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An outstanding and highly collectible original 1954 Roger Tory Peterson Typed Letter Signed (TLS) personally authored and hand-signed in blue ink.
This is a wonderful and previously unknown original letter from the legendary ornithologist, artist, and father of modern birdwatching, Roger Tory Peterson (1908–1996).
Dated: November 27, 1954Addressed from: Neck Road, Old Lyme, Connecticut (his longtime home after moving there that year)To: Mrs. Thomas H. Tyson, “On the Mountain,” Highlands, North Carolina
Content Highlights:
- Peterson apologizes for the delayed reply due to his recent move from Maryland to Connecticut.
- He grants full permission to reproduce pictures and charts from his iconic Field Guide series as 35mm slides for educational talks to club groups.
- He notes that his publisher leaves such permissions to him and that this type of use actually helps promote sales of his books.
Unlike generic autograph pieces, this is a content-related letter directly tied to Peterson's field guide work and educational outreach, making it especially desirable to collectors of natural history, ornithology, birding, conservation, and autograph material.
Written shortly after Peterson settled in Old Lyme, CT — where he lived for the rest of his life. 1954 was also the year he published the influential A Field Guide to the Birds of Britain and Europe. This letter perfectly captures his commitment to public education and making birdwatching accessible to everyone.
Perfect for collectors of:
- Natural history / ornithology memorabilia
- Autographs of famous scientists & conservationists
- 20th-century American history
This is a substantive content letter (not just a signature on a card), making it significantly more desirable than basic signed items.
Roger Tory Peterson helped transform modern bird identification and field observation and is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in twentieth-century natural history.
Condition Summary
Letter exhibits visible age-related paper deterioration and areas of paper loss along fold lines, likely from silverfish or long-term storage effects. Signature remains strong and unaffected. Letter remains stable and can still be handled carefully. Minor age toning, foxing, and wear are present. Please review photographs closely for exact condition details.
Features
• Original Roger Tory Peterson Typed Letter Signed (TLS)
• Personally authored and hand-signed in blue ink
• Dated November 27, 1954
• Measures approximately 11.5" H x 8.5" W
• Historical content discussing field guide image usage and educational presentations
• Strong content relevance versus a generic signature example
• Includes hand-signed Letter of Authenticity (LOA)
• Includes online 24/7 authentication verification system using assigned serial number
• Excellent collectible for autograph, natural history, ornithology, birding, and conservation collectors
• Condition: Stable with fold wear and paper loss/deterioration noted; signature remains strong and unaffected
Shipping & Returns
• Free US Shipping
• 30 day returns (must be returned in original condition)
