Lot 1481
Tucker, Sophie (1884-1966). Vaudevillian entertainer known as the "Red Hot Mama". Musical from an early age, Tucker began her career performing in blackface as she was considered too big and ugly to appear otherwise. She managed to shed the disguise, appearing in the Ziegfield Follies and establishing her own brand of sex appeal. Her reputation as a loud, funny, outspoken female never resulted in substantial Hollywood fame.
1. Autograph Letter Signed ("Sophie Tucker"). Three pages, 5¼ x 6¾", n.p., January 12, 1957. On Beverly Hills Hotel stationery. In blue ink. To Secretary of the Treasury John Snyder. With one light area of discoloration. 2. Autograph Letter Signed ("Sophie Tucker"). One page, quarto, Nevada, August 7, 1957. On Cal Neva Lodge stationery. In black ink. To Secretary of the Treasury John Snyder. With two horizontal folds. 3. Autograph Card Signed ("Sophie Tucker"). One page, duodecimo, n.p., August 25, 1957. On her own personalized stationery. In blue ink. To Secretary of the Treasury John Snyder. Overall, the group is in very good condition.
Apparently recently acquainted, here Miss Tucker writes to John Snyder thanking him for his company at a dinner function. Characteristically, she hints at ulterior motives, suggesting that Tucker call her, and further, she details her future appearances, just in case. The second letter proves just as interesting -- she invites Snyder to purchase her latest recording ("Bigger & Better Than Ever") and offers to autograph it for $15. However, it has been noted that autographed albums of this recording were readily available at the time for just $8. Tucker does mention that the profits from Snyder's purchase would go to her charity, possibly explaining the disparity.
Estimated Value $150 - 250.
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| Realized $98 |
