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Harry Houdini Autograph Letter Signed ...
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Sold on Oct 26, 2019 for:
$1,937.50
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Description
Harry Houdini Autograph Letter Signed "Houdini." One page of a bifolium, 4.5" x 7", Midocean; July 9, 1920. Addressed to a Mr. W.J.S. and written on R.M.S. "Imperator" letterhead. A short letter that reads in part: "Well we are back again. Have had a great tour abroad. Hope to see you soon. Regards to all the folks...Your prediction came true re that developer. I lost a lot of money." Framed along with a photograph of Houdini in a wrestling costume to the overall size of 15.5" x 13".Houdini was returning from a visit to the United Kingdom, having set sail for New York on July 3, 1920. It is possible that the "developer" he mentions is in reference to his failed film business. Houdini had founded the Film Developing Corporation in 1916, which sought to invent a cheaper, faster process for developing film. However, the chemicals used in the process were highly corrosive and actually damaged the machinery. In an attempt to cover some of the costs, Houdini would end up founding three other movie companies (The Mystery Picture Corporation, The Weehawken Street Company, and The Houdini Picture Corporation) in 1921. Ultimately, Houdini's movie business failed for good in 1923, and historians believe that the endeavor claimed a large portion of his fortune.
Condition: Flattened mail folds, with light toning at the edges. Overall very good.
Auction Info
2019 October 26 Historical Manuscripts Featuring the Bret J. Formichi American Civil War Rarities Collection - Dallas #6216 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
October, 2019
26th
Saturday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 10
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
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