An important letter from Marilyn Monroe to her acting coach Lee Strasberg realised $18,375 at RR Auction on February 8.

The lot dates to December 19, 1961, a time when Marilyn’s life was in the process of unravelling.

Marilyn's life was spinning out of control when she wrote this letter

She was recently divorced from husband Arthur Miller and was suffering from an array of chronic illnesses.

Monroe was also in the late stages of the drug addiction that she ultimately succumbed to a year later.

In the letter, Monroe asks Strasberg – a key figure in her life - to come out to LA to help start up a production company with her and actor Marlon Brando.

She writes: “This is an important personal letter and please don’t start to read it until you have the time to give it your careful thought.

“This letter concerns my future plans and therefore concerns yours as well since my future development as an artist is based on our working together…

“My work is the only trustworthy hope I have. And here, Lee, is where you come in. To me, work and Lee Strasberg are synonymous. I do not want to be presumptuous in expecting you to come out here for me alone.”

The letter offers a startling insight into Marilyn’s mindset during those final months, a factor that pushed it well above its $2,500 minimum bid.  

We have this cheque signed by Marilyn Monroe for sale.

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