Winston Churchill: Steve Forbes, the chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, is set to unveil a remarkable collection of Winston Churchill memorabilia at New York’s Winter Show. Acquired over several decades, Forbes is collaborating with rare books dealer Peter Harrington to present more than 25 Churchill-themed objects, highlighting the best pieces from his extensive collection. The Winter Show, scheduled at the Park Avenue Armory, will open its doors to the public from Jan. 19 to Jan. 28.
Forbes’ Unique Collection: Steve Forbes, a prominent figure in media and a former presidential candidate for the Republican Party, first auctioned a portion of his Churchill collection 14 years ago, fetching nearly $850,000. This time, he is unveiling treasures that have been tucked away, with the intention to share the highlights with art enthusiasts. According to Harrington, who has received the consignment, Forbes decided to part with these items as he wasn’t deriving enjoyment from them.
Top Pieces on Display: While Harrington is known as a rare book dealer, the booth will also feature fine and decorative art pieces from Churchill’s collection. One of the standout items is Churchill’s desk from his Hyde Park Gate home, where he wrote his six-volume memoir “The Second World War.” Priced at $450,000, the desk holds historical significance as Churchill’s home office desk during a crucial period of his life.
Another notable item is a painting by Churchill himself, depicting the entrance to the gorge at Todra, Morocco, created in 1935-36 and priced at $395,000. Additionally, a large portrait of Churchill from 1943, painted by Arthur Pan, is available for $125,000. Despite Pan not being a highly valued artist, the painting holds significance as it was commissioned by Churchill’s wife during World War II to benefit the Red Cross Aid to Russia Fund.
Rare Books and Inscriptions: The collection includes a trove of books signed by Churchill, many dedicated to individuals of great significance in his life. Notably, Churchill’s novel “Savrola,” published in 1900, inscribed to his military mentor Ian Hamilton, is priced at $47,500. A presentation copy of Machiavelli’s “The Prince,” inscribed to press baron Lord Beaverbrook, is offered at $32,500. Additionally, a first edition of Churchill’s 1898 nonfiction work “The Story of the Malakand Field Force,” inscribed to his valet, is available for $47,500.
Pinnacle Item: The most expensive item in Harrington’s booth is a collection of revised proof copies of Churchill’s “The Second World War.” Priced at $750,000, the collection includes extensive corrections made by Churchill himself, along with research materials used in preparing the work. This piece stands as a testament to Churchill’s meticulous approach to documenting one of the most significant periods in modern history.
A Robust Market: Harrington notes that the market for winston churchill material remains strong. Despite Forbes’ previous auction 14 years ago, which had a mixed return, Harrington expresses confidence in the quality of the pieces being presented. He emphasizes that the Churchill memorabilia market is well-established and attests to the exceptional quality of Forbes’ collection.
The Winter Show is expected to draw significant interest from collectors, historians, and Winston Churchill enthusiasts eager to own a piece of the iconic leader’s legacy. As the exhibition opens its doors, attendees can explore not only the historical significance of these items but also the personal connection each piece shares with Churchill’s life and legacy.
Source Steve Forbes Is Selling His Winston Churchill Memorabilia Collection