Capone, Alphonse Gabriel "Al". Photograph signed "Al Capone"....

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Capone, Alphonse Gabriel "Al". Photograph signed "Al Capone". Capone, Alphonse Gabriel "Al". Rare gelatin silver textured photograph signed ("Al Capone"), 8 x 10 in. (203 x 254 mm.) seated portrait of the Chicago Outfit crime boss in a 3-piece suit. Inscribed in black ink at lower image, "To My Friend Joe Cook Al Capone". Due to a failing pen, Capone has traced over the name "Joe Cook". Signature bold with the flamboyant gangster's trademark flourish. Mounted to board. Exhibiting a crease to the upper left corner, minor edge wear, and stress lines in right image only visible in raking light. Very good condition. Accompanied by a LOA from PSA/DNA. Today, over 70 years after Capone's death, the name "Scarface" is a fearsome evocation of wealth and power obtained through ruthless disregard for the law and societal norms. A brutal man responsible for over 30 deaths, Capone postured as a Robin Hood figure, using the spoils of his vast criminal enterprise to fund soup kitchens and public works projects. The smiling Capone is depicted here at the height of his power, enthroned like a king. Later declared "Public Enemy No. 1," Capone was brought down on tax evasion charges and imprisoned from 1932-39. He died, enfeebled by complications from untreated syphilis, in 1947 at the age of 48.