Harry Houdini Original Vintage Magic Memorabilia Collectibles Autographs For Sale
Harry Houdini
Rare Authentic Vintage Signed Autographed Book
"The Unmasking of Robert-Houdin"

 

Here is an extraordinary piece of history.  The greatest magician that ever lived , whose popularity today is even more then when he was alive 100 years ago...  An original SIGNED 1908 FIRST Edition of "The Unmasking of Robert-Houdin", from the original New York printer "The Publishers Printing Company" (not the later release from London).  
 

The Master - Houdini (Harry) The Unmasking of Robert-Houdin, first edition, presentation copy signed in brilliant bold turquoise ink by the author, "With the compliments of the author Houdini May 14/20”..  Numerous illustrations, hinges weak and index/list of illustrations detached at rear and slightly frayed/soiled at fore-edge, original pictorial cloth, 8vo, New York, 1908.

 Fine copy. The inscription on front free endpaper reads "With the compliments of the author Houdini May 14/20”  in stunning bold  turquoise ink.  Additionally this copy bears the ownership inscription and address of Gordon Freeman, the self-proclaimed "'World's Worst Inventor' and Entertainer Magician".

* See enlargeable images above and below

Note:  Photo of Houdini in main image above next to book not included, but just for presentation. 

Freeman Biography:
Gordon Freeman (1889-1979) did a comedy magic act, "The World's Worst Inventor."

His first public performance was at the ten years of age and he appeared many times before royalty.

Freeman was the nephew of the Professor Demain.

He appeared at Maskelyne's Theatre in 1925 and at Daly's Theatre, Leicester Square, in August 1932.

Below is a short British Pathe film titled,  "And now - the Troubles of a Conjuror - by Gordon Freeman, the well-known magician.".  Circa late 1920s/early 30s

Here is a RARE Video of Gordon Freeman circa  1930.  SEE HERE

CONDITION:
Note the spectacular clarity, boldness and Size of this Houdini Vintage bold turquoise Ink Autographed Gem!  On flawless vintage first blank page.  (Note:  Houdini sometimes signed on the page pasted on the inside of the cover and hence experienced Signature damage if the front cover was bent.  NOT the case here as he signed on the perfect first free blank page!).   None of the typical fading, smudging, staining, poor contrast against dark background  most Houdini signatures have been subjected to.   Even the book is in very good condition compared to most that appear on the market quite worn and ragged.    Binding is very good for its 115 years not torn, stained or frayed and thre letetring is still veyr legible (many pof these the lettering has mostlyt faded).  .   Pages are quite nice and tight for its age.  The Illustration section has separated from the book so cleanly it almost looks like the Illustration section was always a separate section. 

* See enlargeable images above and below

Truly a museum grade piece of history!    *Guaranteed to pass any autograph authentication service like Beckett or PSA

 A prized find any collector will be proud to have and showcase ..

*Houdini billed this controversial book as 'the first authentic history of magic ever published,' and contained within it an unflattering account of Houdini's legendary predecessor and namesake Jean Eugene Robert-Houdin, alleging that he had taken undue credit for other magicians' innovations.

More Background Info:
For those of you that have been kind enough to stay with my newsletter for a lengthy time now, You have probably realized I've evolved into an avid  Harry Houdini admirer and collecting enthusiast.   

NOTE:  After 40 years of collecting I've developed a high degree of skill and expertise with Mr Houdini's Authentic signature and handwriting.  Consequently, I am able to detect Well-done Forgeries such as those I've seen on eBay recently, that most collectors and dealers would easily miss.   Which is why we also Guarantee Authenticity for Life .   * Many of my customers know that the History Channel’s  hit TV Show “Pawn Stars” had an episode in December 2014 where they invited a reputable dealer to appear with a museum grade SIGNED Harry Houdini book.  The episode was titled, “Hiding Houdini”.  I was that dealer.   The producers found our website, Cvtreasures, and contacted me several times trying to recruit me for their show.    And eventually I appeared in Three episodes including the historic Houdini episode.   You can still Google this episode. 

And if you've been getting my vintage collectibles newsletter for some time then you most likely have not met anyone else that scours the Universe in search of the most extraordinary Houdini artifacts and Signed Memorabilia from the most famous and  immortal magician.   Even the History Channel’s hit TV show “Pawn Stars” was so impressed with our Houdini Collection when they discovered my website and repeatedly invited me to appear on their show.   After about a year of cajoling, I flew to Las Vegas and did three episodes on “Pawn Stars” with Rick and Corey, although private I spent more time with Chumley  and chatted with the “Old Man” in his office.   You can see our favorite episode “Hiding Houdini” available on demand.

Houdini is one of those Rare historical figures whose popularity has crossed over to generation after generation without skipping a beat.  His star shines as bright as it did 100 years ago, maybe even brighter today than ever.    That’s why both young and old are mesmerized by Houdini and why Houdini collectors are so passionate.

Authentic Houdini signed items (especially of this quality) don’t appear on the market very often, hence its been nearly three years since we’ve uncovered a worthy Houdini piece.  But as you can see here,  we have found one of the most exquisite autographed examples.   He most famous book with the most pristine bold vintage fountain pen signatures and handwritten sentiments you’ll ever come across.  A choice example for the most discerning collector and Houdini fan.   

Note:   Since we last offered a Signed Harry Houdini book about three years ago,  his signed treasures, Especially his books like "The Unmasking of Robert-Houdin" have significantly increased in value.    

NOTE:  Like the other historical SIGNED Houdini books and photos we've offered over the past 30+ years, this WON'T last long either!
 

Guaranteed Authentic for Life
Conway's Vintage Treasures
UACC Registered Dealer No 307

Note: Cvtreasures stamp NOT on original

* See enlargeable images above and below