All lots "Pens, paperweights and inkwells" Advanced search

Andy WARHOL (1928-1987) Watercolor on paper, "The Autobiography of Alice B. Shoe", signed lower right, three stamps on back including: The Estate Of Andy Warhol, Authorized by the Andy Warhol Foudation and that of the Art Gallery New York, size: 21 x 29.5 cm, condition: good quality, no tears.

Salvadore DALI (1904-1989). Lithograph on Velin paper, 'L'Unicorne Allégre', numbered 184/300 lower left, dry-stamped lower left and hand-signed lower right, dimensions at sight 48 x 58 cm, of the plate +/- 56 x 76 condition: excellent, under glass in a handsome aluminum frame

James ENSOR (1860 1949) Etching on Japan paper, "The Devil at the Mill", signed and dated 34 in the plate lower right, à vue 14.5 x 19 cm, condition: excellent

ZAMMIERO or ZAMMIELO (XX) Eastern School. Etching in colors, on wove paper, signed and dated 78 lower right, ed A/P lower left and titled lower middle, see numerous photos, dimensions: sight 60 x 50 cm, plate 73 x 57 cm, condition: very good to excellent

Georges COLLIGNON (1923-2002) Large lithograph on Arches paper, "Composition", signed lower right and numbered 28/50 lower left, 68 x 92 cm, may be sent by post in a reinforced tube.

Frédéric BOUCHÉ (1948-2000) Pencil and watercolour on paper, titled "Les Beaux Jours", signed and dated 79 top left, dimensions: 41 x 27 cm

René DE CONINCK (1907-1978) Engraving on Van Golder Zonen paper, "Le Bel Anvers" signed and dated 1954 lower left in the plate, titled lower left, signed by hand lower right, 29 x 44 cm, engraving in fine condition.

Hugo HEYRMAN (1942) Acrylic on paper, "Berge", signed lower right, 92 x 70 cm, fine quality

Emile GASTEMANS (1883-1956) Watercolour on paper, signed lower left, 67 x 79 cm

Frank MAIEU (1952) Pencil on paper, "Le Général a des Démangeaisons", signed and dated 79 lower right, titled lower left, 33 x 24 cm, fine quality.

Lise BRACHET (1939) Mixed technique on rice paper, "Concert dans la Ville", signed lower left, 37 x 44 cm, condition: excellent, unframed, mailing possible.

Beniti CORNELIS (1946-2017) Color lithograph on wove paper B.F.K Rives, "Composition", ed 45/60, signed upper left, plus dry stamp to be determined, 54.5 x 73 cm, condition: very good, unframed, slight folds at corners.

Sergeï VOLOKHOV (1937) (attributed to) Etching and collage, "Jambes en l'Air", titled, numbered 5/7 and various, paper dimensions 38 x 54 cm, condition: good to excellent

Albert DEBOIS (1938-2010) Graphite drawing on paper, "Untitled", signed and dated 78 lower right, 23 x 41 cm, condition: excellent

Alexis GORODINE (1954) Lithograph in color, "Tulips", signed lower right, titled lower middle, 30/90 lower left, on view 20 x 13 cm, paper 36 x 37 cm, condition: excellent, unframed = shipment possible

Carlo GUARIENTI (1923) Lithograph in color, "Interdiction de Passer", signed lower right, 49/100 lower left, 53 x 42 cm, paper size: 74 x 54 cm, condition: good to excellent, slight browning around edges, unframed = shipment possible

Bart D'EYCKERMANS (1955 ) India ink on paper, "Le Suicide de la Licorne", signed lower right, 31 x 24 cm, condition : excellent

M. MAYER (XX) Mixed media on paper, "Au Coeur de l'Histoire", titled, signed and dated 87 lower left, 86 x 68 cm, fine quality.

Sun 11 Aug

2 Bouteilles CHÂTEAU MOUTON ROTHSCHILD - 1974 GCC1 Pauillac (1 H.E+ et 1 H.E; e.t.h à e.a avec papier de soie collé dessus; c.s)

Pen set including : - DANIEL HECHTER. Red resin fountain pen, gold-plated M nib, applied aircraft clip. l. 14 cm. Wear and tear. - DOCTOR. Black resin fountain pen, gold-plated nib, gold-plated metal rings and clip. l. 13.5 cm. Wear and tear. - GILLES D ARLEY. Gold-plated metal ballpoint pen, model 3S, with checkerboard pattern. l. 12.5 cm. Worn. - WATERMAN. Gilt metal ballpoint pen. l. 13 cm. Pits and dents. - Resin imitation wood fountain pen, gilded metal rings and clip, yellow gold (750 thousandths) nib. l. 11.5 cm. Wear and cracks.

Gold-plated fountain pen with guilloché decoration. L. 9.5 cm.

Set of 4 pens including : - WATERMAN. Black resin fountain pen, gold-plated metal rings and clip, nib n°2 in yellow gold (750 thousandths). l. 12 cm. Wear and tear. - DANIEL HECHTER. Silver-plated resin fountain pen, silver-plated metal rings and clip, silver-plated metal nib. l. 13 cm. - EDACOTO. Black resin fountain pen, gold-plated metal rings and clip. l. 13.5 cm. - Gilded metal fountain pen with striated decoration. l. 11.5 cm. Missing nib.

SHEAFFER. Gilt metal fountain pen with striated decoration, yellow gold (750 thousandths) nib. l. 13.5 cm. Wear and tear.

UNIC. Lic Biro gold-plated pocket folding ballpoint pen with scale decoration. l. open 8.5 cm. l. folded 4.5 cm. Wear and tear. Leather carrying pouch.

WATERMAN. Black resin ballpoint pen, gold-plated metal rings and clip. l. 14 cm. Slight dents. In a brand-name case.

WATERMAN. Set comprising a gold-plated fountain pen and ballpoint pen with guilloché decoration, nib in yellow gold (750 thousandths). l. 13.5 cm and 13 cm. Wear and tear. In a branded case.

Set of 9 pens of various brands including: - UNIC. Fountain pen in green resin with gold-plated mesh, nib in yellow gold (750 thousandths). l. 10 cm. Damage. - UNIC. Gold-plated fountain pen with wavelet decoration. l. 12 cm. - WATERMAN. Ideal model fountain pen in red and blue resin, nib in yellow gold (750 thousandths). l. 11 cm. Accents. - PARKER. Gold-plated fountain pen with striated decoration, yellow gold (750 thousandths) nib. l. 12 cm. - MALLAT. Iridescent brown resin fountain pen, gold-plated metal ring and clip. l. 12 cm. - PARKER. Set consisting of a fountain pen and a ballpoint pen in silver-plated metal. l. 13 cm. - PARKER. Set including a plum pen and a ballpoint pen in powdered blue resin, nib in yellow gold (750 thousandths). l. 13 cm. A black leather travel case is included.

MUST DE CARTIER. Yellow gold-plated Trinity collection ballpoint pen decorated with wavy guilloché lines and 3 three-tone rings (slight wear, refill flap to be revised).

MUST DE CARTIER. Yellow gold-plated Trinity collection ballpoint pen decorated with wavy guilloché lines and 3 three-tone rings. In box. (slight wear). A yellow gold-plated MUST DE CARTIER pen with guilloché decoration, without its cap.

PARKER. Set of two gilt metal pens with striated decoration, including a yellow gold (585 thousandths) fountain pen and a ballpoint pen. l. 13.5 cm. In a branded box.

WATERMAN. Black lacquer fountain pen, gilded metal rings and clip, yellow gold (750 thousandths) nib. Signed. l. 14.5 cm. In a brand-name box.

ST DUPONT. Silver-plated ballpoint pen with striated decoration, gold-plated rings and clip. Signed. l. 13 cm. Used condition. In a brand-name case.

KAOLO. Wood imitation bakelite fountain pen, gilded metal frame, gilded metal retractable nib. Signed. l. 12.5 cm. In a brand-name case. Used condition.

MONT BLANC. Fountain pen, model n°22, in black lacquer and gilded metal. Signed. l. 13.5 cm. Accident to the nib. Used condition.

ST DUPONT. Blue lacquer fountain pen, gilded metal rings and clip, yellow gold nib (585 thousandths). Signed. l. 13.5 cm. In a Mont Blanc case. Used condition.

Tue 13 Aug

Audemars Piguet Platinum Royal Oak Offshore Grand Prix Limited Edition. Weighing 286.1 grams No box/papers Limited Edition 54/75 Model # 26290PO.OO.A001VE.01

Wed 14 Aug

12 Bottles DOMAINE DE FAURIE Year : 1989 Appellation : Saint-Emilion Packaging : (Neutral wooden case with handwritten inscriptions) Remarks : (11 H.E or better and 1 M.E; 1 e.t.h with tissue paper)

Wed 14 Aug

PERSIA - Pen box in papier maché with polychrome floral decoration. Complete with its inkwell. Kadjar period. L. 22 cm (Damage and missing).

Wed 14 Aug

LONGWY - Fine earthenware desk inkwell with floral decoration in polychrome enamels on a red background. L. 25 cm (slight chip).

Wed 14 Aug

Blue-tinted glass paperweight with crystalloceram decoration of a profile of King Henri IV.

Wed 14 Aug

SAINT-LOUIS - Paperweight in blue-tinted crystal decorated with a gold lion. Edition for Crédit Lyonnais, 1991. D. 6.5 cm.

Wed 14 Aug

MUCHA Alfons (1860-1939) - Salomé - Postcard C. 1900, parts gummed. Written in pencil (dull corners).

Wed 14 Aug

LE TINTORET (after) - Suzanne and the Old Men. Sanguine on laid paper. 37 x 31.5 cm. (folds, traces of humidity)

Wed 14 Aug

Printed papier-mâché globe with molded blackened wood base. Marked G. Thomas, éditeur Paris 44 rue N.D des champs. H. 55 cm (accident)

Wed 14 Aug

Franklin D. Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed as President TLS as president, one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, November 20, 1939. Letter to Judge Samuel Mandelbaum of the United States District Court of New York, in full: “Just a short note to tell you how nice it was to see you yesterday and to thank you for the picture which you left. I appreciate your thought. My best to you, always.” In fine condition, with faint toning to the fold and edges. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. When President Roosevelt personally nominated Samuel Mandelbaum (1884-1946) to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on June 15, 1936, the decision was widely criticized. Due to Mandelbaum’s political background and perceived lack of judicial experience, the selection was seen as a clear case of political patronage; Mandelbaum was a loyal supporter of Roosevelt and a significant figure in the Democratic Party. Of additional interest, the day before he wrote this letter, FDR, in front of an estimated 1,000 onlookers, laid the cornerstone of the Roosevelt Library and Museum in Hyde Park, NY—the first Presidential library within the National Archives.

Wed 14 Aug

Ronald Reagan Autograph Letter Signed to His Press Secretary ALS signed “Ron,” one page, 6.5 x 8.5, personal letterhead, November 1, 1989. Handwritten letter to Nancy Clark Reynolds, his former press secretary and special assistant, in full: “Thank you for the book — I’d heard about it in Japan but never saw it there. And thank you for the Joke — I’m already a smash with it. Bless you. Now about my hair! I can’t get over it. Every place I go & almost everyone I meet — especially you gals tell me to have it short that I look much younger this way. Now that’s tempting — do I or don’t I. I must say there is an advantage in the mornings — not having anything to comb. But Nancy it’s always good to hear from you. You remain a very important & beloved part of our life. Nancy — that’s my Nancy — sends her love. So do I.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by the original hand-addressed envelope, which bears Reagan’s printed franking signature. After years of working in the media, Reynolds (1927-2022) moved to San Francisco, California, and eventually joined the staff of Governor Reagan. She worked as an assistant press secretary and then as a special assistant for Reagan. She worked for six months in 1980 on Reagan's White House transition team and, a year later, President Reagan named her the U.S. representative to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women.

Wed 14 Aug

Ronald Reagan Autograph Letter Signed as President, Donating His Military I.D. Card to the U.S. Air Force Museum ALS as president signed “RR,” one page, 5 x 8, White House letterhead, March 27, 1981. Handwritten draft letter to Royal D. Frey, the curator of the U.S. Air Force Museum, in full: “I'd heard there was some hitch in my overcoat & the photos reaching you. I hope that is all straightened out and you have them now. In moving to Wash. I found the enclosed identification card and thought it might serve in place of my lost dog tags.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by photocopies of Reagan’s I.D. card, a history of Reagan’s military career, the final typed version of the letter to Frey, an internal White House memo sent to Reagan regarding the address of the Air Force Museum, a biography of Frey, a USAF Museum Gift accession sheet for the I.D. card, and a letter from Colonel Richard L. Uppstrom to Reagan, confirming the receipt and donation of his I.D. card. Reagan joined the Army Reserve in April 1937 and reported for active duty in 1942 when relations between America and Japan worsened. He was transferred to the U.S. Army Air Forces and became an AAF public relations officer, participating in the Provisional Task Force Show Unit in Burbank and continuing to make films such as This Is the Army (1943). He was also ordered to temporary duty in New York City to participate in the sixth War Loan Drive before he was reassigned to Fort MacArthur and discharged on December 9, 1945, as a captain. Throughout his military service, Reagan produced over 400 training films.

Wed 14 Aug

Jimmy Carter Typed Letter Signed TLS signed “Jimmy,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, Carter-Mondale campaign letterhead, October 13, 1976. Letter to Judith Moyers, the wife of esteemed journalist Bill Moyers. In full: "Thank you for sending me 'The Dance of the Pilgrim.' I look forward to reading it soon, especially in view of Norman Mailer's comparison of J.D. Maguire to Reinhold Niebuhr. Your efforts on my behalf are deeply appreciated as is your concern for my family. Please give my best to Bill." In fine condition, with light stains to the right margin. Carter would go on to be elected president just weeks later, on November 2, 1976.

Wed 14 Aug

Bill Clinton Typed Letter Signed as President on His First Inauguration: "Your participation helped create a truly memorable occasion for me, for my family, and for the American people" TLS as president, one page, 6.75 x 8.75, White House letterhead, February 10, 1993. Letter to the Steven Scott Orchestra, in full: “I want to let you know how much I appreciate the special part you played in the Inaugural week activities. Your participation helped create a truly memorable occasion for me, for my family, and for the American people. I am enclosing a copy of my Inaugural Address, as well as a copy of the beautiful poem Maya Angelou read at the swearing-in ceremony — ‘On the Pulse of Morning.’ I hope you enjoy them. Again, thank you for your contribution. I look forward to your continued support on our journey to reunite America.” In very good to fine condition, with old tape stains along the edges, and a repaired tear passing vertically through the letterhead. Accompanied by full letters of authenticity from PSA/DNA and Beckett Authentication Services. The first inauguration of Bill Clinton as the 42nd president of the United States was held on Wednesday, January 20, 1993, only 21 days before this letter was written.

Wed 14 Aug

U. S. Grant Autograph Letter Signed, Recommending an Officer who "commanded the Hd. Qrs. boat on the James River" ALS signed “U. S. Grant, General,” one page both sides, 7.75 x 9.75, Head Quarters Armies of the United States letterhead, January 7, 1867. Handwritten letter to H. A. Smythe, collector of customs at New York City, in part: "This will introduce you to Capt. G. M. Livingston who I have known since the arrival of the Army in the James River in 1864, as one of the most efficient commanders serving in the transportation business for the Government. Capt. L. is well known in the Hudson River when he has commanded river steamers for many years. From what I know of him personally he must be able to give the best of references from his employers and many acquaintances in that locality. Capt. Livingston is seeking other employment now and I cheerfully endorse his capacity and integrity...He commanded the Hd. Qrs. boat on the James River for a number of months which gave me a better opportunity of knowing him than I had of knowing any other Steamer Commander." In very good to fine condition, with partial edge separations to folds and some scattered staining.

Wed 14 Aug

U. S. Grant Civil War-Dated Autograph Letter Signed to Gen. Butler on Richmond Campaign Civil War-dated ALS signed "U. S. Grant, Lt. Gen," one page, 7.5 x 8.5, Head Quarters Armies of the United States letterhead, August 22, 1864. Handwritten letter to Maj. Gen. Butler, in part: "I think it will be well to hold the 10th Corps ready to make the effort that was proposed for this morning for a day or two before moving it. The enemy may be induced to move most of his troops from your front in the hope of dislodging us from the Weldon Road." In fine condition. The X Corps, which was part of the Army of the James commanded by Benjamin F. Butler, had recently taken part in the disastrous Battles of Proctor's Creek (May 12-16) on Cold Harbor (May 31-June 12), both of which resulted in massive Union losses and halted Butler's offensive against Richmond. In the present letter, Grant refers to the recent Battle of Globe Tavern, also known as the Second Battle of the Weldon Railroad, fought August 18-21, 1864, south of Petersburg, Virginia. It was the second attempt of the Union Army to sever the Weldon Railroad during the siege of Petersburg, and marked the first Union victory in the Richmond-Petersburg Campaign.

Wed 14 Aug

[Wiliam Henry Harrison] Presidential Document Reclaiming Land from a Creek Tribe Indian Partly-printed presidential document dated to the administration of William Henry Harrison, one page, 11 x 17, March 23, 1841. Land document affirming that a tract of land “containing three hundred and sixteen acres, and seventy two hundredths of an acre,” which was formerly granted to “Kay har la nay, one of the Creek Tribe of Indians, by virtue of a Treaty between the United States, and the said Creek tribe of Indians, made the 24th day of March, 1832,” having been returned to the General Land Office by the Surveyor General with the approval of the president, “has been duly sold and conveyed by the said Kay hat la nay to J. J. Fannon.” Signed at the conclusion in a secretarial hand on behalf of President Harrison, and countersigned by J. Williamson, recorder of the General Land Office. The lower left retains the original beige paper seal. Impressively matted and framed to an overall size of 18.5 x 24.25. In fine condition, with minor loss along the folds. 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 is dated to just three days before Harrison became sick with the illness that would take his life on April 4, 1841.

Wed 14 Aug

Herbert Hoover Typed Letter Signed as President TLS as president, one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, January 27, 1931. Letter to Jefferson D. Davis of Fort Miller, New York, in full: “I have your very kind note of January 23rd. I am taking up with some of the Departments here the possibility of putting you into service at no large remuneration but with considerable opportunity to help.” In fine condition. Jefferson Dalton Davis (1875-1958), a Texas native, served as an engineer in the U.S. Army during World War I, working under General John J. Pershing on construction projects at the port of Brest, France. Additionally, Davis later worked in numerous South American countries for the oil industry, completed engineering work on several Federal government projects under Presidents Hoover and Franklin D. Roosevelt, and worked with renowned civil engineer Lindon W. Bates on major railway, port, and canal projects.

Wed 14 Aug

Andrew Jackson Document Signed as President Partly-printed vellum DS as president, one page, 15.5 x 10, May 17, 1831. President Jackson grants Thomas K. Jarratt of Montgomery County a parcel of land "at Cahaba, Alabama, containing eighty acres." Prominently signed at the conclusion in ink by President Andrew Jackson, and countersigned by Commissioner of the general Land Office Elijah Hayward. The white paper seal affixed to the lower left remains intact. Mounted and cloth-matted with a portrait (featuring Jackson's facsimile signature) to an overall size of 27 x 15. In fine condition, with minor ink adhesion issues.

Wed 14 Aug

John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed as a Massachusetts Congressman: "I fully realize that this victory was won by the people such as yourself who carried out the many arduous but necessary tasks which constitute political success" TLS signed “John Kennedy,” one page, 6 x 8.5, personal Congress of the United States, House of Representatives letterhead, November 25, 1952. Letter to John, written in the wake of the 1952 United States Senate election in Massachusetts, in full: "I am sure you know how much I appreciate all of your efforts during the past months of the campaign. I am certain that we never would have survived the Eisenhower landslide if it had not been for the effectiveness of our organization, an organization, in my opinion, which was the best that the state had ever seen. I fully realize that this victory was won by the people such as yourself who carried out the many arduous but necessary tasks which constitute political success, and I want you to know how grateful I am to you for all your assistance. I am looking forward to seeing you sometime soon to thank you personally. I hope you will let me know if there is ever anything I can do." Kennedy adds the handwritten postscript, “Many thanks John.” Double-matted and framed with a photo of Kennedy to an overall size of 21.25 x 16. In very good to fine condition, with some light creasing and a rusty paperclip impression to the top edge. The 1952 United States presidential election concluded with Republican Dwight D. Eisenhower winning a "landslide" victory over Democrat Adlai Stevenson, a result that ended a string of Democratic Party wins that stretched back to 1932. In the Massachusetts State Senate election, Congressman John F. Kennedy ousted incumbent Republican Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr., subsequently ending the Lodge family dynasty and marking the start of the Kennedy’s. As Kennedy asserts in this letter, the task was not an easy one. On the weekend before the election, Eisenhower visited Boston and energetically campaigned for Lodge, but it was not enough. Although Eisenhower carried Massachusetts by over 200,000 votes, Kennedy narrowly upset Lodge, winning by 70,000 votes and three percentage points.

Wed 14 Aug

John F. Kennedy Original Wirephoto: "U.S. is determined to defend its rights in Berlin by force" Original vintage glossy 8.5 x 7 UPI telephoto of President John F. Kennedy making a radio-TV report to the nation from the White House in July 1961, with the inherent caption noting: "He declared that the U.S. is determined to defend its rights in Berlin by force, if necessary." Reverse is stamp-dated July 27, 1961, and bears a United Press International stamp. In fine condition.

Wed 14 Aug

James Monroe Document Signed as President Partly-printed vellum DS as president, one page, 15 x 9.25, November 10, 1824. President Monroe grants John F. Seller of Putnam County, Indiana, a tract of land "in the district of Crawfordsville and State of Indiana containing eighty acres." Nicely signed at the conclusion in ink by President James Monroe, and countersigned by Commissioner of the General Land Office George Graham. The white paper seal affixed at the lower left remains intact. In very good to fine condition, with small stains to the upper right corner, and multiple vertical folds. John Finley Seller (1791-1875) was a hardworking Kentucky native and generous Presbyterian who fought in the War of 1812 and later helped settle the town of Greencastle, Indiana.

Wed 14 Aug

James Monroe Document Signed as Secretary of War Uncommon partly-printed DS as secretary of war, signed “Jas. Monroe,” one page, 7.75 x 10, War Department letterhead, October 24, 1814. Application for a military appointment issued to Horace Webster, in full: “Herewith enclosed you will receive the appointment of Cadet in the service of the United States. Should you accept the appointment, if which you are required immediately to advise this department, you will repair to the Military Academy at West Point, State of N. York, and report yourself to the commanding officer.” Signed neatly at the conclusion by James Monroe. In very good to fine condition, with a short tear to the bottom edge, and splitting to the ends of the folds.

Wed 14 Aug

Eleanor Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed TLS, one page, 5.25 x 6.75, personal letterhead, February 28, 1933. Letter to Marie De Bona, in full: "I am very glad indeed to send you my autograph for your collection." Beautifully cloth-matted and framed with a portrait and biographical caption to an overall size of 20 x 23. In very good to fine condition, with light soiling, and a small tear to the lower blank area.

Wed 14 Aug

Franklin, Eleanor, and Sara Roosevelt (3) Signed Items Three items signed by members of the Roosevelt family: a TLS from Franklin D. Roosevelt, one page, 7 x 9.25, January 13, 1915, Assistant Secretary of the Navy letterhead, addressed to Aymar Johnson, in part: “I think it would be an excellent thing if you and Meredith Blagden could come on to Washington and have a talk with Captain Bristol, in charge of aeronautics, and Captain Bassett, in charge of naval militia. Also I shall be awfully glad to see you both”; a vintage matte-finish 6 x 9 full-length portrait photo of Eleanor Roosevelt by the Harris & Ewing studio, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To Mrs. Carey Wilcox, with good wishes, Eleanor Roosevelt”; and an ALS from Sara Roosevelt, signed “Sara D. Roosevelt,” penned in black ink on an off-white 5 x 3 card, February 27, 1940, addressed to Viola May Lashley, in full: “I like so many good sentiments that I really cannot think of any one sentiment.” The Sara Roosevelt letter, which is affixed to a slightly larger sheet, is accompanied by its original mailing envelope. In overall very good to fine condition, with overall creasing and multiple folds to the FDR letter, and spotting and smudging to the Eleanor photo. Johnson had served in the Navy during WWI, later becoming lieutenant commander in the United States Naval Intelligence and a New York City stockbroker.

Wed 14 Aug

Theodore Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed as Assistant Secretary of the Navy TLS as Assistant Secretary of the Navy, one page, 5.25 x 6.75, Navy Department letterhead, July 1, 1897. Quick letter to writer Henry Mellen Prentiss, in full: “I thank you very much for your book. I shall read it with great interest.” In fine condition. Accompanied by Prentiss's calling card and the original mailing envelope, addressed in a secretarial hand. Henry Mellen Prentiss was born July 20, 1840, in Bangor, Maine. He graduated from Harvard University in 1864. On the completion of his studies, he became the manager of his father's extensive estate, directing operations on the vast tracts of timber land owned by his father in Maine and Pennsylvania. Prentiss became an important figure in American interests and a recognized authority on everything relating to Arctic exploration. Henry Mellen wrote extensively on science, with an interest in Arctic exploration. His stories appeared in the Westminster Review, Nineteenth Century magazine, and the New York Herald. The book sent to Roosevelt was undoubtedly his 1897 work, ‘The Great Polar Current,’ which won critical acclaim.

Wed 14 Aug

William H. Taft Typed Letter Signed as President TLS as president signed “Wm. H. Taft,” one page, 6.75 x 8.75, White House letterhead, June 20, 1910. Quick letter to pastor and magazine editor John Wesley Hill, in full: “I have yours of June 17th and congratulate you on having gotten on so well with your organization.” In fine condition, with toning from prior display. Accompanied by a first edition of Hill's 1925 book If Lincoln Were Here. John W. Hill was the chancellor of Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee from 1916-1936, and prior to that, a pastor at the Metropolitan Temple Methodist and Episcopal Church in New York City. Both Hill and Taft were originally from Ohio, and their personal friendship spanned decades.

Wed 14 Aug

Harry S. Truman Signed One-Dollar Bill - 'The buck stops here!' Crisp series 1935 C silver certificate one-dollar bill, signed on the left side in fountain pen, "Harry S. Truman." In fine condition, with expected signs of use. A sought-after format for the president who famously popularized the phrase, 'The buck stops here!'

Wed 14 Aug

Harry S. Truman Signed Photograph Vintage glossy 7 x 9 photo of President Truman posing beside a bust statue of himself by American sculptor Felix de Weldon (1907-2003), who is best known for his 1954 Iwo Jima war memorial at Arlington National Cemetery, signed and inscribed to the artist in fountain pen, “Best wishes to Felix De Weldon, Harry Truman." Reverse is stamp-dated on January 7, 1949, the year the statue was presented to President Truman. In very good to fine condition, with light horizontal rippling. In 1950, President Harry Truman appointed de Weldon to the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts. In 1956, he was re-appointed by President Dwight Eisenhower, and again in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy.

Wed 14 Aug

Julia Tyler War-Dated Autograph Letter Signed to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton Civil War-dated ALS signed “Julia Gardiner Tyler,” two pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, black-bordered stationery, January 23, 1865. Addressed from “Castleton Hill” on Staten Island, a handwritten letter to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, requesting that she be allowed to send some of her possessions to her home in New York, in part: “I am anxious to receive your permission to obtain from Richmond, per Flag of Truce boat, a few boxes, not large, containing property of my own which I wish to collect about me for my comfort & convenience. It consists of table silver, portraits, & my private papers. Relentless Death has deprived me, recently, of my beloved Mother. Her home has become my home, & will continue to be for the future, my place of residence.” In fine condition.

Wed 14 Aug

George Washington: Funeral Oration by Maj. Gen. Henry Lee - "First in war—first in peace—and first in the hearts of his countrymen" Rare booklet entitled "A Funeral Oration on the Death of Gen. Washington, delivered, at the request of Congress, by Major General Henry Lee," bound in plain paper wrappers, 15 pages, 4.25 x 7, printed in Dover by Samuel Bragg, June 1800. Lee's memorial address, in small part: "First in war—first in peace—and first in the hearts of his countrymen, he was second to none in the humble and endearing scenes of private life; pious, just, humane, temperate, and sincere; uniform, dignified, and commanding, his example was as edifying to all around him as were the effects of that example lasting. To his equals he was condescending; to his inferiors kind; and to the dear object of his affections exemplarily tender; correct throughout, vice shuddered in his presence, and virtue always felt his fostering hand; the purity of his private character gave effulgence to his public virtues. His last scene comported with the whole tenor of his life.—Although in extreme pain, not a sigh, not a groan escaped him; and with undisturbed serenity he closed his well spent life. Such was the man America has lost—Such was the man for whom our nation mourns." In very good condition, wear and creasing to wrappers and corners.

Wed 14 Aug

Benjamin Franklin Signed Land Grant as President of Pennsylvania's Supreme Executive Council (1787) Manuscript vellum DS, signed “B. Franklin,” one page, 15.25 x 12.75, October 26, 1787. As president of Pennsylvania's Supreme Executive Council, Franklin issues a land grant to Richard Ivers for “a Certain Tract of Land called ‘Iron Hill’ Situate in Green Township Washington County...Containing Two hundred and fifty six Acres and a quarter.” Signed prominently on the left side by Benjamin Franklin, and countersigned below by Charles Biddle as secretary. The upper left retains the original paper state seal of Pennsylvania. In very good condition, with overall creasing, light soiling, loss to the lower left corner, and minor loss along the intersecting folds; Franklin's signature is clean and unaffected. Accompanied by an engraved portrait bearing a facsimile signature. Franklin issued this document as president of the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania, a position analogous to the modern position of governor.

Wed 14 Aug

John Hancock War-Dated Signature as Massachusetts Governor (1781) Revolutionary War-dated ink signature as governor of Massachusetts, "John Hancock,” on an off-white 11 x 5.75 sheet clipped from a partly-printed military document dated July 1, 1781, and countersigned by Secretary John Avery. In very good to fine condition, with a fold split, and a small area of paper loss, affecting Hancock's boldly signed last name. Accompanied by an engraved portrait with a facsimile signature.

Wed 14 Aug

Thomas Heyward, Jr. Document Signed Signer of the Declaration of Independence from South Carolina (1746-1809) who was taken prisoner by the British during the siege of Charleston and held for about a year. Partly-printed DS, signed “Tho's Heyward Jun'r,” one page, 12.75 x 7.75, June 14, 1788. Order issued in South Carolina, ordering that Richard Wainwright be compelled to "be and appear before the Justices of the said State, at the Court of Common Pleas...to answer to William Hasell Gibbes...in a plea that he render to him Nine Hundred & fifty two Pounds & Eleven pence half penny Sterling which to him he owes." Boldly signed in the upper left by Heyward. The white paper seal affixed to the upper left remains intact. In fine condition, with complete archival silking to both sides. Accompanied by the original receipt from Walter R. Benjamin Autographs.

Wed 14 Aug

Stephen Hopkins Document Signed as the Colonial Governor of Rhode Island Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Rhode Island (1707-1785) who served as the colony's governor in the 1750s and 1760s. Partly-printed DS, signed “Step. Hopkins,” one page, 12.5 x 8, May 12, 1755. As governor of Rhode Island, Stephen Hopkins appoints Israel Sayles as “Captain of the first Company, or Train’d Band, of the Town of Glocester in the County of Providence in the Colony aforesaid...in His Majesty’s Name, George the Second.” Signed at the conclusion by Hopkins, and countersigned by Thomas Ward as secretary. The original paper seal remains affixed to the upper left corner. In very good to fine condition, with some fold splits and edge loss, none of which affects the signature.

Wed 14 Aug

Benjamin Rush War-Dated Autograph Letter Signed on George Washington and British Movements: "Our town is alive with news. The minute guns were fired this morning. It threw the city into confusion." Revolutionary War-dated ALS signed “B. Rush,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.25 x 12, April 14, 1777. Addressed from Philadelphia, a handwritten letter to his wife, Julia, in part: “I am sorry to inform you that I could not get a single fish, nor an ounce of fresh meat in market this morning owing to their both being all bought up before Azariah came to town. I am glad to hear that our new Levee behaves so well. I think the less Molly and he dispute about politicks the better. Such disputes especially among ignorant people generally confirm predjudices and increase Obstinacy. Perhaps by a different course of behavior to him he may be induced to refuse to be exchanged, and may continue with us as long as we want him. Our town is alive with news. The minute guns were fired this morning. It threw the city into confusion. An express has just arrived who says there are nine Men of War in the river. This Acc't makes it certain that Phila. is the object of the enemy. We expect every moment to hear of our bay being crowded with transports filled with British and Hessian soldiers. Major General Lincoln (a Massachusetts Bay man), was surprised and taken prisoner a few nights ago near Bound Brook in New Jersey together with 200 men by a party of the enemy. Our brother came to town last night. He positively sets off early tomorrow morning to Mr. Bartrams...agreeable to his duty and our mother's orders. As everything is now turned topsy turvy in town, I fear you will not spend your time agreeably here. I think you had better set off tomorrow morning for Grame Park. It will not however do to spend a week there, as I know not how soon Gen'l Howe’s progress up the Delaware may make it necessary to fly with you to Maryland. Suppose you leave Mrs. Pamper at Capt. Allison's and call for her in a day or two. I fear I shall not be able to come for you. I enter upon the care of a military hospital tomorrow, and shall have a hundred things to do that are important to ourselves as well as the public. Enclosed is an Evening Post. Gen Washington's letter is a masterpiece. It has raised his character higher than ever in the opinion of Congress and his friends. The Congress have settled my appointment in the Army so as to be perfectly agreeable to me. They have made me Joint Physician and Surgeon General with Dr. Jones of Virginia of the middle department. You may depend upon my care and tenderness in conducting you to Mr. Halls as soon as the danger is more imminent. Much love to our brother and sister.” Rush adds a postscript: “Keep up the spirits of our brother and sister. All is for the best and all will end well...The counsels of Heaven must be fulfilled. ‘Clouds and darkness are before him, but righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his throne.’” In very good to fine condition, with seal-related paper loss near the hinge.

Wed 14 Aug

Winston Churchill Typed Letter Signed as Prime Minister TLS signed “Winston S. Churchill,” one page, 4.75 x 7.5, 10 Downing Street letterhead, February 25, 1953. Letter marked “Private & Confidential,” addressed to A. L. Ball of Lloyds Bank Limited, in full: “Thank you for your letter of February 20. You are quite right in assuming that the £10,000 will be paid into the Farm Account in May.” In very fine condition. An interesting letter that finds Churchill transmitting his full £10,000 annual salary as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom into an unknown “Farm Account,” which may relate to his Chartwell country house near Westerham, Kent, an 80-acre property comprised of gardens and parkland. In 1946-47, Churchill extended his land-holdings around Chartwell, purchasing Chartwell Farm and Parkside Farm, and later Bardogs Farm and a market garden. By 1948, he was farming approximately 500 acres.

Wed 14 Aug

King Charles III Autograph Letter Signed, Four Months After Diana's Death: "I can so well imagine the unbearable emptiness you must feel at this time" ALS signed “Charles,” three pages both sides, 4.5 x 7.25, Highgrove House letterhead, December 8, 1997. Lengthy handwritten letter to "Peter," expressing his sympathy upon the death of a loved one; Charles was likely particularly emotional at the time he wrote the letter, as Princess Diana had tragically passed away just a few months before in August 1997. In part: "I have been thinking so much of you yesterday and today, knowing how deeply you will be affected by yesterday’s tragic news about dear Liz. My heart bleeds for you as I can imagine so well the utter agony and despair you must have gone through during all these heart-rendering months that you have known about Liz’s illness. All of us who know you—and are so fond you both—have felt the agony in a far lesser way of course, but have longed to wave a magic wand to transform the situation. I often think that that is the worst part of all—being unable to help in any constructive way except to say constant prayers in the background & to try and surround you both with love & affection & concern. I can so well imagine the unbearable emptiness you must feel at this time; the sense of bewilderment & confusion that accompanies the removal of someone still so young from this world. Personally, I believe that there is another dimension beyond this physical one & that we will be amazed to discover it for ourselves when we are eventually—or at a moment—called upon to make that certain journey for ourselves. As it says in the Bible—'Now we see through a glass darkly, but then face to face.' I can’t tell you how pleased & happy I am to have known Liz. She was such a great life-enhancer. We shall all have such special memories of her but, above all, Peter, we mind about you & you are so very much in my thoughts and prayers at this most anguishing of times. I thought you might just find a very small speck of comfort from this short piece of profoundly wise verse by William Blake and, together with this, I enclose a few 'Highgrove things' as a token of immense, affectionate sympathy." In very fine condition. Accompanied by the original transmittal envelope, addressed in Charles's hand with instructions to deliver "by hand."

Wed 14 Aug

Martin Luther King, Jr. Rare Signed Photograph Rare vintage glossy 3.25 x 4.75 photo of Martin Luther King, Jr. in a sharp suit and tie, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, "Best Wishes to Mr. & Mrs. Ken Browne, From Martin L. King.” Reverse (now covered by the frame's backing) bears the photographer's credit stamp of Arthur Freeman of Montgomery, Alabama, and a typed collector's notation indicating that the autograph was received in 1957. Handsomely double-matted and framed to an overall size of 11.75 x 13. In very good to fine condition, with a few creases, two paperclip impressions (one to the top, the other to the upper right edge), surface impressions across King's forehead from typed notations on the reverse, and somewhat irregular ink adhesion to portions of the signature. In 1957, Martin Luther King Jr. became the first president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), an organization formed to coordinate and support nonviolent civil rights activism. That year, he also delivered his first national address, 'Give Us the Ballot,' during the Prayer Pilgrimage for Freedom in Washington, D.C., advocating for African Americans' voting rights. Additionally, King played a key role in the successful Montgomery Bus Boycott, which concluded in 1956 and led to the Supreme Court ruling that segregation on public buses was unconstitutional.

Wed 14 Aug

George Washington Carver Autograph Letter Signed on Peanut Oil: "My oils are all built up on what we call a fatty acid base" ALS signed “G. W. Carver,” one page both sides, 8.5 x 11, Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute letterhead, July 31, 1934. Handwritten letter to "Mr. Clements," in part: "You will have no trouble in getting all the peanut oil you want by writing to the Edible Oil Section of the Planters Nut and Chocolate Co., Suffolk, Va. This is where most of my patients get theirs. You could under no circumstance refine it more than it is. This oil would come the nearest to what you want I am sure as you would not become supersaturated so quickly, and have to stop at the risk of bad results...The chemistry of fats and oils I am very certain would not interest you. Even if you had the saponification, and extraction, apparatus to do it with. My oils are all built up on what we call a fatty acid base, using largely the lineolic, lignoceric, and oleic acids, that is the glycerides. In using your oil don't apply more than the skin will take up." In fine condition.

Wed 14 Aug

Johannes Kepler Rare Autograph Document Signed German mathematician, astronomer and astrologer (1571-1630) best known for his eponymous laws of planetary motion. ADS in German, signed “Johan Keppler, Mathematicus Mppria,” two pages on two adjoining sheets, 8.25 x 11.5, no date but circa August/September 1628. Kepler authorizes the bearer to attend the Steyr Iron Corporation's committee hearing scheduled for September 10, 1628, writing (translated): "Power and authority to attend the action of the Iron Company Commission established in Steyr on 10 September of this year 1628." He signs the second integral leaf beside his fine papered seal, showing Kepler's arms and initials, "I. K." In fine to very fine condition. At the hearing, headed by the Upper Austrian civil servants Johann Spindler and Konstantin Grundemann, it was disclosed to the Corporation's several hundred creditors that the Corporation had suffered substantial losses which they would have to bear, so as to prevent a municipal bankruptcy (cf. F. X. Pritz, Beschreibung und Geschichte der Stadt Steyer [Linz, 1837], p. 276). Johannes Kepler was a pivotal figure in the scientific revolution, best known for formulating the laws of planetary motion that laid the groundwork for Newton's theory of gravitation. His contributions to astronomy and mathematics transformed our understanding of the cosmos, marking him as one of history's great scientists. Due to the limited number of surviving documents from his time, Kepler's autograph is extremely rare and highly valued by collectors and historians alike.

Wed 14 Aug

Carter Braxton Signature Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Virginia (1736-1797) who was one of the wealthiest and most powerful plantation owners in the colony. Rare ink signature, "Carter Braxton, Baltimore,” on an off-white 7.75 x 7 envelope panel that Braxton has addressed to "Jonathan Hudson." In very good condition, with some paper loss, fold splits, edge trimming, and heavy staining.

Wed 14 Aug

Camilla, Queen Consort Typed Letter Signed TLS signed “Yours sincerely, Camilla,” one page, 4.75 x 7.5, personal letterhead, December 4, 2005. Letter to John Dimauro, in full: “Thank you very much for your letter. I was deeply touched by your kind and generous words and can only send you my heartfelt thanks and warmest good wishes.” Camilla adds the date and salutation in her own hand. In very fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.

Wed 14 Aug

Miep Gies Typed Letter Signed Dutch citizen (1909-2010) who hid Anne Frank, her family, and four other Dutch Jews from the Nazis during World War II. Together with her colleague Bep Voskuijl, she retrieved Anne Frank's diary after the family was arrested, and kept the papers safe until Otto Frank returned from Auschwitz in June 1945. TLS, one page, 8.25 x 11.75, Anne Frank Foundation [Stichting] letterhead, July 12, 2006. Letter to Graydon Wall, in full (spelling and grammar retained): “My leisure interests are first and foremost the well-being of my son's family, that consists of his lovely wife Lucy and their three teenage children. Further, I love to read about the world's different religions. while occasionally a movie may entertain me. Finally, and this may surprise you, I take great pleasure, at my age of 97, in running my own spacious 3 room apartment. Once a day I become a hot meal delivered, but for the rest I take care of everything myself. I also enjoy reading the hundreds of letters, that remain coming to me. My physical and mental health is still splendid, except for my speaking ability, which has been somewhat affected by a light stroke, I suffered 8 years ago.” In fine condition.

Wed 14 Aug

Hannibal Hamlin Autograph Letter Signed ALS signed “H. Hamlin,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, United States Senate Chamber letterhead, March 4, 1878. Handwritten letter marked “Private,” addressed to Massachusetts senator Hosea Knowlton, in part: “In reply I will say that up to this time the Delegation has stood firmly by you. But for the last week we have known that our efforts would be unavailing. The Pres’t has said he will not nominate you. What, if any thing, further will be done by us is uncertain. If we could see that any effort of ours would secure a less objectionable man than Talbot or Madduck, we might act. But I can see nothing to encourage us. If the whole Delegation could unite in favor of both Talbot & Maddock, we might defeat them both. But it would hardly be consistent to be in favor of two men for the same place. That’s not my way.” In fine condition.

Wed 14 Aug

Benjamin Harrison V War-Dated Document Signed Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Virginia (1726-1791) who was the father of President William Henry Harrison and great-grandfather of President Benjamin Harrison. Revolutionary War-dated partly-printed DS, signed “Benj. Harrison,” one page, 7 x 7, May 10, 1782. As Governor of Virginia, Benjamin Harrison, “on recommendation from the court of the county of Augusta,” appoints Samuel Lewis, William Tate, Henry Miller, Robert Cunningham, and John Cunningham as justice of the peace for the said country. Signed neatly at the conclusion by Harrison. The original off-white paper seal remains affixed below. In fine condition.

Wed 14 Aug

Samuel Huntington Revolutionary War-Era Hand-Addressed and Signed Free Frank to Jabez Huntington Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Connecticut (1731-1796) and seventh president of the Continental Congress. Hand-addressed and signed free frank, 8 x 6.5, addressed in the hand of Samuel Huntington, "For The Hon'ble Jabez Huntington, Esq., Norwich," and signed in the lower left corner, "S. Huntington, Free." On the reverse is a handwritten letter to Samuel Huntington by Jabez Huntington, reusing the paper from the letter sent to him (likely owing to wartime shortages), dated May 7, 1776, in part: "Congratulate you on the success of Canon for N. London Harbour & the prospect of having assistance from Congress to fortify thereas. I am clearly of opinion that no Harbour in any of the United Colonies is so well situated & formed to serve the Continental Fleet...I understand from Doc Turner that a number of the sick men belonging to the Continental fleet are now in hospital at N. London." He goes on to recommend Dr. Turner for service to the "Continentals" should any more hospitals be established, citing his "experience in the Army & known skill in surgery." In fine condition, with some minor seal-related paper loss. Accompanied by a manuscript pay order for Jabez Huntington's son, "Gen. Jed'h Huntington," issued by the Connecticut Pay-Table Committee on March 8, 1781.

Wed 14 Aug

John Jay Document Signed Partly-printed DS, one page, 16.25 x 10.25, May 8, 1798. As governor of New York, Jay appoints Jesse Woodward as "Ensign of a Company in the Regiment of Militia in the Country of Washington." Boldly signed at the conclusion in ink by Governor John Jay and countersigned by Secretary Jasper Hopper. The embossed paper seal remains intact at upper left. In very good to fine condition, with some minor loss at fold intersections; Jay's signature is bold and unaffected.

Wed 14 Aug

Kaiser-Frazer Corporation Stock Certificate and Transfer Letters Stock certificate for 50,000 shares in the Kaiser-Frazer Corporation, one page, 11.75 x 7.75, October 27, 1949, issued to "Henry J. Kaiser and Joseph W. Frazer, as voting trustees." Includes two letters, on the letterhead of the First National Bank of Nevada and the Lawyers Trust Company of New York, concerning the transfer of the certificate to McNaughton & Co., dated December 1949. Impressively cloth-matted and framed together with a plaque to an overall size of 37 x 30. In fine condition. The Kaiser-Frazer Corporation was an American automobile company, founded jointly in 1947 by industrialist Henry J. Kaiser and automobile executive Joseph W. Frazer.

Wed 14 Aug

King George V Typed Letter Signed on "unemployed Ex-Service Officers and men" TLS signed “George R. I.,” 7.5 x 9.5, Buckingham Palace letterhead, August 16, 1920. Letter to the Lord Lieutenant of Inverness-shire, in full: “I am anxious that every effort should be made to support Lord Haig's recent appeal on behalf of unemployed Ex-Service Officers and men. This question has doubtless engaged your attention since the early days of Army demobilisation. I should be much interested in any local particulars which you may be able to give me both regarding the numbers still unemployed and the steps taken to deal with such cases. I am confident that, as my Representative, you will do what lies in your power to secure the co-operation of all interests in your County to efface what might be regarded as a reflection on the fair name of our Nation.” In very good to fine condition, with scattered irregular toning.

Wed 14 Aug

King Philip II Letter Signed King of Spain (born 1527) from 1556 until his death in 1598; Sovereign of the Spanish Empire over North and South America, King of Portugal, Naples, Spanish Holland and Sicily, and King of England and Ireland while married to Queen Mary I. LS in Spanish, signed “Yo El Rey,” one page, 8.25 x 11.5, January 1585. Untranslated letter pertaining to Spanish affairs, prominently signed at the conclusion in ink by King Philip II. Retains the white paper seal affixed on the reverse In fine condition.

Wed 14 Aug

Richard Henry Lee Autograph Note Signed to Dr. Samuel Holten on Depreciation of the Continental Dollar Member of the notable Lee family and signer of the Declaration of Independence from Virginia (1732-1794). ANS signed “R. H. L.,” one page, 7.25 x 2, no date but likely circa 1780s. Handwritten note regarding a financial matter, written to Massachusetts patriot Dr. Samuel Holten. In full: "Will the honorable Doctor Holten be so good as cause an estimation to be made of the value in Specie of 500 dollars loaned the 29th of Sep'r 1779 according to the Continental Table of depreciation." Professionally inlaid into a slightly larger sheet, and in fine condition. Lee makes reference to the "Continental Table of depreciation," a system for determining the value of the Continental Dollar—paper money issued to fund the Revolution which rapidly depreciated after 1779 due to excessive printing and lack of backing by tangible assets. This overproduction led to rampant inflation, eroding public confidence in the currency. By the end of the war, the Continental Dollar had lost almost all its value, encapsulated in the phrase 'not worth a Continental.' Dr. Samuel Holten (1738-1816) was a physician, jurist, and politician who represented the Massachusetts Bay Colony as a delegate to the Continental Congress, where he signed the Articles of Confederation.

Wed 14 Aug

Thomas McKean Document Signed Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Delaware (1734-1817) who later served as president of the Continental Congress, Chief Justice of Pennsylvania, and Governor of Pennsylvania. Vellum manuscript DS, signed “Tho. M:Kean,” one page, 21 x 11.75, August 30, 1806. As governor of Pennsylvania, McKean grants to Alexander Baring and others "a certain tract of land, called 'Saunders grove,' situate in the late Purchase now Potter County." Boldly signed in the upper left corner by Governor Thomas McKean, and also endorsed on the reverse by Timothy Matlack, the engrosser of the Declaration of Independence. The crisp white paper seal affixed at the upper left remains intact. Interestingly, the deed reserves "only the fifth part of all Gold and Silver Ore, for the use of this Commonwealth." In fine condition.

Wed 14 Aug

Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III, and Family Signed Photograph Color vintage glossy 9.75 x 7.75 photo of the British royal family posing in front of a New Zealand National Airways Corporation jet during their 1970 tour of the island nation, affixed to a 13 x 12 mount, signed on mount in ink by Queen Elizabeth II ("Elizabeth R, 1970"), Prince Philip ("Philip"), Prince Charles ("Charles"), and Princess Anne ("Anne"). In fine condition. The royal family toured New Zealand from March 12-30, 1970, as Queen Elizabeth II participated in the James Cook bicentenary celebrations and introduced her children, Prince Charles (age 21) and Princess Anne (age 19), to the country.

Wed 14 Aug

Queen Victoria Document Signed (1858) Partly-printed DS, signed “Victoria R.,” one page, 16 x 12, January 26, 1858. Queen Victoria appoints John Noble Arbuthnot Freese to the position of “Colonel in Our Army.” Signed by the queen in the upper left corner above the document’s original paper seal and treasury stamp; the document is countersigned in the lower right by George Cornewall Lewis. In very good to fine condition.

Wed 14 Aug

Nathan Mayer Rothschild Document Signed European Jewish financier (1777-1836) who founded his family’s famous banking dynasty and handled Allied loans for the campaign against Napoleon. Rothschild helped to ensure Britain’s preeminence as a financial market when bonds he handled as an investment banker were denominated in sterling and the interest made payable to London in pounds. Among the powers availing themselves of the new arrangements was Czarist Russia, which floated a loan for £3,500,000 in 1822. Three-language partly-printed DS, signed “N. M. Rothschild,” one page both sides, 9.75 x 14.25, March 1, 1822. A Russian imperial bond for 720 rubles with 5% annuity. Signed in the upper right margin in ink by Rothschild. In very good condition, with soiling, areas of paper loss, and splitting to the intersecting folds.

Wed 14 Aug

Jacob Schiff Typed Letter Signed Banker, businessman, and philanthropist (1847-1920) who helped finance the expansion of American railroads and the Japanese military efforts against Tsarist Russia in the Russo-Japanese War. TLS, one page, 5 x 8.5, Kuhn, Loeb & Co. letterhead, April 22, 1912. Letter to S. J. Woolf, in full: "I have received, at my residence, the picture I have purchased from you, which gives me much pleasure and has already been admired by a number of friends, who have visited me and to whom I have shown it." Attractively cloth-matted and framed with a portrait and plaque to an overall size of 22 x 21.25. In fine condition, with some fading to the signature.

Wed 14 Aug

Joseph Stalin Original Wirephoto (1953) Original vintage glossy 10 x 8 AP wirephoto of six close-up studies of Joseph Stalin, taken at May Day ceremonies in 1949, published by the Associated Press in 1953 on news that the Soviet leader had suffered a paralytic stroke and was in a coma. The images show Stalin in a jovial mood—saluting, waving, and tipping his cap. Retains the printed caption affixed to the reverse, along with an "Associated Press Newsphoto" credit stamp. In very good to fine condition, with creasing to the corners and margins, a small tear to the right edge, and a tear to the caption.

Wed 14 Aug

Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. Document Signed American soldier and politician (1740-1809) who served as paymaster general in the Continental Army and as George Washington's aide-de-camp; he later served as governor of Connecticut and as the second Speaker of the US House of Representatives. Partly-printed DS, signed “Jon'a Trumbull,” one page, 12.25 x 7.25, May 19, 1804. As governor of Connecticut, Trumbull appoints Joshua Porter “of said State...to be Judge of our County Court, to be holden within our County of Litchfield.” Signed at the conclusion by Governor Trumbull and countersigned by Secretary Samuel Wyllys. The left side retains the original ornate white paper seal. In fine condition, with a couple small edge tears and mounting remnants to reverse.

Wed 14 Aug

Oliver Wolcott Document Signed Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Connecticut (1726-1797) who commanded troops in the defense of New York during the American Revolution. Partly-printed DS, one page, 12 x 7.75, May 17, 1797. As governor of Connecticut, Wolcott appoints Samuel Stiles to be “Captain of the 2d Company in the 19th Regiment of Militia in this State.” Signed boldly at the conclusion by Oliver Wolcott and countersigned by Samuel Wyllys as secretary. In very good condition, with some light stains, areas of paper loss, and old archival repairs to the back of the fold separations.

Wed 14 Aug

David G. Farragut War-Dated Autograph Letter Signed One Week After the Battle of Mobile Bay, Affirming the Delivery of Over 200 "rebel prisoners" Civil War-dated ALS signed “D. G. Farragut, Rear Admiral,” one page, 7.75 x 9.75, U.S. Flag Ship Hartford letterhead, August 12, 1864. Addressed from Farragut’s flagship, the USS Hartford, anchored off of Mobile Bay, Alabama, a handwritten letter to Lieutenant Henry L. Howison, commander of the USS Bienville, in full: “You will receive onboard the rebel prisoners who will be delivered to you by Lieut. Adams of this vessel, and proceed with them at once to New Orleans and on arrival report to Commodore Palmer who will deliver them to the Provost Marshall as prisoners of war.” A secretarial notation to the bottom area affirms the reception of “209 Rebel Prisoners.” Includes a carte-de-visite 2.25 x 3.5 portrait photo of Farragut in uniform, published by Brady’s National Photographic Portrait Galleries. In fine condition. A remarkable letter from Rear Admiral Farragut written one week after the historic Battle of Mobile Bay, which resulted in the United States Navy’s seizure of the last important port on the Gulf of Mexico east of the Mississippi River that remained in Confederate possession. It was from this fateful battle where Farragut's, perhaps apocryphal, order of ‘Damn the torpedoes! Four bells. Captain Drayton, go ahead! Jouett, full speed!’ became famous in paraphrase, as ‘Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!’

Wed 14 Aug

O. O. Howard Autograph Letter Signed on the Army of the Cumberland One-armed Union general (1830-1909) who participated at Gettysburg and commanded the Army of Tennessee during Sherman's March to the Sea. ALS signed “O. O. Howard, Brig. Gen. U.S.A.,” two pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, Headquarters Department of the Columbia letterhead, August 29, 1874. Handwritten letter to a trio of senior officers, in part: “I can never forget my connection with the Army of the Cumberland. With the 4th Army Corps I had the squarest, closest, most constant battling from Tunnel Hill & Buzzard Roost to Atlanta, most of the time opposite the enemy's centre & close up. You will recall it all — the losses then & since even if, our countrymen forget what the soldiers living & dead have accomplished...our children & children's children will at least have before them examples of devotion, heroism & constancy that will not fail to impress & influence them. May they be ever fearless, resisting even unto blood if need be in defense of the right. My heart is with you.” In very good to fine condition, with some light soiling, and a repaired tear to each page.

Wed 14 Aug

George G. Meade War-Dated Autograph Letter Signed on False Publications: "I should like to know who the correspondent is & where he obtained his information" Civil War-dated ALS signed “Geo. G. Meade,” one page, 5 x 8.25, September 11, 1863. Addressed from headquarters, a handwritten letter to a general, in full: “Your attention is called to the enclosed slip. I should like to know who the correspondent is & where he obtained his information. Other pieces of a like character have been referred to me by Genl. Humphreys. The frequent appearance of late in the public journals of articles containing information new to these Hd Qrs & often without any foundation in fact, & in many cases like the present implicating officers in violations of orders and military propriety, render it necessary some action should be taken. You will therefore notify the several registered correspondents of public journals that this practice if not stopped will result in their exclusion from this Army.” In fine condition, with light staining to the left edge, and paper restoration to the top corners.

Wed 14 Aug

William T. Sherman War-Dated Autograph Letter Signed: "Spies and Guerillas, murderers under the assumed title of Confederate Soldiers and deserters...should be hung quick" Civil War-dated ALS signed “W. T. Sherman, Maj. Gen. Comd'g,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.75 x 10, Head-Quarters Military Division of the Mississippi letterhead, April 6, 1864. Handwritten letter to Col. Joseph Holt, Judge Advocate General of the United States Army, insisting that commanders in the field have the authority to carry out executions where necessary, and that “I expect to execute a good many Spies and Guerillas under that Law without bothering the President...We all know that it is very hard for the President to hang Spies even after conviction, when a troop of friends follows the sentences with earnest and ex parte appeals. Spies and Guerillas, murderers under the assumed title of Confederate Soldiers and deserters...should be hung quick, of course after a Record trial: for the number of escapes made...during the long time between trial and reference have made this Class of Men bold & dangerous. Our own scouts and detachments have so little faith in the punishment of known desperados that a habit is growing of ‘losing prisoners in the Swamp,’ the meaning of which you know...I believe that the veriest demon should have a hearing & trial, but punishment should be prompt & speedy, or it loses all efficacy.” In fine condition. As a brigadier general in Missouri, Ulysses S. Grant was ordered by Maj. Gen. John C. Fremont to start an intelligence organization. Grant came to understand the power of intelligence and later made Brig. Gen. Grenville M. Dodge the head of his intelligence operations that covered an area from Mississippi to Georgia and included as many as one hundred secret agents. Per the American Battlefield Trust: ‘During the American Civil War, both the Union and the Confederate governments relied on espionage during wartime. Both citizens and soldiers participated in providing information, including military and political details and secrets. If caught, the spy faced punishments such as jail or death by hanging. Although most spies were civilians and met jail time, many were court-marshaled and faced death. Soldiers like Sam Davis and citizens like Timothy Webster died for their cause and were seen as heroes for their respective sides.’

Wed 14 Aug

CSS Alabama: John Thomas War-Dated Letter on the Capture of the Express Civil War-dated ALS signed “John Thomas,” one page both sides, 8.25 x 10.75, October 8, 1863. Addressed from Boston, a handwritten letter to New Hampshire Congressman Daniel Marcy, regarding the recent capture of the USN ship Express by the CSS Alabama and her captain, Raphael Semmes, in part: “We rec’d the protest from Capt. Frost this morning & immediately placed it before the underwriters...It seems the ship was boarded by the ‘Alabama’ on 6 July about 1 o’clock on that day. The day was thick & three shots were fired before Capt. F could make out where they came from. At first he supposed the guns, signal of distress but the 3d convinced him they were loaded. Semmes immediately took the ship along side ordered the crew on board his ship & fired the ‘Express’ with every thing on board including all her papers & the Capt & his wife’s clothing.” In fine condition. Semmes detailed his capture of the Express in his autobiography, Memoirs of Service Afloat During the War Between the States: ‘The morning of the 6th proved cloudy and squally, and we had some showers of rain, though the barometer kept steadily up. At thirty minutes past midnight, an officer came below to inform me that there was a large sail in sight not a great way off. I sent word to the officer of the deck to chase and repaired on deck pretty soon myself. In about three hours we had approached the chase sufficiently near to heave her to with a shot, she having previously disregarded two blank cartridges. She proved to be another prize, the ship Express, of Boston from Callao for Antwerp with a cargo of guano from the Chincha Islands. This cargo probably belonged to the Peruvian Government, for the guano of the Chincha Islands is a government monopoly, but our Peruvian friends had been unfortunate in their attempts to cover it...I was sorry to burn so much property belonging in all probability to Peru, but I could make no distinction between that government and an individual. I had the right to burn the enemy's ship, and if a neutral government chose to put its property on board of her, it was its duty to document it according to the laws of war or abide the consequences of the neglect. The certificate would not have secured individual property, and I could not permit it to screen that of a government which was presumed to know the law better than an individual. As the case stood, I was bound to presume that the property, being in an enemy's bottom, was enemy's. The torch followed this decision. The Express had had a long and boisterous passage around Cape Horn and gave signs of being much weatherbeaten - some of her spars and sails were gone, and her sides were defaced with iron rust. The master had his wife on board, a gentle Englishwoman, with her servant maid, or rather humble companion, and it seemed quite hard that these two females, after having braved the dangers of Cape Horn, should be carried off to brave other dangers at the Cape of Good Hope.’