Richmond Auctions to Feature Unique Historical Memorabilia
Richmond Auctions is preparing for a grand event that promises an array of historical treasures, ranging from George Washington's personal letters to Titanic memorabilia and classic Hollywood posters. Scheduled for November 19-21, 2026, this auction will present over 1,400 lots spanning four centuries, offering a glimpse into America's rich history.
A Closer Look at the Auction Highlights
Among the standout pieces is a signed letter from George Washington, penned just five months before his passing. This item embodies the essence of America's foundational history. Additionally, the auction will feature two locks of hair purportedly belonging to the first president, along with a knife connected to Lewis Powell, who was implicated in the 1865 assassination attempt on Secretary of State William H. Seward. These artifacts not only signify historical importance but also pose a compelling narrative of the era.
The auction is noteworthy for including a Western Union telegram that is cataloged as a distress message from the doomed Titanic. This piece alone presents an emotional connection to a tragic event in maritime history, attracting collectors and enthusiasts alike. Other notable items include official mail carried aboard Charles Lindbergh's historic flight on the Spirit of St. Louis, showcasing the spirit of adventure in early aviation.
Hollywood enthusiasts will not be disappointed, as the auction also features original advertising from James Stewart's films, adding a cinematic flair to the collection. Rounding out the showcase are rare firearms, vintage sporting advertisements, and even a museum submarine rescue model, inviting a variety of collectors to engage with history through different lenses.
Preview Event and Auction Details
Before the auction kicks off, a preview will be held on November 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time at 526 Congaree Road in Greenville, South Carolina. This preview allows potential buyers to inspect the items up close, a rare opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship and history involved in each lot. An online-only militaria auction will precede the main event, commencing on November 19, followed by live auctions on November 20-21.
For those interested in participating, more information on the auction and online bidding can be found by visiting
RichmondAuctions.com.
About Richmond Auctions
Founded by avid collectors Jordan Richmond and Mike McCandless, Richmond Auctions has gained a remarkable reputation in the auction world, surpassing $100 million in gross auction sales within a mere four years. This rapid success has solidified their standing as a prominent auction house, renowned for high-end memorabilia related to advertising, automobilia, and petroliana. Their catalog continues to grow and now encompasses collector cars, rare firearms, and historical artifacts. Notably, the auction house has achieved a world-record sale with a 1929 MusGo Gasoline porcelain sign, fetching more than $1.5 million, showcasing their capacity to attract high-value items.
Collectors and history enthusiasts alike will find this auction a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire unique pieces of America's storied past.