Al Capone is such an iconic figure; it’s almost hard to believe he’s a real person.
He’s one of the most powerful crime bosses of all time. The man behind one of the most infamous massacres in US history. The inspiration for countless onscreen villains.
Since the early 2010s, values for his autograph have grown significantly.
Here are some thoughts on why.
Rarity
Al Capone’s autograph is extremely rare across all formats.
Al Capone's Chicago Outfit were one of the most powerful criminal organisations in American history (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
As America’s biggest crime boss, he generally avoided leaving a paper trail. And he wasn’t exactly someone you’d just walk up to and ask for an autograph.
Legal documents are in demand.
As are simple cut signatures.
But the most sought after are the deeply personal letters he sent to his family from Alcatraz. One such example addressed to his son sold for $62,500 at RR Auction in 2016.
It shows a remarkably tender side to Capone.
Icon
Any account of Capone is quick to mention his charm. It’s how he rose to the top of the Chicago mafia. It’s why he still inspires and fascinates.
Capone was a local hero in Chicago.
Al Capone's palatial cell in the Eastern State Penitentiery, where he was incarcerated in 1929 (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
As the Great Depression bit, he opened soup kitchens, provided jobs and paid medical bills. He was able to count on the loyalty of the community as a result.
And I’ll bet you can picture Capone’s wardrobe in your mind.
Huge pinstriped suit. Fedora. Cuban cigar.
Clothes are extremely important to attaining icon status.
When you think of any famous person, you’re likely picturing them in a trademark outfit, whether that’s Steve Jobs in his black turtleneck, The Beatles in their black suits and mop tops or Marilyn Monroe in her subway dress.
Revived interest in the 30s
Prohibition bars and speakeasies are hugely popular these days.
Al Capone's rap list and mugshot (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
There’s no end of events that allow you to drink out of a teacup on the pretext the police are about to burst in.
The trend is driven by movies and TV shows (like the phenomenally popular Boardwalk Empire) that glamorise the era.
The 1930s were a fascinating time in American history.
No wonder buyers are competing for autographs from one of the era’s most intriguing figures.
Paul Fraser.
PS. Do you have an Al Capone autograph you’re looking to sell? I may be able to help. Get in touch today at info@paulfrasercollectibles.com.
