islands before returning to Sag Harbor in mid-June. Four months later, Steinbeck won the 1962 Nobel Prize for Literature for his outstanding body of work, including Pulitzer Prize winner The Grapes of Wrath, but his sons' future remained foremost in his mind. His attention to their schooling paid off with Tom attending Avon School in Connecticut and John at Hebron Academy in Maine; both boys eventually followed their father's footsteps into writing. John IV became a journalist and founded Dispatch News Service with Sean Flynn, which originally published the Hersh's story on the My Lai Massacre during the Vietnam War; Tom, who gave his father high marks as a parent, is currently a successful screenwriter and author.
Thumbnail 663 J. R. R. Tolkien Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 British author and scholar (1892–1973) whose Lord of the Rings trilogy became one of the towering classics of fantasy literature and inspired a series of wildly popular films. TLS, two pages, 8 x 10, blind embossed 20 Northmoor Road letterhead, August 2, 1946. Letter to Mr. Mroczkowski, his Polish translator, regarding Mroczkowski gaining a scholarship to Oxford. In part: “I am glad to hear from you again. I have heard from Mr. C. S. Lewis that he was going to see you, but I have not heard any more. I have been immersed in a most tiresome and difficult affair, not by any means yet concluded, which has engaged my whole attention; so I must, I fear, confess that I have done nothing further for you beyond speaking to Lewis on your behalf. Also I was not clear that it was my part to do anything, except to support any move made by the British Council to get you accepted by some ‘society’ here — society covers colleges, the association of non-collegiate students, called St. Catharine's and the approved ‘halls of residence’ (such as the Jesuit Campion Hall)… This month is a bad one. Most people are away. As soon as I got your letter this morning I rang up the office of St. Catharine's hoping to discover whether the British Council had approached them on your behalf, and whether in any case the Censor (the official title of the head of that society) had still any vacancies. I could get no reply. Neither can I, at the moment, get on to the British Council's local office — I will do so before I close this letter. In the meanwhile, I do not at feel at all certain that Notre Dame might not prove a better place than present-day Oxford. It is not easy to advise you; but I should feel inclined to close with any offer from that direction, unless the British Council have something definite to offer here.” Tolkien uses the second page to add a lengthy postscript, which reads, in part: “I have now got into touch with both the Censor of St. Catharine's and the British Council. Their answers make me feel sure that I should advise you to take any offer elsewhere…I think it would at this date be impossible for the British Council to place you for the coming year. The Censor told me that he had no vacancy, and would take no more men; and he is far more easy to deal with than the colleges.” Postscript is signed “J.R.R.T.” In fine condition, with intersecting mailing folds, one through a single letter of the letter’s signature, and a few light wrinkles. At the time he wrote this letter, Tolkien was an English professor at Oxford, where he taught from 1925 to 1959. His close friend C. S. Lewis also served on the Oxford faculty. The pair became friendly as members of Kolbítar, an Old Norse reading group, and the Inklings, an informal discussion society that encouraged the writing of fantasy. Tolkien’s friend Mroczkowski would not attend Oxford in 1946, but rather spent a year as a Research Fellow at University of Notre Dame in the United States, where he worked towards his doctorate in English Literature. Mroczkowski later spent a year in Oxford in the late 1950s, where he met Tolkien, Lewis, and other members of the Inklings. "I presented myself to Tolkien in the following way,” reminisced Mroczkowski. “I come from Mordor, I come from Mordor.” A fine letter from the celebrated fantasist.
Thumbnail 664 J. R. R. Tolkien Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 TLS, one page, 8 x 10, November 13, 1961. Letter to an admirer, Mr. Barneston. In full: “Thank you very much for your letter, and especially for your very practical way of showing your appreciation. Praise is sweet, but one cannot live on it. I do not think the book is "based" on German or Icelandic folklore, though it has a generally northern air; but of course one cannot help being influenced by the Niebelung story (which is epic rather than folklore). As for orc, that is supposed to be the name used in the time of the book for what we would call goblins; though there is in fact an ancient English word, orc, used of dark, demonic creatures. Thank you again for writing.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature. Following his retirement in 1959, Tolkien received steadily increasing public attention and literary fame, and enjoyed sending occasional detailed answers to readers' inquiries, such as this very response in which he mentions characters from his most famous literary contributions. Accompanied by a letter from a literary critic of the Daily Herald to Mr. Barneston as well as a vintage leaflet order form for The Lord of the Rings.
Thumbnail 665 Dylan Thomas Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Celebrated Welsh poet (1914–1953) who, before dying of alcoholism at the age of 39, produced some of the most remarkable verse of the twentieth century, including ‘And Death Shall Have No Dominion’ and ‘A Refusal to Mourn the Death, by Fire, of a Girl in London.’ Incredibly scarce vintage glossy 5 x 6.75 photo, signed and inscribed in blue ink “To Victor Weyright, once a gypsy, from an amateur skintrader. Dylan Thomas 1953.” Photo is affixed to an identical sized card. In very good condition, with scattered light creases and surface marks, paperclip impression to left edge, and signature and inscription a shade or two light, but still completely legible. A rare photo with a nice reference to his then unpublished work ‘Adventures in the Skin Trade.”
Thumbnail 666 Leo Tolstoy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 Russian novelist and moral philosopher (1828–1910) best known for his epic novels War and Peace and Anna Karenina. TLS in Russian, one page, 8 x 3, July 20, 1910, affixed to two slightly larger cardstock mounts. In a remarkable letter written in Russian shortly before his death, Tolstoy writes to Bogdanov, advising him on the steps that must be taken in life to guard the purity of one's soul, translated, in part: “Let us be like Aleksander in using any opportunity to get rid of all evil which clouds our soul." In very good condition, with creasing, scattered light spotting, show-through from adhesive remnants on the reverse, one affecting the beginning of the signature, and a sliver of paper loss along the left side of the bottom edge. Written just weeks before Tolstoy’s death, the probable reference to Russian poet, Aleksander Bogdanovich, and his musings on the soul provide a unique glimpse into the last days of the iconic author’s life.
Thumbnail 667 Leo Tolstoy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Elegant ink signature, “Leo Tolstoy, 7 May 1899,” on an off-white 4 x 3.25 embossed sheet. Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 9.25 x 8.25. In fine condition, with some light creasing.
Thumbnail 668 Amelie Rives Troubetzkoy Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Eccentric American novelist (1863–1945). Her most acclaimed novel, The Quick or the Dead?, paved the way for multiple books, poems, and eventually Broadway plays. Troubetzkoy was the goddaughter of Robert E. Lee, granddaughter of William Cabell Rives, and took John Armstrong Chanler, heir to the Astor fortune, as her first husband. AQS on an off-white 4.5 x 3.5 card. Troubetzkoy pens an excerpt from ‘Lines from a Sound, in full: “Sleep on dead self in placed changelessness; Who knows how soon this other self will die? Or if her grave will be as still a one? The coming years have power to curse and bless, Not love, however much we strive and cry, Joy holds us back until grief’s work is done,” signed at the conclusion, “Amelie Rives.” In fine condition, with some light toning.
Thumbnail 669 Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 Important French painter and printmaker (1864–1901) whose lively, colorful portrayals of the people and places of fin-de-siècle Paris take a place among the most iconic images of the era. Toulouse-Lautrec’s immersion in art stemmed largely from his isolation following a disfiguring teenage accident that failed to heal properly, preventing his legs from growing further while his torso continued to develop normally. Extremely scarce ALS in French, signed “Henry,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, no date. Intimate letter to his mother. In part (translated): “I am still in the throes of the second preview. What a day!! But what success. The exhibition received a slap that it will recover from perhaps, but that will give it a great deal to think about.” He closes the letter, “I send you my love.” In very good condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold, a couple partial separations to horizontal fold and hinge, a couple small repairs to folds, trivial tack hole to one page, and a couple brushes to text. Toulouse-Lautrec first began to exhibit his paintings in a Montmartre cabaret in 1884. Described by the contemporary critic Gustave Geffroy as 'the quintessential chronicler of Paris,’ Toulouse-Lautrec enjoyed critical acclaim and his work was sought after by collectors. The painter was particularly close to his mother, Adèle Tapié de Celeyran, who had long supported his artistic ambitions. By 1893, he was crippled by alcoholism and moved in with his mother while being spurned by other family members for his drunken behavior and the subjects of his paintings. In 1899, she abruptly left Paris, which prompted him to suffer a mental collapse and he was committed to a sanatorium. A rare and revealing letter describing the reception of the artist’s work.
Thumbnail 670 Horace Vernet Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 French painter (1789–1863) known for his painting of battle scenes. ALS in French, signed “H. Vernet,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, June 9, 1829. Letter to Dr. Double who developed auscultation techniques before Laennen. In part (translated): “A thousand thanks for your letter that almost causes me joy in my despair…Be assured, I will stay here! Paris won't see me until my presence doesn't create an unfavorable influence. I will finish the mission entrusted to me, without considering a reorganization…I will be spending six years far from my family…I receive letters from them everyweek…and I suffer so in reading them that sometimes the pain they cause me makes me cry out…As far as I'm concerned the Expedition de Guerre [War Expedition] is totally unsuccessful.” Reverse of second integral page bears an address panel in another hand and retains a majority of its red wax seal In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, some scattered toning and spotting, paper loss to second page from seal, and light show-through from writing on reverse.
Thumbnail 671 Kurt Vonnegut Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Souvenir typescript, 8.5 x 11, featuring an excerpt from Vonnegut’s fourth book, Cat’s Cradle. Excerpt reads, in part: “Call me Jonah. My parents did, or nearly did. They called me John, not because I have been unlucky for others, but because somebody or something has compelled me to be certain places at certain times, without fail. Conveyances and motives, both conventional and bizarre, have been provided. And, according to plan, at each appointed second, at each appointed place this Jonah was there,” signed in black felt tip, adding a profile-sketch of himself and the date June 14, 1996. In fine condition, with light creasing and mild overall haloing to the signature and sketch.
Thumbnail 672 Andy Warhol Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Glossy 5.25 x 8.75 photo of Warhol surrounded by a throng of press, signed in the lower border in black felt tip, with a photographer’s credit written in another hand along the right edge. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 673 Andy Warhol Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 Pink-hued postcard of Warhold’s famed ‘Marilyn,’ 4 x 6, boldly signed on the front in the bottom border in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 674 Andy Warhol Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Vibrant retro color Interview magazine cover, 10.5 x 16.5, signed and inscribed, upside-down, in black felt tip by Warhol. Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 19 x 25. In fine condition, with light creasing, and the signature and inscription a bit light, but completely legible. Oversized.
Thumbnail 675 Robert Penn Warren Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Pulitzer Prize–winning American author (1905–1989) best known for his classic 1946 novel All the King’s Men. Distinguished glossy 8 x 10 head-and-shoulders profile photo, signed in the bottom border in black ballpoint. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 676 James Abbott McNeill Whistler Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Pioneering and influential American-born artist (1834–1903), best known for his distinctively evocative portraits, city and landscapes, and the ‘Arrangement in Gray and Black,’ aka ‘Whistler’s Mother.’ ALS signed “J. McNeill Whistler,” one page, 6 x 4, Beefsteak Club letterhead, no date. Letter to Mrs. Macmillan. In part: “With very great pleasure and many thanks—I have only just got your note.” Central vertical fold, mild toning to left side, and a couple of light creases, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 677 Walt Whitman Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 Large and bold ink signature, “Walt Whitman,” on an off-white 6 x 1.25 vertically-lined slip. Two vertical folds passing through single letters of signature and a touch of light toning, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 678 Oscar Wilde Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 2,000.00 ANS on both sides of an off-white 4.25 x 3.5 card, no date. Wilde pens a quick note to Samuel Dickson, in full: “I am afraid I am engaged to dine on my only vacant night with Mr. Childs but it will give me much pleasure to have the opportunity of meeting you.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Wilde’s hand and featuring his personal seal, still very much intact. A particularly desirable example, featuring bold, dark script and a perfectly preserved signature.
Thumbnail 682 Thomas Wolfe Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 2,000.00 Highly regarded American writer (1900–1938) whose four novels, including Look Homeward, Angel and Of Time and the River, take a place among the high points of twentieth-century fiction. TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, July 8, 1935. Wolfe writes to E. A. Cross of the Colorado State Teacher’s College, in part: “I returned from Europe just a few days ago and have just finished going through a great stack of mail which has accumulated here during the four months I have been away. That explains my delay in answering your letter of June 18 in which you ask me if I can come to Greeley July 30 and talk to you about the novel….I shall be delighted to come. Mr. Davison, in one of his letters to me, suggested that I could do so without interfering with any of the arrangements at Boulder…I shall be in New York another week or ten days answering these letters which have accumulated, and I shall be very grateful to you if you will write me here at Scribner’s as soon as you can and let me know if you still want me.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one passing through a single letter of the signature, uniform toning, a few areas of separation to the edges of the folds, a couple of staple marks and a faint paperclip impression to the top left corner, and a rusty paperclip impression to the bottom edge. After seeking solace in Europe after the uproar in his hometown of Ashville upon the release of his first novel, Look Homeward, Angel, Wolfe settled in Brooklyn to complete his second novel, The October Affair, which was released in 1934.
Thumbnail 683 Tom Wolfe Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: A Man in Full. First trade edition. NY: Farrar, Straus, Giroux, 1998. Hardcover with dustjacket, 6.5 x 9.5, 742 pages. Signed on the title page in black ink. In fine condition, with some scattered light wear and creasing to dustjacket.
Thumbnail 684 Virginia Woolf Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 British author (1882–1941) revered as one of the most important writers in the English language. On March 28, 1941, after a final attack of mental illness, she loaded her pockets with stones and drowned herself near her Sussex home. TLS, one page, 6.5 x 8, Monk’s House letterhead, July 17, 1936. Letter to Swiss psychologist Heinrich Meng. In full: “I regret that your letter of 24 June has remained so long unanswered, but it is due to illness. I must say that it surprised me and I do not think that a matter of the kind should be arranged in the way. I was asked by Dr Stefan Zweig in the first instance simply whether I would allow my name to be added to those of four or five others asking various people to sign an address to Dr Freud. I agreed. Nothing was said then or at any other time about a Committee of about my being responsible for finding money to defray expenses. Now I am informed by you that I am responsible for a sum of £8 and that about £60 has been spent on the address. Apparently this is because I am supposed to be a member of a committee, but I have never been informed of any meeting of the committee or of any decision of it as a committee. If I had originally been informed that it was proposed to spend so large a sum as £60 on a simple address, I should not have approved of it. I do not think that this is a fair or reasonable way of managing a matter of this kind and I therefore am not willing to make myself responsible for informing Mr Wells of what you propose. As regards myself, as the matter has now been settled over my head and you place me in a position in which I can hardly refuse I enclose a cheque for £7 which together with the cheque previously sent to you makes up the sum which you are calling upon me to pay.” In very good to fine condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold, a couple of extra creases, and some scattered faint toning and foxing. In 1936, Sigmund Freud was publicly lauded on the occasion of his 80th birthday, and among the birthday tributes was a congratulatory address (the subject of this letter) written by Stefan Zweig and Thomas Mann and signed by 191 artists and writers. Woolf agreed to participate, even though her opinion of Freud was at best ambivalent. Her husband Leonard was the English publisher of Freud’s works and an admirer of the eminent psychoanalyst, but Woolf had avoided reading Freud and rebelled against the psychoanalytic paradigm. She hated psychological determinism, which she called “Freudian fiction,” and criticized the Freudian explanation as “a patent key that opens every door. It simplifies rather than complicates, detracts rather than enriches.” Nevertheless, Freud’s ideas seeped into her work through the Bloomsbury Group, an intellectual circle that from early on took interest in his theories, and her book To the Lighthouse employs Freudian concepts. An interesting letter linking the British author to the intellectual luminaries of continental Europe.
Thumbnail 685 Andrew Wyeth Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Esteemed American painter (1917–2009) best known for his distinctively realist scenes of New England and his native Pennsylvania. Ballpoint signature, “Andrew Wyeth,” on an off-white 5 x 3 card, with a clipped photo affixed above signature. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 686 Frank Lloyd Wright Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,200.00 Highly influential American architect (1867–1959) whose mastery of space, form, and human-centered design revolutionized the field of architecture and earned him a place among the greatest thinkers and artists of the twentieth century. Signed book: Frank Lloyd Wright: An Autobiography. Later printing. NY: Duell, Sloan and Pearce, 1943. Hardcover, 8.5 x 8.75, 561 pages. Signed and inscribed on the half-title page, “To Mr. and Mrs. Russell—at Taliesin, Frank Lloyd Wright, Aug 11 ‘57.” A personal calling card from Wright’s wife is paper clipped to the top of the page, with his wife adding “Welcome to Arizona, Love,” on the front of the card. Separated front hinge, spine a bit loose, foxing to opening and closing pages and pastedown, rusty paperclip mark to title page, toning and foxing to fore and top edges, and light fading to covers, heavier along spine, with most printing on spine having worn off, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 687 N. C. Wyeth Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Renowned American artist (1882–1945) and patriarch of a family of distinguished painters including son Andrew (born 1917) and grandson Jamie (born 1946). Best known for his illustrations for such classic literary works as Treasure Island, Last of the Mohicans, and Robinson Crusoe, Vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 photo of Wyeth’s work of a lobsterman at the helm of his boat, signed on the reverse in fountain pen, “Charlie Stone—Off Monhegan, 48? x 52? N. C. Wyeth.” In fine condition, with some scattered light soiling and a pencil notation to reverse and some light silvering to image. A scarce example and as close to a signed original Wyeth as you may see.
Thumbnail 688 Emile Zola Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 ALS in French, two pages on two adjoining sheets, 4 x 5.25, black-bordered stationery letterhead, April 10, 1881. Letter to a “dear friend.” In part (translated): “I have another service to ask of you: please insert the enclosed note in your ‘Echos.’ The book will appear on Monday and it would be a good idea for you to give the preface that day as you did for the preface of the first volume of ‘Naturalism in the Theater. The two are inter-connected.” Zola also adds a brief postscript, “Charpentier will send you the copy that I signed for you.” Uniform blocks of toning over both pages of text and signature, scattered creases, and mounting remnant affixed to reverse of second page, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 689 C. C. Beck Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color satin-finish 11 x 14 full-length photo of Captain Marvel, signed in blue felt tip, “Thanks for your contribution to Variety Club Children’s Charities, C. C. Beck,” adding a lightning bolt. In fine condition, with a couple dings and creases to top edge and some light spotting to upper portion of background.
Thumbnail 690 Bud Blake Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two original hand-inked two-panel Tiger daily comic strips on 13.5 x 4.5 off-white sheets, dated July 2 and 13 respectively. Each is signed in the second panel in black ink, “Bud Blake.” In fine condition, with a central vertical fold to both sheets.
Thumbnail 691 Al Capp Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Original hand-inked four panel comic strip, 22.5 x 6.5, featuring the boss of a NY newspaper cartoon syndicate berating a cartoonist, pressing him to create a character more horrible than his last, which was “half man and half marinated herring, 8069 reads dropped dead at the first sight of him!,” signed on the last panel in ink, “Al Capp.” Double-matted to an overall size of 27 x 11.25. The expected pencil notations, a few trivial spots of soiling, and a small newspaper clipping affixed to the bottom right corner of the last panel, otherwise fine condition. Oversized.
Thumbnail 692 Comic Art Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Group of 11 items consisting of ten original ink and felt tip sketches and one signature, each on individual off-white 5 x 3 cards. Signers are: Chip Kidd (Batman), Kevin Eastman (Ninja Turtle), Walter Lantz (Woody Woodpecker), Rudolph Wendelin (Smokey Bear), Christopher Browne (Hagar the Horrible) also signed and inscribed on the reverse, Sherrie Shepherd (2 Francie), Jerry Scott, Kevin Fagan, and one other; and a felt tip signature “Stan Lee ‘99.” In fine overall condition.
Thumbnail 693 Shamus Culhane Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Adorable color glossy 4 x 6 postcard of Betty Boop at an ice cream parlor, signed in blue ballpoint. In fine condition, with scattered light surface marks and some light skipping to the signature.
Thumbnail 694 Jim Davis Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Three items: TLS signed in red felt tip, one page, 5.5 x 8.75, March 28, 1991, Garfield letterhead. Davis responds to an admirer, in part: “Garfield and I will do our best to entertain you”; a printed sketch of Garfield teasing Odie with a bone tied to the end of a stick on a 6.25 x 4.5 sheet of white cardstock, signed below in red felt tip; and a printed color sketch on a 4.5 x 6 sheet of white cardstock, signed in red felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 695 Eldon Dedini Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Original felt tip sketch of a man in a tuxedo accompanied by a woman in an evening gown on an off-white 5 x 8 sheet, signed in black felt tip, “Eldon Dedini,” adding the copyright symbol and “1991.” In fine condition, with a light area of toning to the bottom left corner.
Thumbnail 696 Disney: Daniel Boulos Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Original pencil sketch of Chip on a yellow 4 x 6 sheet, signed in pencil, “Hi! Love Chip! © 1993 Walt Disney Pic., Daniel N. Boulos, Best Wishes.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 697 Disney: Don Rosa Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Original felt tip sketch of the Disney duck family on an off-white 8.5 x 11 cardstock sheet, signed below in black felt tip, “Don Rosa, © Walt Disney Co.” In fine condition, with a light crease to the top right corner.
Thumbnail 698 Walt Disney Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Signed book: Pinocchio. Later printing. Boston: D. C. Heath and Company, 1940. Hardcover, 6.25 x 8.5, 90 pages. Signed on the half-title page in blue ballpoint. A couple light vertical creases and some mild toning to signed page, owner’s notations to pastedowns and first free end page, light soiling to inside pages, both hinges a bit loose, and scattered soiling, wear, and toning to covers and spine, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 699 Walt Disney Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Signed book: Ferdinand the Bull. Wisconsin: Whitman Publishing Company, 1938. Softcover, 9 x 12. Signed and inscribed in black ink on the cover, “To Sid, with best wishes, Walt Disney.” In good to very good condition, with a small tear and some scattered surface loss to front and back cover, tape reinforced spine, inside pages separated from covers, scattered toning and soiling to inside pages, and some light staining along right edge of front cover.
Thumbnail 700 Walt Disney Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 Vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 photo of Disney with a basket full of puppies in front of him, with Mickey Mouse tucked in his hand and Donald Duck lying in the basket, with a shelf of Disney’s awards visible in the background, signed and inscribed in black felt tip “To Sunny, Walt Disney.” Mild rippling and creasing to three edges, and some creasing to lower right corner, otherwise fine condition. Signed photos of Disney posing with any incarnation of Mickey are quite rare.
Thumbnail 701 Disney: Paul Carlson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Disney animator who began working for the company in 1953. Original souvenir signed pencil sketch of Mickey Mouse as Steamboat Willie on an off-white 7.75 x 10 sheet. Signed in the lower border in pencil by Paul Carlson with a facsimile signature of Walt Disney. Double matted and framed to an overall size of 16.5 x 19.5. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 702 Disney: Paul Carlson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Original souvenir signed pencil sketch of Lady and the Tramp on a white 11 x 9.5 sheet. Signed in the lower border in pencil by Paul Carlson with a facsimile signature of Walt Disney. Double matted and framed to an overall size of 19.5 x 17. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 703 Disney: Adriana Caselotti Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Precious vintage glossy 8 x 10 photo of Caselotti as her famed character, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Lila, Snow White, Adriana Caselotti.” Creasing to three corners, and scattered light surface marks, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by two vintage newspaper clippings.
Thumbnail 704 Bud Fisher Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Original vintage pencil sketch of Mutt and Jeff in a living room, in which Jeff is harassing Mutt for a Masonic headpiece he is sporting, to which Mutt replies, “I just crossed the sands of deserted Florida, old dear. I’m on the level,” on an off-white 5.5 x 7 sheet of Washington Hotel stationery, signed below in pencil, “Compliment to Bud Fisher, -26-.” Double-matted to an overall size of 10 x 11.5. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered creasing, and uniform toning.
Thumbnail 705 Friz Freleng Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color glossy 8 x 10 photo of an early version of The Pink Panther, signed in black felt tip. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 706 Disney: Virginia Davis Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Child actor (1918–2009) who would become Disney’s first star when she appeared in Walt Disney series, Alice Comedies. Whimsical glossy 10 x 8 photo of a young Davis peering at a cartoon image of the devil with a pitchfork, signed in black felt tip, “The Devil didn’t get me, but I must admit I had a devilish good time playing ‘Alice’ in Walt Disney’s ‘Alice Comedies,’ 1923–25, Virginia Davis.” Double-matted to an overall size of 14 x 11. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 707 Friz Freleng Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Original pencil sketch of The Pink Panther on an off-white 5 x 8 card, signed below the image in pencil, “Friz Freleng, ‘89.” A few light creases to the top edge along with a light strip of toning, and some trivial rubbing to the sketch and signature, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 708 Stan Goldberg Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Original hand-inked cover art proof for an April 1997 issue of Archie comics, 11.5 x 17.5, with pasted on title, showing Archie and Jughead ruining some furniture in Archie’s garage, signed on a pasted on slip by Goldberg. Triple matted and framed to an overall size of 22.5 x 33.5. In fine condition, with toning to pasted on titles from adhesive on reverse, and notations to borders. Oversized.
Thumbnail 709 Chuck Jones Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Printed sketch of Bugs Bunny on an off-white 5.5 x 8.5 sheet, signed below in pencil, “Chuck Jones.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 710 Chester Gould Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 ALS, one page, 9 x 3.5, December 3, 1973. On a cardstock sheet featuring a printed sketch of Dick Tracy, Gould writes to an admirer, in full: “Thanks for your kind comment re: My recent Dick Tracy Crime stopper. Your encouragement is appreciated!” Uniform shade of toning with scattered light foxing, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Gould’s hand.
Thumbnail 711 Walt Kelly Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 300.00 - 500.00 Original vintage ink production drawing of Pogo tipping his hat and holding an umbrella under his arm, 4.25 x 7.25, signed at the bottom in black ink, “Walt Kelly.” In fine condition, with several pencil and crayon production notations to edges, as well as a “Minnesota Technolog” stamp at the top.
Thumbnail 712 Hank Ketcham Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Original signed and inscribed felt tip sketch of Donald Duck and Dennis the Menace on an off-white 5 x 3 card, signed and inscribed “For Ginny! with a small clipped photo affixed to lower right Donald Dennis…and Hank Ketcham.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 713 Walter Lantz Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Limited edition hand-painted animation cel, 16.5 x 13.5, #44/200, depicting Woody Woodpecker at bat during a baseball game, signed in black felt tip by Lantz, and presented against a pre-printed color background. In fine condition, with a light diagonal crease to cel.
Thumbnail 714 Gary Larson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Printed Far Side cartoon on a 9.5 x 11.5 sheet, depicting a dangerous vacuum cleaner crossing, signed and inscribed in black ink, “To Tom, With best regards, Gary Larson, 5/5/93,” adding a small sketch of a speeding piece of burnt toast. Framed to an overall size of 10.75 x 12.75. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 715 Stan Lee Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Glossy 8 x 10 photo of Lee leaning against a bookcase of his works, signed in blue ballpoint, “Stan Lee ‘82.” In fine condition, with a paperclip impression to top edge.
Thumbnail 716 Charles Schulz Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 TLS signed in blue pencil “Sparky,” one page, 6.25 x 7, personal letterhead, November 3, 1966. Letter of thanks to Bob Dunn at King Feature Syndicate. In full: “Thank you for the cartoon you made for Charlie Brown’s recent Man of the Year award. It is great, and I plan to hand [sic] it in my new studio.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 717 Charles Schulz Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Patriotic color glossy 8 x 10 photo of Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and Lucy marching together, signed in blue felt tip, “Charles M. Schulz.” In very fine condition.
Thumbnail 718 Charles Schulz Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Glossy 7 x 9 photo of Snoopy dressed for tennis, signed in black ink, “Charles M. Schulz.” In fine condition, with a few scattered light surface marks and dings.
Thumbnail 719 Charles Schulz Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 FDC with a cachet honoring the United States space achievements, signed in blue felt tip, “Charles M. Schulz.” In very fine condition.
Thumbnail 720 Charles Schulz and Walt Kelly Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,200.00 ALS signed “Charles Schulz,” one page, 8.5 x 11, October 20, 1954. Letter to Pogo creator Walt Kelly. In full: “How can I get any Charlie Browns drawn with you putting Pogo books out right and left, and me sittin’ around readin’ ‘em?” Under his signature, Schulz adds, “P.S. They’re real funny books.” In the lower half of the page, Kelly writes an unsigned response, in pencil, which reads, “Dear Charlie Brown: You tell Mr. Schulz that he draws real funny and I’m sorry he wrote to me first because I’ve been meaning to do that to him all along. Tell him here’s the last book which is only a buck whereas I see his is a half dollar more. Class will tell. Yrs.” Two staple holes to top left and mild toning, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Schulz’s hand, and signed in the return address area, “Charles M. Schulz.” Also accompanied by the original typed carbon of Kelly’s response, as it was usually Kelly’s custom to have his secretary type his written responses. A fantastic handwritten exchange between two comic icons from the beginnings of their long and successful careers.
Thumbnail 721 Charles Schulz and Hank Ketcham Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Original signed ink sketch of Snoopy and Dennis the Menace building a snowman on a First Day Cover, honoring Christmas 1982, postmarked October 28, 1982. Ketcham uses the postmark stamp as the head of the snowman, adding Dennis to the right, signing in black ink, “Hank Ketcham,” and Schulz adds Snoopy to the left of the snowman, signing in black ballpoint, “Schulz.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 722 Charles Schulz Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Signed book: Snoopy and ‘It Was a Dark and Stormy Night.’ First edition. NY: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1971. Hardcover with dustjacket, 5.5 x 8.25. Signed in black felt tip on the first free end page, “Charles M. Schulz.” Owner’s name written on half-title page, scattered light toning, fading, wear, and small tears to dustjacket, and some chipping and surface loss to spine, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 725 Charles Schulz Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Signed book: Charlie Brown & Charlie Schulz. First edition, first printing. NY: The World Publishing Company, 1970. Hardcover with dustjacket, 8.75 x 11.25, 160 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free-end page in black ballpoint, “For Jackie—Every best wish, Charles M. Schulz,” adding a large sketch of Snoopy. In fine condition, with a light strip of toning to the tops of the pages, and light wear and a price clip to the dustjacket.
Thumbnail 726 Charles Schulz, Friz Freleng, and Bob Kane Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Terrific original ink and pencil sketches of Snoopy, the Pink Panther, and Batman on a 6.5 x 3.5 First Day Cover, bearing a cachet honoring Christmas 1990, signed in black felt tip, “Schulz,” in pencil, “Fritz Freleng,” and in black ink, “Bob Kane.” In fine condition, with some light rubbing to the edges.
Thumbnail 728 Jussi and Anna Lisa Bjorling Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 Rare vintage glossy 3.5 x 6 photo of the Swedish tenor and his wife, soprano and actress, signed in fountain pen by both. In fine condition, with some light creasing to the edges, and a light contrast to Anna Lisa’s signature against the background.
Thumbnail 729 Hans von Bulow Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 300.00 - 500.00 Pianist and as a conductor, became a piano pupil of Liszt. Untranslated ALS in German, signed “H. Bulow,” two pages, the second embossed in the lower right corner, 4.5 x 7, May 25. The famed musician composes a gracefully-penned letter. Velvet-matted and framed, with an image of the pianist with a cigar, to an overall size of 19 x 12. In fine condition, with mild paper loss to the top edges of each page and a few trivial adhesive remnants.
Thumbnail 730 Enrico Caruso Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Handsome vintage 3.25 x 5 postcard photo, signed in fountain pen. In very good condition, with scattered surface wear and rubbing, some light silvering, and two circular impressions over first name of signature.
Thumbnail 731 Maria Callas Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Vintage glossy 8 x 10 full-length photo of Callas in character, signed in fountain pen, “Maria Meneghini Callas.” Light to moderate contrast to signature, moderate crazing and creasing to finish, mainly along left side, and scattered surface marks, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 734 Johannes Brahms Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 Famed German composer (1833–1897) whose works in the Classical spirit, written in the midst of the Romantic era, take a place among the most enduring music of the 19th century. Among his best-known works are four symphonies, numerous concerti, all manner of chamber and keyboard works, and the large-scale choral masterpiece German Requiem. ALS in German, signed “J. Brahms,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, July 2, 1891. The composer writes from Bad Ischl to his “esteemed, dear friend,” translated, in full: “At this time, I am only able to express my sincere thanks for the picture and letter you sent. Both equally pleasant, the picture is indeed a pretty sight. I was absolutely delighted to receive them. While I am giving my answer from here, I must admit the necessary inspiring spark evades me right now. Once I am back in Vienna, your letter will be a reminder for me to send the manuscript as soon as I get it ready, although the latter will need a thorough work over, as I want to elaborate more on the initial idea. I will be keenly interested to hear what others (particularly your daughter) think about it and not hold back!” Scattered light areas of toning and foxing, a light paperclip impressions, stray ink marks towards the top left corner, and a few pencil notations, otherwise fine condition. From 1889 through the end of his life, Brahms would spend his summers in Bad Ischl, a town in the southern part of Upper Austria. Although Brahms had planned on resigning his life as a composer in his elder years, he continued on, unable to hold his natural gifts and inclinations at bay. A desirable letter from the composers later years, illustrating his inherent drive to create.
Thumbnail 735 Maria Callas Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Vintage glossy 4 x 5.75 cardstock photo, signed in black felt tip. In very good condition, with moderate contrast to portion of signature, some scattered light spotting and silvering, and mounting remnants to reverse.
Thumbnail 736 Eugen d’Albert Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Scottish-born German composer (1864–1932) of operas and much orchestral and piano music. Vintage 3.25 x 5.25 British postcard photo, signed vertically in fountain pen. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 737 Hariclea Darclee Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Romanian operatic soprano (1860–1939). Vintage 5.5 x 3.5 postcard photo, signed vertically in fountain pen in the right border, “Hariclea Darclee 1903.” In fine condition, with a bit of scattered light foxing.
Thumbnail 738 Rudolf Friml Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Czech-born composer (1879–1972) of such ‘light’ classics as the operettas ‘The Firefly,’ ‘Rose Marie,’ and ‘The Vagabond King.’ Sheet music cover for Pisne Zavisovy, 5 x 8, signed and inscribed in fountain pen. Matted to an overall size of 8 x 10. In fine condition, with some light contrast to signature and inscription.
Thumbnail 739 Maria Jeritza Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Darling vintage pearl-finish 6.75 x 9.25 photo of Jeritza dripping in pearls and wrapped in a feather boa, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Mr. John Dittmore, with best wishes, Maria Jeritza, 1928.” A faint paperclip impression to the top, trimmed edges, and trivial silvering to some of the darker areas of the image, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 740 Edvard Grieg Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 British 3.25 x 5.25 postcard photo, signed vertically in black ink, “This photo has no likeness, Edvard Grieg.” In good condition, with flaking to ink affecting most of Grieg’s statement and portion of signature, light contrast to portion of signature, and a tape remnant to reverse of one edge.
Thumbnail 741 Josef Hofmann Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Child prodigy (1876–1957) who later became one of the world's famous pianists and pedagogues. Very early original 4.25 x 6.5 Sarony cabinet photo of a young Hofmann seated at a piano, signed and inscribed in fountain pen on the reverse, as a 12 year old, “Souvenir a Madame Florence Morganstern de Jozid Hofmann, New York 1-1 88.” Scattered surface marks to image, scattered soiling to lower border, and some scattered soiling and dampstaining to reverse, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 742 Engelbert Humperdinck Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,500.00 German Romantic composer (1854–1921) best known for the opera Hänsel und Gretel. He is not related to the 1960s British pop star of the same name (born Arnold Dorsey), who ‘borrowed’ the composer’s moniker from a music dictionary. Vintage 3.5 x 5.5 postcard photo, signed vertically in black ink, “E. Humperdinck.” Reverse bears a 1912 postmark. A bit of scattered light silvering, small stain to right edge, and a trivial brush to signature, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 743 Franz Joseph Haydn Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 10,000.00 - 12,000.00 Rare signed music score: Ariana a Naxos, Cantate a Voce Sola o Forte-Piano. First edition. London: “Printed for the Author and sold by him at No. 18, Great Pulteney Street and at J. Blands Music Warehouse, 45 Holborn,” no date [circa 1790], 14 x 10, 18 pages. Signed in ink on the cover at lower right, “Haydn.” In very good condition, with pencil notations and a bookplate affixed to inside front cover, expected toning and soiling, and some scattered edge wear and chips. Hadyn wrote Ariana a Naxos in either 1789 or 1790, and he originally intended to orchestrate the work, but never undertook that task. Ariana a Naxos, a cantata for soprano and keyboard, is a scena, a miniature dramatic scene, drawn on the Greek myth of Ariadne. The daughter of Minos, the King of Crete, Ariadne helps Theseus escape from the Cretan Labyrinth. Theseus marries Ariadne, but later abandons her on the island of Naxos. When Hadyn composed this cantata, he was about to embark on the most prolific and successful phase of his career. With the death of his patron, Prince Nikolaus Esterhazy, in 1790, Haydn gained new freedom from his official musical duties. In the period from 1791 to 1795, he made two extended journeys to London to conduct new symphonies, where he enjoyed spectacular success and generated some of his best-known work. Material signed by Haydn has become exceedingly difficult to obtain; his signature on a score (itself a notable scarcity) from the most fertile period of his career makes for an item of exceptional interest, and one that deserves a place of honor in any serious classical music collection.
Thumbnail 744 Engelbert Humperdinck Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 600.00 - 800.00 German Romantic composer (1854–1921) best known for the opera Hänsel und Gretel. He is not related to the 1960s British pop star of the same name (born Arnold Dorsey), who “borrowed” the composer’s moniker from a music dictionary. AMQS on an off-white 5.25 x 3.5 off-white sheet. Humperdinck pens two bars of music, signing underneath, “E. Humperdinck Hd Gr II.” In fine condition, with some scattered mild toning.
Thumbnail 745 Zoltan Kodaly Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Prominent Hungarian composer, educator, ethnomusicologist, linguist, author, and philosopher. Clean fountain pen signature, “Kodaly,” on a beige 5 x 4 album page. In fine condition. Accompanied by an unsigned Camera Press LTD publicity photo of Kodaly.
Thumbnail 746 Fritz Kreisler Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Composer and violinist (1875–1962). Vintage 5 x 6.75 semi-glossy photo, signed in fountain pen, “Fritz Kreisler1915.” Scattered creases and surface marks, and mild silvering to darker areas of image and background, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 747 Wanda Landowska Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 French harpsichordist (1879–1959) whose performances, teaching, recordings and writings played a large role in reviving the popularity of the harpsichord in the early 20th century. Vintage pearl-finish 9 x 7 photo of Landowska seated at a grand piano, boldly signed and inscribed in fountain pen “A Margaret Sarretsen Swenson, souvenir sympathique Wanda Landowska 1926.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 17.25 x 14.75. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 748 Franz Lehar Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Popular Austrian composer (1870–1948) of ‘light’ classical music, best known for his operetta, ‘The Merry Widow.’ Vintage 3.25 x 5.25 postcard photo, signed in the lower border in fountain pen. Scattered silvering to background, a few surface marks, and a photographer’s stamp to lower left, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 749 Jenny Lind Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Celebrated soprano (1820–1887), known as the ‘Swedish Nightingale,’ who, under the management of P. T. Barnum, became the most renowned and highly paid singer of her day. Ink signature, “The kind remembrance of Jenny Lind Goldschmidt, London, March 1881,” on an off-white 5.25 x 2.75 clipped slip. Two rusty paperclip marks to bottom, small pencil notation to top left, and a bit of light soiling, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 750 Alexander Campbell MacKenzie Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Scottish composer (1847–1935). MacKenzie is most widely known for his oratorios, violin, and piano pieces, producing over 90 compositions. He is regarded as a pioneer of the British musical renaissance at the turn of the century. Ornately-penned AMQS on an off-white 4 x 3 sheet inlaid within an 8.5 x 11 album page. MacKenzie pens three bars of music from ‘Benedictus,’ signed below, “A. C. MacKenzie, Oct. 1907.” In fine condition, with some light bleeding to a few of the notes.
Thumbnail 751 Alma Mahler-Werfel Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Austrian composer, author and companion of famous men (1879–1964). ALS in her native language, boldly signed “Alma,” one page of onion skin paper, 8.5 x 11, August 22, 1950. The Viennese socialite writes in her customary purple ink, translated, in full: “Liebau, Please send my 2nd letter back to me, so that I can type and return it completed! I will presumably be in NY at the end of Sept, and will bring the scores with me. I embrace you.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, one passing through a single letter of the signature, and scattered creasing.
Thumbnail 752 Rene Maison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vintage pearl-finish 8 x 10 full-length photo of Maison in character, signed and inscribed in blue ink “With every good wish—to Edward A. Gerthner, Rene Maison Dec 27–1928.” In fine condition, with some scattered light silvering and a ding to right edge.
Thumbnail 753 Jules Massenet Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 ALS in French, signed “J. Massenet,” one page, 4.5 x 7, December 12, 1903. Massenet writes, translated, in part: “I am writing to you immediately. I am ever…your dearest friend…on the subject of poetry, it is hard for me to write separate pieces. I have a major work to finish.” In fine condition, with a central horizontal fold.
Thumbnail 754 Jules Massenet Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 French composer (1842–1912) best known for such operas as ‘Manon,’ ‘Werther,’ and ‘Thais.’ AMQS on the reverse of a 5.25 x 3.25 photo postcard of Massenet. The composer pens one bar of music from his opera ‘Roma,’ signing underneath, “Roma Act II, Massenet, Monte Carlo, 3 February 1912.” Postal cancellation over end of quote, pencil notation and cancellation to address panel, and some light silvering to image, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 755 Jules Massenet Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 French composer (1842–1912) best known for such operas as ‘Manon,’ ‘Werther,’ and ‘Thais.’ ALS in French, signed “J. Massenet,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.25 x 7, April 16, 1903. Massenet pens an elegant letter, roughly translated in part: "I am moved by your inquiring after my health...alas—for a number of days, I've been bed-ridden; I don't know when I will be capable of walking again without the risk of aggravating the injury which has so cruelly brought me this suffering..." Creasing to the bottom right corner of the second adjoining page, affecting the end of the signature, a few trivial separations at the edge of the mailing folds, some light adhesive remnants from previous display, and the signature and inscription a shade or two light, but completely legible, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 756 John McCormack Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 World-famous Irish tenor and recording artist (1884-1945), celebrated for his performances of the operatic and popular song repertoires. ALS, one page, 7.25 x 10.5, 2000 North Fuller Avenue, Hollywood, California letterhead, April 9, 1938. McCormack responds to an admirer, in full: “Thank you for your nice letter. I am very glad to send you my autograph.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one passing through a single letter of the signature, some light toning, and a moderate crease to the top right corner. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 757 Yehudi Menuhin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vintage glossy 3.25 x 5.25 photo, signed and inscribed in blue ink “To Mr. Bernard Baker, with best wishes, Yehudi Menuhin, 1958.” Some light horizontal creasing through facial area, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 758 Musicians Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vintage ink signatures of 14 conductors and singers on both sides of eight 6 x 4 album pages. Signers include: Andre Kostelanetz, Enya Gonzalez, Arthur Fiedler, Giuseppe Bamboschek, Ernest Macmillan, Frieder Weissmann, Nan Merriman, Edwin McArthur, Bidu Sayao, Richard Tucker, Giuseppe de Lucca, and Margaret Matzenauer. In fine overall condition.
Thumbnail 759 Jack Norworth Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 American performer and songwriter (1879–1959) best known for co-writing such standards as the baseball anthem, ‘Take Me Out to the Ball Game,’ and ‘Shine On, Harvest Moon.’ Vintage ink signature, “Jack Norworth,” on an off-white 3 x 1.75 ASCAP autograph card. In fine condition, with a bit of trivial soiling.
Thumbnail 760 Jack Norworth Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 American performer and songwriter (1879–1959) best known for co-writing such standards as the baseball anthem, ‘Take Me Out to the Ball Game,’ and ‘Shine On, Harvest Moon.’ TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, personal letterhead, April 2, 1959. In part: “In the first place I have never met Ada Jones. Then I do not remember Nora Bayes and myself ever making a record of ‘Shine On, Harvest Moon.’ If you can verify this I would be glad to know about it and try to get one of the records. Many people down through the years have said they had one and when I offered them money for it, nothing happened.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, and a bit of light toning.
Thumbnail 761 Carl Orff Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 German composer (1895-1982) best known for his oratorio ‘Carmina Burana.’ Vintage matte-finish 3.5 x 5.5 profile photo, signed in the bottom border in blue ballpoint, “Carl Orff, 14.III.63.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 762 Opera and Concert Stars Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Softcover autograph album, 6.25 x 4, signed inside in ink by approximately 100 opera and concert signers, mainly from the 1940, most single page and back-to-back. Signers include: Richard Tauber, Giovanni Martinelli, Igor Gorin, Eugene Conley, Jan Kiepura, Bruna Castagna, Mia Slawenska, Charles Kullman, Vivian Della Chiesa, Jennie Tourel, Martha Lipton, Frederick Jagel, Jarmila Novotna, Ira Petina, Nicola Moscona, Robert Merril, Rose Bampton, John Brownlee, Dorothy Maynor, Ebe Stignani, Alexander Brailowsky, Herva Nelli, Raoul Jobin, Helen Jepson, Eleanor Steber, Jan Peerce, Robert Weede, Nadine Conner, Patrice Munsel, Lucille Browning, Norman Cordon, Ferrucio Tagliavini, and Enzo Mascherini. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 763 Pianists Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Lot of signed photos, programs, and signatures from classical pianist greats, ranging in size from 2.5 x 2.5 to 8 x 10, each signed in ink by the respective musician. Signers are: Robert Casadesus, Eileen Joyce, Sascha Gorodnitzki, Rudolf Firkusny, Lubka Kolessa, Yolanda Mero, George Thalben-Ball, Myra Hess, and Arthur Rubinstein. In overall fine condition, with some light creasing and toning, and irregular ink adhesion to Hess’s signature, which is also a bit light, but completely legible.
Thumbnail 764 Sergei Prokofiev Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Eminent and prolific Russian composer (1891–1953) best known for his colorful, rhythmically vigorous works, including symphonies, operas, and much music for keyboard and chamber ensembles. TLS in French, one page, 8.25 x 10.5, March 27, 1932. Prokofiev writes to Monsieur Schwerke from Paris, translated, in full: “Included herewith are all necessary materials to make your work easier. I am giving you 32 pieces all together, counting the biography notice that I gave you the other time as No. 1. Would you please be kind enough to return all this material to me after finishing the work. I have called the photographer who is prepared to give you a free polished surface copy. Please call Studio Iris, Littré 37-64. When your work is finished, I would like to skim through it, not to influence you, but to eliminate the mistakes that could slide into it, due to translation of different languages in which the materials were given to you.” Light creasing, a staple mark to the top edge, a few pencil notations to the top and bottom, and some light brushing to the beginning of the signature, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 765 Nicolo Paganini Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 Remarkable Italian violinist and composer (1782–1840) generally regarded as the greatest virtuoso in the history of the instrument. Paganini’s striking appearance and seemingly superhuman skill on the instrument led many to believe that he was in league with the devil, an image he did nothing to dispel. His fiendishly demanding (and sometimes beautiful) works for the violin, particularly the Caprices, remain a cornerstone of the repertoire. Opera pass on an off-white 4.25 x 2.5 slip. The beginning, written in another hand, reads, “King's Theatre/Admit Two Pit m/Friday 16th July 1831,” and is signed at the conclusion, “Nicolo Paganini.” In very good condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold, scattered creasing and wrinkling, as well as some light toning and soiling. Accompanied by an unsigned carte-de-visite. Paganini performed a series of shows at the King's Theatre between June–July 1831. Paganini is rare in any form, particularly in music-related items.
Thumbnail 766 Maurice Ravel Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Highly influential French composer (1875–1937) who remains unsurpassed in his imaginative use of instrumental color in his operas, brilliantly scored orchestral music, and virtuosic piano pieces. Precise vintage ink signature, “Maurice Ravel,” on an off-white 6 x 7.75 album page, with French author George Duhamel’s signature above Ravel’s. In fine condition, with a uniform shade of mild toning. Ravel’s signature could be easily matted on its own.
Thumbnail 767 Sergei Rachmaninoff Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vintage fountain pen signature, “Sergei Rachmaninoff, 1939,” on an off-white 3.5 x 2.25 card. In fine condition, with a trivial area of soiling above, but not affecting, the signature, and some irregular ink adhesion to the first letter. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 768 Giacomo Puccini Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 ALS in Italian, signed “All my kisses, your, Muckilini,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.5 x 7.25, Regina–Palast–Hotel letterhead, no date. Lengthy love letter to Puccini’s lover, German soprano Rose Ader. Translated in part: “My sweet Rosa I have received your telegram, so much expected and so dear to me. Thank you my good Rosa…[Follows a detailed timetable of the route Rosa needs to take]...I was planning to go to Salzburg but I won’t. Tonight Mozart, the day after tomorrow Arianne and that evening departure to Italy…My sweet treasure: I think always ‘immer’ so much about you, my only great joy.” Intersecting folds, pencil notation along top edge of first page, small area of ink pooling to a single letter of signature, and a couple light brushes to text, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope addressed in Puccini’s hand.
Thumbnail 769 Maurice Ravel Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Highly influential French composer (1875–1937) who remains unsurpassed in his imaginative use of instrumental color in his operas, brilliantly scored orchestral music, and virtuosic piano pieces. ALS in French, on the correspondence side of a 5.25 x 3.25 picture postcard of Montfort l’Amaury, May 11, 1925. Letter to “Monsieur L. Hogge,” in Liege. In full (translated): “I owe you an apology dear Sir: I was so busy correcting proofs at the time that your kind letters arrived. I will have the pleasure to see you again soon, and best wishes until that time.” Scattered light soiling to correspondence side, two postmarks above address panel, a few light corner tip creases, and a few surface marks to image, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 770 Ottorino Respighi Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Composer (1879–1936) known for orchestral colorism. AMQS on an off-white 7 x 5 album page. Respighi pens two intricate measures from his ‘Campana Sommersa (The Sunken Bell),’ signed underneath, “Ottorino Respighi, Buenos Aries, Settembre 1929.” Page is affixed to a larger off-white sheet, along with a small clipped photo. In fine condition, with scattered light toning.
Thumbnail 771 Arthur Rubenstein Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Vintage glossy 7.75 x 10 photo, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “To Richard, with best wishes, Arthur Rubenstein, Dec. 5, 1959.” A trimmed left edge, a raised label affixed to bottom border, and a bit of irregular ink adhesion to signature and date, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 772 Singers Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vintage ink signatures of 10 singers on opposite sides of five separate 6 x 4 album pages. Signers include: Mario Lanza (ins), Todd Duncan, Salvatore Baccaloni, Ezio Pinza, Alexander Gray, Lansing Hatfield, Francesco Valentino, and Hilde Reggiani. In fine overall condition.
Thumbnail 773 Richard Strauss Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Ink signature, “Richard Strauss,” on a light blue 6.25 x 7.75 album page, with an unidentified signature to lower portion of page. In fine condition, with some mild edge toning. Strauss’s signature could be easily matted on its own.
Thumbnail 774 Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 Eminent Russian composer (1844–1908) best known for such brilliantly orchestrated works as Scheherazade and for operatic staples like Sadko, The Tale of Tsar Saltan, and The Golden Cockerel. Autograph musical manuscript, signed twice with his initials, with several other notations in Russian, entitled “Sinfonietta,” on three 14.5 x 10 musically-lined sheets. This is a heavily revised working manuscript in short score, the first draft in ink with extensive cancellations in blue pencil and a few emendations in lead pencil, in five systems of two staves. Rimsky-Korsakov has also written at the end, “Dedicated to G.O. Dutsch.” title page bears notations in another hand which read "Dedicated to 8 .0. Diutsh/Russian Sinfonietta/in/A major." Uniform light toning, several edge tears and areas of surface loss, and scattered soiling, otherwise very good condition. Rimsky-Korsakov's Sinfonietta on Russian Themes emerged from a string quartet based entirely on Russian folk tunes which he had composed in summer 1879. The dedicatee, the composer and conductor Georgi Ottonovich Dutsch, was a former pupil of Rimsky's at the Conservatory and he became a close friend and co-conductor with Rimsky of the Russian Symphony Concerts from 1886 onwards. A very rare piece containing approximately 500 bars of music.
Thumbnail 775 Gioachino Rossini Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 ALS in Italian, signed “G. Rossini,” one page, 7.5 x 10, February 4, 1851. Rossini sends a brief letter of affection from Bologna to his “excellent friend,” in full: “I thank you so very much for what you advised regarding the Carpini Assets; I understand that I will enjoy with Lampovecchi [?] the fruit of my money. I will avail myself of your right ideas to conduct the negotiations. Santo had your receipt for the two notes of L. 1000 each to charge Moghina’ [?]; if he does not pay when they are due, go ahead with the collection. However, I hope that everything will end well. My reason tells me that I should not give you any longer the pain of reading my writings but my heart wants for me to take care of you always,” adding the post script, “Olimpia sends her warm regards. Is Matilde, that you will salute for me, glad of her new apartment? What about her loving son, Angelo? Is he doing well in high school? A hug for Sansone.” Intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, some scattered paper loss to edges, uniform toning, tear to right edge near signature, old tape and mounting remnants to reverse, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 776 John Philip Sousa Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Elegant AMQS on a 5.75 x 3.25 off-white sheet. Sousa pens four bars of music entitled “Jack Tar,” signed beneath, “John Philip Sousa, 1904.” In fine condition, with light show-through from mounting remnants on the reverse.
Thumbnail 777 Richard Strauss Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 German composer (1864–1949) whose colorful symphonic poems and operas earned him a place among the most important figures in late-19th- and early-20th-century music. His best-known work is ‘Also Sprach Zarathustra’ (1896), which attained iconic status as the theme of the film 2001: A Space Odyssey. Vintage 3.25 x 5.25 postcard photo, signed in fountain pen. In very good condition, with moderate contrast to signature, scattered light silvering, postal impression to lower left, and some light corner chips and creases.
Thumbnail 778 John Philip Sousa Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 AMQS on the reverse of one of Sousa’s printed 3.25 x 1.5 visting cards. Sousa pens three bars from an unidentified work, signing underneath, “John Philip Sousa ‘99.” In fine condition, with a couple light brushes to quote, a uniform shade of light toning, and mounting remnants to reverse.
Thumbnail 779 Arturo Toscanini Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Legendary Italian-born conductor (1867–1957) widely regarded as one of the greatest figures ever to ascend the podium. Vintage glossy 10 x 8 photo of Toscanini conducting during rehearsal, signed in the lower border in fountain pen, “Arturo Toscanini, March 7, 1938.” Scattered light creases and surface marks, some light toning to borders, and irregular ink adhesion to date, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 780 Arturo Toscanini Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vintage glossy 5.75 x 3.5 postcard photo of Toscanini at his piano, signed in fountain pen, “Arturo Toscanini, 7-3-938.” In very good condition, with moderate silvering to the darker areas of the image, the signature a bit thick due to heavy ink flow, slightly irregular adhesion, and mild contrast to the signature against the darker background. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, postmarked May 31, 1938, and protective sheet of paper.
Thumbnail 781 John Philip Sousa Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,000.00 ALS, one page, 5 x 8, North Stafford Station Hotel letterhead, March 29, 1903. Letter to a friend. In full: “Spring is coming. The fields are green and smiling and all nature is putting on a new garb. We are here in Stoke on Hanley the heart of the pottery district of England. We return to London on the 10th for 8 or 9 days then go to Paris and Brussels etc. for 2 or 3 weeks, coming back to England for a further tour. I want to sail home early in June but I have been unable to settle that point so far. The band boys are well and seem to be happy. How goes things in the land of the free and the home of the brave?” In fine condition, with a uniform shade of mild toning.
Thumbnail 782 Igor Stravinsky Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 Signed book: Chroniques de Ma Vie (in two volumes). Paris: Denöel et Steele, 1935. Softcover, 4.75 x 7.5. Signed and inscribed in fountain pen (in French) to Edward Forbes on the title page of Volume I and dated Cambridge, November 27, 1939. Stravinsky was in Cambridge during the 1939–1940 academic year to deliver the prestigious Charles Eliot Norton Lectures at Harvard, later adapted into the book The Poetics of Music in the Form of Six Lessons. The inscribee, Edward Forbes, was director of the Harvard Art Museums from 1909 to 1944. In fine condition, with expected mild toning to interior, mild toning and soiling to covers (covers of Volume II covers reattached, owner’s ink name to each volume, and a touch of wear at spine ends. The volumes are unexpectedly sturdy and well-preserved for this notoriously fragile edition, and the inscription and signature are bold and dark. Signed copies of Stravinsky’s books are very seldom encountered.
Thumbnail 783 Richard Wagner Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 Important German composer (1813–1883) who, by expanding harmonic, instrumental, and dramatic forces to a previously undreamed-of degree, single-handedly revolutionized opera and attained status as one of the most influential geniuses in the history of music. AQS on a 4 x 2.25 off-white trimmed card. Wagner quotes the first line from Hamlet's soliloquy, “To be or not to be. Richard Wagner.” Card is affixed to a 5 x 5.5 off-white piece of cardstock, along with the address panel of the original mailing envelope. In very good condition, with scattered toning and soiling to card, not affecting legibility, closely trimmed top edge, and some slight adhesive remants touching a few letters of quote. The influence of Shakespeare on Wagner and his work is evident in his early opera 'Das Liebesverbot', based on Shakespeare's 'Measure for Measure.'
Thumbnail 784 Henri Vieuxtemps Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Belgian composer and violinist (1820–1881) considered an essential part of the Franco-Belgian violin school during the mid-19th century. ALS in French, signed “H. Vieuxtemps,” one page, 5 x 8, March 27. Letter to an unidentified woman. In part (translated): “I will go to the concert on Rochechouart Street tomorrow at 2 o'clock with my accompanist. Since I won't be coming from my house, please don't trouble to send a carriage for me.” In very good condition, with intesecting folds and scattered toning, including some over signature. The Salle Pleyel, 22 rue Rochechouart, was a famed concert hall where Chopin, Liszt, Paganini and many others appeared.
Thumbnail 786 AC/DC: Angus Young Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 White pickguard for a standard-size strat, signed in blue felt tip, “Angus Young, AC/DC,” and adding a self-portrait caricature sketch, complete with devil horns. In fine condition, with a few trivial surface marks.
Thumbnail 787 Adele and Carrie Underwood Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Commemorative for the grand opening of the Grammy Museum on December 6, 2008, 8 x 10, signed in black felt tip by Adele and Carrie Underwood. In fine condition. Consignor notes that both signatures were obtained at the 2012 Grammys.
Thumbnail 788 Aerosmith Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Draw the Line album signed on the front cover in blue felt tip by Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton, and Joey Kramer. In fine condition, with a few corner bumps and a bit of scattered light cover wear. The record is not included. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from James Spence.
Thumbnail 789 Aerosmith: Steven Tyler Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 300.00 Natural wood-finish six-string acoustic guitar, signed on the black pickguard in silver ink by Tyler. Some light scratches to pickguard and a couple small dings to body, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by a photo taken at time of signing. Oversized.
Thumbnail 790 George Antheil Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Composer and author (1900–1959). DS, one page, 8.5 x 11, June 11, 1951. Antheil acknowledges an agreement between himself and Weintraub Music “for the publication of your choruses 8 Fragments from Shelley…On all published copies of these choruses sold, you will receive 10% of the list price; on all mechanical reproductions the royalty of 50% will prevail.” In fine condition, with a few wrinkles and a uniform shade of mild toning.
Thumbnail 791 Harold Arlen Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 House of Flowers album signed and inscribed on the front in blue ballpoint, “To Pat, I’m sure your [sic] kinder than your dad—Bless ‘em—Sincerely, Harold Arlen.” In very good condition, with scattered light toning and rubbing, separations to the top and bottom edges, and light ‘rings of wear.’ The record is included.
Thumbnail 792 Louis Armstrong Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two items: Program for Guy Lombardo’s Mardis Gras!, 5.5 x 8.5, signed in blue ballpoint on the back cover; and a Swiss Kriss herbal laxatives packet, 2.25 x 3.5, signed and inscribed on the reverse in green fountain pen, “To Midori, Louis Armstrong.” In very good condition, with a central vertical fold to the program passing through a single letter of the signature, toning, and an ink notation, and moderate contrast to the signature on the laxative packet.
Thumbnail 793 Asia Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Aisa CD signed on the front cover of the booklet in blue and black felt tip by Carl Palmer, Steve Howe, John Wetton, and Geoff Downes. In fine condition. The CD is included.
Thumbnail 794 Bad Company Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Rough Diamonds album signed on the front cover in blue felt tip by Paul Rodgers, Simon Kirke, and Mick Ralphs. Scattered creases and surface marks, rubbing to the covers, discount cut to spine, and a ‘ring of wear’ to front cover, otherwise fine condition. The record is included. Accompanied by three photos taken at time of signing.
Thumbnail 795 The Band Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Cahoots album signed on the front cover in blue felt tip by Levon Helm, Garth Hudson, and Robbie Robertson. Scattered light wear and rubbing to covers and a partial separation to bottom edge, otherwise fine condition. The record is included.
Thumbnail 796 Count Basie Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 DS, one page, 8.5 x 11, January 24, 1949. The William Morris Agency sends Basie a document clarifying “the correctness of your account as of January 24, 1949, which shows a balance of $1,015.72 due our office, it is agreed between us as follows: That upon submission by you of factual information which will prove that certain commissions have been charged to you in error because of non-playing of dates, playing of dates at scale, or short-payment on dates, but for no other reasons, you will be credited with the amount of commissions which have been charged to you for such dates and not previously credited to your account,” signed at the conclusion and initialed as well. A rusty paperclip impression to the left edge, two punch holes to the top, and an ink notation, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 797 Beach Boys Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Handwritten souvenir lyrics to ‘Surfer Girl’ on a white 8.5 x 11 cardstock Beach Boys sheet. David Marks pens the lyrics, “Little surfer little one, make my heart come all undone, Do you love me, Do you surfer girl, surfer girl, My little surfer girl,” signed at the conclusion by Marks and Al Jardine. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 798 Beach Boys Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Good Vibrations: Best of The Beach Boys album signed on the front in blue felt tip by Mike Love, Al Jardine, and David Marks, adding lyrics to ‘Surfin’ USA.’ In fine condition, with soiling to the top right corner, and light ‘rings of wear.’ The record is not included.
Thumbnail 799 Beach Boys: Brian Wilson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two items: Endless Summer album, signed on the front cover in black felt tip. The records are included; and a white pickguard for a standard-size Telecaster, signed in blue felt tip. Scattered rubbing, wear, and creasing to album and a PSA/DNA authentication label affixed to pickguard, otherwise fine condition. Pickguard is accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
Thumbnail 800 Beach Boys: Brian Wilson Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Glossy 8 x 10 photo, signed vertically in black felt tip. In fine condition, with small spot to emulsion near right edge.
Thumbnail 801 Beatles: Pete Best Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two items: original 1961 British issue sheet music to ‘Twist and Shout,’ four pages, signed at the top of the first page in black felt tip by Best; and an 8-inch diameter cardstock ‘drumskin,’ also signed in black felt tip. Some scattered toning and creasing to the sheet music, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 802 Beatles: Peter Blake Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band album signed across the top in black felt tip, “Peter Blake.” In very good condition, with mild toning and wear, some surface impressions, light paper loss to the left edge, and mild ‘rings of wear.’ The record is not included.
Thumbnail 803 Beatles: Peter Blake and Jann Haworth Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Color glossy 8 x 10 photo of a book photo of the cover of Sgt. Pepper, signed in the lower border in black felt tip by Peter Blake and in blue felt tip by Jann Haworth. In fine condition, with a couple light bends.
Thumbnail 804 Beatles Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 7,000.00 - 8,000.00 Original vintage Fabulous Beatles Souvenir Song Album, 8.5 x 11, 27 pages. Signed on the front cover in blue ballpoint, “John Lennon,” and inside next to their respective images and biographies, “George Harrison,” “Paul McCartney xxx,” and “Ringo Starr xx.” In very good condition, with skipping to Lennon’s signature due to lamination on cover, a few partially separated pages inside, light wrinkling, edge tears, and creasing to covers, a few pencil notations inside, as well as a previous owner’s signature. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from noted Beatles expert Frank Caiazzo stating “These signatures date from late 1963, and are all excellent and complete examples from this time period, which was only a few short months before the Beatles came to America for their first triumphant visit.” Also accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Roger Epperson/REAL, as well as an unsigned copy of a Meet The Beatles magazine. Not long after signing this album, the Beatles left for their first trip to the United States, appearing on the Ed Sullivan Show on February 9, 1964. A fine example on a seldom-seen album.
Thumbnail 805 Beatles Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 6,500.00 - 7,000.00 Hardcover autograph book, 4.75 x 4, featuring multiple pages bearing signatures on both sides, including four in-person blue ballpoint signatures on the same page, “John Lennon,” “Paul McCartney,” “Ringo Starr,” and “George Harrison,” and, in another hand, the sentiment and inscription, “Love From,” and “To Mauriol,” and the date, “Dec. 1963.” Album also features the signatures of Gerry and the Pacemakers, David Jacobs, the Hollies, and three members of the Dave Clark Five. A missing spine, otherwise fine condition. Although the signature page is marked December of 1963, the signatures were actually obtained in November of that year at Granada Studios, Manchester, England, where the recipient worked. The Beatles were at the studio recording a performance and interview for the north west program, Late Scene Extra.
Thumbnail 806 Beatles: Harrison and Starr Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 Original magazine for The Beatles at Carnegie Hall, 7.25 x 9.75, featuring over 60 illustrations of the Fab Four at the venue, signed on the front in blue ballpoint by Harrison and Starr. In very good condition, with scattered light creasing and wear, a moderate area of surface loss to the top edge, some light toning to the inside pages, and mild contrast to the signatures against the background.
Thumbnail 807 Beatles: George Harrison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 2,500.00 - 3,000.00 Original ticket stub, 2.5 x 2.5, from the Beatles August 26, [1963] 8:40 pm performance at the Odeon Theatre in Southport, signed on the reverse in ballpoint, “George Harrison.” A central vertical fold, one through a single letter of first and last name of signature, and expected light wrinkling and creasing, otherwise fine condition. This was the first night of a five-night run at the Odeon, near the end of their 1963 summer tour. Any concert-related signed item is highly prized by Beatles collectors.
Thumbnail 808 Beatles: John Lennon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 DS, one page, 6.5 x 7.25, May 1967. Receipt issued to “John Lennon, Esq.,” from R. A. Lampe Interior Decorators for “1 Edwardian Over Mantle,” signed at the bottom in blue felt tip. Receipt bears a “Paid” stamp dated “May 10, 1967,” acknowledging payment of £6.0.0. In fine condition, with a perforated left edge. This delivery was made to Lennon’s ‘Kenwood’ estate in Weybridge, a 27-room mock Tudor residence he purchased in 1964 and was home for himself, wife Cynthia, and son Julian. Despite having paid to have their home brought to life by interior designer Kenneth Partridge, the Lennons immediately made a number of further alterations which better reflected their taste—including this purchase from R. A. Lampe Interior Decorators. Lennon did much of his mid-1960s Beatles songwriting and demo recordings in the attic of this home, though the following day would set out for the Olympic Sound Studios to record 'Baby, You're A Rich Man.’ A one-of-a-kind piece of Beatlemania!
Thumbnail 809 Beatles: George Harrison Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 8,000.00 - 9,000.00 Humorous and insightful collection of six George Harrison-related items: ALS signed, “Love from, George XXX,” one page, 5 x 7, Royal Station Hotel, York letterhead, no date. Harrison responds to a particularly adorable letter from a fan, Jenny Rose, in full: “I think it easier if I return your questions with my answers written on them, to save writing it out again. If you really want to marry me then send a photograph, as I can’t very well say yes without ever seeing you…can I? I will see what can be arranged, but I think you had better ask your parents first!”; the letter to which Harrison was responding, two pages, complete with his responses to a long list of fan questions, including, “Does Ringo like macoroni [sic] in his socks,” “How high are the heels you wear on your shoes,” and “How can I fit a life size picture of you on my wall in a 5 inch by 12 inch gap?”; three ALSs from Harrison’s mother, Louise Harrison, to the same fan, dated between March and April of 1964; and a glossy 3.5 x 5.5 publicity photo of Harrison, signed on his behalf in green ballpoint by his mother, “George Harrison, XXX.” In very good condition, with a central horizontal and vertical fold, heavy border of mounting remnants, mildly affecting the signature, and scattered light spotting to George’s letter, and similar attributes to the remaining items. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope to the fan letter, and a letter of provenance from Rose. Harrison’s response to Jenny Rose dates to November 27, 1963, the day the Beatles played a concert at the Rialto Theatre in York.
Thumbnail 810 Beatles: John Lennon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Apple’s London office sign-in sheet, one lined ledger page, both sides, 8.25 x 11.5, dated November 27 and 28, 1969. Signed by Lennon in black felt tip at the bottom of the page dated the 27th, “John & Yoko,” adding “1 ocl,” for his sign in time. Sheet is also signed by 34 others on the 27th, and by 33 others on the 28th. Earliest sign-ins are at 8:30, with most of the staff staying all day. Other notable signers include: George Pekham (hired to train as Cutting Room Engineer and assisted with records from the Stones, Eric Clapton, and Led Zeppelin), Jack Oliver (future Apple president), Bill Oakes (Peter Brown’s personal assistant who signed off and logged all Beatles expenses), Derek Taylor (Beatles press officer), Tony Bramwell (Former NEMS employee), Stephen Brendell (studio musician that played on Apple recordings), several secretaries and receptionists, and Nigel Oliver (originally hired as an office boy and later arrested in 2003 for attempting to sell stolen Beatles tapes for $500,000). The sign-in policy at Apple was implemented by Alan Klein, who became the Beatles’ manager after the death of Brian Epstein. Marginal binding holes to one vertical edge, scattered light toning and soiling, very light ‘coffee ring’ to upper portion of Lennon’s signed page, and scribbled signature through portion of “Yoko,” not affecting legibility, otherwise fine condition. Lennon hit the studio to record ‘What's the New Mary Jane,’ one of The Beatles' strangest songs. Having written and originally recorded the song a year earlier, he and Yoko created a new stereo mix November 27, with vocals and sound effects from Yoko and simultaneous vocal and noise overdubs by Lennon, his wife, and various employees who were present in the studio. Although the song was considered for inclusion on White Album, it remained unreleased until a 1996 Beatles anthology.
Thumbnail 811 Beatles: George Martin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Semi-glossy 8.5 x 11 cardstock photo of Martin in the recording studio with the Beatles, signed and inscribed in blue felt tip “Best wishes pal—George Martin.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 812 Beatles: Alan Parsons Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Abbey Road album signed on the front in gold ink, “Alan Parsons.” Creasing to the left edge with a mild tear, some light toning, some light surface marks and dings, and mild ‘rings of wear,’ otherwise fine condition. The record is not included.
Thumbnail 813 Beatles: Paul McCartney Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,500.00 - 2,000.00 Adorable color vintage 10 x 13 magazine photo of the front man, signed and inscribed in black ballpoint, “To Ray! all the best, Paul McCartney.” In very good condition, with a central horizontal fold, a piece of reparative tape to the fold at the left edge, light toning, and a few trivial edge tears.
Thumbnail 814 Beatles: John Lennon Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 13,000.00 - 15,000.00 Carbon DS, signed twice in black felt tip “John Lennon,” one page, 8 x 10, November 7, 1969. An agreement between EMI Records, Lennon, and Apple Corps for Lennon to record his Wedding Album. In part: “Notwithstanding that there is in existence an Agreement dated the 26th January, 1967, which in its amended form is now effectively between Mr. Lennon and others (1), Apple Corps Ltd (2), and ourselves (3), under which Agreement (inter alia) Mr. Lennon made available to us his exclusive services for recording purposes, we hereby authorize Mr. Lennon to record for Apple a 12? long playing gramophone record of performances by Mr. Lennon with Yoko Ono entitled 'Wedding Album.'…It has also been agreed that: (a) We will manufacture and distribute the said record for Apple under the terms of an agreement between Apple and ourselves.” Signed twice at the bottom in black felt tip by Lennon, once as the musician, and once as the Apple Director. Document is also signed by K. East, the managing director of EMI. Two additional pages are stapled to the front of the document, one being the original document sent to Lennon for his signature, as well as a cover letter, dated November 10, 1969, addressed to Peter Howard simply stating, “Herewith formal letter dealing with the 'Wedding Album.'” In fine condition, with four light pencil “x's” around Lennon's signatures, a central vertical fold, and punch holes to top of page. Central fold is also present to the two additional pages, with letter also bearing a rusty paperclip mark and pencil notations. Released in 1969, the experimental Wedding Album commemorated the couple's March 20 nuptials, at which time John changed his name to John Ono Lennon. The solo effort consisted of two tracks, one on each side of the record. The first side 'John & Yoko,' features John and Yoko shouting each other's name over the sound of their heartbeats. 'Amsterdam,' the second side, consists of interviews, conversations, and sounds from their 'Bed-In' honeymoon. The year 1969 was, indeed, a tumultuous time for Lennon as the end of The Beatles was a foregone conclusion. As his creative focus continued to move beyond The Beatles, between 1968 and 1969, he and Ono recorded three albums of experimental music together: Unfinished Music No.1, Two Virgins (known more for its cover than for its music; the couple pictured naked on the front and back of the album jacket prompted the addition of a plain wrapper to cover the album so it could be marketed), Unfinished Music No.2: Life with the Lions and the Wedding Album. A unique document from a tumultuous time in Beatles history, signed not once but twice by Lennon!
Thumbnail 815 Beatles: Ringo Starr Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 800.00 - 1,200.00 Carbon DS, signed in black ballpoint, “R. Starkey,” one page, 8 x 13, 1969. Python Music Limited resolution announcing a “Change of Secretary.” In full: “It is resolved that Moor House Secretaries Limited be and is hereby appointed Secretary of the Company with effect from December 13, 1968 in the place of Mr. B. F. Burns who submitted his resignation with effect from November 20, 1968.” Signed at the bottom in black ballpoint by Starr and also signed in blue ballpoint by Neil Aspinall. In fine condition, with partially separated horizontal crease along bottom edge, well away from text and signature, a few creases and wrinkles, and a bit of mild toning. Python Music Limited was a music publishing company formed on April 2, 1968. A lesser-seen form of Ringo’s signature. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from noted Beatles expert Frank Caiazzo.
Thumbnail 816 Beatles: Ringo Starr Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Promotional 14? photo Remo drumhead from Starr’s 2010 Art Tour, featuring an image of Starr holding up one of his works, signed in black felt tip, “Ringo.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by an unsigned color promotional poster for the tour.
Thumbnail 817 Beatles: Ringo Starr Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 A pair of Timberland Earthkeeper 6? leather and colorful fabric side zip boots, one of 75 pairs signed by Starr for the Timberland WaterAid auction, signed three times on the side of the right-foot boot in silver ink, “Ringo,” twice on one side and once on the other. In fine condition. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Timberland and their original box. This particular pair was signed three times as #3 of the edition, and was the only pair signed more than once.
Thumbnail 818 Beatles: Ringo Starr Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 1,000.00 - 1,200.00 Color vintage 10 x 13 magazine photo, signed and inscribed vertically in black ballpoint “To Ray, Best Wishes, Ringo Starr.” In very good condition, with a central horizontal fold affecting the facial area, some light creasing, and a piece of reparative tape to the right edge of the fold and over a portion of the signature and inscription.
Thumbnail 819 Beatles: Ringo Starr Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Matte-finish 3.5 x 5.5 cardstock photo of Ringo holding up a small photo of himself in the same striped suit, crisply signed in black felt tip. In very fine condition.
Thumbnail 820 Beatles: Andy White Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Nostalgic 8.5 x 11 cardstock photo of White at his drum set, signed in blue felt tip, “Andy White, Love Me Do, The Beatles.” In fine condition.
Thumbnail 821 Beatles: Andy White Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Sheet music for ‘Love Me Do,’ one page, 8.5 x 11, signed at the conclusion in blue felt tip, “Andy White, ‘Love Me Do,’ The Beatles.” In fine condition, with a bit of haloing and spreading to the signature.
Thumbnail 822 Beatles: Andy White Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 ‘Love Me Do’ 45 rpm album, signed on the sleeve in black felt tip, “Love Me Do, Andy White.” In fine condition, with light album impression to sleeve.
Thumbnail 823 Tony Bennett Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 I Left My Heart in San Francisco album signed on the front in black felt tip. In fine condition, with a crease to the bottom right corner, and light ‘ring of wear’ on the back cover. The record is included. Accompanied by a photo taken at the time of signing.
Thumbnail 824 Tony Bennett Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Two identical CD booklets for Tony Bennett Sings—The Ultimate American Songbook, Vol. 1, signed on the front in silver ink. In fine condition.
Thumbnail 825 Tony Bennett Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Two-toned blue-bodied Stedman Pro ‘stratocaster-style’ electric guitar, signed on the white pickguard in blue felt tip. In fine condition. Oversized.
Thumbnail 826 Bunny Berigan Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Vintage glossy 8 x 10 publicity photo for Berigan and his orchestra, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “Best regards and thanks to Clyde Haney, yours, Bunny Berigan.” A few scattered light creases and surface marks to image, with some creasing and slight paper loss along bottom edge, otherwise fine condition.
Thumbnail 827 Irving Berlin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 200.00 - 400.00 Striking vintage glossy 8 x 10 three-quarter length 20th Century Fox publicity photo of Berlin, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “For Louis Morris, Irving Berlin.” Scattered light creasing and surface marks, mild rippling to the right edge, some light silvering to the darker areas of the image, and moderate contrast to the signature and inscription against the darker background, and brushing to the inscription, otherwise very good condition.
Thumbnail 828 Irving Berlin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Military currency for 10 Sen, series 100, 3 x 2.5, signed in black ink. In very good condition, with a vertical fold, toning and the expected wear, and moderate contrast to the signature against the darker background.
Thumbnail 829 Irving Berlin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 400.00 - 600.00 TLS, one page, 7.25 x 11, personal letterhead, September 19, 1939. In a letter to Phil Spitalny, Berlin writes, in full: “Thoroughly enjoyed your programme the other night, I listened from my country home. The mountains around us make the reception a bit tough, but your hour came through swell. I liked your fine rendition of God Bless America, like everything else you have ever done, it was a lovely presentation.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, light blocks of toning, and some scattered light foxing. Berlin was most likely referencing the program, Phil Spitalny and his All Girl Orchestra, featuring Evelyn and her Magic Violin, which was a hit on CBS and NBC from 1934 through 1948.
Thumbnail 830 Irving Berlin Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Crisp vintage fountain pen signature on an off-white 4.5 x 2.75 card. In fine condition, with a light area of rubbing below, but not affecting, the signature. Accompanied by a 1938 letter of provenance from Berlin’s secretary, and the original mailing envelope.
Thumbnail 831 Leonard Bernstein Start Price: 0.00Estimate: 100.00 - 200.00 Terrific glossy 8 x 10 photo of Bernstein at his piano, Christa Ludwig singing at his side, signed in blue felt tip by Bernstein. In fine condition, with light show-through f