Please take a look at our friend Glenn's unique Original Errol Flynn check for sale on eBay! There is a lot of information on the auction page including a bio of both the Zaca and Errol…
OFFERED:
A UNIQUE AND SUPERB HAND WRITTEN VINTAGE CHECK FROM JUNE OF 1948 BY ERROL FLYNN, IN RED INK, WRITTEN TO THE US GOVERNMENT FOR TAX PURPOSES. CHECK WAS WRITTEN FOR “ZACA REPAIRS” AS SHOWN ON THE CHECK IN THE BOTTOM LEFT. OF NOTE IS THAT FLYNN WROTE THIS CHECK OUT IN GUANTANAMO CUBA!
Click the image to go see this item on eBay!
— David DeWitt
Anonymous
November 26, 2011 at 7:40 pm
One of the few examples (for several reasons) where I think a signed check may actually be authentic.
Anonymous
November 26, 2011 at 9:06 pm
Hi Rob. What are the specifics that you can point out? Seems as if Flynn redid the check in his own hand! Could this possibly be on the 'upside' of valuable, based on Guantanamo, or Zaca?….Many thanks, Glenn
Anonymous
November 26, 2011 at 9:39 pm
As I've cautioned others–one persistent eBay autograph seller, in particular–celebrities of Flynn's caliber rarely sign their own business checks (I've been personally in and around this situation quite often). The last thing they want to be saddled with are business matters. That is why business managers are so valuable, in many cases learning to inscribe a perfect facsimile of the celebrity's signature (so much for authentication services and COAs!)
To be absolutely sure of a signature's authenticity, one would need a certified, experienced handwriting expert to determine it. Flynn fans are familiar with his infamous business manager, Al Blum, who signed the overwhelming amount of his client's checks. In fact, you can see his name actually printed below the signature line on many of the Flynn checks that show up for public sale. I'd stay far clear of these; not that any one of them couldn't be authentic, it's just that there is no way of knowing for sure at the point of sale.
As for this particular check, Glen, the fact that it was written from the Zaca, from Cuba, and has no sub-printing of Blum's name, I would feel more secure in bidding on it. Not that I will be. If you'd like to donate it to me, however……
Anonymous
November 26, 2011 at 11:36 pm
Rob,
You're a good man, so many thanks for your observation. Given what you explained, I too was a bit 'cautious' regarding the check, even though my brother was a member of the UACC, as well as another whose name escapes me…..I have kept the opening bid low, with no reserve, and I did think twice about even putting it on eBay. If I could sell privately, it would be easier, friendlier, and both parties could speak prior…..I also have a superb vintage Basil Rathbone check, as well as a vintage promo 8×10 of “The Duel' on the castle steps between Robin and Sir Guy! I was to have framed all pieces as one grand piece, but present finances are pointing me in another direction!
Again, my sincere thanks for your observation!
Glenn
(And yes, at present I have a superb vintage 1938-1939 Olivia DeHavilland signed photo on sale as well!!)