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Pop Culture Phenoms: Autographs from Some of the 20th Century’s Most Famous Figures

Over the years Swann has offered a number of signatures from figures who have captured the zeitgeist of their era, dominating the headlines and defining the taste and interests for those around them in one way or another. Here we take a look at some of the autographs belonging to those whose fame has withstood the test of time.


Kurt Cobain

Nirvana’s Nevermind compact disc insert signed and inscribed days after release by Kurt Cobain, additionally inscribed by Krist Novoselic, 1991. To be offered in our October 28, 2021 sale of Fine Books & Autographs. Estimate $40,000 to $60,000.
Browse the complete list of lots on offer in our October 28, 2021 sale of Fine Books & Autographs

Princess Diana

Diana, Princess of Wales, a group of six autograph letters signed to Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar editor Elizabeth Tilberis, 1989–92. Sold in our March 2019 sale of Autographs for $10,400.

Babe Ruth

Babe Ruth, photograph signed and inscribed. Sold in our November 2017 sale of Autographs for $15,000.

James Dean

James Dean, photograph signed and inscribed. Sold in our February 2021 sale of Fine Books & Autographs for $8,750.

Andy Warhol

Andy Warhol, signature on a poster for the 1985 Warhol-Basquiat exhibition at the Tony Shafrazi Gallery, 1985. Sold in our February 2020 sale of Fine Books & Manuscripts for $3,000.
Andy Warhol, autograph inscription signed, 60th birthday card, 1983. Sold in our May 2013 sale of Autographs for $7,800.

Related Reading: The Making of a Portrait: Michael Halsband’s Photograph of Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat


Do you have a rare autograph we should take a look at?

Learn about how to consign to an auction, and send us a note about your item.


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October 20, 2021
Author: Kelsie Jankowski
Category: Uncategorized
Tags:
  • Andy Warhol
  • autographs
  • Babe Ruth
  • Fine Books & Autographs
  • James Dean
  • Kurt Cobain
  • Nirvana
  • Princess Diana
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