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World famous magician and legendary escape artist HARRY HOUDINI scarce, short typewritten letter signed dated July 10, 1912 from New York thanking a Mr. Schulte, "...for clipping re the Strait Jacket, it interested me very much" – and promoting his latest exploit. Houdini signs below with a full name and dramatic, large flourish beneath.
HARRY HOUDINI * PSA * Autograph Re: “STRAITJACKET” & Escape Magic Letter Signed
$3,250.00
Guaranteed Authentic
DESIRABLE HOUDINI LETTER MENTIONING HIS ICONIC "STRAIT JACKET" AND BOASTING ABOUT HIS "LATEST EXPLOIT" - ESCAPING FROM A BOX NAILED SHUT AND DUMPED IN NYC'S EAST RIVER!
Houdini famously popularized his iconic straitjacket escape in the 1910s, turning a medical restraint into a high-stakes, theatrical, and often public, spectacle. The heavy canvas jacket with leather across the neck, back, arms and waist was typically used to protect the "murderously insane from themselves", as Houdini's advertisements declared.
1912 was a year of water-based "exploits" for the busy illusionist and self-professed "World's Greatest Escape Artist". Just three days before Houdini wrote this letter he had successfully preformed his East River Crate Escape. During the stunt Houdini was handcuffed, sealed inside a wooden packing crate, and the crate was nailed shut and weighted before being dropped into the East River of New York City. Spectators watched from shore as the crate sank beneath the surface. After a tense wait of just over a minute, Houdini suddenly emerged from the river unharmed. Later in September Houdini performed his escape from the Chinese Water Torture Cell.
The Houdini signed letter has been thoroughly reviewed and CERTIFIED AUTHENTIC BY PSA/DNA EXPERT EXAMINATION and encapsulated inside PSA/DNA's sonically-sealed, tamper-evident holder. UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED GENUINE.
Condition is as shown, including mailing folds, scattered staining, and toning consistent with age and handling. Previous signs of mounting. "George Schulte Collection" stamp at lower right. Letter measures appx. 7.25" x 8.5" inside appx. 10" x 13" encapsulate. Please see photos for exact condition.
Own a remarkable, original piece of entertainment history! The perfect gift for the aspiring magician, autograph enthusiast, history or Magic buff. A must have addition to any truly exceptional collection!
Sold as is, as shown.