Every month RR Auction offers collectors more than 1,250 quality, fully guaranteed signed items, including photos, documents, letters, and books from a variety of categories—just as we have for more than 30 years.
Friday, September 28, 2012
RR Autograph Auctions American Gangsters, Outlaws and Lawmen live auction Sunday, September 30,
The American Gangsters, Outlaws and Lawmen live auction will take place on Sunday, September 30, 2012, beginning at 10am. For more information, please visit the RR Auctions web site http://www.rrauction.com
RR Autograph Auctions Ted Hinton Deputy US Marshal Badge
Dallas County Deputy Sheriff (1904–1977), the youngest (and last surviving member) of the posse that ambushed and killed Bonnie and Clyde. Ted Hinton’s Deputy US Marshal commission and badge. Partly-printed commission (in two 4.5 x 3 sections affixed inside its original 4.75 x 6.5 holder) reads, in part: “Know ye, That, reposing special trust and confidence in the integrity, ability, and diligence of Ted C. Hinton, I hereby appoint and commission him Office Deputy United States Marshal in and for the Northern District of Texas and do authorize ad empower him to execute and fulfill the duties of that office according to law and to have and to hold the said office, with all powers, privileges, and emoluments to the same.” Commission is signed at the conclusion by US Marshal J. W. Wright. Hinton’s US Marshal badge, #228, made by the Robbins Company of Attleboro, Massachusetts, measuring approximately 1.5 x 2.5. In overall fine condition, with expected age wear. Years before the ambush, a young Hinton would often visit Marco’s Cafe where a young Bonnie Parker was a waitress. Hinton admitted in a later biography that he had a crush on Bonnie, which made it difficult for him as one of the men on the team sent to kill her and her lover, Clyde.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
RR Auctions Mickey Cohen Signed Photo
Gangster (1913–1976) born Meyer Cohen who was a trusted associate of racketeer Bugsy Siegel. After Siegel’s death in 1947, Cohen acquired Siegel’s West Coast gambling interests and lived extravagantly. After two convictions for income tax violations and 14 years in prison, Cohen pronounced himself a law-abiding citizen. Vintage pearl-finish 7.25 x 9.25 full-length photo of Cohen from his days as a prize-fighter, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “To my good friend ‘Mary’ and ‘Red’ wishing you the best of luck and success. Mickey Cohen.” Double matted and framed to an overall size of 14.5 x 16.5. In very good condition, with a noticeable vertical crease through portion of inscription, other scattered creases and ripples, and some mild silvering. Cohen fought from 1930–1933. It was during a 1931 match against featherweight champ Tommy Paul he earned his moniker ‘Gangster Mickey Cohen.’
RR Autograph Auctions Al Capone Newspaper
Original May 3, 1932, edition of The Scranton Times, with the banner headline announcing “Capone To Start 11-Year Term.” Single column article’s headline states “Gang King Gives Up Last Hope; Elaborate Precautions Taken to Insure Safe Delivery at Leavenworth,” with a printed mug shot of Capone to right of article. Central horizontal fold, light overall toning, marginal binding holes to left edge and small tears and paper loss to the very fragile edges, otherwise very good condition.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
RR Autograph Auction Bonnie Parker 1946 Pamphlet
Pamphlet from 1946 entitled “The Blood-Soaked Career of Bonnie Parker: How Bandit Clyde Barrow and His Cigar-Smoking Moll Fought It Out With the Law,” by W. R. and Mabel Draper, 5.5 x 8.5, 32 pages. In fine condition, with light rubbing to front cover and uniform mild toning to inside pages.
RR Autograph Auctions Clyde Barrow Death Photo
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
RR Autograph Auction Clyde Barrow Death Car Coin
A 1921 Morgan silver dollar recovered by posse member Ted
Hinton, removed from Clyde Barrow’s dark blue blazer which was in the car,
shortly after the ambush which ended Barrow’s and Bonnie Parker’s lives in 1934.
Accompanied by a letter from Hinton’s son, Linton J. ‘Boots’ Hinton stating “Among the many things that he retrieved from the car was Barrow’s jacket…In the pocket of the jacket were two silver dollar coins, both of which were retained by my father. I was aware that my father had a 1921 Morgan silver dollar which he kept in his “coin box”. I was not aware that he had two until the day he took them about to tell me the story of how he got them. The coins were kept locked in a his “coin box” until it was sold by him in 1946…Nothing has ever been mentioned, written, or published about Clyde's jacket being in the car right after the melee that morning. Only Ted and the other five posse members were aware of the jacket…I was later made aware of the jacket.”
Also accompanied by a letter of provenance from Michael Kozlindetailing the sale of the coin from Ted Hinton to a Dallas antique dealer in 1946. This antique dealer later crossed reputed mobster Paulie Castellano over an outstanding debt, and relinquished the coin (and his other valuables) to settle the debt, and explained the background of the coin to Castellano. In 1966, the letter writer’s grandfather, Armand Castellano, convicted bank robbery get-away car driver in 1930 (and Paulie’s cousin) was given the coin by Paulie as a razz. The coin was passed on from Armand to Kozlin in 1986, who then contacted Hinton who confirmed the details of the origin of the coin from Barrow’s jacket pocket.
Provenance: Clyde Barrow Ted Hinton M. Ross Paul Castellano Armand J. Castellano Michael Kozlin
Accompanied by a letter from Hinton’s son, Linton J. ‘Boots’ Hinton stating “Among the many things that he retrieved from the car was Barrow’s jacket…In the pocket of the jacket were two silver dollar coins, both of which were retained by my father. I was aware that my father had a 1921 Morgan silver dollar which he kept in his “coin box”. I was not aware that he had two until the day he took them about to tell me the story of how he got them. The coins were kept locked in a his “coin box” until it was sold by him in 1946…Nothing has ever been mentioned, written, or published about Clyde's jacket being in the car right after the melee that morning. Only Ted and the other five posse members were aware of the jacket…I was later made aware of the jacket.”
Also accompanied by a letter of provenance from Michael Kozlindetailing the sale of the coin from Ted Hinton to a Dallas antique dealer in 1946. This antique dealer later crossed reputed mobster Paulie Castellano over an outstanding debt, and relinquished the coin (and his other valuables) to settle the debt, and explained the background of the coin to Castellano. In 1966, the letter writer’s grandfather, Armand Castellano, convicted bank robbery get-away car driver in 1930 (and Paulie’s cousin) was given the coin by Paulie as a razz. The coin was passed on from Armand to Kozlin in 1986, who then contacted Hinton who confirmed the details of the origin of the coin from Barrow’s jacket pocket.
Provenance: Clyde Barrow Ted Hinton M. Ross Paul Castellano Armand J. Castellano Michael Kozlin
RR Autograph Auctions Al Capone Musical Manuscript
American organized crime boss (1899–1947), who, through his
charisma, political savvy, and sheer ruthless ambition, emerged as the most
powerful and influential criminal figure of the Prohibition Era. Exceedingly
rare handwritten and signed musical manuscript of ‘Madonna Mia,’ on an off-white
9.5 x 12.25 sheet of musically-lined paper. While incarcerated at Alcatraz,
Capone writes out the music and lyrics to ‘Madonna Mia’: “In a quaint I-tal-ian
gar-den, while the stars were all a-glow/ Once I heard a lov-er sing-ing. to the
one that he loved so In/ that quaint I-talian Gar-den, 'neath the star-ry sky
a-bove. Ev'-ry night he'd/ ser-e-nade her, with his ten-der song of love.
Ma-don-na/ Mi-a, you're the bloom of the ros-es, you're the charm that
re-pos-es, in the heart of a song, Ma-don-na Mi-a, with your true love to guide/
me, let whatever be-tide me. I will never go wrong, There’s/ on-ly one moon
a-bove. one gold-en sun, there’s on-Iy one that I love,/ you are the one,
Ma-don-na Mi-a, This I vow. here be-fore you,/ til the end. I'll a-dore you.
Madon-na Mi-a. " Signed and inscribed at the bottom to his favorite Jesuit
priest: “To my good friend Father Vin Casey with the best in all the world for a
Merry Christmas always for you, Alphonse Capone.” Matted and framed with a
portrait of Capone with a cigar clenched between his teeth to an overall size of
25 x 19.25. Central horizontal and vertical fold, small crease to lower left
corner tip, and mild edge toning, otherwise fine condition.
While imprisoned for tax evasion, Al Capone developed a close friendship with Vincent Casey, a Jesuit priest in training who visited Alcatraz to offer spiritual counsel to prisoners in the 1930s. Already quite accomplished on the mandola, he took advantage of his spare time in prison to further hone his musical skills. After two years of meeting in his cell every Saturday, Capone penned this original composition, a beautiful love song about his wife Mae, as a Christmas gift for his friend and confidant Casey. This remarkably rare piece, the only one of its kind known to exist, captures the softer side of the man remembered for his brutal methods.
While imprisoned for tax evasion, Al Capone developed a close friendship with Vincent Casey, a Jesuit priest in training who visited Alcatraz to offer spiritual counsel to prisoners in the 1930s. Already quite accomplished on the mandola, he took advantage of his spare time in prison to further hone his musical skills. After two years of meeting in his cell every Saturday, Capone penned this original composition, a beautiful love song about his wife Mae, as a Christmas gift for his friend and confidant Casey. This remarkably rare piece, the only one of its kind known to exist, captures the softer side of the man remembered for his brutal methods.
Monday, September 24, 2012
RR Autograph Auction Melvin Purvis Archive
The memoranda, signed “P” as Special Agent in Charge, are to Special Agents or employees attached to field offices in Cincinnati, Washington, Oklahoma City, and Birmingham, concern high telephone and telegraph charges, changes of address, taking files from the office without permission, including "undeveloped leads" in reports, "a pamphlet furnished by the Bureau containing the secret numbers of various automobiles," typing ability essential for all special agents, "Antitrust investigations," limiting annual leave, calling the office frequently, "White Slave conditions in the Birmingham district" (two pages), fingerprinting prostitutes upon arrest, and accountants with experience "testifying before a grand jury or at a trial." Other memoranda relate to requests of Purvis to speak to groups including the Rotary Club, Barristers Club, Burlingame Baptist Church Men's Club, San Mateo Congregational Church Men's Club, Interchange Club, Kiwanis Club, Optimist Club, California Highway Patrol, and the San Francisco Business League.
Another interesting grouping of four typed manuscripts, signed in pencil, “M.P.,” or “P,” on 5 x 8 sheets. One reads, in part: “On the night of [left blank, 1931], which was on the day I had been told I was being ordered to go to Oklahoma City and take charge of the office, we had a long talk, Edgar Hoover & I…I told him I liked this job pretty well and that I would like to remain in this service …I also told him I had no intention of being insubordinate, and that I felt that since there were no chains on me, forever linking me to this job, that this could not be even considered as an ultimatum, I merely wanted to do something I knew would work and work better than the system being used…He said 'You have a fine record in the Bureau, and now you want to ruin it.' I told him I would guarantee to get more work done in my way and there would be a much better spirit in the organization. He said it could not be done. We butted heads until after midnight…" Another story begins: “Terre Haute, Indiana - On Robinson kidnapping case. Kidnapper's wife arrived at RR. Station with suitcase containing $50,000.00 ransom. My instructions were to drop the trailing of her if it became evident that she knew she was being trailed. Trailing her from one station to another. My calls to Hoover…"
Remaining letters and memorandum deal with a variety of issues including letters to his secretary Miss Watson, a letter as President and General Manager of the Florence Broadcasting Company attempting to acquire payment, letters relating to using Purvis in radio commercials or print ads of the Moore Clothing Company, Gillette Razor Blade Company, Iodent Company, and Dodge Corporation, and five letters to his accountant, Richard Reese. Also included are several Western Union telegrams, four letters concerning negotiations with Warner Bros. for radio programs and a movie. Two documents presented to Purvis are also included, one from the Federal Communications Commission and one certifying Purvis as an attorney and counselor solicitor of the Northern California District Court.
In good to very good overall condition. An interesting look into Purvis’s professional life with the FBI, worthy of further research.
RR Autograph Auctions Clyde Barrow Condolence Cards
Collection of seven small condolence cards and two envelopes sent after Clyde Barrow’s death, similar in size to cards which would accompany flowers. The cards are signed “From the Westbay Family”; “From the Hale Family”; “from Ozella and family”; “Clarence”; “Dallas Newsboys to Clyde Barrow” and “Bennie Binnion,” with two additional florist’s envelopes. Accompanied by a 1996 letter of provenance from Marie Barrow, which reads, in part (with grammar and spelling retained): “These cards were sent to Clyde Barrow at the time of his death in 1934. The one that has Clarence on it was Clarence Clay he was Buster Parker’s wife’s brother. Clyde met Bonnie at there [sic] house he ran around with Clarence. The one from Ozella and Family Ozella was a real good friend of L. C. and mine.” In overall very good condition. The “Bennie Binion” card may very well be that of famed casino owner and reputed mobster. Interesting to note that at Clyde’s funeral on May 25, 1934, an airplane dropped a huge floral wreath (reportedly ordered by gambler Benny Binion) from the sky.
Friday, September 21, 2012
RR Autograph Auction Raymond Hamilton .22 Colt Rifle
A Colt Lightning Slide Action Rifle used by Raymond Hamilton, who was part of the Clyde Barrow/Bonnie Parker Gang in 1934.
This is the small frame Lightning in .22 rimfire caliber, #56944, made in 1901. The rifle has a 24″ octagonal barrel and is missing the buttstock and slide handle. Most of the metal has a dark patina and some fire scale with scattered light pitting, the factory markings are legible. The rifle is wired in an attractive wood shadowbox frame with a photocopy of a wanted poster for Raymond Hamilton put out by the Sheriff of Dallas, Texas. Also in the frame is a copy of a US Department of Justice wanted poster for Bonnie and Clyde, issued by J. Edgar Hoover and dated May 21, 1934 (just two days before their deaths). At the center of the shadowbox is a neatly hand-lettered placard which summarizes the information in an included notarized affidavit dated September 30, 2003. The affidavit states “My name is John Curington. I am 73 years of age and practice as an Attorney at Law. I reside in Big Sandy, Upshur County, Texas…My father’s name was Delbert Z. Curington. I am the owner of a .22 caliber Colt rifle which was given to my father by Bill Decker, Sheriff for Dallas County, Texas. The gun belonged to Raymond Hamilton, a well renowned criminal who was one of the Barrow Gang in the early 1930s…Sheriff Decker and my father were close friends and he told my father that the rifle was used by Raymond Hamilton during an armed bank robbery in Texas. Sheriff Decker reported that the rifle had been seized during a shoot out between Hamilton, Barrow, and Parker and the authorities. Decker told my father that Bonnie Parker tried to burn the rifle by setting an outhouse on fire with the rifle in it.”
On January 16, 1934, Clyde Barrow, Bonnie Parker, and a young associate named Jimmy Mullins helped Raymond Hamilton and three other prisoners escape from the Easton Prison Farm. During the escape a prison guard by the name of Major Crowson was fatally wounded, which incensed Texas Department of Corrections Chief Lee Simmons so much that it led him to hire retired Texas Ranger Frank Hamer to hunt down Bonnie and Clyde. Raymond Hamilton was known to have robbed the R. P. Henry Bank in Lancaster, Texas on February 27, 1934, but it is not believed that Bonnie Parker was present. On March 6, 1934, Hamilton left the Barrow Gang and carried out two more bank robberies in Texas before the month was out. On April 5, 1935, Hamilton was captured in Fort Worth. On May 10, 1935, Raymond Hamiton was executed in the electric chair (’Old Sparky’) at Huntsville’s death row for his part in the murder of Major Crowson during the January 16, 1934, prison escape.
This transfers as a modern firearm.
Provenance: Raymond Hamilton Sheriff Bill Decker Delbert Z. Curington John Curington Robert E. Davis
This is the small frame Lightning in .22 rimfire caliber, #56944, made in 1901. The rifle has a 24″ octagonal barrel and is missing the buttstock and slide handle. Most of the metal has a dark patina and some fire scale with scattered light pitting, the factory markings are legible. The rifle is wired in an attractive wood shadowbox frame with a photocopy of a wanted poster for Raymond Hamilton put out by the Sheriff of Dallas, Texas. Also in the frame is a copy of a US Department of Justice wanted poster for Bonnie and Clyde, issued by J. Edgar Hoover and dated May 21, 1934 (just two days before their deaths). At the center of the shadowbox is a neatly hand-lettered placard which summarizes the information in an included notarized affidavit dated September 30, 2003. The affidavit states “My name is John Curington. I am 73 years of age and practice as an Attorney at Law. I reside in Big Sandy, Upshur County, Texas…My father’s name was Delbert Z. Curington. I am the owner of a .22 caliber Colt rifle which was given to my father by Bill Decker, Sheriff for Dallas County, Texas. The gun belonged to Raymond Hamilton, a well renowned criminal who was one of the Barrow Gang in the early 1930s…Sheriff Decker and my father were close friends and he told my father that the rifle was used by Raymond Hamilton during an armed bank robbery in Texas. Sheriff Decker reported that the rifle had been seized during a shoot out between Hamilton, Barrow, and Parker and the authorities. Decker told my father that Bonnie Parker tried to burn the rifle by setting an outhouse on fire with the rifle in it.”
On January 16, 1934, Clyde Barrow, Bonnie Parker, and a young associate named Jimmy Mullins helped Raymond Hamilton and three other prisoners escape from the Easton Prison Farm. During the escape a prison guard by the name of Major Crowson was fatally wounded, which incensed Texas Department of Corrections Chief Lee Simmons so much that it led him to hire retired Texas Ranger Frank Hamer to hunt down Bonnie and Clyde. Raymond Hamilton was known to have robbed the R. P. Henry Bank in Lancaster, Texas on February 27, 1934, but it is not believed that Bonnie Parker was present. On March 6, 1934, Hamilton left the Barrow Gang and carried out two more bank robberies in Texas before the month was out. On April 5, 1935, Hamilton was captured in Fort Worth. On May 10, 1935, Raymond Hamiton was executed in the electric chair (’Old Sparky’) at Huntsville’s death row for his part in the murder of Major Crowson during the January 16, 1934, prison escape.
This transfers as a modern firearm.
Provenance: Raymond Hamilton Sheriff Bill Decker Delbert Z. Curington John Curington Robert E. Davis
RR Autograph Auctions Bonnie and Clyde Bullets and Photo Archive
Bullets test-fired from the guns of Bonnie and Clyde and crime scene and autopsy photos. In late 2002 the producers of History’s Detectives were contacted by a woman named Cassandra Goss, who claimed to be in the possession of five bullets associated with Bonnie and Clyde. She stated that the bullets had been in her family for two generations and originated from her great grandfather-in-law, J. D. Goss.
Goss was a Dallas ballistics expert who was called in to assist George Lacy (the same George Lacy whose name was printed on seven of the photos) in an analysis of test bullets fired from the guns found in Bonnie and Clyde's car after their deaths. That information was crucial to another case taking place in Fort Worth regarding the killing of two State Highway patrolmen on April 1, 1934, approximately seven weeks prior to the death of Bonnie and Clyde. Ironically the chief suspect in those killings was Bonnie's sister, Billie Mace. Goss was brought in to establish whether or not those test bullets fired from the guns in Bonnie and Clyde's car matched up with bullets found at the scene of the crime. Five .45 shell casings were found at the April 1st crime scene, and Bonnie and Clyde's car was found to have seven Colt .45s among their vast arsenal. On May 31st George Lacy announced that the test bullets matched the bullets found at the crime scene and Billie Mace was released.
Based upon all these facts, it was the conclusion of the show's panel that the evidence strongly suggested that the two .45 caliber bullets were from the group of test bullets fired from Bonnie’s and Clyde's guns—bullets that eventually exonerated Bonnie's sister, Billie Mace.
Included in this lot are one of those .45 caliber bullets, and three .38 caliber bullets (these bullets have solid and credible oral history associating them to Bonnie and Clyde as shown on the TV show). Also included are all 27 of the first generation photographs that originally accompanied the bullets. Aside from having one of the actual guns used by Bonnie and Clyde, this bullet, fired from one of the guns found in their car at the time of their death, represents a direct collectible link relating to the legendary outlaw duo. Nearly equal in significance are the photographs themselves. First generation photographs of Bonnie and Clyde are extremely desirable. Ten of the images picture Bonnie and/or Clyde, including five graphic death shots, three of Bonnie and two of Clyde. The others include members of their gang as well as shots of their bullet-riddled car. Related papers provided by the show's producers, documenting their findings are also included.
http://www.rrauction.com/bidtracker_detail.cfm?IN=52
Goss was a Dallas ballistics expert who was called in to assist George Lacy (the same George Lacy whose name was printed on seven of the photos) in an analysis of test bullets fired from the guns found in Bonnie and Clyde's car after their deaths. That information was crucial to another case taking place in Fort Worth regarding the killing of two State Highway patrolmen on April 1, 1934, approximately seven weeks prior to the death of Bonnie and Clyde. Ironically the chief suspect in those killings was Bonnie's sister, Billie Mace. Goss was brought in to establish whether or not those test bullets fired from the guns in Bonnie and Clyde's car matched up with bullets found at the scene of the crime. Five .45 shell casings were found at the April 1st crime scene, and Bonnie and Clyde's car was found to have seven Colt .45s among their vast arsenal. On May 31st George Lacy announced that the test bullets matched the bullets found at the crime scene and Billie Mace was released.
Based upon all these facts, it was the conclusion of the show's panel that the evidence strongly suggested that the two .45 caliber bullets were from the group of test bullets fired from Bonnie’s and Clyde's guns—bullets that eventually exonerated Bonnie's sister, Billie Mace.
Included in this lot are one of those .45 caliber bullets, and three .38 caliber bullets (these bullets have solid and credible oral history associating them to Bonnie and Clyde as shown on the TV show). Also included are all 27 of the first generation photographs that originally accompanied the bullets. Aside from having one of the actual guns used by Bonnie and Clyde, this bullet, fired from one of the guns found in their car at the time of their death, represents a direct collectible link relating to the legendary outlaw duo. Nearly equal in significance are the photographs themselves. First generation photographs of Bonnie and Clyde are extremely desirable. Ten of the images picture Bonnie and/or Clyde, including five graphic death shots, three of Bonnie and two of Clyde. The others include members of their gang as well as shots of their bullet-riddled car. Related papers provided by the show's producers, documenting their findings are also included.
http://www.rrauction.com/bidtracker_detail.cfm?IN=52
Thursday, September 20, 2012
RR Autograph Auction Clyde Barrow 1911 Army Colt .45 Pistol
Clyde Barrow’s Colt Model 1911 Government Model Semi-auto pistol, removed from his waistband after the ambush by Texas and Louisiana lawmen on May 23, 1934. This is a standard US Army pistol of World War I vintage, #164070, cal. .45 ACP, and according to the included Colt factory letter was delivered to Springfield Armory on June 28, 1917. The frame marked with inspector Gilbert H. Stewart’s circular stamp and the forward left side of the frame has light scratches where the “U.S. Property” marking was removed. The barrel has a good bore and is inscribed with an intertwined “HP” proofmark. The metal is not pitted and has an attractive gray/brown patina with a good deal of original bright factory blue on the left side of the frame and on the small parts. All of the factory markings are in excellent condition and the ‘double diamond’ walnut grips show moderate wear.
With the Colt is a notarized letter from former Special Texas Ranger Frank Hamer, Jr., dated December 18, 1973 in which he states that this pistol, #164070, was removed from the “waistband of Clyde Barrow’s trousers the morning that he and Bonnie Parker were killed by my father in Louisiana.” He goes on to say “This pistol is also described and pictured in my father’s book I’m Frank Hamer.” He also states that “this pistol was believed to have been stolen from the federal arsenal in Beaumont, Texas,” and that the federal government gave this Colt to his father.
‘Seldom did anyone ever live when Clyde got the first shot,’ warned a newsreel of the day. But on this day, Clyde didn’t have the chance to reach for his gun, let alone shoot it. If he did, this would have been the gun that he grabbed: tucked into his waistband for easy access, this 1911 Colt .45 was inches away from the trigger-finger that killed at least a half dozen men during the two-year spree that led to his final day. Of all the guns found in their death car, this is the most closely related to Clyde Barrow and accordingly, the most fascinating and valuable.
This transfers as a modern firearm.
Provenance: U.S. Armory at Springfield National Guard Armory at Beaumont, Texas Clyde Barrow Texas Ranger Frank Hamer Special Texas Ranger Frank Hamer, Jr. The Raymond Brown Collection Tom Keilman Auctioneers, 1986 Robert E. Davis
With the Colt is a notarized letter from former Special Texas Ranger Frank Hamer, Jr., dated December 18, 1973 in which he states that this pistol, #164070, was removed from the “waistband of Clyde Barrow’s trousers the morning that he and Bonnie Parker were killed by my father in Louisiana.” He goes on to say “This pistol is also described and pictured in my father’s book I’m Frank Hamer.” He also states that “this pistol was believed to have been stolen from the federal arsenal in Beaumont, Texas,” and that the federal government gave this Colt to his father.
‘Seldom did anyone ever live when Clyde got the first shot,’ warned a newsreel of the day. But on this day, Clyde didn’t have the chance to reach for his gun, let alone shoot it. If he did, this would have been the gun that he grabbed: tucked into his waistband for easy access, this 1911 Colt .45 was inches away from the trigger-finger that killed at least a half dozen men during the two-year spree that led to his final day. Of all the guns found in their death car, this is the most closely related to Clyde Barrow and accordingly, the most fascinating and valuable.
This transfers as a modern firearm.
Provenance: U.S. Armory at Springfield National Guard Armory at Beaumont, Texas Clyde Barrow Texas Ranger Frank Hamer Special Texas Ranger Frank Hamer, Jr. The Raymond Brown Collection Tom Keilman Auctioneers, 1986 Robert E. Davis
RR Autograph Auctions Bonnie and Clyde Freak Show Banner
An amazing, and all together totally unique, item in the world of serious Gangster collectibles, an original and authentic early 1930s traveling side-show banner exploiting the antics of criminals, Bonnie and Clyde, and perhaps the onlyone of it's type still in existence upon the face of the planet.
This banner measures 12' x 9', and is a side show banner dated to the early 1930s, or before simply from how the banner is hung. From these dates, side show banners were traditionally hung from having a straight board sewn in at the banners top side to simply hang the banner when arriving to the next location. This is banner is clearly fabricated like this, along with the leather attachment loops, and hardware matching a banner from this time. Soon after freak show banners started attaching corner leather loops which is how they were made until now. The banner was made in the early 1930s. The banners of this type are hand-painted works upon canvas. This banner was manufactured in Kansas, Mo. and illustrated by an artist, “Gene,” who signed the work “Gene,” in his monogram. Emblazoned on the banner in large print is “Crime Wave…Boy & Girl Gangsters. See Inside. The Wages Of Crime Is Death.”
This Crime Wave Bonnie and Clyde banner was originally found by noted freak show banner expert, Bruce Webb. He found the banner in Kansas City, Missouri, nearly two decades ago inside a barn. He professionally unwrapped the piece, and produced what you see now. The banner has never been restored, nor requires a restoration as the rotted left side, and few holes within the piece remain as a natural testament for what it is! Webb did 'treat' the banner to prevent any further damage resulting from insects, or the like, and has made the canvas stable.
The banner being offered here is one of he first ever Bonnie and Clyde roadshow banners to to exploit Bonnie and Clyde when they were still living. Bonnie’s beret is featured on in this banner's art (like the Joplin, Mo. pictures), which could date the banner back to 1933, but the banner could have possibly been manufactured at the very first part of 1934. These dates all are in sync with how this particular banner was constructed.This is why their names are not printed at all upon the poster as the roadshow profiteers were not stupid, because if their names were on it, that might have led to a visit from the gangsters, and the outcome of that visit could have been less than pleasant.
The banner has been on exhibit for the past several months in a freak show banner display held at the Webb Gallery in Waxahachie, Texas. The art style is like that of freak show banners, which are highly sought and collected today.
From the Collection of Thomas Carl Rainone.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
RR Autograph Auctions Phil Mickelson Signed Sports Illustrated magazine
Sports Illustrated magazine, dated April 19, 2004, showing Mickelson celebrating his Masters championship, signed on the cover in black felt tip. In fine condition, with some scattered light rubbing to cover. Pre-certified Steve Grad/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
RR Auctions Queen Signed Program 2005 Tour
Program for Queen’s 2005 tour with Paul Rodgers, 9.5 x 12.75, signed on the front cover in black felt tip by Brian May, Roger Taylor, and Paul Rodgers. In fine condition, with a few slight marks and impressions to the front cover that lightly affect May’s signature, and some stray ink marks to the reverse. Pre-certified Roger Epperson/REAL and RR Auction COA.
RR Autograph Auction Charles Mingus Influential jazz bassist and composer
Monday, September 17, 2012
RR Autograph Auction Richard E. Byrd Signed Postal cover
Postal cover bearing a Little America, Antarctica ink stamp, postmarked February 19, 1930, signed on the front in black ink, “R. E. Byrd.” Affixed with non-permanent corner mounts to a binder page which reads: “Cover carried by Adm. R. E. Byrd and autographed by him, on his flight over the South Pole. It was flown in the aeroplane ‘Floyd Bennett’ with Balchen, pilot.” In fine condition, with scattered toning and light soiling, and the binder page is toned and has a large tear to the bottom edge. RRAuction COA.
RR Auction William Jennings Bryan Letters
Collection of 10 letters, seven ALSs and three TLSs, many with handwritten notations, ranging in date from May 28, 1903, to May 4, 1908, all to Willis E. Vincent. A very interesting look into one of Bryan's less-discussed avocations: livestock breeding and animal husbandry. In particular, the correspondence revolves around the sale of a Holstein calf Bryan sold to Vincent in the summer of 1903. The $50 sale hit a snag when Bryan mistakenly promised would yield "twenty-one gallons in a day" (May 28, 1903), when he meant to say quarts. In an apologetic letter (September 23, 1900) he conceded, "If I said gallons instead of quarts, it was an unintentional error, as must have been apparent to you, because 48 quarts a day is far beyond the best record, and 84 quarts a day would of course be fabulous." Not wanting any scandal, Bryan offered, "If you were misled by having the word gallons written where it should have been written quarts, you can return the calf and I will refund the $50." The relationship appears to have survived the mishap and the pair continued to correspond, with Vincent making several more purchases and trades with Bryan. In overall very good condition. RRAuction COA.
Friday, September 14, 2012
RR Auctions Oakland Raiders Signed Football 1969 Squad
Official Spalding Oakland Raiders AFL football signed in ink by more than 40 members of the 1969 squad. Signers include: Jim Otto, Gene Upshaw, Art Shell, Fred Biletnikoff, George Blanda, Willie Brown, Dan Birdwell, and Roger Hagberg. In very good condition, with scattered spots of soiling and some signatures a shade or two faded, but all remain legible. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity signed by Art Thoms, who played defensive tackle for the Raiders from 1969 to 1975. Pre-certified Steve Grad/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
RR Autograph Auctions Willie Mosconi Signed Billiard Balls
Complete set of 16 billiard balls, each signed in blue felt tip or silver ink by Mosconi. Several signature brushes, dings to balls, and some slight flaking to the silver ink signatures, otherwise fine condition. RR Auction COA.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
RR Auctions Henry Irving Signed Cabinet Photo
Prominent British stage actor (1838–1905) who was the first of his profession to be knighted. Original 4.25 x 6.5 cabinet photo, by the London Sterographic Company, of Irving as Matthais in The Bells, signed in the lower border in black ink. Reverse is also stamp-dated December 16, 1901. In fine condition, with a trivial spot of soiling to lower left corner tip. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
RR Autograph Auction Hermann Hesse Illustrated Manuscript
Influential Nobel Prize-winning German author (1877–1962) of such modern classics as Siddhartha and Steppenwolf. Rare manuscript of the poem ‘Hauser am Abend,’ 6.5 x 8.75 folded, written out and illustrated by Hesse and signed “H. Hesse.” On the front page, Hesse has titled the poem and drawn a related seaside landscape with ink and watercolor, and inside he has written out the complete poem. In fine condition, with a few mild creases and some slight scattered soiling to the front page. A gorgeous item from the hand of Hesse himself. RRAuction COA.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
RR Autograph Auctions Wizard of Oz Munchkins Signed Photos
Six different photos from the Wizard of Oz, various finishes, approximately 10 x 8, each signed in felt tip by a different munchkin. Signers are: Meinhardt Raabe, Margaret Pellegrini, Harry Monty, Mickey Carroll, Donna Stewart Hardaway, and Jerry Maren. In fine condition, with lightly trimmed edges to a few of the photos. RRAuction COA.
RR Autograph Auction John Wayne Choice felt tip signature
Choice felt tip signature, “John Wayne,” on an off-white 5 x 3 card. In fine condition, with a light mark to the bottom edge and slight show-through from an ink notation on reverse. Consignor notes that it was acquired in-person at the 1977 USC Film Fair. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
RR Autograph Auction Sarah Bernhardt Signed Saroney 1881 cabinet photo
Original 4.25 x 6.5 Saroney 1881 cabinet photo of Bernhardt in profile, signed in black ink, “Sarah Bernhardt 1881.” In fine condition, with a few light spots to image. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
RR Auctions Lionel Barrymore Signed Photo
Outstanding vintage matte-finish 9.5 x 12.5 photo, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “To Jane Withers, a charming little girl to whom I wish everlasting success.” In fine condition, with a few light creases, slight silvering to some dark areas of the image, and lightly trimmed edges. Withers began as a child star alongside Shirley Temple, but is best remembered for 1956’s Giant, in which she co-starred with James Dean and Rock Hudson. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
Monday, September 10, 2012
RR Autograph Auctions Gustave Charpentier Signed Postcard
French composer, best known for his opera Louise (1860–1956). ALS in French, on the correspondence side of a 5.5 x 3.5 postcard, no date. The composer jots a brief, message which reads, in full (translated): “I have taken the liberty of giving your address to a friend who lives in New York, in case he would have trouble joining me. I hope you will excuse me. My best compliments.” In fine condition, with light, uniform toning. RRAuction COA.
RR Autograph Auction John Philip Sousa Signed Portrait
Friday, September 7, 2012
RR Auctions INXS Signed Group Photo
Color glossy 8 x 10 group photo, signed in blue felt tip by all six members, including the late Michael Hutchence. In fine condition, with some spotting to the finish. Pre-certified Roger Epperson/REAL and RR Auction COA.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
RR Autograph Auction Harrison Schmitt Signed Nasa Photo
Color 8 x 10 NASA photo of Schmitt posing in his spacesuit with a globe of the moon, signed in black felt tip, “H. H. Schmitt.” In fine condition. Pre-certified Steve Zarelli and RR Auction COA.
RR Autograph Auctions Gene Cernan Apollo XVII Signed Photo
Color satin-finish 10 x 8 photo of Cernan saluting the flag on the lunar surface, signed in blue felt tip, “Gene Cernan, Last Man on Moon, Apollo XVII.” In very fine condition. Pre-certified Steve Zarelli and RR Auction COA.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
RR Autograph Auction Basil Rathbone Signed Photo
Outstanding vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 portrait of Rathbone with a cigarette in hand, signed in fountain pen, “Sincerely, Basil Rathbone.” In fine condition, with silvering to dark areas of the image. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
RR Autograph Auctions Vincent Price Watercolor Painting
Original abstract watercolor painting by Price on a 5.5 x 7.5 sheet from a sketchbook, with Price titling and signing the piece at the bottom, “A point in the right direction—V Price 89.” In fine condition, with a spot of soiling to the left edge that could be easily matted out. Accompanied by a copy of the letter of provenance from his daughter from the sale of his artwork, who writes that his watercolor style was influenced by Henry Miller and study of art at Yale and the University of London. A scarce and unusual piece. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
RR Auction 1936 Olympics World’s greatest African-American athletes signatures
Twelve vintage ink and pencil signatures, mainly of 1936 Olympians, on two off-white 4.5 x 6.75 album pages. Signers include: Jesse Owens, Cornelius Johnson, Jack Wilson, Ralph Metcalfe, Fritz Pollard, Jr., Bill Robinson (actor), John Woodruff, John Henry Lewis (boxing champion), and Ann “Tidye” Pickett (first African-American woman to represent the USA at the Olympic Games). Moderate overall toning, light scattered soiling, and light paper loss to upper left corner of one page, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. An outstanding collection of signatures from a group of courageous athletes—Owens was famous for saying in the aftermath of the Games, ‘Hitler didn't snub me—it was FDR who snubbed me. The president didn't even send me a telegram.’ A great item that crosses boundaries from sports history to world history in its relationship to the civil rights movement and World War II. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
RR Autograph Auctions H. L. Mencken Influential journalist for the Baltimore Sun
Influential journalist for the Baltimore Sun (1880–1956) known especially for his sharp wit and commentary on politics and society. Vintage matte-finish 7 x 9.25 portrait of Mencken affixed to a slightly larger mount, signed in fountain pen, “H. L. Mencken 1933.” In fine condition, with silvering to dark areas of the image, moderate contrast to the signature, and scattered foxing to the mount. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
Monday, September 3, 2012
RR Auctions Mother Teresa Signed Photo
RR Auction Park Chung Hee Signed Holiday Card
Leader of the Republic of Korea (born 1917) from 1961 until his assassination in 1979. Holiday card with text in English and Korean, 8.25 x 5.75 folded, extending holiday greetings from the the president of Korea and his wife, signed in black ink in Korean by both. In very fine condition. RRAuction COA.
Sunday, September 2, 2012
RR Autograph Auction Diana Christmas Card 1990
Christmas card from 1990, 8 x 6 folded, opens to 16 x 6, embossed in gold on the outside with the family arms. Inside, the card bears a charming color satin-finish 5.5 x 4 color family photograph of Diana, Charles, William, and Harry posing outdoors. Printed opposite the photograph is the sentiment “Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and New Year.” Diana has inscribed the card, ”Stephen,” and signed at the bottom, “with love from Diana.” In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in type to Stephen Twigg. One of the last cards to feature the entire family, as the marriage of the Prince and Princess of Wales was already disintegrating. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
RR Autograph Auctions William F. ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody
Dignified vintage matte-finish 7.5 x 9.5 photo of Cody in a suit, overcoat, and hat by Lumiere Studios of Omaha, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “To Joe Sahonett, From his friend, W. F. Cody, Buffalo Bill.” Attractively framed to an overall size of 10.75 x 12.5. In fine condition, with some light spreading of ink from excess ink flow. A distinguished portrait of the Wild West icon. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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