One-of-a-kind historical piece associated with the two of the most prominent figures in the history of the United States: President John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King, Jr. This off-white, lightly-lined 5” x 2.75” piece of paper presents an incredible handwritten note "To Rev. Martin, Best From, John Kennedy” weaving together two of the most iconic men in US History—JFK and MLK. In fine condition and encapsulated in a 7” x 4.5” Beckett/BAS authentication holder.
John F. Kennedy and Rev. Martin Luther King are synonymous with one other in terms of their advocacy for social equality and fight against discrimination. The amazing piece is inscribed to Martin Luther King Jr. (referred to here as “Rev. Martin”) by the 35th President of the United States.
Provenance: The Washington March for Jobs and Freedom is deemed one of the largest civil rights rallies in US history. Upon the conclusion and arrival of the rally to the White House, and post the famous White House photo picturing John F. Kennedy, his administration, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and others.
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was having a chat on the side with William Writz and Asa Randolph discussing hardships faced by African Americans in the labor market and proposed legislation to help with employment. As the discussion paused so William Writz could wipe his spectacles; Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. took the chance to thank President John F. Kennedy for his hospitality and support who was then passing by the three of them, this is when President John F. Kennedy pulled a pad out of his left jacket inner pocket and handed MLK the note wishing him the best in his endeavor, thus the hastiness and the skipping of the autograph due to the fact President John F. Kennedy was supporting the notepad using his palm.
Mrs. Arelene Voss, who happened to have met late Coretta Scott King in several charity events/Salvation Army drives, was gifted this autograph as a token of appreciation for her support of black Christian community and her moral support during her sickness. It is quite possible that the inscription by a typewriter on the edge could have been made by Martin Luther King Jr.’s family. The two PSA encapsulated FDCs signed by important King Family members—his father, son and wife—presented in this same sale, compliment each other well.