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Lot #64
John F. Kennedy Signed Check

Rare check from the presidential hopeful for a replacement copy of “Major Campaign Speeches of Adlai Stevenson”

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Estimate: $6000+
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Description

Rare check from the presidential hopeful for a replacement copy of “Major Campaign Speeches of Adlai Stevenson”

Personal check, 8.5 x 3.25, filled out in another hand and signed by Kennedy, "John Kennedy," payable to World Affairs Bookshop for $10, January 11, 1960. In fine condition. The invoice from Washington's World Affairs Bookshop is unsigned and addressed to Kennedy's Senate office, 8 x 5, December 28, 1959, headed: "Replacement copies supplied to Loan Division, Library of Congress." It lists two books, "Major Campaign Speeches of Adlai Stevenson" and "Morison: The American Style," at five dollars apiece.

In 1956, with his eye on the White House, Senator John F. Kennedy was greatly disappointed when, instead of selecting him as his vice-presidential running mate, Adlai Stevenson left the nomination in the hands of the Democratic National Convention; Kennedy came in second, losing to Tennessee Senator Estes Kefauver. Four years later, Kennedy again found himself at odds with Stevenson, who informally challenged his nomination for the presidency in hopes of running again himself. Studying up on the speeches of his opponent—and failing to return his books to the Library of Congress—Kennedy easily secured the Democratic nomination. Checks from the soon-to-be president are exceedingly rare, and with its excellent political association at a crucial time in his career—just nine days after announcing his own candidacy—this is a highly desirable piece.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts
  • Dates: #618 - Ended October 13, 2021





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