Details:

Kohei Hanami autographed commemorative honoring President John F. Kennedy, signed by Hanami in black ink across the center of the envelope. The airmail cover bears a 13¢ John F. Kennedy postage stamp, cancelled May 29, 1967, Chicago, Illinois, in conjunction with the PMX (Philatelic Memory Exchange) event held at the Hotel La Salle.

Hanami was the Imperial Japanese Navy commander of the destroyer Amagiri, which collided with and sank PT-109 in the Solomon Islands on August 2, 1943. The patrol boat was commanded by then–Lieutenant John F. Kennedy, who survived the incident and later rose to the presidency. The Amagiri incident became one of the most famous naval episodes of World War II and an enduring chapter in Kennedy’s personal and political legacy.

The cover features a printed JFK portrait cachet and period design typical of mid-1960s commemorative philatelic issues.

Near fine condition.

Kohei Hanami (1903–1973) was an officer in the Imperial Japanese Navy and commander of the destroyer Amagiri during World War II. His encounter with PT-109 became one of the most widely documented naval incidents of the Pacific Theater, later shaping popular memory of John F. Kennedy’s wartime service and heroism.

A scarce and compelling signed cover uniting opposing figures of World War II.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

Premium:
A 25% Buyers Premium Will Be Added to All Winning Bids

Reference sku: 11674 1413375-1