A large, autographed photograph of Winston Churchill inscribed to Joseph Stalin was among the top lots of Profiles in History's June 13 auction in Los Angeles.
The lot achieved a 75% increase on a $60,000 estimate.
 Churchill inscribed the photo to Joseph Stalin |
It was intended to be presented as a gift to the Russian leader in the closing days of the second world war and reads: "From his Friend Winston S. Churchill, September 1944 To Marshal & Premier Stalin who at the head of the Russian Armies & of the Soviet Government broke the main strength of the German military machine & helped us all to open paths to Peace, Justice & Freedom."
Ultimately, the photograph was not given to Stalin and was instead presented to Churchill's secretary - who wrote in a letter of provenance accompanying the piece: This photograph was inscribed by the P.M. for Stalin but it was then found that the silver frame for which it was destined obscured the inscription.
"He therefore rewrote it on another photograph and gave me this one."
We have this signed letter from Churchill.
A portable telephone used during JFK's presidency proved another highlight, selling for $50,000.
The phone was installed in a range of locations when Kennedy travelled, including at Bing Crosby's home in Palm Springs where he stayed in March and December 1962.
Check out our extensive range of Kennedy memorabilia here.
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