
Description
16 x 11 in (40.5 x 28 cm)
This exceptionally preserved issue of Harper's Weekly, dated December 15, 1900, carries the unmistakable autograph of Mark Twain, one of the most defining literary voices of the American canon. As an artifact, the magazine embodies the cultural and journalistic spirit of its era, while the bold signature transforms it into a deeply personal relic linked directly to the legendary author.
The cover portrait, rendered with early-20th-century graphic nuance, frames Twain in his mature years, capturing both his gravitas and the wry intelligence for which he remains celebrated. The magazine's rich historical context-being a leading publication of the period-greatly amplifies the significance of Twain's autograph, merging cultural journalism with the personal imprint of the writer himself.
The signature is confidently placed and visually dynamic, lending an intimate dimension to an otherwise public medium. Its presence elevates the magazine from a collectible periodical to a museum-level literary artifact. Twain's autograph is widely sought after due to his profound influence on American literature, and signatures associated with period publications are rarer and therefore more coveted.
Collectors value such pieces for their historical authenticity, aesthetic resonance, and direct connection to Twain's public persona at the height of his literary authority. As a display piece, this signed cover is striking-its scale, portraiture, and period typography create a visually compelling presentation suitable for any major literary or Americana collection.
This exceptionally preserved issue of Harper's Weekly, dated December 15, 1900, carries the unmistakable autograph of Mark Twain, one of the most defining literary voices of the American canon. As an artifact, the magazine embodies the cultural and journalistic spirit of its era, while the bold signature transforms it into a deeply personal relic linked directly to the legendary author.
The cover portrait, rendered with early-20th-century graphic nuance, frames Twain in his mature years, capturing both his gravitas and the wry intelligence for which he remains celebrated. The magazine's rich historical context-being a leading publication of the period-greatly amplifies the significance of Twain's autograph, merging cultural journalism with the personal imprint of the writer himself.
The signature is confidently placed and visually dynamic, lending an intimate dimension to an otherwise public medium. Its presence elevates the magazine from a collectible periodical to a museum-level literary artifact. Twain's autograph is widely sought after due to his profound influence on American literature, and signatures associated with period publications are rarer and therefore more coveted.
Collectors value such pieces for their historical authenticity, aesthetic resonance, and direct connection to Twain's public persona at the height of his literary authority. As a display piece, this signed cover is striking-its scale, portraiture, and period typography create a visually compelling presentation suitable for any major literary or Americana collection.
Condition
Condition:
Any statement made in any catalogue or otherwise regarding the origin, date, age, attribution, authenticity, or estimated selling price of any lot is an expression of opinion only. Such statements do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Oldstone Ventures LLC in relation to any lot.
Prospective buyers are strongly advised to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy and reliability of the catalogue description prior to making a purchase. The absence of specific references to prior restorations or condition issues in the descriptions does not imply that the item is free from such restorations or defects.
Photographs provided by Oldstone Ventures LLC are for indicative purposes only and are not guaranteed to precisely reflect the actual condition, color, or quality of the items.
Buyer Responsibility:
Buyers are encouraged to seek independent expert advice regarding the authenticity, condition, and value of any item before placing a bid.
Contact Us:
For any inquiries or further information, please feel free to contact us via email at oldstoneventures@gmail.com.
Any statement made in any catalogue or otherwise regarding the origin, date, age, attribution, authenticity, or estimated selling price of any lot is an expression of opinion only. Such statements do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Oldstone Ventures LLC in relation to any lot.
Prospective buyers are strongly advised to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy and reliability of the catalogue description prior to making a purchase. The absence of specific references to prior restorations or condition issues in the descriptions does not imply that the item is free from such restorations or defects.
Photographs provided by Oldstone Ventures LLC are for indicative purposes only and are not guaranteed to precisely reflect the actual condition, color, or quality of the items.
Buyer Responsibility:
Buyers are encouraged to seek independent expert advice regarding the authenticity, condition, and value of any item before placing a bid.
Contact Us:
For any inquiries or further information, please feel free to contact us via email at oldstoneventures@gmail.com.
Buyer's Premium
28%
MARK TWAIN SIGNED "HARPER'S WEEKLY" MAGAZINE
Estimate $8,000-$12,000
Starting Price
$500
$500
$600
$700
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Fine Arts, Antiques & Contemporary Art Sale 8
Feb 04, 2026 9:00 AM ESTSummit, NJ, United States
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