Cultivating a persona as history’s greatest magician, Harry Houdini has become known around the world for his death-defying escapes. Acts like the milk can escape, the water torture cell, and the suspended straitjacket escape were among his most popular stunts, and are still recreated today. Over our many years in business, RR Auction has sold numerous pieces associated with the famed escapologist.
Harry Houdini letters and documents have previously fetched high prices at auction, such as this handwritten letter that sold for $18,778. In this letter, Houdini is looking to perform a magic act in order to get money for himself and his wife Bess. Enhancing the intrigue of this letter is the paper it was written on, as it uses The Houdinis–Metamorphosis letterhead. The reverse of the paper also displays an illustration advertising the “Metamorphosis” act that Harry and Bess would often perform together between 1894 and 1905. Houdini signed photos have also been featured in our auctions with remarkable results, such as this signed postcard or this signed portrait of the illusionist shackled by his wrists and ankles.
Signed books from the iconic illusionist have also been popular with our buyers. A signed copy of his book, Miracle Mongers and Their Methods: A Complete Expose earned a selling price of $5,514. Houdini had a heavy dislike towards spiritualism, and actively campaigned against it. This included giving lectures on fraudulent mediums and attending seances in disguise in order to expose and sometimes secure the arrests of frauds. This books take a deep dive into the, “modus operandi of fire-eaters, heat resisters, poison eaters, venomous reptile defiers, sword swallowers, human ostriches [and] strong men.”
Selling your Harry Houdini memorabilia has never been easier, so take the plunge and contact one of our specialists today! With our knowledgeable specialists and a wide network of buyers, you can be sure that your pieces will sell for top dollar. Call us at 800-937-3880 or fill out the consignment form below!
Check out our recent auction sales to see how the popularity of the skilled magician has continued to impress.
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