Gambler and gangster. He was a trusted friend of racketeer Bugsy Siegel, whose West Coast gambling interests he acquired after Siegel's death in 1947. Cohen lived extravagantly and liked publicity. A number of gangland killings were attributed to his mobsters. Cohen was twice convicted of income tax violations, serving a total of fourteen years in prison. Released from the Atlanta Penitentiary in 1973, he pronounced himself law-abiding, worked for prison reform and died of natural causes three years later. ALS signed 'Mickey,' one page, 8 x 10.5, December 2, 1968. Letter written during his ten year stint in the Springfield Federal Penitentiary, to retired LAPD officer Voy Apt. In part, 'Don't you worry to [sic] much about how much you write to me...There isn't much for me to write about from this end. I am just disgusted, mistrusted and busted as the saying goes. I am still struggling hard with my physical therapy.' Cohen also writes his full name, 'Meyer Harris Cohen,' and his prisoner number at the bottom of the letter. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Cohen's hand. In fine condition. RRAuction COA.
