Pop Culture Phenoms: Autographs from Some of the 20th Century’s Most Famous Figures

Over the years Swann has offered a number of signatures from figures who have captured the zeitgeist of their era, dominating the headlines and defining the taste and interests for those around them in one way or another. Here we take a look at some of the autographs belonging to those whose fame has withstood the test of time.


Kurt Cobain

Nirvana’s Nevermind compact disc insert signed and inscribed days after release by Kurt Cobain, additionally inscribed by Krist Novoselic, 1991. To be offered in our October 28, 2021 sale of Fine Books & Autographs. Estimate $40,000 to $60,000.

Princess Diana


Babe Ruth

Babe Ruth, photograph signed and inscribed. Sold in our November 2017 sale of Autographs for $15,000.

James Dean

James Dean, photograph signed and inscribed. Sold in our February 2021 sale of Fine Books & Autographs for $8,750.

Andy Warhol

Andy Warhol, autograph inscription signed, 60th birthday card, 1983. Sold in our May 2013 sale of Autographs for $7,800.

Related Reading: The Making of a Portrait: Michael Halsband’s Photograph of Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat


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