LINUS YALE JR. - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED - HFSID 350452 - HFSID 350452
LINUS YALE, JR. The famous lock inventory writes a letter to his wife, complete with printed drawings of some of his locks. Autograph Letter signed: "Linus," (and "Linus Yale Jr." on verso) 1¼ p, 3½ x 8. Johnson's Hotel, 1856 January 9.The inventor of the cylinder lock and combination lock writes to his wife, Kate.In full: "Here I am at Johnson's Hotel 9 o'clock Wednesday evening. Got along tolerably well on the only train through from Philad. Left at 2 P.M.- Found the MS. and brot (sic) it on asked John to send the note which accompanies it out to you. Did you get it? What do you think of the modification? Don't it show the way the wind blows? I think it is clear he thinks well of it or is at least anxious it should not come to N. York but I shall take it up to the Founders and try. I had much rather they would publish it. I am sorry we can not push it although it will by management go without. Got orders from Hull & Dodds for two more locks. Oseur is not in yet so don't know what is the news. My appointment with the Bank of Commerce is for tomorrow. Hope to succeed. Morris thinks it's a good idea to keep Remington in the business.CHARLES BABBAGE - AUTOGRAPH NOTE SIGNED 5/23 - HFSID 350482 - HFSID 350482
CHARLES BABBAGE The famed mathematician sends a dinner invitation. Third Person ANS: "Mr. Babbage", 1p, 3½ x 3¾. Dorset St., (no year) May 23. In full: "Mr. Babbage will have the honor of dining with Mr & Mrs Strutt on Saturday the 11th June". Charles Babbage (1791-1871) is known as the "Father of Computing" for his ideas about building an analytical engine, the predecessor of the digital computer. He proposed operations research that involved the idea of using machines to perform routine mathematical operations, eliminating errors in human calculation. By 1825, he had developed a machine that was capable of calculating up to 20 decimals. Plans formulated by Babbage in the mid-1830s became the basis for the computers that emerged in the 1940s and 1950s. Lightly stained at upper right blank corner. Fine condition. Framed to an overall size of 27½ x 16¼. Frame exhibits wearing at corners. GEORGE "BUGS" MORAN - DOCUMENT SIGNED 11/28/1938 - HFSID 350453 - HFSID 350453
BUGS MORAN The Chicago gangster and target of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre adds his very rare signature of "George Moran" to this petition in 1938. Documents signed by Moran with his birth name are extremely scarce in the public market. Document signed "George Moran" and by "Lillian E. Cohen" as Notary Public. 1 page, 8x3¾ (visible), framed to 29x19 with b/w photos of Moran and the aftermath of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre and a 5x8 bio plate. November 28, 1938. In full: "GEORGE MORAN being first duly sworn, states that he has read the above and foregoing petition, signed by him, and that the same is true except for those matters stated by him to be upon information and belief, and that as to those matters this affiant states that he believes them to be true." This document appears to be related to a forgery trial that, according to the Nov. 28, 1938, Chicago Daily Tribune, included Moran and nine other defendants. Moran was accused of forging American Express checks, New York Central railroad bonds and cigarette revenue stamps. The trial started on Jan.GUGLIELMO M. MARCONI - DOCUMENT SIGNED - HFSID 350436 - HFSID 350436
GUGLIELMO MARCONI Beautifully framed display of a Marconi signed NAWA certification. Partly Printed DS: "G Marconi" 1p, 10¼ x 8. National Amateur Wireless Association certification to James P. Buxton. Expiration date October 1922. Marconi (1874-1937) carried out successful experiments with wireless telegraphy near Bologna, Italy in 1895. Two years later, he erected a wireless station at La Spezia at the invitation of the Italian government. In 1898, Marconi established communications across the English Channel between England and France. He was awarded the 1909 Nobel Prize in Physics in recognition of his "contribution to the development of wireless telegraphy". In 1914, Marconi was appointed a Senator in Rome. While in England in 1924, Marconi signed contracts with the British Postal service to set up radio communication with all parts of British Commonwealth. Toned, creased and stains throughout. Framed to an overall size of 19½ x 29½. Frame exhibits wearing at corners. Left knob was cracked and repaired. HOWARD HUGHES - AUTOGRAPH NOTE UNSIGNED - HFSID 350601 - HFSID 350601
HOWARD HUGHES and JEAN PETERS Peters complains to her husband that the guards are taking over too much of the house. Autograph Note Unsigned: "J." on verso, 2p, 8¼ x 10¾, yellow sheet, front and verso (hinged to show both sides). Matted and framed to overall size of 41 x 22¼ with three metallic plaques and two unsigned photos (b/w, approximate size 4½ x 6½). No place, no date. In full in Hughes handwriting: "An airplane race is around 3 Pylons [sketch to the left] and the one back of the pilot is called the 4th Pylon or the pilot's pylon-upside down, within note, secretarial-For Mr. Hughes - at bottom, Peters' note, written beneath her husband's, begins -Its OK about the car - But I am Still having my stuff moved out of garage into one of back room off kitchen - which those guards have usurped for their card games & TV viewing - originally they started out using one john (dressing room) they have ended up with more floor space than we have - & it infuriates me.". On verso, Peters has written a note: "Dearest Love- I have gone to Mrs. Brinds for a couple of hours. She has 8mm movies of her trip to Israel.ORVILLE WRIGHT - AUTOGRAPHED SIGNED PHOTOGRAPH - HFSID 265856 - HFSID 265856
ORVILLE WRIGHT. Photograph signed: "Orville Wright". B/w, 6¼x4½ overall, image 5x3¼ (one surface). Captioned at lower margin: "First Man-Flight, December 17, 1903/Kitty Hawk, N.C." Orville Wright (1871-1948) and his brother, Wilbur (1867-1912), made aviation history with their Flyer in Kitty Hawk, on North Carolina's Outer Banks, on December 17, 1903. While the Wrights had been testing their gliders on Kill Devil Hill for a number of years, this was their first test of their motorized, heavier-than-air flying machine. At 10:35 a.m., Orville Wright was at the controls of the 21-foot biplane with the 40.3-foot wingspan. The 605 pound craft, powered by a 12-horsepower engine that had four piston cylinders and revved to 1,090 rpm, left the ground, staying aloft for 12 seconds and covering 120 feet at an altitude of ten feet. Later that day, during one of their three test flights, Wilbur also manned the controls, traveling 852 feet in 59 seconds. In 1905, Wilbur and Orville decided to stop flying and tried to market their machine, first offering it to the U.S. government and then flying it in France.WALTER E. "WALT" DISNEY - DOCUMENT SIGNED WITH CO-SIGNERS - HFSID 350348
WALT DISNEY and RAYMOND DISNEY Planning to buy insurance from his older brother Raymond, Walt signs an application for a life insurance policy (also signed by Raymond). Framed by the Gallery of History with an unsigned picture of Walt Disney with Mickey Mouse. Partly Printed DS: "Walter E. Disney", "Geo. E. Morris" as Secretary of Walt Disney Productions and "Raymond A. Disney" as Soliciting Agent, 1 page, 9 x 13¾. Framed to overall size of 33¼ x 22¾. No place (probably Los Angeles), no date (c. 1938-1943, the tenure of Morris). "Application for Insurance in/Connecticut General Life Insurance Company". Other than the signatures, the application has not been filled out. Walter Elias Disney took out insurance policies as he became more successful with Walt Disney Productions. Disney Productions developed in the 1930s. Disney would use his insurance policies as collateral to raise cash in 1952 in order to plan and build Disneyland (1955). Walt purchased his policies from his older brother, Raymond.HENRY FORD - AUTOGRAPHED SIGNED PHOTOGRAPH WITH CO-SIGNERS - HFSID 350483
HENRY FORD and HARRY FERGUSON Extraordinary photograph capturing the two innovators together. Rare Photograph signed: "Henry Ford" and "Harry Ferguson". Sepia, 13¾ x 11 overall, image 11 x 8 (one surface). HARRY FERGUSON, a manufacturer of tractors in England and Ireland, developed the Ferguson tractor, a scale model of which is shown on the table in this photograph. His system of tractor-implement integration utilized a hitch, the linkages, and controls of which made the tractor and implement work as a single unit operated almost entirely from the seat of the tractor. Seeking an American market for his product, Ferguson entered into an agreement with HENRY FORD and the Ford Motor Company. Ford, who had formed Ford Motor Company in 1903 and was noted for introducing the successful assembly-line method of production, was to manufacture and market the Ferguson tractor in the U.S. The company commenced making the tractors in 1938, but the agreement was terminated after WWII. Ferguson then began manufacturing his own equipment in Great Britain and the U.S.DAVID DUNBAR BUICK - STOCK CERTIFICATE SIGNED 08/20/1921 - HFSID 350391 - HFSID 350391
DAVID D. BUICK Stock certificate, bearing Buick's signature, that was issued for one of his few later enterprises connected with the automobile industry. Stock Certificate signed: "D.D. Buick" as Presidentand "F.O. Patterson" as Secretary of the David Buick Carburetor Corporation, 1p, 10¾ x 8¼. No place, 1921 August 20. Certifying that F.U. Wells "is the owner of one hundred Shares of Ten Dollars each of the Capital Stock of the David Buick Carburetor Corporation…." The corporation issued capital stock of $3 million, and the embossed corporate stamp indicates the company was formed in 1919. Buick (1855-1929) formed Buick Co in 1902 and invented the valve-in-head engine. He built his first car in 1903. Printed yellow seal at lower left. By 1927 Buick, poverty-stricken and in ill health, returned to Detroit, where he took a position as an instructor at a trade school. That year, a million cars bore his name on their radiators, but Buick died a virtual unknown in 1929. Buick is one of the scarcest of all automotive signatures.JOHN HANCOCK - AUTOGRAPH LETTER UNSIGNED 03/27/1783 - HFSID 286082 - HFSID 286082
JOHN HANCOCK His handwritten March 1783 letter as Governor of Massachusetts, instructing a garrison commander to forbid a ship full of Tories to disembark, requiring them to sail instead for New York (still in British hands) Autograph Letter, unsigned, 1 page, 7¾x12. Written as Governor. Boston, Massachusetts, 1783 March 27. To William Gordon, Commander of the Garrison in Dartmouth. In full: "I have this moment received your Letter by Express, giving information of the arrival of a Flag with a Number of Persons on board who were desirous of remaining some time at Dartmouth. I have laid the state of this Flag before the Council, & in consequence of their advice you are hereby Directed upon no pretense whatever, to suffer any of the Persons or any of the Effects brought in the Flag to be Landed at Dartmouth, or in any other place, but that you give immediate Directions for the Departure of the Flag with the Persons, & their effects to New York, and that after the Receipt of this Letter you make a point of Embracing the first fair wind to put her under Sail for New York, as no circumstance can possibly induce me to Deviate from this order. I am Sir your very humble servant.EDWARD Z.C. "NED BUNTLINE" JUDSON - AUTOGRAPHED SIGNED PHOTOGRAPH - HFSID 350526 - HFSID 350526
EDWARD Z.C. JUDSON (NED BUNTLINE) The author signs "Ned Buntline, Ready for Game" on a photograph of himself holding hunting rifle. Photograph signed: "'Ned Buntline,'/Ready for Game." Sepia, 4¼ x 6¼ overall, image 3¾ x 5¼ (one surface). Studio photograph by Sarony of New York, signed with his penname. A nautical term for the rope at the bottom of a square sail, the name Buntline was adopted from his youthful navy days. Soldier, adventurer, and writer Edward Z.C. Judson (1823-1886) had developed his sensational literary style in the 1840s, when he began submitting exaggerated accounts of his adventures to "Knickerbocker Magazine". Arrested, shot at and even hung once (someone cut the rope), in 1869, Judson "discovered" Western scout William F. Cody, nicknamed him Buffalo Bill and exploited his adventures in books and plays. Earlier, Judson had helped organize the anti-foreign, anti-labor American Party, better known, thanks to Judson, as the Know-Nothing Party (1850-1856).SAMUEL F. B. MORSE - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED 02/22/1871 - HFSID 350580 - HFSID 350580
SAMUEL F.B. MORSE Signed autograph letter (1871) to an experimenter, in which Morse discusses "the present Science of Electro-Magnetism." ALS: "Saml F.B. Morse". 1½ pages, 5 x 8, front and verso. New York, 1871 February 22. The inventor of the Morse Code and the Electromagnetic Telegraph writes to G.W. Varnum, M.D., Montgomery City, Mo. In full: "I received yesterday through my friend & your Cousin J.B. Varnum, Esq your letter of the 16t. instant. In regard to the experiment mentioned in your letter, it is by no means new. Indeed it was from observing this effect, upon a needle, of the magnetism of an electric current (not indeed upon the modern electromagnet, which was the result of his observation,) that Oersted founded the present Science of Electro-magnetism. The use made also of this effect of the magnet upon the needle, to indicate the presence of an electric current upon the telegraph wires, is almost universal in the Offices in Europe; every instrument being furnished with a Galvanometer for the purpose, So although although (sic) not new, you have at least the satisfaction of having independently Suggested a valuable use of the magnetic needle.SAMUEL F. B. MORSE - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED 02/03/1854 - HFSID 40983 - HFSID 40983
SAMUEL F.B. MORSE He signs a glowing (1854) autograph letter, enthusiastically recommending his former assistant Otis Wood to any prospective employer. Framed in a Gallery of History display to 36x22 ALS: "Sam. F.B. Morse," 1½ pages, 7½x9¾. Po'keepsie, 1854 February 3.To Otis E. Wood, Esq., Utica.In full: "Most happy shall I be, if by a simple letter of mine, I can render you or your worthy brothers any service. Your brother Orrin S. Wood was my first Telegraph pupil, after the first (the experimental) line was established between Washington & Baltimore. He will undoubtedly recollect my predictions at that time, for him, that having taken the enterprize at its very commencement, and made himself thus early master of all that pertained to it, he would have an experience, possessed by no other, which would enable him to command any position he might choose, not only one of usefulness but I believed also of fortune. I am gratified in believing that he has attained a position, at least of well earned competence if not of fortune, which he richly deserves for his high and honorable personal character, as well as his eminent Skill & perseverance.ENZO FERRARI - PAMPHLET SIGNED - HFSID 350506 - HFSID 350506
ENZO FERRARI The framed race car engineer signs a biographical page from a pamphlet. Pamphlet signed: "Ferrari", 8 x 11¼. Enzo Ferrari (1898-1988), whose name is synonymous with quality engineering, began his racing career in 1919 and soon became a test driver for Alfa Romeo. About 1939, Ferrari organized his own factory but was prevented from producing his own automobiles for four years because of a contract with Romeo, which feared competing against the famed Ferrari name. During WWII, Ferrari's factory was converted to produce ball bearings and other equipment. In 1947, however, Ferrari's first car with the prancing horse insignia debuted. A lifetime racing enthusiast, Ferrari produced few automobiles for private consumer sales until the 1953 debut of the 250 Europa, the first of the long line of Ferrari street cars that to this day remain highly valued as collectibles. Ferraris excelled on international racing circuits and garnered ten wins in the Formula One Constructors' Championship from 1956 to 1983 - more than any other make. Surface creases, otherwise fine condition. Framed to an overall size of 15 x 25¾. 8 photocopied pages of the pamphlet included on back of frame.WILBUR WRIGHT - COLLECTION WITH CO-SIGNERS - HFSID 350550
WILBUR WRIGHT Rare checks signed by the aviation pioneers. Collection consisting of 1.) Check filled out and signed: "Wright Brothers/W.W.," 8 x 2¾. Dayton Ohio, January 10, 1910. Drawn on The Winters National Bank, payable to M. A. Culp for $78.85. Fine condition. 2.) Check filled out and signed: "Wright Brothers/OW.", 8 x 2¾. Dayton, Ohio, February 1, 1908. Drawn on The Winters National Bank, payable to Ladaskie Miller for $6.00. Fine condition. Framed to an overall size of 31½ x 21½. During 1904 and 1905, the Wrights built and tested new planes and engines. An improved Flyer II was flown near Dayton, Ohio in 1904. They began designing Flyer III. At Simms Station, Ohio, on October 5, 1905, Wilbur flew for 24 miles in 38 minutes, landing only when their new Flyer III gas tank ran dry. The Flyer III was powered by a 15-horse powered engine. This was the Wright brothers' first flight of more than a half hour and renewed their confidence in man's ability to sustain flight. They had invented the first fully practical airplane that could turn, bank, circle and fly figure eights.SAMUEL F. B. MORSE - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED - HFSID 350481 - HFSID 350481
SAMUEL F.B. MORSE The famed inventor sends a letter to an influential Kentucky congressman. Autograph Letter singed: "Saml F.B. Morse". 1p, 7¼ x 10. No place, no date. Morse writes to a Kentucky congressman instrumental in getting congress to appropriate $30,000 for an experimental line between Washington and Baltimore upon which, in May of 1844, he transmitted, using a code of dots and sashes that he developed (The Morse Code), his famous salutation “What Hath God Wrought”. 1 page, 7¼ x 10. Written and signed in black ink “Saml F.B. Morse” to: William P. Thomasson (congressman from Kentucky) from the telegraph room 9:30 P.M. In full: “Dear Sir / If there is any thing of interest / in the house to send to Baltimore / I will send it / Respectfully / Yr. Mo. Ob. Servt” Kentucky (1843-1847). Fine condition. Framed to an overall size of 32¼ x 21¾. Minor chip on frame left front, minor wearing at frame corners. Samuel F. B. Morse (1791-1872) was an accomplished portrait and mural painter and founder of the National Academy of Design.ROBERT MORRIS - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED 01/01/1798 - HFSID 350490 - HFSID 350490
ROBERT MORRIS Morris writes about impending financial ruin; a month later, he was sent to Prune Street Debtor's Prison. Autograph Letter Signed: "Robert Morris", 3p, 7½x10. Philadelphia, 1798 January 1.To JohnNicholson, his partner in land speculation, Hills. Begins: "Dear Sir". In full: "I send herewith a Copy of Mr. Burds Official list of the Actions in which Geo. Eddy became Special Bail for me. I have marked those that are settled and amongst them those of Myers Musgrove & Ketland which you wrote me you had settled. Of these that remain I expect I can settle with Steinmetz and Newhold, but how the rest are to be managed I do not yet know, and shall be glad to receive your Sentiments with any information you can give thereon - How comes it to pass that I am in a more responsible situation in these cases than you are. If I had not entered Special Bail I must have been responsible to Jno Baker & he would have taken me instead of Geo Eddy P.T. BARNUM - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED 01/14/1883 - HFSID 286033 - HFSID 286033
P.T. BARNUM The great showman will send a bear and hyena that died at his circus' winter quarters to his taxidermist to be mounted or "skeletonized" for display at Tufts' Barnum Museum and mentions Jumbo, the giant elephant that the recipient will preserve less than three years later Autograph letter signed: "P.T. Barnum", 1p, 6x9¾. Bridgeport, 1883 January 14.On pictorial letterhead of "P.T. Barnum's Greatest Show on Earth and the Great London Circus" featuring "Sanger's Royal British Menagerie" and "Great International Allied Shows" to Professor Henry A. Ward. Barnum, J.A. Bailey and J.L. Hutchinson are pictured on the letterhead. In full: "Our folks at Winter Quarters lost a bear & I think a hyena this week. I told them to send them to you by freight train. Please tell Prof. Marth of Tufts about them & ask what you shall do - as I present them to their Museum either to sell to you or have you mount or skeletonize them if they desire at their expense. I remove to New York tomorrow - to Murray Hill Hotel & close Waldemere for the season.ORVILLE WRIGHT - DOCUMENT SIGNED 02/06/1945 - HFSID 279312 - HFSID 279312
ORVILLE WRIGHT Orville Wright signed this document in 1945 to lease 135 acres of farm and pastureland that he owned in Indiana. This document was signed three years before Wright's death and offers a look into how he paid his bills late in life. Lease signed "Orville Wright" as Lessor. 2 pages, 8½x12¾, single-sided sheets, bound with two staples at top edge. Feb. 6, 1945. Wright signed this lease agreement to lease 135 acres of farm and pastureland in "Township 23 North", Indiana [possibly Fowlerton] to Clayton W. Dickerson of Jonesboro, Indiana. The lease's term was from March 1, 1945, to Feb. 28, 1946. Dickerson leased the farm - which included improvements like an orchard, garden lot and barn - for $6 per acre or a total of $810, paid in full to Wright on Sept. 1, 1945. This lease also laid out Dickerson's responsibilities. In short, he had to maintain the land and its buildings out of his own pocket and pay one-half the cost for seed and fertilizer and for threshing and hulling any crops, with Wright paying the other half. Wilbur (1867-1912, born near Millville, Indiana) and Orville (1871-1948, born in Dayton, Ohio) formed the Wright Cycle Company in 1892 and manufactured bicycles.J. PAUL GETTY - STOCK CERTIFICATE SIGNED 07/15/1922 WITH CO-SIGNERS - HFSID 350438
J. PAUL GETTY Rare early stock certificate signed by Getty. Stock Certificate signed: "J. Paul Getty" as President, “H. M. Hoffnagle” as Secretary. 1p, 13x8. Certificate number 331 representing 1000 shares of the Capital stock in OKLAHOMA OIL CORPORATION registered in the name of G. W. Woolley, vignette of a railroad sitting in an oil field printed on upper left side, with various oil related vignettes around border, large gold seal of the corporation affixed on lower left side. 3½ x 8½ partly-printed transfer register with red 50 stamp affixed to left side. Fine condition. Frame to an overall size of 27x25. Verso viewable from back of frame. In 1916, Jean Paul Getty (1892-1976) and his father, George, had incorporated the Getty Oil Company, an early precursor to the great conglomerate. His multistate operation went international in 1949, when he completed a deal to lease oil fields in Saudi Arabia. During the Depression Era, he had bought extensive quantities of stock and in 1956 he gained control of Pacific Western, which he renamed Getty Oil, ending a 19-year stock battle with Standard Oil.AMERICAN MERCHANTS UNION EXPRESS CO. - COLLECTION WITH CO-SIGNERS - HFSID 350401
HENRY WELLS, WILLIAM G. FARGO and ALVIN ADAMS Amazing collection from the founders of the great “Express” companies. Comprises (1) Partly Printed Check endorsed: "Alvin Adams" on verso, 7½ x 3. San Francisco, California, 1877 August 14. Wells Fargo & Company check, payable to Alvin Adams for $46.10. Secretary Signed: "William G. Fargo" on front. (windowed to show both sides of certificate) Lightly soiled. Fine condition. (2) Stock Certificate signed: "Henry Wells" as President, "Alexander Holland" as Treasurer and "Jas. C. Fargo" as Secretary of the American Express Company, 1p, 11¾ x 8. New York, 1866 May 28. Issue of 18,000 shares of Capital Stock; each share was worth $100. Certificate No. 661, certifying "that R. A. Porter of Keenu New Hampshire is entitled to One Share in the American Express Company...." On verso, the certificate has been transferred on June 28, 1866, the date of its issue (windowed to show both sides of certificate). Lightly creased. Light show through of revenue stamp affixed to verso. Fine condition.JOHN HANCOCK - AUTOGRAPH LETTER UNSIGNED 10/31/1783 - HFSID 273139 - HFSID 273139
THE GOVERNOR OF MASSACHUSETTS URGES THE PRESIDENT OF NEW HAMPSHIRE TO TAKE THE SAME STEPS AS MASSACHUSETTS HAD TAKEN IN ORDER TO PRESERVE THE FISHING INDUSTRY ON THE MERRIMACK RIVER JOHN HANCOCK. Autograph Letter, unsigned, 1p, 6¾x9. Boston, 1783 October 31.To "His Excellency Meshech Weare Esqr. President of the State of New Hampshire".Begins: "Sir". In full: "In compliance with the Request of the Two Branches of the General Court I inclose you Two Acts of this Government making provision to prevent the Destruction of Fish by Mill-Dams in Merrimack River & c - As the Design'd [illegible] of this Bill will much Depend upon the measures that shall be Adopted by the Legislature of your State, I am to Request that your Excellency will be pleas'd to lay those Acts before them, and cannot but flatter myself that they will Take such effectual Steps as will ensure the good Effects for which our Govt. Court had in View in passing the Bill - I am with Sentiments of [portion of word crossed out] Esteem, Sir, Your Excellency's Most Obedt & Humbl Servt." Hancock's retained copy of his letter to Weare. Docketed in unknown hand on verso.WALTER E. "WALT" DISNEY - INSCRIBED ORIGINAL ART SIGNED WITH CO-SIGNERS - HFSID 350466
WALT DISNEY and HIS ARTISTS Extraordinary collection including a sketch of Mickey Mouse by Walt Disney himself, and another sheet with original drawings of Disney characters by Disney artists, a composer and a business manager. Framed with two photos to an overall size of 25x33. Framed Collection, including: 1) Original Art inscribed and signed: "To John Adrian, Hoping he will be able to draw better than this - Walt Disney", 6¾ x 10½ sheet, upon which Disney has drawn a pencil sketch of Mickey Mouse. Horizontal fold creased at center. Lightly toned and soiled. Otherwise, fine condition. 2) Original Art signed by each of the following: drawing of Goofy, signed "Ted Sears, Santa Clara - 41"; Pluto, signed "Norm Ferguson"; Donald Duck, signed "Franklin Thomas"; Bacchus, signed "Jim Bodero"; J. Thaddeus Toad, signed in pencil "Toad - of Toad Hall, Webb Smith"; Autograph Musical Quotation signed, "I'm the Reluctant Dragon What Ho! Quite So!/Charles Wolcott S. S. Santa Clara, 1941". Also signed by Disney's business managerRUDOLF CHRISTIAN KARL DIESEL - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED 04/14/1909 - HFSID 350446 - HFSID 350446
RUDOLF DIESEL Thedeveloper of the internal-combustion machine that uses oil as a fuel writes to a grieving acquaintance. Rare ALS: "Diesel," 2pp, 3¾x5½, separate sheets. Haus Diesel, 1909 April 14. In German with English translation to Dr. Bloch. In full: "I did not completely understand your telephone message yesterday and that you were personally grieved; and only today I learned about the facts. I ask you to accept my expression of heartfelt sympathy. I would have expressed the same to you yesterday at the cemetery if I had been informed." Diesel patented his engine in 1892. Diesel engines are less smooth-running, heavier, and initially more expensive than gasoline engines but make more efficient use of cheaper fuel. They are widely used in ships, heavy vehicles, power installations and in passenger cars. Diesel signed material is rare in any form. Fine condition. Framed to an overall size of 35¼x20.WALTER E. "WALT" DISNEY - COMIC BOOK SIGNED CIRCA 1954 - HFSID 350524 - HFSID 350524
WALT DISNEY Vary rare Disney signed Donald Duck comic book. Comic Book signed: "Walt Disney" on the first page, 32p, 7x10. "Walt Disney's/Duck Album/featuring 5 complete duck stories", published by Dell Comics, issue number 611. "Four Color". Copyright 1954 by Walt Disney Productions. Authorized edition. Published and distributed by Dell Publishing Co. in January 1955. Designed and produced by Western Printing & Lithographing Co. Walt Disney's Duck Album was produced between 1951-1957 with 12 different issues. This issue, no. 611, was seventh in the series. American Disney comics started in 1930 when Walt Disney began writing a daily Mickey Mouse comic strip for newspapers. By 1940, Disney, through Western Publishing, was publishing comic books fully dedicated to one of his characters, featuring only a comic strip format. Interestingly an all-Donald Duck comic book was his first of the concept. Original stories exclusively for the comic book (not borrowed from newspapers) was launched in 1941. The comic book ARCHIBALD NORMAN McLEOD - DOCUMENT SIGNED 10/20/1820 - HFSID 350575 - HFSID 350575
ARCHIBALD McLEOD and OTHERS. McLeod signs a document detailing the expenses and commitments required of a guide on an upcoming fur trapping trip. Partly Printed DS: "A.N. McLeod", 1p, 6½ x 11¾. Montreal, Canada, 1820 October 20. In French, translated. In full: "BEFORE THE NOTARIES of the Province of Lower-Canada in Montreal, residing there, undersigned: was present Joseph Alexis Jeussaume de Rigaute Who has voluntarily committed himself and commits himself by these presents to Messrs. William McGillivray, Simon McGillivray, Archibald Norman McLeod, Thomas Thain, and Henry Mackenzie, of Montreal, Merchants and associates, under the name of McTAVISH, McGILLIVRAYS & Co. & PIERRE DE ROCHEBLAVE, A N McLeod Esquire here present and accepting, upon their first requisition, to depart from Montreal in the capacity of Bowman in one of their canoes, to make the voyage, and to winter during three years in the dependencies of the North-West in the Upper-Canada, (will not be free of the present commitment until JOHN D. ROCKEFELLER SR. - STOCK CERTIFICATE SIGNED 10/13/1883 WITH CO-SIGNERS - HFSID 354593
JOHN D. ROCKEFELLER and HENRY FLAGLER. Stock certificate signed by company founder Rockefeller, not long after the oil giant became a trust. Stock Certificate signed: "J.D. Rockefeller" as President, "H M Flagler" as Secretary and "J A Bostwick" as Treasurer of the Standard Oil Trust, 1p, 11½x7¼ with 4¼x7¼ receipt portion attached at left. New York, 1883 October 13. Certifying that "Frank Edward Bliss is entitled to Fifty Shares in the equity to the property held by the Trustees of the Standard Oil Trust...." Each share was valued at $100. On verso, this certificate was transferred on June 25, 1891 by "Frank Edward Bliss/per Elijah Bliss Atty".Witnessed: "George R. Blair". The Standard Oil Trust, created in January 1882,placed all stocks and properties of over a dozen oil companies (including JOHN D. ROCKEFELLER's Standard Oil Company of Ohio) into a trust, of whichRockefeller owned over a third of the combined holdings, under the control of nine trustees.JOSHUA A. "EMPEROR NORTON I" NORTON - AUTOGRAPH - HFSID 350395 - HFSID 350395
JOSHUA NORTON. Signature: "faithfully/yours/Norton I./Emperor.", 3½ x 2½. Businessman Joshua Norton (1811-1880), who arrived in San Francisco during the 1849 Gold Rush, made over $250,000 in one year. He capitalized on land investments and tried to corner the market on rice. With eggs selling for $1.00 each, rice seemed a sure investment; however, incoming ships brought tons more, dropping prices. By 1853, Norton was bankrupt. Six years later, he re-emerged with a bizarre advertisement in the San Francisco "Evening Bulletin": "…I, Joshua Norton…declare and proclaim myself Emperor of these United States…and Protector of Mexico". The citizens who took notice at all thought it was a joke, but Norton himself never realized that they did not take him seriously. The Commander of Presidio, the army garrison, donated a uniform to him. Others gave him free meals, the city presented him to Emperor Dom Pedro II in 1876, and soon the booming city loved their unconventional character.As final tribute, San Francisco placed a monument declaring him "Norton I. Emperor". Slightly creased. Lightly soiled at lower margin. Fine condition.RICHARD J. GATLING - TYPED LETTER SIGNED 04/14/1885 - HFSID 269335 - HFSID 269335
GATLING TELLS COLT PATENT FIRE ARMS THAT THE STATE OF NEW YORK "HAS SENT TWO GATLING GUNS HERE FOR REPAIRS" RICHARD J. GATLING. TLS: "R.J. Gatling", 1p, 8½x11½. Hartford, Conn., 1885 April 14. As President, on stationery of The Gatling Gun Company. To Colt's Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company, Hartford. In full: "The Chief of Ordnance, State of New York, advises us that he has sent two Gatling Guns here for repairs, and that if anything is needed in the way of appendages or spare parts, that he be furnished with a list of the same, before he gives the order for them. As soon as the guns are received, please put them in good working order, and furnish us with a list of the articles required as above." Exactly 20 years before this letter was written, John Wilkes Booth shot President Lincoln with a Derringer pistol. Twelve days later, U.S. Cavalry Sgt. Boston Corbett shot Booth with a Colt revolver. By the 1850s, Richard J. Gatling (1818-1903) had become wealthy from agricultural inventions such as machines for sowing rice and wheat.P.T. BARNUM - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED 02/28/1856 - HFSID 350455 - HFSID 350455
P.T. BARNUM This extraordinary letter was handwritten, signed and dated by Barnum. It's written on unique letterhead that incorporates a flyer from his Gallery of American Beauty and talks about his financial woes and about Charles Stratton - better known as General Tom Thumb, one of Barnum's biggest attractions. Autograph letter signed "P.T. Barnum". 1 page, Barnum's American Museum, New York, February 28, 1856. To Messrs H.B. Curtis & Scribner. The letterhead that this was written on is unusual and increases this piece's interest. It was written on letterhead from Barnum's American Museum, New York. The right side, which is overall 4¾ x 7½ has a 3½ x 7½ blank area for writing and a left margin promoting Barnum's subsidiary enterprises. The integral leaf at left is a handbill promoting Barnum's "The Gallery of American Beauty,/One Hundred Premiums presented to the Handsomest Women In America!" In full: "As I am in debt to you for professional services I send you by Express my account books which I assign to you.Business & Finance | Unsigned Posters
Top Signers
- Howard Hughes
- Walter E. Disney
- Thomas A. Edison
- Orville Wright
- John Hancock
- Roy Rogers
- Samuel F. B. Morse
- Jack Dempsey
- John D. Rockefeller Sr.
- P.T. Barnum
- George Eastman
- Wilbur Wright
- Robert Morris
- William O. Douglas
- J. Paul Getty
- Sophia Loren
- Edgar Rice Burroughs
- Jack Lemmon
- Richard J. Gatling
- Pierre G.T. Beauregard
- Joseph Lister
- Jane Russell
- Paul Newman
- Mary Pickford
- John Wanamaker
- Frederick S. Duesenberg
- Freelan O. Stanley
- James A. Farley
- Edward Z.C. Judson
- Jake La Motta
- View More
Style
Price
-
JOHNNY WEISSMULLER - POSTER UNSIGNED - HFSID 169684JOHNNY WEISSMULLER. Poster, unsigned. Color, 13½x16¼. Loew's Incorporated 1954 reproduction of a promotional poster for the 1932 film, Tarzan The Ape Man, M-G-M's inaugural Tarzan film and the first to star Johnny Weissmuller in the title role.Sale Price $292.50
$325.00
