LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2008 April Music & Entertainment #688  / 

31501

Richard Nixon Telegram 1960 Campaign

Currency:USD Category:Memorabilia Start Price:950.00 USD Estimated At:1,200.00 - 1,800.00 USD
Richard Nixon Telegram 1960 Campaign
<B>Historic Emile LaVigne Telegram from Richard Nixon.</B></I> In the first of four historic televised debates during the 1960 presidential campaign, John F. Kennedy not only looked better physically, he also came off as polished, articulate, and mature, giving a performance that dispelled many people's worries that the young senator was too inexperienced to be president. His opponent, Richard Nixon, was recovering from an illness, wore ill-fitting clothes, and sported a visible five o'clock shadow. It was an appearance that said a lot in the still-young medium of television, though people listening on the radio felt the debates were a draw, and set the tone for televised political debates to this day. This Western Union telegram, dated October 5, 1960, was sent to make-up artist Emile LaVigne from the Republican National Committee between the first and second debates. It reads: "Sir: your patriotic and magnanimous offer to make up Mr. Nixon is hereby accepted. Congratulations!". Unfortunately, it would be too little, too late, as Nixon ultimately lost the election by a narrow margin, and would have to wait eight more years to make it to the White House. A curious piece of Americana, the telegram is in Very Fine to Excellent condition with mild wear and tanning and some light fold creases. <I>From the Emile LaVigne Estate.</B></I><BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Flat Material, Small (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)
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