RR Auction’s August auction sold a fascinating mix of autographs and artifacts from every category. Winning Bidders walked the streets of Beverly Hills, bought their favorite artists, and acquired something new from our country’s history. With so much for our clients to bid on, find out which items became this month’s bestsellers.
The Golden Age of Hollywood
Ever since the early days of Hollywood, enthusiasts often find fascination in the lives of its brightest stars – with one such man dedicating his life to the collection of their signatures.
Along with being an accomplished neonatologist and doting family man, Dr. Charles Ronald Bauer celebrated all forms of creativity – film, theatre, novels, you name it. And, above all, Dr. Bauer had a passion for collecting a myriad of things – including autographs.
“As a resident living close to The Actor’s Studio in New York City, Bauer’s autograph opportunities flourished as he crossed paths with budding performers,” wrote RR Auction in their description. “Dressed to the nines in a tuxedo, he was able to sneak into many events, galas, hotels, and shows, seeking out stars – his wife recalls that during one of these events, he danced with Sophia Loren.”
Bauer even made his way to California – the home of Hollywood – on a mission to find the autographs he was missing. Chiefly obtained during the 1960s and 70s, this archive is filled to the brim with over 6,500 autographs from the greatest entertainers, politicians, athletes, and other notables. RR was grateful to work with Dr. Bauer’s family to get his extensive archive into the hands of another collector that will preserve his decades-long venture.
“It’s truly remarkable to witness the passion and dedication of an autograph seeker like Dr. Bauer,” said Executive Vice President Bobby Livingston. “This collection embodies the thousands of hours Bauer spent waiting for the right moment to approach and ask for the signatures of the greatest names of Hollywood’s Golden Age.”
The History of Rock N’ Roll
Since the 1950s, rock n’ roll has developed many sub genres from somber rhythm and blues to hardcore punk rock. These next two items come from artists that took the world by storm with their distinctive sounds and style.
Queen began their journey in West London, performing their first show with the classic line-up of Freddie Mercury, John Deacon, Roger Taylor, and Brian May in 1971. With their line-up solidified and a record deal sealed, Queen got to work, releasing their self-titled debut album in 1973.
With its incredible reputation as the album that introduced Queen to the world, this full band signed UK pressing sold for five times its estimate – $39,178 – at RR Auction.
Next, from the collection of “Prince Rogers Nelson” comes an album of the greatest hits from one of the earliest funk rock groups. As a young musician, Prince looked to the rhythm and blues sound of Sly and the Family Stone as inspiration for his budding music career. Highlighting his favorite tunes, Prince adds hearts next to the tracks, ‘I Want to Take You Higher,’ ‘Everyday People,’ and ‘Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin),’ and signs his name along the side.
As a thank you for their inspiration and influence, he would cover several of their tracks during his career including, ‘Stand!’ and ‘Everyday People.’ An extremely rare signed album that’s in a league of its own, this lot closed at $10,664.
Honorable Highlights
Other highlights from this auction include two George Washington items that exceeded their estimates for our lucky consignors. A signature from the first U.S. President sold for ten times its $300 estimate – ending the night at $13,288.
George Washington free franks by themselves are highly coveted presidential pieces. RR has offered several of these sought-after free franks that have surpassed their estimates, and this one is no exception. Sold for $27,453, Washington writes to his nephew, Colonel William Augustine Washington, as president regarding his acceptance to Phillips Andover Academy.
Close out your remarkable year with RR Auction! There is still time to participate in our upcoming auctions including Monthly Fine Autographs and Artifacts, the JFK 60th Anniversary event, and our final Marvels of Modern Music event of the year. If your exceptional items fit any of these categories, give our team a call at 800-937-3880 or hit the consign button down below.
We’re seeking Autograph consignments!
Join us for our final auctions of 2023.
