'Grotesque connotations': the '$4,000' critique of presidential hopeful Nixon

Even before the Watergate scandal, President Richard Nixon's image had much room for improvement

"Loose fingers, hanging downward from bent wrists moving toward the camera in a swimming motion are confusing, and have grotesque connotations."

A 1967 critique of future president Richard Nixon by media consultant Jack Bynam is coming to auction later this month, providing collectors with a wonderful insight into attempts to remould the Republican candidate's image.

The 10 page report is one of 81 Nixon-related documents being offered to bidders in a single lot at RR Auction's online sale.

Bynam's report, underlined in places by Nixon, was commissioned by the future president in an effort to improve his public image. A year later, he won the presidency of the United States.

Richard Nixon: long sleeves

"His frequently clenched fists indicate tension ... even belligerency," states Bynam, adding that the grease Nixon was using to keep his hair in place game him "a slick, foreign look ... unbecoming in his role".

While complimenting him on his oratory and knowledge, Nixon's smile also came in for criticism. "More like an effort than a pleasure," states Bynam.

His ties were too dark and his sleeves were too long, the report adds.

We believe the $4,000 estimate for the 81 items is on the low side, such is the likely interest in this insightful political document among the world's political memorabilia collectors, and the fact that several memos in the collection were handwritten by Nixon.

The online auction ends on August 10. We will bring you all the key results, so make sure you check back here soon.

• Click here to view our books and manuscripts for sale
• Learn how you can get pleasure and profit by investing in political documents
• Read all the latest Autographs and Manuscripts news

Join our readers in over 200 countries around the world - sign up for your free weekly Collectibles Newsletter today or download our free Collectors News app for your iPhone

Recent and related articles...

· A killer's collectibles: The Unabomber's belongings bring $150,000 | 4 June 2011

Led by a $40,000 set of Ted Kaczynski's journals, the proceeds will benefit his victims

· Murderer! The notorious collectibles of Lincoln's assassin: John Wilkes Booth | 10 May 2011

Born today in 1838, the Confederate sympathiser shot his victim in a Washington DC theatre

· Reggie's conversion and Ronnie's canvas: Kray collectibles coming soon | 5 February 2011

The Gorringes sale could reward collectors with an interest in the gangland and guns

· Say hello to his $25,000 'little friend' - Scarface's gun stars at auction | 11 September 2010

The machine gun wielded by Al Pacino's iconic gangster Tony Montana has been sold by RM Auctions

· A life spent in death sentences - the Albert Pierrepoint collection | 10 September 2010

A look at the books and memorabilia of Britain's longest-serving executioner

www.paulfrasercollectibles.com

Image: RR Auction