A 1p autograph manuscript by 35th U.S. President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963), comprised of about 25 words divided over 12 lines of text, on a leaf of custom stationery with "From the Desk of / John F. Kennedy" letterhead. N.d., but other examples of Kennedy's using this stationery all date from his presidential term, ca. 1961-1963. N.p. but presumably the Oval Office, White House, Washington, D.C. The notepaper has a "University Press of Cambridge, Inc." printer's mark at lower left. Two lines of text were contemporaneously crossed out. With a slight paper clip impression at upper left, not affecting any inscriptions. Else near fine, 3.875" x 5.25." Housed in a custom clamshell hinged inner folder and case measuring 4.75" x 6.25" x .75" overall. The case has a gilt embossed spine reading in part "John F. Kennedy / Manuscript Notes." The clamshell case cover and the spine are stained/discolored, else good to very good.

Kennedy's handwriting is famously difficult to decipher, and the notes he made here are no exception. He has included the name of two doctors on the note paper, one "Dr. Barr" and one "Dr. Barger," as well as a telephone exchange number, "Lng 6-2380," at top. The rest of the text reads in part: "Barry - / will not vote / for if / [illegible] / will not debate it / will not take active / part / will vote / [illegible]…"

Kennedy's use of "From the Desk of / John F. Kennedy" stationery almost certainly dates from his presidency. This can be substantiated by looking at other examples of the notepaper, including those found in the collection of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. The presidential stationery differs from the stationery that Kennedy used during his tenure as a U.S. Senator and U.S. Congressman, the latter which was pre-printed "From the Desk of / Hon. John F. Kennedy."

The identity of "Barry" is uncertain. Could Kennedy have been taking notes during a phone conversation with Barry Goldwater (1909-1998), the five-term Republican U.S. Senator from Arizona?

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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