This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/1/2017
Pope Benedict XVI served as Pope of the Catholic Church from 2005 until 2013. He shocked the world when, in February of 2013, he announced his resignation due to a "lack of strength in mind and body" from his advanced age. He was the first Pope to resign since Pope Gregory XII in 1415, and the first to do so on his own initiative since Pope Celestine V in 1294. Offered here is a 4" x 5" black & white portrait photograph of the Pope, signed in black felt tip with his full given name, Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger. In fine condition. Please note that the white streak in the image is simply a reflection off of the plastic holder, not a flaw with the item itself. Authenticated & encapsulated by Steve Grad/Beckett Authentication Services (BAS).