“Highly coveted.”
“Exceedingly scarce.”
“Virtually non-existent.”
These are all terms I've seen used to describe today's featured item.
And they're absolutely right.
It's a genuinely rare treasure of Hollywood history.
The only example I've handled in all my 45 years as a dealer.
And it comes from one of the most iconic, popular and influential movies ever made. I'm sure you know it well.
The Wizard of Oz.
The Wizard of Oz is “America's greatest and best-loved fairytale”.Released in 1939, it has a magical timeless quality and remains popular with audiences of every generation.
I still remember seeing it as a child for the first time. And it's been a pleasure to watch it with my own children and grandchildren since then.
This enduring popularity also means Wizard of Oz memorabilia is highly sought-after by collectors around the world.
Private collectors and museums have paid millions to own original props and costumes. And autographs from the cast are similarly sought-after.
These characters - Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion, and the Wicked Witch of the West - are amongst the most iconic in movie history.
But the fact that the film was released eighty-five years ago means these signatures are increasingly scarce.
Assembling a complete collection is a difficult task, and it can take years to find the right pieces.
But happily, I currently have one of those key autographs available.
No Wizard of Oz collection is complete without it.
So there's no need to search. You can own it right now.
The Cowardly Lion.
In terms of 'hard to find' Hollywood autographs, this is right up there.A signed photograph of the Cowardly Lion himself – Bert Lahr.
Such photographs rarely appear for sale - and this is a very good example.
This stunning vintage publicity photograph measures 10” by 8”, and features a classic 1939 portrait of Lahr in his full costume.
It's presented in fine condition, having been carefully preserved for more than 80 years.
And Lahr has signed the photo "To Vickie, with love, Uncle Bert".
His autograph and inscription is clear and distinct, written in blue fountain pen ink above his portrait.
The “Uncle Bert” signature is almost certainly unique amongst the few signed copies of this photo in existence.
That's because the recipient was his niece, Vickie Arthur – and this personal connection gives the photo a wonderful provenance.
Why is it so rare?
So why is this signed photograph such a remarkable rarity?The answer lies with Bert Lahr himself.
Off-screen he was a serious man, given to bouts of melancholy, and he rarely signed autographs of any kind.
He also distanced himself from his most famous role, not wanting to become typecast. Lahr's son John later wrote:
"While we were growing up, there was not one Oz image or memento of any kind in the apartment."
And so throughout his career he tried to avoid signing photos of himself in his full Cowardly Lion costume.
Of the few examples on the market today, most originate from the same source. When Lahr passed away in 1967, a number of Cowardly Lion photos were discovered in his desk.
These examples, signed by Lahr in his later years in ballpoint pen, were sent out to collectors after his death.
But true vintage examples, signed in-period following the release of the film in 1939, are much, much rarer.
These original publicity photographs, signed by Lahr in fountain pen, are by far the most wanted by collectors.
And that demand, combined with their incredible scarcity, is what makes this such a valuable item.
Everybody loves a lion.
Before he starred in The Wizard of Oz, Bert Lahr made his name on Broadway as a vaudeville comedian.He had perfect comic timing, the skills of a clown, and used many of his own trademark lines in the film.
That's why his performance as the Cowardly Lion is so brilliant. He brings the character to life in a way only he could.
| “We’re in a world we don’t understand. When the Cowardly Lion admits that he lacks courage, everybody’s heart is out to him. He must be somebody who embodies all this pathos, sweetness, and yet puts on the comic bravura.
Yip Harburg, Broadway songwriter and Wizard of Oz composer. |
And although Lahr may not have loved his character as much as audiences did, the same cannot be said for collectors.
In 2014 his original screen-worn costume sold at Bonhams for $3,077,000.
It was a world-record price for any movie costume worn by a male performer. And 10 years on it remains unbeaten.
That price tells you everything about the market for Wizard of Oz memorabilia - and why owning this supremely rare signed photo could also be a canny investment for the future.
As long as people watch movies, they will always love the Cowardly Lion.
And Bert Lahr's autograph will alway be something collectors want to own.
Own this Hollywood rarity today.
This photograph is a first-rate collector's item.
The kind of piece that autograph dealers love to offer - but seldom have the opportunity to. So it gives me great pleasure to offer it to you now.
• Lahr's signature on any Cowardly Lion photo is famously rare.
• The fine condition makes it ideal for framing and display.
• And the unique personal connection gives it a superb provenance.
If you have a passion for cinema history, and classics from Hollywood's 'Golden Age', it's simply a must-own piece for your collection.
One that you will rarely find available on the market today.
The enduring popularity of The Wizard of Oz also gives it a timeless appeal, which will stand you in good stead for years to come.
So add this true Hollywood treasure to your collection today.
Purchase it now for only £8,000.
Purchase this photograph now
You can also place your order by contacting me directly.
- Simply email me at info@paulfrasercollectibles.com
- Or call me on +44 (0) 1534 639 998.
I'll be happy to answer any questions you have about this piece.
And I'll ensure it's delivered swiftly and securely to your door.
Your personal lifetime guarantee.
You can place your order today in complete confidence.
Because this signed photograph comes with:
- Free global delivery
- A Lifetime Guarantee of Authenticity
- And a Paul Fraser Collectibles Certificate of Authenticity
It's also covered by our 28-day returns policy.
So if you decide it's not right for you, you're free to return it - no questions asked.
I've been helping clients build their collections for 45 years.
So if you have any questions about this piece, get in touch today.
Email me now at info@paulfrasercollectibles.com.
Or call me on +44 (0) 1534 639 998.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Until next time,
Paul Fraser.
P.S. If you have a serious interest in owning this superb signed photograph, contact me now. Once sold, I doubt I'll ever have another available - and I don't want you to miss your chance!
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