Lot 1689
Edward VIII (1894-1972) King of Great Britain and Ireland from January 1936 until December 11, 1936, when he abdicated in order to someday marry an American divorcee, Wallis Simpson (they married June 3, 1937). A beloved Prince of Wales, his choice to abandon the throne for personal happiness was a blow to many of his subjects.
The suddeness of Edward's abdication meant that many of the preparations for his Coronation had begun, as had the production of souvenirs for the event.
A lot of three items, reminders of the difficulties of the abdication.
The first item is a two album recording (78 rpm) of the "Farewell Message of King Edward VIII" issued by the Sherman Recording Service of New York. Probably produced for use by radio stations and for a few collectors. There are a few scratches and Part 1 is somewhat warped, but the records appear usable. Our second piece is a wall calendar for the year 1937, featuring a color portrait of Edward VIII in uniform. Complete with the ribbon to be used as a hanger and the cover page for the calendar, this is a remarkable artifact of the time in near fine condition. One small dent at the top left corner and one minor smudge near the bottom right corner are the only flaws on the piece. Considering the fragility of the medium and the fact that the condition is so wonderful, this is a highly desirable collectible. Edward VIII His Life and Reign by Hector Bolitho, London, March 1937, is the final item in this lot. Published a mere three months after Edward's abdication, Bolitho's book went through five printings in one month as the people of Great Britain and the world devoured information about the former monarch. No dust jacket, minor foxing throughout, minor shelf wear and some spine fading.
Estimated Value $200 - 250.
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| Realized $115 |
