Our August History & Culture auction showcased an incredible range of historic and cultural treasures that captured the attention of collectors across the globe. Highlights included a powerful autograph from Rosa Parks on a funeral program for civil rights leader Dr. Edgar Daniel Nixon, a signed memoir from Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, and a fascinating early career archive from political figure Elliot Richardson. Rare documents like a 1799 land deed signed by John Tallmadge—connected to the famous Culper Spy Ring—and a legal summons signed by Revolutionary War General Arthur St. Clair added even more depth to the sale, bringing authentic moments from history to life.
On the entertainment front, Carly Simon’s signed lyrics for “Anticipation,” and autographs from The Golden Girls stars Estelle Getty and Bea Arthur were fan favorites. Political history enthusiasts were equally drawn to the Watergate autograph trio featuring G. Gordon Liddy, Bebe Rebozo, and Samuel Dash, providing a rare glimpse into one of America’s most dramatic scandals. With passionate bidding across such a diverse selection—from Burl Ives’s signed holiday lyrics to a Mexican-American War letter from Major General John Wool—this auction proved just how much collectors value quality, meaningful pieces.
Do you have historic memorabilia or autographs? Now’s the perfect time to consign with us! Our recent auction showed just how strong the demand is for quality collectibles across all kinds of categories. Connect your collection with passionate collectors who are eager to find pieces like yours. Ready to get started? Contact us here to consign.
Top Selling Civil Rights & Political Documents
Estimate: $500.00-$600.00
Sold: $600.00 (Including Buyers Premium)
First up is this rare funeral program from the March 3, 1987 service honoring civil rights leader Dr. Edgar Daniel Nixon is boldly signed by Rosa Parks in blue ink, “Rosa Parks, God Bless You.” Measuring 8.5 x 11.25" and featuring a portrait of Nixon on the cover, it is consigned directly from the family of honorary pallbearer Mr. Joe Azbell and remains in near fine condition with only minor wear. Nixon, a key figure in the Montgomery Bus Boycott and longtime NAACP leader, played a pivotal role in recruiting Parks for her historic act of defiance in 1955. This signed piece represents a powerful connection between two icons who helped ignite the modern Civil Rights Movement.
LOT 39: Elliot Richardson – Early Career Archive – Approximately 100 Pieces Including Autographed Letters
Estimate: $250.00-$350.00
Sold: $587.00 (Including Buyers Premium)
This compelling early career archive of Elliot Richardson includes approximately 100 items, highlighted by an 11-page typed letter signed in 1968 to the Boston Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission addressing state liquor laws. The collection also features authentic autographed letters, political memorabilia, internal communications, photographs, and news clippings, providing rich insight into Richardson’s work and influence during this pivotal period. Known for his integrity and leadership as U.S. Attorney General, Secretary of Defense, and Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, Richardson’s archive offers a rare window into the formative years of a major figure in American political history.
Estimate: $125.00-$150.00
Sold: $212.50 (Including Buyers Premium)
LOT 42: Watergate Scandal – Trio of Autographs: G. Gordon Liddy, Bebe Rebozo, & Samuel Dash
Estimate: $125.00-$150.00
Sold: $212.50 (Including Buyers Premium)
This unique trio of autographs includes G. Gordon Liddy, a key Watergate operative; Charles “Bebe” Rebozo, President Nixon’s close confidant (signed as “Bobo Reboza”); and Samuel Dash, chief counsel to the Senate Watergate Committee. All are in fine condition and represent both sides of the scandal—from covert operations to the public investigation. Together, they offer a rare and compelling snapshot of the individuals who shaped one of America’s most pivotal political crises. A distinctive set for collectors of political and scandal memorabilia.
Spotlight Historical & War Collectibles
LOT 66: John Wool – Mexican-American War Preparation – Autographed Letter Signed as Major General, 1846
Estimate: $200.00-$250.00
Sold: $350.00 (Including Buyers Premium)
This two-page handwritten letter, signed by Major General John Wool and dated June 8, 1846, offers a vivid glimpse into the preparation for the Mexican-American War. Wool details the strategic assembly of volunteer forces across multiple states and emphasizes the urgent need for arms, equipment, and muster rolls. Written from Cincinnati to Adjutant General Roger Jones, the letter highlights Wool’s hands-on leadership during a pivotal moment in American military history. Near fine condition, this rare document captures the work of one of the nation’s most distinguished generals who served in three major wars.
LOT 55: Arthur St. Clair – Revolutionary War Major General – 1771 Bedford County, PA Court Document
Estimate: $250.00-$300.00
Sold: $312.50 (Including Buyers Premium)
This 1771 legal summons from Bedford County, Pennsylvania, is signed by Arthur St. Clair, ordering the local sheriff to summon Garret Pendergraft to appear in court that July. Measuring approximately 13 x 4 inches, the document features a bold “Arth. St. Clair” signature and retains its original embossed seal. In fine condition with expected folds and light staining, it offers a rare glimpse into St. Clair’s early judicial service before his prominent roles as a Revolutionary War Major General, President of the Continental Congress, and first Governor of the Northwest Territory. Pre-Revolutionary legal documents signed by St. Clair are notably scarce and historically significant.
LOT 53: John Tallmadge – Brother of Culper Spy Ring Leader – 1799 Signed Land Deed – Warren, CT
Estimate: $75.00-$100.00
Sold: $262.50 (Including Buyers Premium)
This 1799 land deed, signed twice by John Tallmadge, records the transfer of property from his brother Benjamin Tallmadge—Revolutionary War hero and leader of the Culper Spy Ring—to Jacob Cummings of Warren, Connecticut. John signs once as Justice of the Peace and again on the verso as Registrar. In fine condition, this document offers a tangible link to the Tallmadge family's post-Revolution civic involvement. Though lesser known, John Tallmadge is believed to be referenced as “code #249” in Benjamin’s Culper Spy Ring cypher book, adding an intriguing layer of historical context.
Telvevision & Music Highlights
LOT 186: Carly Simon – “Anticipation” Lyrics – Autographed Display – Double Matted – 13 x 15.75 Inches
Estimate: $150.00-$200.00
Sold: $275.00 (Including Buyers Premium)
Printed lyrics to Carly Simon’s iconic hit “Anticipation,” boldly signed by the artist in blue ink at the conclusion. Elegantly double-matted to a finished size of 13 x 15.75 inches, the piece is ready for framing and displays beautifully. In fine condition, this signed lyric sheet celebrates one of Simon’s most enduring songs. As a Grammy, Golden Globe, and Academy Award–winning artist, signed displays of her most recognizable work remain highly sought-after by music memorabilia collectors.
LOT 167: Golden Girls – Estelle Getty & Bea Arthur Autograph Collection – Photos & Signed Cards
Estimate: $75.00-$100.00
Sold: $262.50 (Including Buyers Premium)
Charming collection of five autographed items from Estelle Getty and Bea Arthur, two beloved stars of The Golden Girls. Getty has signed one 8 x 10” photograph and two 5 x 3” cards, while Arthur has signed and inscribed an 8 x 10” photo and added her signature to a separate 5 x 3” card. All items are in overall fine condition. A wonderful set celebrating the enduring legacy of one of television’s most iconic and adored sitcoms.
LOT 179: Burl Ives – Iconic Folk Singer – “A Holly, Jolly Christmas” – Autographed Typed Lyrics Page
Estimate: $50.00-$75.00
Sold: $262.50 (Including Buyers Premium)
Typed lyrics sheet for Burl Ives’s holiday classic “A Holly, Jolly Christmas,” boldly signed by the legendary performer in black ink at the conclusion. Measuring 8.5 x 11”, the page is in fine condition and features the full lyrics to the beloved tune immortalized by Ives in the 1964 stop-motion film Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. A nostalgic and festive collectible, perfect for fans of holiday music and mid-century Americana.
Have Rare Autographs or Artifacts? Discover Their Auction Value!
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