Description:

William Jennings Bryan Accepts Huge Check from Florida Real Estate Developer 4 Months Before His Death

A check signed by politician William Jennings Bryan (1860-1925) as "William Jennings Bryan" in the endorsement section verso. The customized client check, which is unnumbered, is dated March 4, 1925, and ordered the First National Bank of Miami, Florida to pay $4,000 to "William J. Bryan" from the account of F.J. Osius of Miami Beach, Florida. The check is boldly engrossed and signed by F.J. Osius on the signature line. Bearing the usual clerical hand-stamp and perforation marks. Expected weathering and wear including flattened wrinkles and folds. Else good. 8.5" x 3."

This check endorsed by William Jennings Bryan represented a huge sum of money: $4,000 in 1925 is the equivalent of more than $70,000 in 2024 currency!

William Jennings Bryan was a zealous Florida real estate promoter in addition to being a Democratic politician and three times failed presidential candidate.
Between March 1913 and 1925, Bryan and his wife first wintered, and then permanently resided, at Villa Serena in Miami, Florida. This U-shaped Italian Revival concrete and stucco mansion was on Brickell Avenue, called “Millionaire’s Row” by locals and tourists alike. The Bryans were among the most popular and socially influential citizens of this rapidly developing area. Bryan was heavily involved in promoting Florida real estate in nearby Coral Gardens. He died just four months after signing this check, on July 26, 1925.

Frederick J. Osius established the F.J. Osius Realty Company in Miami Beach.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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February 21, 2024 10:30 AM EST
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University Archives

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $299 $20
$300 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $2,999 $200
$3,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 + $5,000