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Circa 1942 Jackie Robinson Handwritten Letter - Rare Army Signature (JSA)
One-page handwritten letter, undated, signed by Jackie Robinson. This is both a scarce and early Jackie Robinson letter dating from his time in the military during World War II. Robinson's letter, which was meant for telegraph transmission, is addressed to a mister "James Jones" residing in Florence, South Carolina. In full: It's been such a time since anyone has asked me for a signature that I am the one to be honored in being asked for such." It is signed "Sincerely, Jackie Robinson 2nd Lt. Cav." Both the text and signature are scripted in black fountain pen and grade 8/10 overall. Jackie Robinson was one of the country's best overall athletes prior to his joining the war effort in 1942, excelling in football, baseball, basketball, and track at U.C.L.A. As such, it's not surprising that he was receiving an autograph request this early in his career. Robinson's two-year tenure in the military was a tumultuous one for him, as he constantly fought against the ingrained racism within the military. He was court martialed in 1944 for refusing to take a seat at the back of an army bus, but was acquitted of all charges against him, and was honorably discharged shortly thereafter. Robinson's experiences in the army dealing with segregation drew the attention of Branch Rickey, and was one of the main reasons why Rickey ultimately chose him to break baseball's long-standing color barrier. Robinson signed items dating from this formative period of his life are rare and this is the first such example we have handled. The letter (8.25x4.25"), which is affixed to a portion of a scrapbook page, displays a vertical and horizonal fold, light creases and a few tears along the vertical fold line. The reverse features portions of a signed Hedy Lamarr photo and a magazine photo signed by football player Eugene Vellela. Very Good condition overall. Full LOA from JSA (for the Robinson letter only, not the autographs on the reverse).
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